The 12 things to do on the Côte-d’Or

Châteaux, vineyards and medieval town: follow the guide, we take you to the Côte-d'Or, a department full of treasures!

Are you planning to visit the Côte-d'Or? An integral part of the historical region of Burgundy, the Côte-d’Or is above all famous for its wine heritage. Wine lovers can trace the Great Crus Route. But it is also its castles, fortified villages and religious buildings that make all the salt of the region. So without further delay, go to the discovery of Burgundy history and culture. Here are the essentials!

1. Dijon

Historical and cultural center of Burgundy, Dijon is a city that has crossed the ages and has left its mark throughout Europe. To find out, just walk along its avenues and alleys!

Don't miss anything, start in the famous Chouette route. Touching this curious gargoy, who has become an emblem of the city, lucky door. But this is especially the opportunity to discover:

• The gardens of Darcy;
• Grangier Square;
• The Halles de Dijon;
• Notre-Dame church (and its cabbage!)
• The Palace of Dukes of Burgundy;
• etc.

And if you’re looking for what to do in Côte-d’Or to relax, go to the botanical garden of the Arquebuse. It is a true haven of peace, which is visited in all seasons!

Finally, don't miss the Musée de la vie bourguignonne, located in the monastery of Bernadines. It allows you to discover the historical and cultural heritage of the region. An excellent starting point to visit the Côte-d’Or!

2. The Abbey of Fontenay

The Abbey of Fontenay was listed on the UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981. This is one of the first French monuments to be listed! And because of this, the place is a unique evocative force. It is not for nothing that many films have been shot here.

The Abbey of Fontenay was founded in 1118 by the saint Bernard de Clairvaux . This Burgundian monk, promoter of the Cistercian order, was an eminent reformer of the Catholic Church. Through the church, the cloister or the dormitories of the abbey, magic works at all times. A real journey in time not to be missed to visit the Côte-d’Or in all its riches!

3. Beaune

After Dijon, Beaune is the second largest city in the department. It only shelters 20,000 inhabitants, and yet it is an immanquable to visit the Côte-d’Or. Indeed, it is considered the capital of Burgundy wines! A golden opportunity to open up to oenology and enjoy local specialties... Of course, you have to plan a tour on the Côte de Beaune to discover the famous vineyards.

But don't miss the treasures that the city holds! Its architectural and cultural heritage is worth a visit. In particular, the Hotel Dieu (commonly known as the Hospices of Beaune) is known worldwide for its exceptional medieval roof. Also pass the doors of the Burgundy Wine Museum. This is the best place to learn more about the region’s wine heritage.

4. The castle of Savigny-les-Beaunes

Savigny-les-Beaunes Castle is located on a 20-hectare vineyard. This beautiful 14th century building has a small peculiarity...

Indeed, it contains several museums and an impressive collection of ancient vehicles. Cars, motorcycles, planes and wine-making machines succeed through its beautifully restored rooms. Castle lovers and mechanics enthusiasts find themselves in this unusual place! The end of the visit, she puts everyone in agreement. All visitors gather for wine tasting. After all, it’s also that visiting the Côte-d’Or, right?

5. Châteauneuf-en-Auxois

What to do in Côte-d’Or to discover its medieval history? Meet in the bastide of Châteauneuf-en-Auxois, classified as "More Beautiful Villages of France". Its paved streets are home to many old buildings. The most remarkable are those of the rich Burgundian merchants from the 14th to the 17th centuries.

The curious visitors will be able to admire a multitude of small details: beautiful doors, engraved lintaux, centuries-old trees... They will eventually lead to the castle, a unique vestige of the Burgundian military architecture of the sixteenth century. On this rocky promontory, the view is exceptional. One of the most beautiful in all of Burgundy!

6. The Castle of the Clos de Vougeot

Although the Château du Clos de Vougeot no longer produces wine, it is a vibrant witness of almost a millennium of wine traditions. It was founded in the 12th century by the Cistercian monks, in the middle of the vineyards. It then enlarged in the 16th century, then marrying the Renaissance style.

Today, it is a high place of Burgundy wine and its appellation has remained prestigious. The former operating buildings are open to the visit, an opportunity to learn more about the history of the region.

7. Châtillon-sur-Seine

Bathed by the Seine and by the beautiful springs of the Douix, Châtillon-sur-Seine is a particularly resurgent place when visiting Côte-d’Or.

Its charming old quarters contain some interesting buildings. Among them are the Abbey Notre-Dame. The latter, built in a museum, contains the treasure of Vix. An archaeological discovery that we don’t expect to find here! These are Celtic remnants dating from the Iron Age, including the remains of a woman, a chariot of match, jewels in solid gold... But above all, the largest metal vase of antiquity that has reached us.

8. The Butte of Thil

Looking for a day’s time in Côte-d’Or? Visiting Thil's butt combines a walk in nature and a discovery of historical heritage. Under the shade of multi-centered trees, you will find the castle and the collegial Thil. Two majestic ruins that open visitors a part of Burgundy history. On site you will also have the opportunity to admire the splendid view of the valley.

Run into the loop of Thil's butt to go to this place out of time. This 38-kilometre hike, very accessible, will make you discover some hidden treasures of the Côte-d’Or.

9. Mount Auxois

It is very likely that this name tells you something... And for cause, Mont Auxois was the site of the siege of the battle of Alesia which opposed Vercingétorix to Julius Caesar in 52 BC!

On site you will find the excavations of the battle, the Oppidum and the MuséoParc Alésia. A modern and dynamic museum that suits both adults and children. It is a must to learn more about this period, but not just! Because the museum goes further, wondering about the creation and deconstruction of the identity myth that surrounds the Gaulish peoples.

In short, if you’re looking for what to do in Côte-d’Or to do the full story, don’t hesitate!

10. Semur-en-Auxois

Magic works as soon as you see the medieval city from a distance. Its dungeon, towers and ramparts, bell towers, bridges, without forgetting its natural environment that blends forest, cliffs and rivers... Semur-en-Auxois does not lack any assets.

According to legend, it was founded by Hercules upon her return from Spain. And we could almost believe it! Indeed, the first written record of the city dates back to the seventh century, and it was already called sene muros "old walls"... So much to tell you that walking around her alleys promises a true journey in the Middle Ages Burgundy!

11. Meursault Castle

The castle of Meursault sits on one of the most prestigious vineyards of Burgundy. It covers 65 hectares and is one of the best climates in the Côte de Beaune! If you are looking for what to do in Côte-d’Or to immerse yourself in the region’s wine heritage, this is an ideal place.

The visit retraces the history of the castle and local varieties. You will find the cellars, reserves and ageing drums. Finally, tasting is both fun and delicious! The bottles are quite expensive, but the international fame of the castle is not stolen.

12. The Route des Grands Crus

Are you looking for what to do in Côte-d’Or to immerse yourself in its wine traditions (and taste good wine, can you see coming)? Start in the Route des Grands Crus, also known as the Route des Vins de Bourgogne. It makes you pass through the most prestigious Burgundy vineyards. By car or by bike, 60 kilometers of discovery await you.

You will cross the Côtes de Beaune and the Côte de Nuits. On the programme: charming wine villages, vineyard houses, old cellars, museums... Everything you need to discover, in all senses of the term, the red appellations (pinot noir, gamay) and white (chardonnay, aligoté) of the region.

How do I go to Côte-d’Or?

By car

To visit the Côte-d’Or by car, the best remains to refer to Dijon. Here are the journey times according to several starting cities:

• 2 h from Lyon via the A6;
• 3 h from Paris via the A6;
• 3h of Metz via the A31;
• 5 h from Lille via the A26.

On these axes, you will find no problem carpooling.

By train or bus

By train or by bus you will find direct routes to Dijon from the main cities of France. For example, the TGV line Paris-Dijon allows you to reach the Côte-d’Or in 1h30. You can then reach Beaune or any other point of interest by using the secondary lines.

By plane

Want to fly? The nearest airport is Dole Airport, 40 minutes’ drive from Dijon. By using our partner's website Skyscanner , you will find the most interesting offers on your dates!

Note Geneva and Lyon-Saint-Exupéry airports are located at 1:30 and 2:00 respectively in Dijon. They are better served, and can therefore be good alternatives at Dole Airport.

Where to stay in Côte-d'Or?

In order to radiate throughout the Côte-d’Or, the best thing is to find one ground to Dijon . In addition to being rich, the city allows to reach other points of interest easily. On site you will find a wide range of accommodations, just like the Airbnb . And if you want to sleep in the city without facing Dijon's tumult, you can also turn to Beaune . A very good choice for wine lovers!

For a quiet holiday, you also have the opportunity to take a place in the middle of nature. You will find in particular many hotels, holiday homes, campsites or holiday houses on the Wine Route of Burgundy .

Would you like to find the ideal accommodation at a small price? We recommend using this Compare hotels . It will select for you the best offers on your dates.

Enjoy your stay on the Côte d’Or!