Things to Do in Burgundy: The Finest Experience in France
In order to live properly, one needs to travel. Let’s make this a statement for this comprehensive travel guide, which aims that one particular thing — making you fall in love with life — while in Burgundy.
The thing I’ve learnt over the past few years is that when you travel, you see. You feel, you breathe, you experience, smell, discover and expand your mind and understanding. The vision changes and the senses reach the point at which you solely think of how lucky you are, living in this world full of wonders.
Sounds too poetic, doesn’t it?
Well, it has to, as all the things to do in Burgundy are going to be poetry for all your senses, just as they were for mine.
Beautiful countryside, glorious architecture, incredibly tasty food and wine, breathtaking sight and fantastic heritage dating back to the Renaissance, the Middle Age, and the Antic times — those are all the synonyms for France and its central eastern part named Burgundy.
Not only does it offer exceptional tasting experience, but represents a paradise for all outdoor activity lovers. Even Burgundy vineyards are incredible with their centuries-old history of viticulture and remarkable diversity, therefore being granted Unesco World Heritage status. All of this leads to one profoundly obvious conclusion — this is the place to be! So, here I am, going through all the things to do in Burgundy after experiencing them myself.
Welcome to Burgundy! Here Is What You Need to Know…
The first task that comes to everyone who is planning a trip is getting to know basic facts, so let’s go through them briefly. Burgundy (French: Bourgogne) represents a historical territory and administrative region in east-central France. The name is in use since January 2016, but it existed in history as such, referring to numerous political entities.
This area comprises of four departments, including Côte-d’Or, Saône-et-Loire, Yonne, and Nièvre. It has an oceanic climate with continental influence and that, alongside geographical characteristics, affected Burgundy becoming the central wine production area in France.
Côte-d’Or is probably the most representative and famous part, but all departments offer a range of magnificent things to do and see. Not familiar to many, the fact is that southeastern part of Burgundy was (heavily) industrial, having coal mines, iron foundries, and crystal works, but the industry declined in the second half of the twentieth century. That is when tourism has overtaken the entire region.
What to Do in Burgundy
Before you ask what to do in Burgundy, think about what it reminds you of? I bet it was wine and you are not mistaken for such thinking. The fact is that some of the most exceptional wines in the world are made in this area, but let’s not skip all other wondrous activities offered in this French region, that make my list of things to do in Burgundy never-ending. From cycling and hiking to floating and gliding, from smelling and looking to proper tasting (and drinking too).
Top 10 Things to Do in Burgundy, France
Making a list of top 10 things to do in Burgundy, France was the most straightforward task. The number of beauties and possibilities is endless. Therefore, I present you the most spectacular things that this — usually referred to as France’s most beguiling area — offers. Once you digest these information, you’ll be served the best Burgundy attractions and must-visit locations. But let’s not hurry. Here are our top picks of activities!
1. Visit Historical Buildings
With many centuries behind, crucial happenings, various emperors and vibrant culture, the first thing to have in mind while in Burgundy are important historical points. Celts, Romans, the Dukes of Burgundy — there are so many things to discover. Expect to see medieval villages, fairy-like chateaus that tell stories, abbeys and churches, and numerous archeological sites.
2. Go Wine Tasting
In case you intend to visit Burgundy and not drink wine, then you are very much mistaken. It seems impossible to avoid the worlds’ finest wines made in this exact place, even if you are not a wine-lover. You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy them, but if you do want to learn more, there is no better place than Burgundy region. Choose one of the tasting experiences offered by many wine-makers and cellars, such as the one in Chateau de Pommard, which was my choice. It includes expert wine advisors, beautiful surrounding, many lessons about the area, vineyards and wines, and much more. It was truly enjoyable experience for everyone, no matter the level of interest and wine-drinking history.
3. Cycle the Green Way
Did you know that there are nearly 1000km of cycling trails in Burgundy? Those form so-called “Le Tour de Bourgogne à vélo,“ which represent the Green Way route alongside canals, following former railway lines, and going across many small roads and pathways through vineyards. If you are somehow sport-oriented and like cycling, this is the best way to see and feel Burgundy and its full charm. Complete route and all the necessary information can be found here.
4. Tour the Lakes of Morvan
The Morvan massif itself can be fantastic holiday option. This nature park has multiple large lakes in the north, so this is a suitable location for hikers, water-lovers, and landscape-enjoyers. The scenery is impressive and entirely different to everything else you’ll see. Another thing that makes these lakes so remarkable is that they were human-made back in the 19th century!
5. Do the Route des Grand Crus
Well-known as Route des Grand Crus, this 60-kilometers-long route runs from Dijon to Santenay, along the foot of the Côte d’Or and through a considerable number of vineyards. Covering 33 villages and small towns, including beautiful Beaune, it provides a unique overview of Burgundy’s beauties, both natural and human-made. Above-mentioned Château de Pommard can also be found on the route, south from Beaune, and their offer includes a diversity of wine experiences that will both teach and please your senses.
6. Cruise the Canal du Nivernais
Canal du Nivernais, situated in the Nièvre department, connects the Loire with the Seine, approximately following the course of the river Yonne. With an initial aim to aid the floating of timber rafts from the Morvan forest to Paris, this 174km long canal, constructed in 1784, turned into a vital communication route which helped overall department development. Now, this canal is exclusively used for recreational craft, with numerous boat-hiring options. You can start your cruise in Auxerre and enjoy picturesque villages and hamlets all the way. It’s breathtaking, trust me!
7. Enjoy Truffles
For all the truffle-lovers, Burgundy is heaven. That is the perfect place to enjoy this worldwide delicacy. If your visit happens to be when truffles are mature enough (which equals fall season), you can hunt them in groups before the tasting. If not — well, the tasting will be enough. Their delicate flavor, strong, hazelnutty and earthy, is best enjoyed raw, spread thinly over pasta, risotto, eggs or potato dishes. If you haven’t tried them before, do it in Burgundy, where so-called burgundy truffle (Tuber uncinatum) species is found.
8. Visit Chateaus
Did you know that Burgundy counts more chateaus than any other French region? There is nearly 100 castles, medieval strongholds, and chateaus, all different in their architecture, but most converted into beautiful wine cellars, gourmet restaurants, luxury hotels, b&b’s, and accompanied with astonishing vineyards and gardens.
9. Do the Harvest
While in the worldwide-famous wine region, why not spend some time learning about wine harvest and winemaking? There are Wine Harvest Experience offered in some vineyards, which allow a limited number of guests to hand-pick grapes with team of experts and learn all about separation, blending, barrel-aging, and bottling methods. Will you be amazed? Most certainly yes! Those tours are made to be pleasant, informative, engaging and once-in-a-lifetime, so plan one when in Burgundy.
10. Eat All Do Food
“Things to do in Burgundy” list would not be complete without food. Entire France and its culture are food-oriented, and many delicacies are created here, representing the country at its finest. Therefore, when in Burgundy, feel free to eat and drink as much as you want. This topic deserves much more attention, so expect food recommendations later in this text, but do not skip Burgundy attractions.
Burgundy Attractions
When you are a tourist, the first thing to do (in Burgundy or anywhere else) is visiting the attractions. So, what can you see in this area? Are there any remarkable parts, historically incredible buildings, and breathtaking panoramas? The answer is one: absolutely yes! Here are some Burgundy attractions you mustn’t skip when traveling there. They are the essence of Burgundy, its most significant representation and historical record.
Hospices de Beaune
Have you heard of Hospices de Beaune? That is probably one of the most prestigious historic monuments in France, made as a hospital foundation in the late Middle Age. With such a long history, its gothic architecture, polychrome roofs and renowned vineyards, it represents a real Burgundy gem. You can read a complete history of this place here.
Cathedral of Saint-Étienne de Sens
As the city of Sens was a seat of the „Primate of Gaul,“ its significance in the 12th century was considerable. That resulted in the creation of the Sens Cathedral by the latest principles of that time. It’s stunning gothic style and treasury (one of the richest in antiquities in France), now kept in a museum, are worth the attention.
Palace of the Dukes and Estates of Burgundy
Described as „remarkably well-preserved architectural assemblage in Dijon,” this palace dates from 14th and 15th century. At least those oldest gothic parts, while some, mostly visible today, are more classic in style and built in the 17th and 18th century as a residence for estates of Burgundy. Today, this architectural masterpiece is used as city’s town hall and a museum.
Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Paray-le-Monial
Looking almost like Abbey of Cluny, however much smaller, this Basilica is a Romanesque church built in the 12th century. With its surrounding, this center of pilgrimage, which also happens to be the most well-preserved example of Cluniac architecture, represents one of the loveliest places to visit.
Guédelon Castle
What makes this castle interesting is that it is newly built (to be more precise, it is still in construction) Yes, you’ve read it right. Located in Treigny, this project intends building a castle by using only techniques and materials available in the Middle Ages. Completion of the project is expected in 2020, and the result should be an authentic recreation of 13th-century castle. More information and tickets available here.
Musée des Beaux-Arts
After nine years of renovation, Dijon now has galleries which are art for themselves, located in Palais des Ducs. They offer an overview of Egyptian art, the Middle Ages in Burgundy and Europe, and six centuries of European painting, starting from the Renaissance. Apart from those, the inevitable attraction is wood-paneled Salle des Gardes, housing late medical sepulchres of dukes John the Fearless and Philip the Bold.
Abbey of Fontenay
Founded by Saint Bernard of Clairvaux in 1118 and created in the Romanesque style, this is a former Cistercian abbey in Marmagne. The whole complex is almost entirely maintained, accompanied with a church, dormitory, cloister, chapter house, caldarium, refectory, dovecote and forge. It represents one of the biggest Burgundy attractions.
Musée du Châtillonnais
One reason is enough to make you come to this museum — it holds intact 1,64m-high bronze vase created in the 6th century BC. The museum itself is housed in the Abbaye de Notre Dame, previously used as a hospital but turned into a contemporary museum, and that indeed is another stunning fact.
Where to Stay in Burgundy
It comes as no surprise that you now wish to visit the area — in case you haven’t already — so the only decision left is choosing where to stay in Burgundy amongst all those locations. The best option is traveling from one place to another, experiencing complete charm and atmosphere. If that is not a possibility, choose Dijon, Beaune or Auxerre — cities that offer the most and from where you can explore other places.
Beaune is a wine center of Burgundy, situated in the Côte d’Or department in eastern France, between Paris and Geneva. Aside from massive wine production, the town is famous due to being surrounded by some of the world’s most famous wine villages. Many landmarks, historical points, and architectural heritage will leave an impact on every visitor.
Dijon is a capital of the same department and region, with a history so long that the first archeological findings are dating back to the Neolithic period. What makes it so remarkable is the fact it was home to the Dukes of Burgundy. Cultural richness is recognizable by the variety of architectural styles and significance approved by listing city’s historical center on the UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Auxerre, the capital of Yonne department, is the fourth-largest city in Burgundy, highly popular for Chablis wine. Back in 1995, this city was named „Town of Art and History.“ Some of the main sights include Cathedral of St. Étienne, Abbey of Saint-Germain, The Clocktower, the church of St. Pierre en Vallée and many other, making this city attractive for visitors.
Accommodation possibilities in these cities are endless and depend on your budget solely. For those wishing some extravagance, luxury hotel rooms in chateaus are the perfect choice. Other options for those looking where to stay in Burgundy include apartment renting, hostels, bed and breakfast arrangements, and room rent. Take a look at some of the most valuable online accommodation sources, such as airbnb.com or booking.com.
Best Villages in Burgundy
Burgundy villages are not just villages. They tell the history and evoke emotions; they inspire and provide with the most pleasant environment for both relaxation and adventures. So, here is the list of several villages in Burgundy you should visit, and we have undeniable reasons for that:
1.Cluny: Cluny has a marvelous reputation as it keeps the remains of a Benedictine Abbey founded in 910. That was the most massive building in the Christian world at the time, representing a center of the religious order, but was majorly destroyed in French Revolution.
2. Vezelay: As it seems, Vezelay is one of France’s and Europe’s prettiest villages, with Basilique Ste-Madeleine, claimed to house relics of Mary Magdalene, situated there. The village remained intact of modern times, with many medieval roads, 16th and 17th-century houses and fairy-like courtyards. It is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Pommard — Pommard is a small village most popular for numerous vineyards. With 18th-century church characterizing the place, it offers absolute dream for all relaxed-vacation lovers. It should be a village of choice for all wine enthusiast and those who want to learn all about this precious beverage.
4. Meursault — This (quite large for Burgundy standards) village represents a vibrant area in a somewhat sleepy Cote d’Or. What drives people here is the fact that Meursault is famous for white wine production and many tourists come during the Paulée de Meursault in November.
5. Chateauneuf–en–Auxois — is a hilltop village actively visited by tourists and therefore listed as one of the most famous in Cote d’Or. With 12th century chateau and such positioning, it is a fairy-like place that offers bliss.
What to Eat in Burgundy
Eating gets onto “things to do in Burgundy” list with ease. France is such a refined place when it comes to food that you have to indulge yourself. That should be your first rule while spending time in astonishing Burgundy.
Generally, when traveling, whether you are headed to Burgundy or any other part of the world, try to follow one simple practice: eat what locals eat. This way you will experience any particular area the best way possible and submit yourself to the most delicious, fresh, and carefully made meals.
Each country has its traditional specialties, so when you cross French border and reach Burgundy, keep in mind this food list and try to cross out as many things as possible. This is the answer to what to eat in Burgundy:
• Burgundy snails — a symbol of the Burgundy gastronomy,
• Fondue bourguignon — perfect steak dish,
• Rosette du Morvan — another specialty for meat lovers,
• Beef bourguignon — beef made with red wine,
• Coq Au Vin — chicken, braised with wine, lardons, mushrooms, and garlic,
• Anis de Flavigny — famous candy made by the Benedictine monks of the abbey of Flavigny,
• Local cheeses — Époisses, Crottins de Chavignol, etc,
• Bresse chicken — a special breed of white chicken,
• Eggs en Meurette — poached eggs in red wine sauce,
• Burgundy wines — Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gamay, Chablis, Côte-de-Beaune, etc.
All in all, when here, let all your senses enjoy what Burgundy can offer. Don’t think much about things to do in Burgundy. Just take a deep breath and start absorbing one of the most hedonistic regions in the world. That will create the most incredible memories and make you fall in love with life. Easily.
