Best Things to Do in Beaune – Burgundy’s Wine Capital

Nestled in the heart of Burgundy’s renowned wine country, between Dijon and Lyon, Beaune is a charming medieval town that has lots to offer visitors.

Known as the Wine Capital of Burgundy, Beaune is an ideal destination for wine lovers and history buffs, thanks to its rich history and beautiful architecture. From wandering cobblestone streets and exploring its Gothic architecture to tasting world-class wines in local cellars, there’s no shortage of things to do in Beaune.

Whether you are visiting Beaune on a day trip from Dijon or as part of the Route des Grands Crus road trip, keep reading to discover what to do in Beaune for a memorable trip.

What to Do in Beaune, France

Beaune is one of the best weekend getaways from Paris by train and a must-stop along the Burgundy Wine Route.

So, what to do in Beaune? Discover the best Beaune attractions and unique experiences that make this town a captivating destination in the heart of Burgundy. If you are in a hurry, here’s a quick summary:

1. Visit the Hospices de Beaune
2. Follow Beaune’s Ramparts
3. Visit Notre Dame Collegiate Basilica
4. Wine Museum and Maison des Climats
5. Visit the Fallot Mustard Factory
6. Visit Beaune’s Underground Cellars
7. The Voie des Vignes by Bike
8. Parc de la Bouzaize

1. Visit the Hospices de Beaune

The Hospices de Beaune is a must-visit when in Beaune. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was founded in the 15th century and is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and vibrant, multicolored tiled roof.

Originally built as a charitable almshouse for the poor, the Hospices now serve as a museum dedicated to the hospital’s history, with a reconstruction of the central ward and apothecary.

Once inside, you can also admire the building’s Cour d’Honneur and beautifully preserved rooms, including the grand hall with its wooden beams and ornate altarpiece, the kitchen, and the pharmacy. Also inside, you can admire the famous Polyptych of the Last Judgment by Rogier van der Weyden.

The Hospices de Beaune also hosts the annual wine auction every November, one of the oldest and most prestigious in France, which supports the maintenance of the building and local charities.

The Hospices de Beaune also hosts the most famous wine charity sale in the world! Every year, on the weekend of the third Sunday of the month, professionals, connoisseurs, and wine lovers come together for this incredible event, which is usually animated by a French celebrity.

TIP: Visit late in the morning or in the afternoon for the best light in the Cour d’Honneur.

Address: 2, Rue de l’Hôtel Dieu; Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (January to mid-November); Monday to Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (mid-November to the end of December).

2. Follow Beaune’s Ramparts

Walking around Beaune’s ramparts is a fantastic way to explore Beaune’s rich medieval history. Half of these defensive walls, stretching 2.5 km, are still intact and offer a glimpse into the town’s past as a fortified city.

The Tourist Office offers a map with 2 itineraries you can follow. I suggest choosing Circuit #2 around the ramparts as it will allow you to explore the towers, the bastions, the remains of the former château (from the fifteenth century), and a beautiful “lavoir” by the river (the public place to wash clothes).

Tourism Office Address: 6, Boulevard Perpreuil; Tourism Office Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, from 09:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., and from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. On Sundays, the Tourism Office opens from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

3. Visit Notre Dame Collegiate Basilica

Another of the unmissable things to see in Beaune is the Notre Dame Collegiate Basilica. Built in the 12th century, it is one of the last Romanesque buildings left in Burgundy.

This impressive church is beautiful both inside and out, where you can admire stunning stained glass windows that flood the space with vibrant light, intricate stone carvings, and a remarkable 15th-century wooden choir.

The Basilica also houses the famous “Beaune Bell,” one of the oldest bells in France.

Before leaving, be sure to take a couple of pictures of the cloister, which is attached to the Basilica’s building.

Address: Place Général Leclerc; Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; on Sundays, the Basilica opens from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

4. Wine Museum and Maison des Climats du Vignoble de Bourgogne

Considering the centrality of wine in the city of Beaune, you can’t miss a visit to the Musée du Vin de Bourgogne.

Housed in the former palace of the Dukes of Burgundy in Beaune, the wine museum offers a captivating journey through the rich winemaking heritage of Burgundy, showcasing the history of viticulture and enology in the region, as well as the importance of wine in local folklore.

In the museum’s courtyard, make sure to take a peek into the vat house featuring a beautiful collection of wine presses from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

Address: Hôtel des Ducs de Bourgogne, 24 Rue du Paradis; Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Wine enthusiasts will also enjoy visiting the Maison des Climats du Vignoble de Bourgogne, located inside the Tourism Office.

Climat is the specific term used in Burgundy for a wine-growing plot and are the worldwide birthplace of terroir-based viticulture.

Each climat was given a name, which is now cast in stone in the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) system, and they reflect both its place of origin, the winemaker’s skills and expertise (or ‘savoir-faire’ as we say in France).

The climats of Burgundy were recognized as a treasure for Humanity and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015. Now you can learn more about them by visiting this free exhibition.

Tourism Office Address: 6, Boulevard Perpreuil; Tourism Office Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, from 09:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., and from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. On Sundays, the Tourism Office opens from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

5. Visit the Fallot Mustard Factory

La Moutarderie Fallot is one of Burgundy’s most iconic mustard mills and the last family-owned mustard factory in Beaune.

With a rich history dating back to the 19th century, the mill has been crafting exceptional mustard using secret recipes passed down through generations.

Visits are only available through guided tours, which must be booked online in advance. During the tour, you will discover all about the history of mustard making by visiting the facilities.

Be sure to stop by the factory shop, where you’ll find a mustard bar where you can try all the different flavors for free before shopping – they are all delicious!

Address: 31, Rue du Faubourg Bretonnière; Opening hours: every day, from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

6. Visit Beaune’s Underground Cellars

Beaune is surrounded by some of the world’s most prestigious vineyards, and exploring the city’s historic cellars offers a unique glimpse into the winemaking tradition.

Cellars in Beaune have the peculiarity of being built underground and consist of a network of galleries that date back to the 4th century! Today, it is possible to visit the cellars of the main wine houses in Beaune. Some of them offer guided (or self-guided) tours with tastings, while others are more focused on the wine-tasting aspect.

Patriarche Cellars are the biggest (and most impressive) wine cellars in Burgundy, with more than 5 km of underground galleries dating from the 13th century. They offer self-guided tours with wine tasting at the end of the visit. La Maison Champy is the oldest wine house in Beaune (est. 1720). The building is listed as Historical Monument and they offer guided tours with tastings at the end of the visit.

Other wine cellars within the city limits worth visiting are:

• Maison Jaffelin
• Domaine Chanson
• Bouchard-Aîné & Fils
• Domaine Loubet & Dewailly.

Tours in the most prestigious cellars are pricey, but they are a good alternative for those who don’t have the time to explore the surrounding vineyards. For security reasons, a minimum of two visitors are required to visit the underground cellars.

7. The Voie des Vignes by Bike

For a fantastic day trip from Beaune, I recommend following the Voie des Vignes, also known as the “Vineyard Way.”

This scenic cycling and walking route stretches through the heart of Burgundy’s wine country. Running from Beaune to Santenay, this 22-kilometer trail winds through some of the region’s most prestigious wine villages, including Pommard, Volnay, Saint-Aubin, Montrachet, and Meursault.

Following the Voie des Vignes is a peaceful and immersive way to experience the landscapes and culture of Burgundy. Along the way, you can admire breathtaking views of rolling vineyards, historic châteaux, and charming stone houses. The route is well-marked and mostly flat, making it ideal for all fitness levels.

If you love wine, I suggest booking this memorable full-day bike tour along the Voie des Vignes with Active Tours. Led by a local guide, he will tell you all about the wines in Burgundy, from the vineyards to the bottle, and you will visit two wine cellars and taste their wines. Here’s my experience riding the Voie des Vignes with Active Tours. The tour also includes an extra tasting with cold cuts and a delicious lunch in a local restaurant along the way.

You can browse other wine tour options from Beaune here. With transportation and wine tastings fully organized, all you need to do is relax and enjoy the journey.

8. Parc de la Bouzaize

Parc de la Bouzaize in Beaune is a charming English-style park covering 5 hectares, located just a short walk from the town center. Created in 1883, it offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, perfect for a relaxing stroll.

The park features a beautiful lake where you can rent small boats for a relaxing paddle. A great way to enjoy a sunny day in the city is to visit the park for a delicious picnic.

Families will appreciate the playground area, the pond with some rowboats, and a small petting zoo featuring farm animals.

Address: Rue du Docteur Bouley; Opening hours: Every day from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

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