Curator’s statement
Beaune is an enchanting haven for foodies and wine-lovers in the heart of Burgundy. Just a quick two hour train ride from Paris, Beaune is the perfect homebase for exploring this famous wine region. The village of Beaune is quaint, picturesque, and walkable, with cobblestone streets, walled ramparts, boutique shopping, and delicious restaurants. During my recent trip to Beaune, I meandered through the most incredible farmer’s market I have ever seen, spent a day tasting Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays in the beautiful vineyards and cellars of Corton and Pommard, and learned to cook a proper Burgundian meal during a terrific cooking class. For my family of foodies, Beaune was a truly magical place to soak in French food and culture, away from the hustle and bustle of Paris.
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Where to stay in Beaune, France
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Things to do in Beaune, France
Go Wine Tasting
You can’t come to Burgundy and not spend some time tasting wine! In Beaune, there are many cellars and tasting rooms that make wine tasting easily accessible. I’d recommend hiring a guide to take you out into the countryside though, where you can visit the rolling estates and taste wine amidst the history of ancient cellars. A guide can also explain the intricacies of French wine, such as the difference between grand cru and premier cru.
Take a Cooking Class
This is a perfect family activity in Beaune for foodies of all ages! Over the course of several hours, we learned about Burgundian cuisine and participated in a hands-on cooking lesson from a local chef. The evening was capped off with an incredible dinner where we enjoyed the fruits of our labor, perfectly paired with local wines.
Shop at the Farmer’s Market
Every Saturday, the streets of Beaune transform into a magnificent farmer’s market. You will marvel at the incredible displays of produce, breads, truffles, cheeses, and more. Purchase everything you need for that perfect French picnic lunch.
Visit the Hospices de Beaune
Once a hospital, this historical site features a storied past and beautiful architecture, making it a must-visit when in Beaune. I was captivated by the Gothic facade and unique glazed roof tiles.
Taste true Dijon Mustard
La Moutarderie Fallot is a family-owned, Burgundian mustard maker located in Beaune. Here you can tour the factory, learn how mustard is made, and enjoy a tasting of many different flavors of Dijon mustard. We fell in love with Fallot mustard during our visit and brought home many bottles to enjoy and share with friends - a delicious souvenir!
Walk the Ramparts
Spend some time strolling or biking along the walled ramparts of Beaune. Built 900 years ago to protect the city, the ramparts include several towers and a picturesque moat.
Shop in the Specialty Stores
Beaune’s cobblestone streets are lined with interesting and unique specialty stores. Some favorites include Alain Hess, an incredible cheese monger, Athenaeum de le Vigne et du Vin, an epic wine bookshop, and Mulot-Petitjean Pain d’Epices, a bakery featuring local specialty gingerbread.
Day Trips:
Extend the trip by taking a day trip to Dijon, just a 20-minute train ride from Beaune. Dijon features wonderful architecture, great cuisine, and a neat walking path, The Owl’s Trail, that guides you through the city and past all the major sites.
Places to eat & drink in Beaune, France
Garum Table Vivante
We enjoyed the most gorgeous lunch on the terrace here. A wonderful spot to linger over a glass of wine.
Restaurant Le Cheval Noir
Just outside the ramparts, this cozy spot has a lovely outdoor space and the most delicious escargot of our trip. We enjoyed the classic beef bourguignon as well!
Table Du Square
This bistro offers a small, creative menu of seasonal dishes, with a huge selection of local wines.
Caves Madeline
This cozy restaurant offers seasonal, classic dishes and an unparalleled wine selection.
Need to know
Spending a few days in Beaune is a great addition to any France travel itinerary. It is easily accessible by rail and offers a welcome respite from time in the big cities, while still offering fine food, wine, and hotel options.
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Erica Christie
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to France.