Burgundy Vineyards, France Travel Guide

Discover the exquisite Burgundy Vineyards in France, where world-class wines meet the scenic beauty and rich history of the French countryside.

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Burgundy Vineyards

The Burgundy Vineyards in France are a must-visit for wine lovers and anyone enchanted by the charm of the French countryside. Nestled in the heart of France, this region is renowned for producing some of the world's finest wines. From the moment you arrive, you will be greeted by the sight of lush, rolling hills covered in meticulously maintained grapevines. Visitors can explore the picturesque villages that dot the landscape, each with its unique history and character. The local wineries offer tours and tastings, providing an insider's look into the art of winemaking. You can savor a variety of wines, including the celebrated Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, while learning about the intricate processes that go into creating these exceptional beverages. Beyond the vineyards, Burgundy is rich in cultural and historical attractions. The region boasts stunning medieval architecture, charming markets, and gourmet restaurants where you can indulge in traditional French cuisine. Whether you're strolling through the vineyards, exploring ancient castles, or enjoying a leisurely meal, Burgundy offers a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Burgundy Vineyards.

Visit during the harvest season in September and October for a unique experience.
Book winery tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the vineyards and village streets.
Try the local cuisine, particularly dishes that pair well with Burgundy wines.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and charming villages.

Explore Burgundy Vineyards: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Burgundy Vineyards

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Les Jardins De Barbirey

Explore the serene beauty and historical charm of Les Jardins De Barbirey, a stunning garden and castle in Barbirey-sur-Ouche, France.

4.2

Maison des Climats

Explore the rich viticultural heritage of Burgundy at Maison des Climats, a captivating museum in Beaune dedicated to the art of winemaking.

4.6

Côte de Nuits

Discover the legendary Côte de Nuits: Home to the world's finest Pinot Noir wines, picturesque villages, and centuries of Burgundian winemaking tradition, nestled in the heart of France.

4.4

Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne

Discover centuries of Burgundian history and art at the Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne, home to a renowned fine arts museum and iconic landmarks in the heart of Dijon.

4.6

Best landmarks in Burgundy Vineyards

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Château De Pommard

Discover Burgundy's wine heritage at Château de Pommard, offering exquisite tastings and tours in a historic setting.

4.2

Clos de Vougeot Castle

Explore Clos de Vougeot Castle, a symbol of Burgundy's wine heritage, where centuries of winemaking history and architectural elegance converge.

4.5

Côte de Nuits

Discover the legendary Côte de Nuits: home to the world's finest Pinot Noir wines, historic vineyards, and charming Burgundy villages.

4.4

Castle Pierreclos

Explore a historic Burgundy castle and vineyard. Taste exquisite wines and discover centuries of winemaking tradition in Pierreclos.

4.6

Best restaurants in Burgundy Vineyards

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Le Relais Bernard Loiseau

Experience exquisite French cuisine at Le Relais Bernard Loiseau – a Michelin-starred restaurant offering luxury accommodations and a serene spa retreat.

4.6

Maison Lameloise

Experience exquisite French cuisine at Maison Lameloise in Chagny, where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

4.8

Le Charlemagne

Discover Le Charlemagne: A fine dining experience blending Japanese artistry with Burgundian charm amidst stunning vineyard views.

4.7

L’Écrit'Vin

Discover L’Écrit'Vin in Beaune: where traditional French cuisine meets modern elegance in a charming brasserie setting.

4.3

Best bars in Burgundy Vineyards

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Flannery's

Discover the lively atmosphere of Flannery's Pub in Dijon, where local culture meets vibrant nightlife for an unforgettable experience.

4.4

L'O des Vignes

Experience exquisite French cuisine at L'O des Vignes in Fuissé, a fine dining bistro renowned for its local ingredients and superb wine selection.

4.7

Dr. Wine

Experience the essence of Burgundy at Dr. Wine, where exquisite dining meets a sophisticated wine bar in the heart of Dijon.

4.5

The Barbarian's Pub

Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at The Barbarian's Pub in Dijon, where hearty meals and lively entertainment await every visitor.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Burgundy Vineyards

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Caveau de Saulx (Le Trou)

Explore the exquisite flavors of Burgundy wines at Caveau de Saulx, a charming wine bar in the heart of Dijon, perfect for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.

4.7

Le Copacabana

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Beaune at Le Copacabana, the ultimate disco club where unforgettable memories are made.

3.3

Le Beverly

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dijon at Le Beverly, where great music, dancing, and friendly competition await you in a lively atmosphere.

3.1

Black Pearl

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Black Pearl, a premier disco club in Creancey - Pouilly-en-Auxois, where music and fun unite for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Best shops in Burgundy Vineyards

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Athenaeum - Beaune

Discover Athenaeum in Beaune: the ultimate destination for book lovers, food enthusiasts, and wine connoisseurs in Burgundy.

4.6

Boutique Wine Market

Explore exquisite wines and the essence of Burgundy at Beaune's Boutique Wine Market, where every bottle tells a story.

4.0

La Grande Cave de Vougeot

Experience the finest wines of Burgundy at La Grande Cave de Vougeot, where tradition meets excellence in every bottle.

4.4

Alain Hess Cheesemonger

Explore the exquisite world of cheese and fine wines at Alain Hess Cheesemonger in Beaune, a culinary gem in Burgundy.

4.6

Explore Burgundy Vineyards on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Burgundy Vineyards, mapped for you.

Burgundy Vineyards Essentials

Burgundy Vineyards can be accessed via multiple routes. The nearest major airport is Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS), about 150 kilometers away. Alternatively, Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris is about 300 kilometers away. From these airports, you can take a high-speed TGV train to Dijon, the capital of Burgundy. The journey from Paris to Dijon takes approximately 1.5 hours. Car rentals and shuttle services are also available at both airports for convenient access to the vineyards.
Once in Burgundy, the best way to explore the vineyards is by car. Car rentals are available in major cities like Dijon and Beaune. There are also cycling routes for those who prefer a more active way to see the vineyards. Public transportation options include regional trains and buses that connect the main towns and cities. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available but may be less frequent in rural areas.
The official currency in France is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller villages and rural establishments. ATMs are available in all major towns and cities in Burgundy. Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions to avoid any inconvenience.
Burgundy is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other place, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables in your car or unattended. While the crime rate is low, it is always best to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places like markets and festivals. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is wise to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number is the European emergency number and can be used for police, fire, or medical emergencies. Major towns like Dijon and Beaune have hospitals and clinics for medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also widely available for minor health issues. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other unforeseen events.
Fashion: Do dress smart-casual, especially when dining out or visiting vineyards. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect religious sites and local customs. Avoid loud behavior and always be respectful. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains or buses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Bonjour' (Good day) and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local wines and delicacies. Don't refuse wine tastings, as it is considered impolite. Always show appreciation for the local cuisine.
To experience Burgundy Vineyards like a local, visit the local markets in towns such as Beaune and Dijon to buy fresh produce and regional specialties. Engage with locals during vineyard tours; they are often eager to share stories and tips about wine-making. Don't miss participating in wine festivals and events like the Hospices de Beaune Wine Auction. For a unique experience, rent a bike and explore the 'Route des Grands Crus,' a scenic route that takes you through some of the most famous vineyards in the region.

When is the best time to visit Burgundy Vineyards?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Burgundy Vineyards

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Burgundy Vineyards. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh re-vwar]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [nohn]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien
  [seel voo pleh/duh ree-ehn]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi/Désolé
  [ehk-skew-zay mwah/deh-soh-lay]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [kohm-ahn sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byen. ay voo]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahn pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwahr luh meh-nyoo, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnzh pah duh vee-ahnd]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-yay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!À l'aide!
  [ah leyd]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay voo ahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-puh-lay lah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-puh-lay uh mayd-sahn]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray zheh-shay]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gahrd zhewst]
- How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-veh voo beh-say luh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kell uhr eh-teel]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel eh oon uhr]
- Half past (10)Dix et demi
  [dees ay dem-ee]
- MorningMatin
  [ma-tan]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [yehr]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor dew-ee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [twah]
- 4Quatre
  [kah-truh]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [sept]
- 8Huit
  [wheet]
- 9Neuf
  [nuhf]
- 10Dix
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Où est...?
  [oo eh]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kell eh lad-rehs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-veh voo muh mohn-tray (soor lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn eh luh proh-shahn (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Burgundy Vineyards

The history of Burgundy vineyards dates back to Roman times, around the 1st century AD. The Romans recognized the region's potential for cultivating vines and began planting the first vineyards. The renowned wine-growing tradition of Burgundy owes its inception to these early efforts.
During the Middle Ages, the Benedictine and Cistercian monks played a crucial role in the development of Burgundy vineyards. Monasteries such as the Abbey of Cluny and the Abbey of Cîteaux meticulously cultivated the land, optimizing grape varieties and winemaking techniques. Their dedication laid the groundwork for Burgundy’s reputation for producing high-quality wines.
The 14th and 15th centuries marked the Golden Age of Burgundy under the rule of the Dukes of Burgundy. They were great patrons of viticulture, promoting the region's wines across Europe. Philip the Bold's decree in 1395, which banned the cultivation of the inferior Gamay grape in favor of Pinot Noir, significantly improved the quality of Burgundy wines.
The French Revolution brought significant changes to Burgundy vineyards. The confiscation and redistribution of church lands led to the fragmentation of vineyards. Many smaller plots were sold to private individuals, resulting in the patchwork of vineyard ownership that characterizes the region today.
In the 20th century, Burgundy vineyards faced challenges such as phylloxera infestations and global competition. However, the establishment of the Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) system in 1936 helped protect and standardize the quality of Burgundy wines. The AOC system ensures that wines labeled as Burgundy adhere to strict geographical and production criteria.
In 2015, the 'Climats' of Burgundy, which refers to the precisely delineated vineyard plots, were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This designation acknowledges the region's unique terroir and the centuries-old cultural practices that have shaped its viticultural landscape.
Burgundy’s cultural significance is celebrated through numerous wine festivals and events. The annual 'Hospices de Beaune' wine auction, dating back to 1859, is one of the most famous wine events in the world. These festivals highlight the region’s rich heritage and its continuing importance in the global wine industry.