Things to do in Beaune

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All about Beaune

When to visit

Beaune is busiest in summer, when the weather is ideal for wine tasting tours and the city’s landmarks are lit up with dazzling illuminations each evening—known as Les Chemins de Lumieres. Wine lovers should save their trip for fall, when the harvest is in full swing and vineyards often host additional tours and tastings. November’s Three Glorious Days wine festival is an annual highlight with its popular charity wine auction.

Getting around

You can see all the sights within the medieval city walls of Beaune on a short stroll. However, you will need wheels to explore the surrounding vineyards. Local buses that move between Burgundy’s towns are infrequent and slow, so a better option is to hire a car or join a vineyard tour with a designated driver. Alternatively, rent a bike—marked cycling paths follow the region’s wine trail, and bike rental agencies dot the city.

Traveler tips

Beaune’s market is held every Wednesday and Saturday, although it’s liveliest on weekends. Shop for a picnic and pick up a rotisserie chicken—the Bresse chickens are renowned throughout France—or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, some escargots de Bourgogne (snails stuffed with garlic butter). Nearby, the Patisserie Fabien Berteau is the ideal spot for lunch—grab a seat in the tea salon and sample some of the renowned sandwiches and pastries.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Beaune worth visiting?

Yes, Bayeux is worth visiting. It’s the capital of the Burgundy wine region, for one. The phrase “good things come in small packages” applies here. With a compact, historical center of half-timber buildings and elaborate tiled roofs, Beaune looks sprung from the pages of a fairytale.

What is Beaune, France known for?

Beaune and wine go hand in hand. Burgundy is one of France’s most famous wine-growing regions, and Beaune is the leaping-off point for all manner of vineyard tours and tastings. It also has a notable 15th-century hospital that served the region for hundreds of years.

Is it better to stay in Beaune or Dijon?

It depends on your preference. Dijon is larger than Beaune, with about eight times the population. It’s a pretty city with architecture ranging from Gothic to art deco, and comes with the bigger city amenities you’d expect. Beaune is much more laid-back and easy to explore without a car.

How do you get around Beaune?

If you’re staying in town, travel on foot. The slow pace of life in Beaune reigns supreme, so take your time and explore the historic, cobbled streets. To visit the nearby vineyards, book a tour with a private driver. You won’t want to hold back on the wine tastings.

What wine comes from Beaune?

Beaune is the unofficial capital of the Burgundy region, so Burgundy wines of world renown are grown here. Chardonnay is one of the main white wines produced in the region, and much of the red is pinot noir. The Burgundy wine region stretches almost 200 miles (320 kilometers).

Where can I sleep in Beaune?

The hotels in Beaune scream character. There are many options in the historic old town, where you can stay in 17th-century townhouses, upscale manors with garden courtyards, or even châteaux, all with a choice of wine cellars at your fingertips. Five-star Hôtel Le Cep is one of the best.

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