The beautiful city of Beaune is the epicenter of Burgundy’s wine industry. Head in any direction and you’ll ancientchâteaux, exquisite vineyards and a city center straight out of a fairy tale.
Go back to the Middle Ages
Visit the Hôtel-Dieu des Hospices de Beaune to get a real feel for medieval France. This eye-catching historic building in the city center was once a hospital but now serves as a museum. Marvel at its striking Gothic façade, with piercing turrets and colorful roof tiles. The architectural beauty continues inside – let your eyes wander skywards to see thesculpted ceiling of theSalle des Pôvres. You can also explore the apothecary where poultices and concoctions would have been whisked up by mortar and pestle. The stunning building is also famous for its sprawling wine estate, which has been developing prestigious bottles since the 15th century.
A short stroll away is the Basilique Collégiale Notre Dame. A blend of Romanesque and Gothic detailing can be seen from the exterior, and there’s a wonderful 16th century bell tower. Inside, enjoy an atmospheric chapel and learn more about the life of the Virgin Mary as you study the church’s 15th century tapestries.
See the historic center of Beaune in a different light after the sun goes down. Enjoy the evening Trail of Light and watch the history of the town come to life with colorful projections on the city’s buildings. You can use your smartphone to download an audio guide and follow the route through the city, with more than 30 iconic buildings illuminated in the darkness.
The city’s culinary roots
Beaune is a stone’s throw from Dijon, so it’s little wonder that there is also a history of mustard production in this small city. Explore the origins of one of France’s most famous exports with a trip to Moutarderie Fallot. This is Beaune’s last remaining family-run mustard factory - head here to learn about the history of the region’s mustard and have a go at hand-milling your own seeds.
If you’re visiting on a weekend, the Saturday food market is a must. Wander along the cobbled Place de la Halle and you’ll find vendors selling honey, organic vegetables, fresh flower bouquets and farm eggs. Pick up homemade pàté, artisan cheese, punnets of fresh berries and head to Square des Lions for a picnic.
Conquer Burgundy
Dijon is one of France's most attractive cities. Once home to the Dukes of Burgundy, it’s filled with elegant medieval and Renaissance buildings - perfect for a leisurely stroll and highly Instagrammable. At the atmospheric Place François Rude you can sip a coffee and listen to the fairground tune of a Victorian-style carousel in the center of the square. Further along the street you’ll come across Palais de Ducs. This mesmerizing palace dates back to the 14th century and evidence’s the region’s rich heritage. Simply admire it from Place de la Libération or tour the eastern wing with a visit to Musée des Beaux-Arts.
Head out into the surrounding countryside of the Côte d'Or where elaborate châteaux sit in the folds of rolling vineyards. The name Côte d'Or comes from the golden color of the vines from this region.
South of Beaune is Château de la Rochepot – drive along the D973 and spot the turrets of the fortress piercing the skyline, high above the woodland. Enjoy a glimpse of the colorful roof tiles, peer down the courtyard well and enjoy the countryside views.
Whether you want to solely discover the medieval city or head out to explore more of Côte d'Or, maximize your time in Burgundy with car rental in Beaune.
