Holiday Inn Bordeaux-Merignac by IHG

My husband and I stayed in Room 526 on 10 October 2025. The hotel wasn't actually at the airport, and the cab ride cost 20 euros. It was very warm the day we arrived, and I expected an air-conditioned room. I couldn't get the AC working, so I called the desk and was told our room didn't have it. I couldn't believe a fairly new hotel in a warm climate wasn't air-conditioned. Other reviews suggest some rooms did have AC, and the hotel didn't seem full, but the desk did nothing to move us to another room. After a long day of travel I wanted a Scotch, but the bar didn't have any Scotch whisky. I've never been to a bar without it. I've stayed at airport hotels right by the airport where the soundproofing kept the jets from being heard. Here, even though it wasn't right at the airport, we could hear every plane taking off. There seemed to be little or no soundproofing.

For a quick business trip, this new hotel had the amenities I wanted, with clean rooms and good service. It's also close to the airport. I stayed one night and was happy with it.

The only drawback is the location: there's nothing within walking distance. It's a few kilometers from Bordeaux airport, and parking is plentiful. We arrived well after midnight, but Sophia at reception was delightful and managed to get us a generous charcuterie board with wine and beer. The modern rooms were spotless and spacious, and the hotel is stylish. There's a bar and dining area separate from the breakfast room. This is the best Holiday Inn we've stayed at.

The hotel itself was very good. The rooms, facilities, restaurant and bar snacks were all above the standard I'd expect, and the service was personal, efficient and very pleasant. It's in a position that's not especially attractive, but is convenient. The main problem was the lack of a shuttle to the nearby airport. We had to walk 36 minutes in 30° heat. Public transport is available, but with luggage and poor service it wasn't suitable. Surely Holiday Inn can afford to buy or contract this service. It's the one downside to an otherwise very good hotel.