The 15 things to do in Burgundy

Are you going to visit Burgundy and its countryscapes? Be aware of these must-sees so you don't miss anything!

Burgundy–Franche-Comté is a destination of choice for lovers of great wines and natural spaces. Vagabond between the Jura, the Doubs and the Côte d’Or to enjoy the exceptional landscapes of Burgundy. Another reason to visit Burgundy? The gastronomes will also find their happiness in this green region. To perfect your palate and taste your senses, enjoy the delicious regional cuisine.

The rooster with yellow wine, the epoisses, the potée comtoise and the cancoillotte are regional dishes to be known. And don't get me wrong, their taste quickly catches up with their nasty name, promised!

1. Dijon

If there’s a city to visit in Burgundy, it’s Dijon! Not only for its 13th century Gothic Cathedral, but also for its garden of science and biodiversity. This botanical garden consists of a museum, a rose garden, a arboretum and a botanical school. Each plant has its small descriptive label (food, medicinal, textiles...).

This approach invites travellers to question their own experience of biodiversity. Interesting and entertaining, this floral break will delight both small and large.

2. Route de la Chouette

Still in Dijon, but this time in the city centre, take the Chouette route. This hiking route gives access to all the must-sees in Dijon: the antique district, the Duc Palace, the Museum of Fine Arts... In just an hour, you will take the turn of the Burgundian capital and discover many of its riches.

Start your trip to the tourist office by taking a tour guide. Then go! Finally, think about caressing the Chouette from the left hand by making a wish. Opinions to superstitious people: this will bring you happiness!

Good green plan: No more paper! Download the mobile app “Le Parcours de la Chouette” to be notified to each new point of interest. Tariff: 2,99 € .

3. Hospices de Beaune

These hospices were built in 1443 following the ravages of plague and war of 100 years. It lasted 116 years. These gothic buildings with varnished tiles are jewels of the burgundy architecture. These polychrome slate roofs are a strong symbol of Burgundy. For the anecdote, the large and beautiful room of the Pôvres, which you will be brought to visit, is called for a reason.

This hospital was thought by the chancellor of Burgundy Nicolas Rolin to help the poor sick. Old, indigent, orphaned, sick, parturient and infirm were thus given free care as soon as it opened in 1452.

4. Bibracte

The Gaulish and fortified region of Bibracte is extremely large, covering 200 hectares. It mixes substantial vestiges of Roman architecture and Gaulish ruins mainly in wood. As a result, Bibracte is an incredible playground for archaeologists. Overflight the history of Bibracte by visiting the museum located at the pass of the Cross of Rebout. There you will enjoy a magical setting in the middle of the forest.

As a bonus: "à la carte" activities for families and groups up to nine people.

The superb " Custom Bib" formula provides an entertainer for two or three hours. This includes a guided tour of the archaeological site or museum as well as a practical workshop. Let yourself be seduced by the workshop “The Beatles of Bibracte”, “the kingdom of fragment” or “all our acts leave traces.” Each sequence is meant to ask the right questions.

How can the debris of the past make us aware of the Gallo-Roman way of life? Who are the current inhabitants of this town? What is so exciting in the archaeological profession?

5. Roche de Solutré

La Roche de Solutré received the label of Grand Site de France in 2013. In addition to being one of Europe’s largest prehistoric deposits, this site offers a colorful and wild panorama. On the other hand, the place is suitable for hiking, horse riding or... scooter. Five circuits of 4 to 14 kilometres are accessible to all travellers. On the way up to the top of the Roche, you will see a sea of vine at a loss of sight.

To get there, come by bus from Mâcon and continue your walk. Otherwise, rent classic or electric bikes at the Tourist Office of Charnay-les-Mâcon. In this way, you will visit without polluting!

Other places to visit in Burgundy: Solutré Prehistory Museum and its botanical and archaeological park.

6. Cluny

This medieval town has a prestigious heritage, rich history and charming Romanesque houses. This is why his Art and Archaeology Museum is a place to visit in Burgundy. But that’s not all! Take a jump on the side of the Abbey of Cluny, the Hôtel-Dieu and the Tour des Fromages. After having bravely climbed at the top of its 120 steps, you will discover an exceptional 360° panorama of Cluny and its surroundings. Take advantage of this sensational moment to take pictures of memories.

Tip: Discover the Tour des Fromages de Cluny in your own way by taking a digital tablet at the tourist office.

7. Route des Grands Crus

No way to visit Burgundy without going through a wine tasting (or several)! The Grand Crus route allows you to meet many winemakers and test different kinds of wine. It is also the oldest wine route in France. Thanks to it, a new way of travel has emerged: oentourism. This is a form of local tourism based on the discovery of wine regions and their productions.

Following its route, you will take a step in 37 villages and 2 legendary cities already mentioned here: Dijon and Beaune. You can discover the underside of the Burgundy wine tradition and taste the legendary red, white and rosé wines. You'll stop in Gevrey-Chambertin, the village with the 9 great vintages and the first 26 wines. But also in Vosne-Romanée, a village whose vineyards are the most popular in the world. Finally, stop at the wine house for a delicious "glass" tasting.

In short, the Grand Crus road represents 60 kilometers of olfactory revelations and delectations.

8. Morvan Regional Natural Park

By walking the roads of Burgundy, you will necessarily fall on the mysterious massif of Morvan. It is located in the centre of the region and covers four departments. This is a privileged place for walkers and sportsmen. On site, rafting on Chalaux, Canoraft on the Cure or a canoe-kayak night descent. Before continuing, discover the Gouloux jump: a waterfall preserved in the depths of the forest.

Listen to the noise of the water, as you advance. Finally, spit for the dishes of the delicious restaurant nearby.

9. Abbaye de Fontenay

The site of Fontenay with Cistercian architecture is a place to visit in Burgundy. His abbey is located on the commune of Marmagne in Côte d’Or. Its cloister is a jewel of Roman art and its gardens with the most harmonious vegetation. Enjoy this vibrant atmosphere. The Abbey of Fontenay hosts film shoots, classical music concerts and animations in the Fontenay spirit, especially in the summer.

The sobriety and beauty of this place are ideal conditions to relax, find and meditate.

10. Château de Guédelon

In the heart of La Puisaye, in Burgundy, is the Château de Guédelon. This castle was built in the middle of the forest according to the techniques and from the materials of the Middle Ages. This crazy adventure was led by a team composed of archaeologists, castellologists, art historians... This scientific committee wanted to recreate the construction processes and the organization of a construction site in the 13th century.

That is why you will probably have difficulties considering the Château de Guédelon as a castle of modern times. Go to meet the loggers, carpenters, forgerons and cordiers. They will explain their handicraft methods of work. Allow about 4 hours of visit and book your seats directly online.

Good to know: The tickets are not dated. You can use them until November 1, 2020.

11. Basilica Sainte-Marie-Madeleine

The Basilica of St. Mary Magdalene is classified as the world heritage of humanity. Let yourself be dazzled by its capitals, its moldings and its amazing light. Masses are organized every day from Monday to Saturday at 12:15. On request, it is possible to meet a brother or sister and to obtain his testimony on religious life.

12. Semur-en-Auxois

Semur-en-Auxois alone counts a wide range of incontournables! Made up of four large and massive towers, the dungeon of the village is particularly revealing of the castle life. But he is not the only one. Semur-en-Auxois is full of unmissable things to see: a museum, medieval bridges, an Italian theatre...

Finish your tour of Semur-en-Auxois by the Notre-Dame Collégiale, a jewel of this medieval city! Free guided tour from 14 July to 15 August every day except Tuesday and during the offices.

13. Flavigny-sur-Ozerain

Top place in the history of France, Flavigny-sur-Ozerain has a lot to tell you! Go for a guided tour of the village and church of Saint-Genest by visiting the House at the Donataire. On the way, you will surely meet artists, wool producers or farmers. Don't miss the visit of the Anis de Flavigny!

On site, you will learn the steps of making small candy to anise, from selecting ingredients to shipping. In addition, you will spend a privileged moment with a passionate guide who knows this universe on the fingertips. A few educational and gourmet moments to share with family or friends.

14. Lac des Settons

Fishing, catamaran, paddle, relaxation and farniente: the Lac des Settons is a small paradise on earth. As soon as you arrive, you will surely ask in which country you are. And that is understood, so the beauty of this site is disconcerting.

When you travel, you always need a Zen moment to recover and make the void. This is exactly why the Lac des Settons is a place to visit in Burgundy! Preach yourself on a white sandy beach or take a few breezes away from everything. You will feel like a little cloud for a few hours. An unheard chance to meet, swim or practice aquatic activities in Burgundy.

15. Château de Tanlay

This Renaissance castle classified as a historic monument could not be ignored! Grandiose and emblematic, the Château de Tanlay housed the meetings of the Huguenot leaders during the times of the wars of religion. Today, this building welcomes travellers from all over the world. She's very famous. Notably for its misleading gallery, for its frescoes of the league tower and for its landscaped garden. In addition, the Château de Tanlay regularly organizes events.

On August 8 and 9, the play "La Belle et la Bête" will be played at 8:30 in the open air. Free participation.

How to get to Burgundy?

To reach this fabulous French wine region, there are several paths ahead of you. You can take:

• By car: from Paris to A6 or from Toulouse A20
• By train: From Paris, you can stop in Beaune, Dijon or Mâcon. TGV links also exist from Switzerland (Lausanne, Geneva, Bern, Zurich) and the south of France (Marseille, Montpellier)
• By plane: Land at Dole-Jura Airport, 15 minutes by shuttle from Dole TGV. Tariff: 1 €. From then on, you can go to all the remarkable places to do in Burgundy. To find the best price, take a look at the next available flights on the Compare Skyscanner

Where to stay in Burgundy?

The offer of tourist accommodation is very complete but prices are also very varied, depending on the places. Indeed, the more you approach a tourist square, the more the price will increase.

Obviously, the closer you will approach big cities like Dijon or Beaune , the more diversified the offers will be.

If you want a good value for money, you can turn to Airbnb or campings a little more towards the land. As with many destinations, it is best to book in advance and use one a hotel comparison to see availability.