Burgundy

What to do in Burgundy:

Located in central eastern France, Burgundy is an open invitation to explore, taste, and share. This region offers a delightful combination of stunning natural landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, exceptional cuisine, and the oldest wine trail in France. It’s the perfect place to refine your geography and your palate. Here's a glimpse of what awaits you...

Must-See Visits in Burgundy

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• Dijon, Capital of the Dukes of Burgundy:

Known as the city of a hundred steeples, Dijon is famous for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture. Don’t miss the Palace of the Dukes, the Philippe Le Bon Tower, and the charming streets following the owl trail, the city's emblem.

• Hospices de Beaune:

This 15th-century Gothic hospital with its iconic polychrome roofs is world-renowned for its vineyard. Wines from Côte de Beaune, Côtes de Nuit, and Pouilly-Fuissé are auctioned off each November, attracting wine lovers from around the globe.

• Chalon-sur-Saône:

A medieval city and the birthplace of photography pioneer Nicéphore Niépce, Chalon’s pedestrian streets and the charming Place Saint-Vincent are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

• Abbeys of Cluny and Tournus:

History buffs will be fascinated by these religious sites, including Cluny Abbey, a 10th-century cultural and intellectual center, and the Romanesque St. Philibert Abbey in Tournus.

• Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy:

Situated in the heart of Dijon, this medieval palace is now home to the city’s fine arts museum and town hall.

• Saint-Etienne Cathedral in Sens:

A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, this cathedral is said to have introduced the revolutionary ogival arch in the 12th century.

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• Chablis:

Surrounded by the world-famous vineyards that produce Chablis wine, this picturesque medieval village is also home to the Obédiencerie, a 9th-century monastery, and Fil du Zinc, an exceptional restaurant.

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• Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Paray-le-Monial:

A significant pilgrimage site, this Romanesque basilica, built in the 10th century, continues to attract visitors from all over.

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• Guédelon Castle Project:

Visit this unique living construction site, where artisans are building a medieval castle using traditional methods. Try your hand at carving stone, making tiles, or working with iron.

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• Priory of Charité-sur-Loire & Basilica of Vézelay:

Two key sites of religious art, with Vézelay’s basilica symbolizing the Romanesque style and marking a stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.​

• Explore the Route des Grands Crus:

Burgundy’s wine road spans 60 kilometers and includes some of the most prestigious vineyards, such as Meursault, Pommard, and Gevrey-Chambertin. Taste world-renowned wines and discover the region’s unique “climats.”

• Visit Béru Castle and Taste Its Wine:

Nestled in the Chablis vineyards, this 17th-century castle has been producing exceptional Chardonnay for centuries. Enjoy a tasting of its mineral-rich wines.

• Fallot Mustard Bar in Dijon:

Discover the secrets of Dijon mustard at the Fallot mustard factory. Sample a variety of flavors at their interactive mustard bar.

Cycle the Greenway:

From Chalon-sur-Saône to Mâcon, this 70-kilometer greenway offers a scenic bike ride through vineyards and historic sites at a relaxed pace.

• Savor Burgundy’s Truffles:

Known for its black truffles, Burgundy is a haven for gourmet food lovers. Visit local markets in the fall and sample dishes prepared with this rare delicacy.

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• Visit Fontenay Abbey:

One of the oldest and best-preserved Cistercian abbeys, Fontenay dates back to 1118 and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its serene atmosphere is perfect for a contemplative visit.