CÔTE D’OR
The Côte d’Or, or “Golden Slope,” is the heart of Burgundy, where some of the world’s most prestigious wines are born. It is a land of rolling vineyards, medieval towns, and rich culinary traditions.
This region is the birthplace of legendary Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It is a place of serene beauty, from the sun-drenched vineyards to the grand architecture of its historic wine estates.
Most Popular Attractions
Burgundy’s Grand Cru Route:
- Château du Clos de Vougeot: A historic wine estate and a symbol of Burgundian wine culture, dating back to the 12th century.
- Romanée-Conti Grand Cru: The most famous and expensive vineyard in the world, a pilgrimage site for wine lovers.
- Domaine de la Romanée-Conti: The legendary winery that produces some of the most sought-after wines.
- Hospices de Beaune: A beautiful, 15th-century almshouse with a stunning tiled roof, famous for its annual wine auction.
- La Route des Grands Crus: A scenic road that winds through the most famous vineyards of the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune.
- Nuits-Saint-Georges: A charming town in the heart of the Côte de Nuits, known for its powerful Pinot Noir wines.
- Vosne-Romanée: A village surrounded by some of the most famous and prestigious Grand Cru vineyards.
- Gevrey-Chambertin: A village famous for its powerful red wines and the historic Château de Gevrey-Chambertin.
- Aloxe-Corton: A village at the foot of the Corton hill, home to the only Grand Crus for both red and white wines in the Côte de Beaune.
- Pommard: A village known for its robust and full-bodied red wines.
- Meursault: The quintessential white wine village, famous for its rich and buttery Chardonnays.
- Puligny-Montrachet & Chassagne-Montrachet: Two villages that produce some of the world’s finest white wines.
Historic Cities & Towns:
- Beaune: The wine capital of Burgundy, a walled city with a stunning historic center and home to the Hospices de Beaune.
- Dijon: The historic capital of Burgundy, with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful half-timbered houses, and impressive ducal palace.
- Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne: The magnificent former palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, now home to the City Hall and the Fine Arts Museum.
- Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon: One of the oldest and richest museums in France, located in the ducal palace.
- Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne: A museum in Dijon showcasing traditional Burgundian life and crafts.
- Abbaye de Cîteaux: The birthplace of the Cistercian order, a serene and historic abbey still in operation.
- Château de Savigny-lès-Beaune: A unique chateau with a collection of airplanes, cars, and motorcycles.
- Vieux Beaune: The old town of Beaune, with its cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and numerous wine shops.
- Jardin Darcy: A lovely park in the center of Dijon, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
- La Chouette (Owl) Trail: A self-guided walking tour through the historic center of Dijon, following the city’s famous owl mascot.
Activities & Experiences
Go on a Wine Tasting Tour: Explore the renowned vineyards and climats of the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune, sampling prestigious Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from world-famous producers.
Explore the Hospices de Beaune: Visit this iconic 15th-century almshouse, a masterpiece of flamboyant Gothic architecture with its stunning polychrome tiled roof, and learn about its history and famous annual wine auction.
Cycle the Voie des Vignes (Vineyard Route): Rent a bike and ride this scenic 20-kilometer path that winds through the vineyards from Beaune to Santenay, offering beautiful views of the landscape.
Learn to Cook Burgundian Cuisine: Take a cooking class to master classic regional dishes like Boeuf Bourguignon, Coq au Vin, or Escargots de Bourgogne from a local chef.
Visit a Cave (Wine Cellar): Descend into the historic cellars of a local domaine in Nuits-Saint-Georges or Meursault to see the aging process and understand the importance of terroir.
Hike in the Hautes-Côtes: Escape the main tourist route and trek through the higher vineyards and wooded hills of the Hautes-Côtes, discovering quieter villages and panoramic views.
Attend a Local Market: Immerse yourself in local life by visiting one of the vibrant markets in Beaune or Dijon to sample regional specialties like Époisses cheese, mustard, and gingerbread.
Explore the Château de Clos de Vougeot: Tour this historic Cistercian château, a symbol of Burgundian wine history, and see the ancient vat house and impressive cellar.
Go on a Truffle Hunting Excursion: Join a guided tour with a local expert and their dog to search for the elusive Burgundy black truffle, followed by a tasting.
Taste Dijon Mustard: Visit one of the last remaining traditional mustard makers in Dijon to learn about the history and production of this world-famous condiment, with tastings included.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience a breathtaking panoramic view of the checkerboard vineyards, charming villages, and historic châteaux from the air.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Recommended: The best way to explore the full breadth of the Côte d’Or is by car. This provides the flexibility to visit small, secluded villages, historic domaines, and the many scenic viewpoints along the Route des Grands Crus.
Biking: The Voie des Vignes and other smaller vineyard roads are perfect for cycling. Bike rentals are available in major towns like Beaune and Nuits-Saint-Georges.
Trains: The TGV station in Dijon connects the region to Paris and other major cities. Local trains run between Dijon and Beaune, offering a convenient option for traveling between these two hubs.
Taxi and Private Driver Services: Taxis can be expensive and difficult to find in rural areas. For visiting multiple wineries, consider hiring a private driver or a pre-booked taxi service.
The Concept of Climat: Burgundy is defined by its climats—precisely delineated vineyard plots, each with a unique combination of soil, slope, and microclimate. Understanding this concept is key to appreciating the region’s wines.
Dining Times: Lunch is typically from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM, and dinner often starts around 7:30 PM. Many smaller restaurants may close between services. Making a reservation, especially for dinner, is highly recommended.
The Bouchon Lyonnais and Bistrot Bourguignon: While technically from Lyon, many restaurants in the region offer a similar cozy, traditional dining experience. Look for restaurants that pride themselves on authentic regional cuisine.
Don’t Rush Your Tastings: A wine tasting (dégustation) is not about getting drunk. It’s an educational experience. Take your time, ask questions, and be respectful of the winemaker’s passion and knowledge.
Hidden Gems:
- Musée du Cassissium: Located in Nuits-Saint-Georges, this museum is dedicated to the blackcurrant, a key ingredient in Burgundy’s famous crème de cassis. It offers a fascinating look at the fruit’s history and production, with tastings included.
- Abbaye de Saint-Vivant de Vergy: These ancient ruins, perched on a hill, offer a stunning view of the surrounding vineyards and provide a peaceful, historic escape from the main tourist trail.
- The Promenade des Fossés in Beaune: Walk along the charming walking path that follows the old city moat and ramparts. It’s a peaceful alternative to the bustling streets of the city center.
- Château de La Rochepot: This fairy-tale-like château, with its colorful tiled roof and towering turrets, is a beautiful, lesser-known alternative to the more famous historic sites.
Language: While English is spoken in many tourist-focused establishments, a few basic French phrases like Bonjour (hello), Merci (thank you), and S’il vous plaît (please) will be appreciated.
Top Restaurants
Le Dôme [$40-$60] – A traditional and iconic restaurant in the heart of Dijon with a beautiful Belle Époque setting, known for its classic Burgundian cuisine.
Chez Léon [$30-$50] – A historic bistro in Beaune, popular for its authentic atmosphere and traditional dishes like escargots and boeuf bourguignon.
Restaurant Le Carnot [$30-$50] – Located in the center of Beaune, this is a bustling, no-frills bistro known for its delicious food and a strong local following.
La Table de Guigone [$30-$50] – A cozy and authentic restaurant in the center of Beaune, offering classic and hearty regional food.
L’Hostellerie du Vieux Moulin [$40-$60] – Located in the charming village of Bouilland, this family-run hotel and restaurant is known for its superb traditional cuisine in a beautiful setting.
L’Étape à la Comédie [$25-$40] – A no-frills, traditional restaurant near the Place de la Libération in Dijon, known for its good value and classic dishes.
Les Bistrot des Halles [$35-$55] – A lively bistro located near the market in Beaune, offering excellent traditional food with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Le Central [$40-$60] – A classic brasserie in the heart of Dijon, known for its traditional cuisine and a lively, historic atmosphere.
Le Clos Napoléon [$40-$70] – A classic restaurant located in the picturesque village of Fixin, known for its refined traditional cuisine and extensive wine list.
Le Rive Gauche [$40-$60] – A traditional brasserie in Beaune, located on a quiet street near the city center, offering a relaxed atmosphere and classic French dishes.
Le Bistrot des Moines [$35-$60] – A charming restaurant in the village of Gevrey-Chambertin, known for its traditional Burgundian food and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
L’Auberge du Vieux Four [$40-$70] – Located in the beautiful village of Nuits-Saint-Georges, this is a charming spot known for its classic regional cooking.
Auberge de la Fontaine [$35-$60] – A traditional country inn in the village of Meursault, offering authentic and hearty Burgundian dishes.
L’Ardoise [$30-$50] – A small, popular bistro in Dijon with a menu written on a chalkboard, known for its excellent and affordable traditional food.
L’Impro [$30-$50] – A lively bistro in Dijon with a modern feel, known for its classic French dishes and a good value menu.
Le Bouillon [$25-$45] – A traditional “bouillon” style restaurant in Dijon, offering classic French dishes at very affordable prices in a large, communal setting.
Le Caveau des Arches [$40-$65] – A historic restaurant in Beaune, located in a 17th-century vaulted cellar, known for its classic Burgundian cuisine and extensive wine list.
La Gentilhommière [$40-$65] – A traditional restaurant in Nuits-Saint-Georges, located in a beautiful 18th-century manor house with a lovely garden.
Restaurant Le Benaton [$60-$90] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in the heart of Dijon, offering classic Burgundian cuisine with a modern touch.
La Dilettante [$35-$60] – A well-regarded traditional restaurant in Dijon, known for its refined take on classic French dishes.
Loiseau des Ducs [$100-$180] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in Dijon, housed in a beautiful 17th-century mansion, offering a contemporary take on Burgundian cuisine.
Cibo [$70-$120] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in Dijon known for its creative, modern cuisine and a focus on seasonal, high-quality ingredients.
O’Poppy [$40-$70] – A modern and creative bistro in Dijon, known for its inventive dishes and a relaxed, casual atmosphere.
L’Essentiel [$50-$80] – A modern and elegant restaurant in Dijon, known for its refined and creative take on classic French cuisine.
Le B915 [$50-$80] – A modern bistro in the heart of Dijon, known for its inventive dishes and a great selection of local wines.
Les Jardins de Lois [$50-$90] – A modern and creative restaurant in Beaune, located in a beautiful, minimalist setting with a focus on seasonal produce.
Le Carbone [$60-$90] – A trendy and creative restaurant in Dijon, known for its fusion of traditional and modern French cuisine.
L’Expression [$50-$80] – A popular and modern restaurant in the heart of Beaune, known for its innovative dishes and a great selection of wines.
Bistrot des Carmes [$40-$70] – A modern and lively bistro in Dijon, known for its creative tapas-style dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.
Le Chien de Montgolfier [$40-$70] – A modern and cozy bistro in Beaune, known for its creative dishes and a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Le Chef Coq [$50-$80] – A creative and contemporary restaurant in Dijon, known for its beautifully plated dishes and an innovative approach to traditional flavors.
Restaurant William Frachot [$120-$200] – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Dijon, offering a refined and elegant dining experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients.
Hostellerie Cèdre & Spa [$100-$180] – A prestigious hotel restaurant in Beaune, offering a high-end dining experience in a beautiful, serene setting.
Maison Lameloise [$150-$250] – A three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Chagny, a short drive from Beaune, known for its exquisite and refined Burgundian cuisine.
Le Jardin des Remparts [$80-$150] – A fine dining restaurant in Beaune, known for its elegant setting and a menu of classic French dishes with a modern twist.
L’Oiseau des Vignes [$90-$160] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in Beaune, offering a creative and refined menu paired with an extensive wine list.
Le Clos du Cèdre [$100-$180] – A fine dining restaurant in the beautiful town of Pommard, located in a historic building with a charming garden.
Hostellerie de Levernois [$100-$180] – A prestigious hotel restaurant in Levernois, a short drive from Beaune, offering a high-end dining experience in a tranquil setting.
Le Charlemagne [$90-$150] – A fine dining restaurant in the village of Pernand-Vergelesses, known for its classic Burgundian cuisine and a beautiful view of the vineyards.
La Maison des Cariatides [$80-$140] – A fine dining restaurant in Dijon, housed in a historic building, offering a sophisticated and creative menu.
Le Relais Bernard Loiseau [$200-$300+] – A legendary three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Saulieu, a short drive from the Côte d’Or, offering a world-renowned fine dining experience.
Les Halles de Dijon [$15-$30] – Not a single restaurant, but a market in Dijon with numerous food stalls and small eateries, perfect for a casual and authentic lunch.
Le Chapeau Rouge [$40-$70] – A unique and vibrant restaurant in Dijon, known for its lively atmosphere and a menu that changes daily based on fresh ingredients.
Le Gout du Terroir [$30-$50] – A small, family-run restaurant in Beaune, known for its friendly atmosphere and a focus on high-quality local products.
Dr. Wine [$25-$45] – A popular wine bar in Dijon with a great selection of local wines and a menu of small plates and charcuterie.
Le Bistrot des Coquillages [$30-$50] – A casual seafood bistro in Dijon, known for its fresh oysters and seafood platters.
L’Épicerie & Cie [$25-$45] – A charming restaurant in Dijon, located in a former grocery store, known for its unique atmosphere and a menu of simple, delicious dishes.
Les Dames d’Auxois [$35-$60] – A restaurant in the charming town of Auxois, a short drive from Dijon, offering a traditional menu in a beautiful setting.
Le Conty [$30-$50] – A simple but excellent restaurant in the center of Beaune, known for its high-quality food and a great selection of local wines.
Le Petit Gevrey [$20-$40] – A simple and authentic bistro in the village of Gevrey-Chambertin, perfect for a casual lunch after a wine tasting.
Le Caveau de la Tour [$35-$60] – A unique restaurant in Gevrey-Chambertin, located in a wine cellar, offering a menu of traditional dishes paired with local wines.
Le Grand Saint Jean [$30-$50] – A charming restaurant in the village of Chassagne-Montrachet, known for its traditional cuisine and a great selection of local wines.
Le Caveau de Puligny [$40-$70] – A classic restaurant in the village of Puligny-Montrachet, known for its traditional dishes and a fantastic selection of local wines.
Le P’tit resto des halles [$20-$35] – A small and friendly restaurant in the heart of Beaune, known for its simple and delicious traditional food.
L’Instant T [$30-$50] – A modern and trendy spot in Beaune, known for its creative tapas-style dishes and a great selection of local wines.
Le Coq au Vin [$35-$60] – A classic restaurant in the town of Nuits-Saint-Georges, known for its traditional coq au vin and other Burgundian specialties.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Dr. Why Located in the heart of Dijon, this unique cocktail bar combines a classic apothecary theme with innovative drinks. The bartenders, dressed as doctors, prescribe personalized concoctions in a setting filled with quirky medical equipment.
Le 22 A sophisticated wine bar in the center of Beaune, known for its extensive selection of local Burgundy wines. While primarily a wine spot, it also offers a curated list of classic cocktails in a chic and elegant setting.
La Cave se Rebiffe A hidden gem in Dijon’s city center, this intimate bar has a speakeasy feel. It’s a great spot to enjoy creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere in a cozy, underground setting.
L’Atelier des Vignerons This elegant establishment in Beaune, near the historic center, offers a unique experience focused on wine tasting but also serves up a selection of high-quality cocktails, making it a perfect spot for an apéritif.
Le Déclic Found in a bustling area of central Dijon, this bar is known for its wide variety of creative and well-balanced cocktails. It has a modern and inviting ambiance, popular with both locals and visitors.
L’Endroit A stylish and modern lounge bar situated in Dijon’s city center. It’s an excellent place for pre-dinner drinks, offering a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere with a diverse cocktail menu.
Gin’To Situated on a lively street in central Dijon, this bar is a must-visit for gin lovers. It specializes in crafting unique gin-based cocktails and has an impressive collection of international gins.
Monsieur Moutarde A grand and theatrical bar located in a former post office near the Place de la République in Dijon. It’s known for its stunning décor, creative cocktails, and lively, fashionable crowd.
L’Assommoir A popular and cozy spot in the old town of Dijon, offering a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. This bar is a great choice for enjoying a classic cocktail with friends after exploring the city.
Le Point de Chute Found in a quiet corner of Beaune, this bar is celebrated for its relaxed vibe and outdoor terrace. It offers a selection of cocktails and local wines, perfect for a peaceful evening.
Les BerThoM Situated near the train station in Dijon, this spot is perfect for beer enthusiasts. While it specializes in craft beers, its lively atmosphere makes it a great stop for a drink with a diverse crowd.
Ma Cave A fantastic wine bar and shop in the heart of Beaune, offering the chance to taste and buy from an impressive collection of local and regional wines. It’s a great place for a pre-dinner glass of wine.
L’Oiseau de Nuit This trendy cocktail bar in Dijon’s city center is known for its inventive drinks and stylish, modern interior. It’s a popular spot for those looking for a sophisticated night out.
Les Planches Located on Rue Berbisey, a street famous for its nightlife in Dijon, this cocktail bar offers a laid-back vibe and a good variety of classic and signature drinks.
Le By’s Bar A cozy and popular bar in the center of Beaune, known for its friendly service and great selection of drinks. It’s a local favorite for a casual and enjoyable evening.
L’An-Fer Club Situated in the heart of Dijon, this iconic nightclub is known for its high-energy atmosphere and a diverse lineup of local and international DJs playing house, techno, and electro music.
Le Cercle A stylish and upscale club in central Dijon, popular with a chic crowd. It offers a vibrant atmosphere, a spacious dance floor, and a great selection of drinks.
Club 115 Located in a lively area of Dijon, this club is a favorite for its themed parties and diverse music, ranging from commercial hits to R&B and reggaeton, ensuring a fun night for everyone.
La Scène A prominent nightclub in Dijon that hosts live music and DJ sets, attracting a young and energetic crowd. It’s a great place to dance the night away.
Le Privé This exclusive and intimate club, located near the city center of Dijon, is known for its cozy atmosphere and quality sound system, making it a great spot for those who prefer a more personal clubbing experience.
Le By’s A well-known venue in Beaune that transforms into a lively club late at night. It’s a key spot for dancing and partying in the city, especially on weekends.
Le Petit Salon A historic and trendy club in Dijon, offering a mix of live bands and DJ performances. Its unique, intimate setting in a former cellar makes it a must-visit for music lovers.
L’Espace Located on the outskirts of Beaune, this is one of the larger nightclubs in the area. It features a spacious dance floor, multiple bars, and a dynamic mix of music, attracting a regional crowd.
Le Beverly A well-established nightclub in Dijon known for its vibrant energy and mix of music genres. It’s a popular spot for both students and tourists looking for a memorable night out.
Le Carré A modern and stylish club in central Dijon with a sleek design. It’s a perfect place for those who enjoy dancing to a mix of popular hits and electronic music in a sophisticated environment.
Le 4 Bis This club, a popular haunt on Rue Berbisey in Dijon, is known for its lively and friendly atmosphere. It’s a great spot to grab a drink and dance to a mix of commercial and pop music.