Exploring Beaune, the Heart of Burgundy
The Hospices de Beaune: A Masterpiece of Medieval Architecture
The Hospices de Beaune, known locally as the Hôtel-Dieu, anchors the old town with its unmistakable multicolored glazed tile roof. Founded back in 1443, these former almshouses now operate as a museum detailing medieval healthcare and social history, complete with preserved hospital wards and antique furnishings that transport you straight back to the 15th century.
Wine Heritage and Historic Cellars
As the undisputed capital of Burgundy wines, Beaune sits right at the edge of some of the most prestigious vineyards on earth. Historic cellars like Patriarche and Joseph Drouhin welcome visitors underground for tastings among thousands of aging bottles. Driving or cycling along the Route des Grands Crus connects you to the surrounding winemaking villages that put this region on the map.
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church: Centuries of Craftsmanship
Right in the center of town stands the Notre-Dame Collegiate Church, a 12th-century Romanesque landmark featuring a series of 15th-century tapestries depicting the life of the Virgin Mary. These exceptionally preserved tapestries rank among the historical highlights of the region.
The Medieval Ramparts and Old Town
Beaune keeps a significant stretch of its medieval ramparts intact, wrapping entirely around the historic center. Walking the perimeter via the shaded fortifications gives you an elevated look at the town before you drop down into the cobblestone alleyways, quiet squares, and independent artisan shops.
When to go
The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when the surrounding vineyards shift through striking shades of green, gold, and deep red. November brings the famous Vente des Vins des Hospices de Beaune charity wine auction, drawing enthusiasts from all over. Summer brings warm weather ideal for vineyard tours, though crowds peak during these months.
How to get there
Trains from Paris or Lyon make getting here straightforward, with travel times running about 2.5 hours from the capital and 1.5 hours from Lyon. Ticket prices range between $34 and $68* depending on when you book and your class of service. If you are driving, the town sits directly off the A6 highway, making it an easy stop on a broader Burgundy road trip.
Located in the heart of the famous Burgundy vineyards, Beaune is a town dedicated to epicureans! I loved the shops and the market, which are perfect for tasting (and bringing back) great local products. To make things even better, this city of Art is home to the famous Hospices, an architectural jewel with a remarkable history. As a bonus, the Route du vignoble de la Côte starts right from Beaune...