Welcome to Traveler Heavens, your ultimate guide to exploring the best places to visit in Burgundy, France! From the rolling hills of the Côte-d’Or to the picturesque villages of the Nièvre, Burgundy is a region that is full of beauty and history. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an adventure-filled vacation, or a cultural exploration, Burgundy has something for everyone.
In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the top destinations in Burgundy, from the must-see cities to the hidden gems. So, get ready to explore the best places to visit in Burgundy, France! Historic monuments and picturesque towns are tucked away in a sleepy countryside in the Burgundy region, which is a veritable treasure trove.
With deep forests and rolling hills, Burgundy is filled with Romanesque chapels, quaint villages, and medieval abbeys. More than 300 churches can be found in Burgundy, many of which are masterpieces of Gothic architecture. Burgundy has its own unique culture. Its buildings have colorful tiled roofs, and its hearty cuisine is known for its deliciousness.
To truly experience quintessential France, visitors should sample local specialties such as escargot, boeuf bourguignon, and poulet à la moutarde (chicken in mustard sauce).
Dijon
Dijon is one of the best places to visit in Burgundy. The Dukes of Burgundy lived in lavish mansions called “hotels particulars” which still grace Dijon with their impressive facades. The Duchy of Burgundy had its capital in Dijon during the Middle Ages. Visitors to the Palais des Ducs can imagine the grandeur of the Ducal life, including lavish gourmet banquets, by visiting this medieval palace.
The Musée des Beaux-Arts is a magnificent art museum located in Lyon, France. Founded in 1836, the collection features excellent paintings from various eras and different styles of painting, reflecting the events and cultural shifts during those periods. The museums are part of the Palais des Ducs and contents an impressive array of gold sculptures as well.
Dijon’s most important church, the Eglise Notre-Dame, was built in the 13th century in Burgundian Gothic style. Its spectacular facade and gargoyles contrast with its harmonious interior. Its Romanesque-era crypt contains the relics of Benignus, a 3rd-century martyr who brought Christianity to Dijon during the third century. Another notable example of Burgundian Gothic architecture is the Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne.
Bibracte
Traveler Heavens recommends Bibracte, France as one of the best places to visit. Located in the Burgundy region of France, Bibracte is a historical site that dates back to the Iron Age and is known for its unique archaeological finds. Known as the ‘jewel of the Morven’, Bibracte is a must-visit destination for travelers interested in discovering ancient history. Bibracte was home to the pre-Roman Gaul’s, who occupied the town from 600BC to 52BC.
At the height of its power, the village was home to around 15,000 people and served as a political, economic, and cultural hub for the region. Today, visitors can explore the remains of the Bibracte settlement and learn about the lives of its former inhabitants. The site has several well-preserved monuments, including the Gallic ‘Ring Sanctuary’, a circular temple built to honor the gods of the Gauls.
Bibracte also boasts an impressive collection of artifacts that have been found on the site, including jewelry, pottery, and weapons. The area is also known for its unique natural beauty. It’s situated in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional du Morvan, an expansive nature park that is home to a range of wildlife, including deer, wild boar, and eagles.
Visitors can explore the park’s trails and spot the many species of birds that call the region home. For those interested in outdoor activities, the nearby Lac de Bourdon is ideal for sailing, canoeing, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Rock of Solutré
If you’re looking for one of the best places to visit in France, look no further than the Rock of Solutré in Burgundy. Located in the heart of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, the Rock of Solutré is an iconic limestone outcrop that has been a major tourist attraction for centuries. The Rock of Solutré was declared a protected site in 1940, and it has remained largely unchanged ever since.
Its unique shape, its impressive height of nearly 200 meters, and its breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside make it a must-see destination for any visitor to the region. The Rock of Solutré is also a major archaeological site. Excavations have revealed evidence of human habitation dating back over 20,000 years.
It is believed to have been the location of a Neolithic settlement, and artifacts such as stone tools and pottery are regularly discovered at the site. The Rock of Solutré is a great place to visit if you’re looking to experience the beauty and history of France. You can hike up to the top of the rock and take in the views or try your luck at rock climbing. There are also guided tours available if you’d rather explore the area with an expert.
Beaune
Beaune, France is one of the best places to visit in the world. Located in the heart of Burgundy, Beaune is a beautiful, quaint little city with a rich history and culture. This city is known for its iconic clock tower, colorful buildings, and abundance of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Beaune is a great place to explore some of France’s most iconic attractions. Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets of the old city and discover the hidden gems that its 15th-century ramparts have to offer.
Visit the Notre Dame-de-Beaune church and admire the stunning Gothic architecture. Then, make your way to the Hospices de Beaune, a 15th-century hospital and one of the most famous buildings in France. Beaune is also known for its outstanding wine-making industry. Take a tour of some of the local vineyards and learn about the region’s unique winemaking traditions.
You can also visit the renowned Burgundy Wine Museum, where you can explore its interactive exhibits and discover the secrets of French winemaking. In addition to its historic attractions, Beaune also boasts some of the best restaurants and cafes in the region. Try out some of the local delicacies such as foie grass, escargots, and escabeche. You can also find a variety of restaurants serving international cuisine, including Japanese, Chinese, Italian, and Spanish.
Cluny
Cluny is one of the best places to visit in Burgundy. The same order of monastics that established the bustling Medieval abbey of Cluny in the 10th century later became important because they managed to preserve pieces of the building following its destruction during the French revolution. Today, visitors can see remnants of what remains of the original structure, including many Romanesque sculptures.
In the town of Cluny, the 13th-century Eglise Notre Dame is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church has a splendid Gothic sanctuary, remarkable for its bright and harmonious high vaulted nave and exquisite stained glass windows that can be found as characteristic of such buildings from the late Gothic period.
Many great castles are found near Cluny including the 13th-century Berzé-le-Châtel castle (open April – October), which provides great views over the nearby countryside; 12th-century Château de Saint-Point-Lamartine (open April through July); and Château de Cormatin (open late March-early November) a refined 17th-century castle enclosed by a moat and flawless gardens.
Perched above the medieval village of Brancion is Château de Brancion, an ancient fortified castle with stunning views of the countryside. The castle reveals architectural elements of various historical epochs over its 1000-year history. Four floors to explore are available from April through November; additionally, special events such as costumed visits and gastronomic experiences are offered throughout the year.
Amid vine-covered rolling hills, medieval Château de Pierreclos has been converted into a luxury hotel without sacrificing the charm that makes a stay in France so magical.
Abbaye de Fontenay
In the Burgundy region of France, a 12th-century Cistercian abbey is a home to almost perfectly preserved Romanesque-style architecture. The church of the Abbey in Fontenay (the 1,200-hectare Valley of Fontenay) is registered as a Historic Monument as well as designated by UNESCO for World Heritage site status.
In the idyllic countryside of Burgundy, the world’s oldest surviving Cistercian abbey–and a UNESCO World Heritage Site–is home to austere and spiritual architecture that was constructed between 1139 and 1147. The lack of adornment ensures that nothing distracts from its true purpose; worship.
The medieval Monastic Cloister is set in the very heart of the Abbey. Now and then you can find a statue, a little chandelier, and an altar. The cloister has a 12th-century frescoed ceiling with jewel-like colors in shining gold, green, and blue.
The medieval garden was designed to get visitors in touch with their inner selves before entering the church. Today, it’s transformed into a stunning flower garden that has been recognized as one of Paris’s hidden gems The site is open to visitors for an entrance fee. Guided tours are available by reservation. Visitors will also appreciate the museum, bookstore, and gift shop. The address is: Fontenay Abbey, Montbard 21500.
Burgundy’s Canals
The Burgundy region of France is known for its stunning natural beauty, and its canals are no exception. Whether you’re a fan of the outdoors or just seeking a peaceful escape, the canals of Burgundy are one of the best places to visit in France.
Burgundy’s canals are fed by the Saône and Rhône rivers, and they offer up endless opportunities for exploration. From boat tours to bike rides, you’ll find that the canals in Burgundy have something to offer everyone. One of the best ways to explore Burgundy’s canals is by boat. A boat tour allows you to take in the stunning scenery, as well as the many historical sites along the way.
Boats of all sizes and shapes make their way through the canals, so you can find one that fits your needs and budget. You can also opt for a guided tour, so you can learn more about the history and culture of the region. If you’re looking for a more active way to explore the canals, why not try biking? You can rent a bike for the day and follow the canals along the riverbanks.
This is a great way to get up close and personal with the stunning views, as well as the local wildlife. The canals of Burgundy are also home to a variety of wildlife. From fish to birds, you’ll find an abundance of animal life along the canals. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a beaver or an otter.
Guédelon Castle
Guédelon Castle is one of the best places to visit in Burgundy. If you’re looking for one of the best places to visit in France, Guédelon Castle should be at the top of your list. This unique and remarkable castle, located in the Yonne department of Burgundy, is one of the most remarkable heritage sites in the region. Built from scratch using only methods and materials from the 13th century,
Guédelon Castle is a living experiment in historic architecture and construction techniques. At Guédelon Castle, visitors can enjoy a unique experience of stepping back in time. The castle is being built using only the same techniques used in the Middle Ages. The construction is done by hand, using materials found in the area, such as rocks, sand, and wood.
Visitors can watch the progress of the construction as it slowly takes shape. The castle is being built over 25 years and is expected to be finished in 2023. Visitors can also take part in the building process by helping with the construction. The team at Guédelon Castle also offers educational guided tours so visitors can learn more about how the castle is being built.
Visitors to Guédelon Castle can also explore the grounds and the surrounding area. The castle is located in the beautiful and historic Château de Guédelon forest, which is home to many species of flora and fauna. The castle also offers a range of activities and attractions, such as a heated swimming pool and a zip line.
Auxerre
There is a sprinkling of half-timbered houses and old churches in the historic part of Auxerre, a lively riverside town full of architectural treasures. Auxerre’s most important religious monument is its 11th-century Abbaye Saint-Germain, a marvelous Romanesque church with a Carolingian crypt dating back to the 6th century. Saint-Etienne Cathedral has a splendid Gothic interior with well-preserved stained-glass windows and a treasury of precious reliquaries decorated with Limoges enamel.
Sens
Sens is one of the best places to visit in Burgundy. Sens, France is one of the best places to visit in Europe. Located in the Burgundy region of France, this city is known for its beautiful architecture, art, its culture, and its rich history. Sens is home to many historical monuments and buildings, such as the Cathedral of Saint-Etienne de Sens, which dates back to the 11th century.
The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most impressive churches in France. Other notable sites in Sens include the Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Pres, which was founded in the 6th century, and the Hôtel de Ville, which is a stunning Renaissance building from the 16th century. The city of Sens has many cultural attractions as well, including the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Sens, which showcases a wide range of artwork and sculptures.
Several museums focus on the history and culture of the region, such as the Musée de Sens. If you’re looking for something a little more modern, the city also has plenty of shopping and dining options, along with a host of festivals and events throughout the year. When you’re in Sens, you won’t want to miss out on the city’s vibrant nightlife.
The city’s bars, clubs, and pubs offer plenty of entertainment to keep you occupied. You can also find plenty of restaurants serving up delicious local dishes, such as the famous Burgundy cuisine. No visit to Sens would be complete without a trip to the nearby vineyards.
Sens is home to some of the best wines in France and is known for its excellent pinot noir, chardonnay, and sauvignon blanc. It’s also a great place to enjoy a glass of champagne or sparkling wine while taking in the views of the surrounding countryside.
Conclusion
We hope that you have enjoyed reading about all of the amazing places that we have included in our list of the Best Places to Visit in Burgundy. No matter which destination you choose, I am sure that you will have a wonderful time and leave feeling inspired and excited about all of the incredible experiences that your travels can bring. Thank you for choosing us as your source for information on everything Burgundy!
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