BURGUNDY
This region is synonymous with some of the world’s most coveted wines. It is also a land of rich history, majestic châteaux, and gastronomic excellence. This guide will help you uncover the essence of Burgundy, from its famous vineyards to its medieval towns and culinary traditions.
Why Visit Burgundy?
World-Class Wines: Home to legendary Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Burgundy offers an unparalleled experience for wine lovers with hundreds of domains to explore.
A Foodie’s Paradise: From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy bistros, the region is a haven for gastronomes, celebrating its famous beef, escargots, and mustard.
Timeless Beauty: Discover medieval villages, Romanesque abbeys, and magnificent ducal palaces set against a backdrop of rolling hills and vineyards.
Smart Travel
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): This is the ideal time to visit for wine tasting, with pleasant weather and the stunning colors of the spring blooms or autumn harvest.
Deep Off-Season (November-March): You will find the best value on accommodation and a peaceful atmosphere. It is the perfect season for cozy fireside meals and quiet exploration of the museums and cities.
Peak Season (June-August): The weather is warm, and the region is very popular. Be prepared for crowds, especially in Dijon and Beaune, and book accommodations in advance.
Main Areas & Places to Explore
Côte d’Or (Golden Slope)
The heart of Burgundy’s wine country, this area stretches from Dijon to Santenay. It’s home to some of the world’s most famous vineyards, divided into the Côte de Nuits and the Côte de Beaune. The landscape is dotted with charming villages and grand wine estates.
Your Smart Tip: To truly appreciate the wine-making process, consider visiting in September or October during the vendange (grape harvest) to witness the buzz of activity in the vineyards.
Dijon
The historical capital of the Dukes of Burgundy, Dijon is a vibrant city renowned for its mustard and gingerbread. It boasts a beautifully preserved medieval core with half-timbered houses, impressive palaces, and a lively food market.
Your Smart Tip: For a great value and authentic local experience, try a fixed-price lunch menu at one of the city’s many bistrots (bistros).
Saône-et-Loire
This southern part of Burgundy is known for its Romanesque churches, ancient villages, and the Mâconnais wine region. It’s a quieter, more rural area, perfect for scenic drives and exploring historical sites like the Cluny Abbey.
Your Smart Tip: The region is popular for cycling. Rent a bike to explore the scenic voies vertes (greenways) that follow old railway lines.
Beaune
Considered the wine capital of Burgundy, Beaune is a must-visit. The city is famous for the Hospices de Beaune, a stunning 15th-century almshouse with a distinctive tiled roof. The town center is surrounded by ramparts and offers countless opportunities for wine tasting.
Your Smart Tip: Purchase a Pass Musées for a better value on museum admissions, especially if you plan to visit multiple historical sites.
Handy Tips
Weather & Climate
Burgundy has a continental climate. Summers are warm and can be hot, with average temperatures in the 20s °C (70s °F). Winters are cold, with average temperatures around freezing, and some snowfall is possible.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Language: While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic French phrases will be appreciated. “Bonjour” (hello) and “Merci” (thank you) go a long way.
Dining: Lunch is often the main meal of the day, with many restaurants offering a more affordable fixed-price menu. Dinner is typically later, starting around 7:30 p.m.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory, as service is included in the bill, but it is customary to leave a small tip (a few Euros) for good service.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Hostels ($30–$50), mid-range hotels ($80–$150), luxury ($180+). Prices are higher in Dijon and Beaune during peak season.
Food: Fixed-price lunch menu ($20–$35), dinner at a mid-range restaurant ($40–$60 per person), fine dining ($100+).
Transport: Car rental ($40/day), train ticket (regional).
Activities: Wine tasting tours ($30+), museum entry ($10–$20).
Daily Budget:
- Budget: $80–$120 (hostels, market food, public transport).
- Mid-range: $150–$250 (hotels, restaurants, attractions).
- Luxury: $300+ (boutique hotels, gourmet meals, private tours).
Getting Around
By Car: A car is the most convenient way to explore the rural areas and the smaller villages of the Route des Grands Crus (Route of the Great Wines).
By Train: The train network is efficient, connecting major cities like Paris to Dijon and Beaune.
By Bus: Local buses connect the main towns and villages, but service can be less frequent in rural areas.
Must-Try Food
Boeuf Bourguignon: A classic and hearty stew of beef braised in red Burgundy wine, with mushrooms, onions, and bacon.
Escargots de Bourgogne: Snails prepared in their shells with a delicious garlic and parsley butter.
Coq au Vin: Chicken stewed in red wine, traditionally with mushrooms and bacon.
Jambon Persillé: A terrine of ham and parsley, often served as a cold appetizer.
Pochouse: A traditional fish stew made with freshwater fish from the local rivers, cooked in white Burgundy wine.
Pain d’épices de Dijon: A type of gingerbread with a rich, spiced flavor, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee.
Gougères: Light and airy cheese puffs, a perfect pairing with a glass of local wine.
Époisses: A strong, pungent washed-rind cheese, best served at room temperature with bread.
Moutarde de Dijon: The world-famous mustard, known for its sharp and powerful taste.
Kir: A refreshing aperitif made from white Burgundy wine (usually Aligoté) and blackcurrant liqueur (crème de cassis).
Must-Try Drinks
Burgundy Wines: Pinot Noir for reds and Chardonnay for whites are the stars of the region, from local village wines to Grand Crus.
Crémant de Bourgogne: A high-quality sparkling wine made using the traditional method, often a more affordable alternative to Champagne.
Kir: The local aperitif made with white wine and crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur).
Liqueur de Cassis: A sweet blackcurrant liqueur that is the star of the Kir cocktail and can be enjoyed on its own.
Aligoté: A high-acid, zesty white wine that is the traditional base for a Kir.