Beaune

A charming walled town in the heart of Burgundy's wine country, famous for its stunning 15th-century Hospices de Beaune with its distinctive colorful tile roof. The town is surrounded by prestigious vineyards and serves as the perfect base for wine tasting and exploration.

Things to do

• Hospices de Beaune — Tour the iconic 15th-century charitable hospital with its breathtaking Flemish-style polychrome tile roof and explore the pharmacy, kitchen, and ward rooms filled with period furnishings.
• Wine Tasting at Local Cellars — Visit family-run wine merchants and négociants in the town center to sample Burgundy's renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay directly from producers.
• Ramparts Walk — Stroll along the preserved medieval town walls that encircle Beaune for panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and countryside.
• Musée du Vin de Bourgogne — Discover the history and culture of Burgundy wine in this museum housed in a 15th-century mansion, featuring historic wine presses and bottles.
• Marché aux Vins Wine Bar — Experience an all-you-can-taste wine experience in the cellars of a former convent, sampling wines from across Burgundy's appellations.
• Vineyard Cycling Tours — Bike through the famous Côte d'Or wine region surrounding Beaune, visiting villages like Pommard and Meursault with stops at prestigious vineyards.
• Collégiale Notre-Dame Church — Visit this 12th-century Romanesque church in the heart of town to admire its intricate Gothic tapestries and architectural details.

Food to try

• Coq au Vin — This iconic Burgundian braise of chicken in local red wine with pearl onions and mushrooms is a specialty throughout Beaune's restaurants.
• Escargots de Bourgogne — Fresh snails prepared with garlic, parsley, and butter represent Burgundy's most famous appetizer, available at traditional bistros.
• Époisses de Bourgogne Cheese — This pungent, creamy washed-rind cheese from nearby Époisses is a local pride and pairs perfectly with Burgundy wines.
• Jambon Persillé — A terrine of ham and parsley set in aspic, this charcuterie specialty reflects Burgundy's rich culinary heritage.
• Wine Bar Lunch Pairing — Experience a leisurely midday meal at a local wine bar with regional cheeses, cured meats, and fresh bread paired with Beaune's wines.

Local customs & good to know

• Wine Shop Etiquette — Most wine merchants expect serious interest in wine; take time to ask questions and engage with shopkeepers rather than treating it as a casual browse.
• Auction Season — The famous Hospices de Beaune wine auction (Vente des Vins) occurs annually in November; visiting during this time offers unique cultural insight into Burgundy's wine economy.
• Afternoon Closing Times — Many small shops and restaurants close between 12:30 and 2 p.m. for lunch, so plan your sightseeing accordingly or enjoy a leisurely meal yourself.
• Respectful Vineyard Access — The surrounding vineyards are private property; stick to marked cycling routes and visit only during official tastings or organized tours to respect local customs.