Affordable Travel in Burgundy, France

Bourgogne. The very name conjures up images of sumptuous chateaux, refined French living, swathes of elegantly groomed vineyards, and exceedingly fine wine in buckets – all with a hefty price tag to match. However, this historic wine region in eastern France is surprisingly affordable.

Unlike its equally famous but more aristocratic sibling further west around Bordeaux, Burgundy remains a deeply rural, down-to-earth destination with mountains of things to see and do.

Burgundy has a fair share of historic abbeys, dashing towns, and prized A-lister wines, bien sûr. Yet, taking one step away from the oenological glitz of Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune, you’ll quickly find yourself in a deeply provincial, refreshingly budget-friendly region of France where French joie de vivre remains wholly affordable.

Avoid High Season for Budget Benefits

When you travel is key to the cost of your trip. The tourist crowd traditionally flocks to the region in summer and the milder shoulder seasons of spring and fall when seasonal colors and flavors blossom. Nevertheless, low season, from November to March, offers the most bang for your buck, with accommodation rates up to 50% lower than in peak season. Moreover, numerous last-minute availability options make it easy to find excellent deals.

January and February usher in local festivals and celebrations that are free to attend, allowing you a privileged backstage peek into traditional village life.

Choosing the Right Airport

There is no airport within Burgundy. Travelers typically fly into Paris (Charles de Gaulle or Orly), which is best for Dijon and northern Burgundy, or Lyon-St Exupéry, from where the Mâconnais vineyards can be easily accessed. Plan for three to four hours by rental car from Paris to Dijon, and just over an hour from Lyon to Mâcon, as both journeys are predominantly via autoroute (highway) with tolls.

Alternatively, consider hopping on a train. Once in Burgundy, explore by bicycle, turbo-powered e-bike, e-scooter, or on foot, utilizing public car-sharing schemes for longer trips. Your environmental conscience will undoubtedly thank you for it.

Equal Time for Town and Country Exploration

While urban hubs like Dijon and Beaune are filled with blockbuster museums and breathtaking architecture, it’s wise to dedicate time to the less-touristed Burgundian countryside. Exploring off the beaten track leads to enchanting auberges, locally loved village bars, and smaller independent wineries, all at a fraction of city prices.

Favor Slow Travel

The natural beauty in Burgundy makes any journey between points an attraction in its own right. Travelling slowly allows you to appreciate the sublime landscape and mitigate time spent in tourist-heavy towns awash with souviners. You can take advantage of regional trains, buses, trams, and car-sharing schemes to explore thoughtfully and thriftily.

Exploring on Foot

France is legendary for its walking terrain, featuring well-marked trails that vary from ambitious long-distance routes to gentle family-friendly strolls. Burgundy is no exception, with over 6000km (3700 miles) of sign-posted footpaths. Enjoy picnics featuring sumptuous local cheeses and baguettes from village boulangeries, and experience overnight stays in cosy country hotels or auberges.

Live Like a Local in Short-Term Rentals

Burgundy’s capital, Dijon, offers a diverse range of accommodations suitable for all tastes and budgets. Short-term rental options serve as an excellent choice for families, couples, and small groups. Platforms run by the Dijon tourist office can connect you with local apartment owners and rental agencies.

Cut Costs with a Discount Card

For those willing to explore more capabilities, investing in a Dijon City Pass may be a smart choice. This discount card covers unlimited public transport in Dijon and grants access to various attractions, making it easier to experience the city’s culture and history while saving money.

Experience Free Cultural Offerings

There are numerous free activities across Burgundy, from awe-inspiring architecture to scenic hikes. You might consider attending the January wine festival or a free guided tour at Vézelay’s basilica. Such experiences present valuable insights into local culture and history without the extra cost.

Shop at Local Markets and Participate in Tastings

Shopping at markets allows you to enjoy fresh seasonal produce while immersing yourself in the local community. Engaging with farmers and stallholders offers the chance to learn about regional specialties. You can also find morning markets in Beaune, along the Saône riverbanks in Mâcon, and Dijon’s covered Les Halles Centrales.

Wine Tasting on a Budget

Burgundy is famed for its world-class wines. Fortunately, visitors can still enjoy wine tasting without blowing the budget. Consider purchasing wine en vrac (in bulk) at a local bar à vin or cave du vin. Many locations sell quality wines at affordable prices, particularly from local small growers.

Daily Costs in Burgundy

• Dijon bus or tram ticket: €1.70 ($1.90)

• Budget hotel double: €60–80 ($68–90)

• Bed and breakfast for two: €70–200 ($80–225)

• Coffee and croissant: €4 ($4.50)

• One-hour public bike share: €2 ($2.25)

• Museum or abbey admission: €4–10 ($4.50–11.30)

• Half-/full-day vineyard tour: €65/130 ($73.50/147)

• Three-hour wine-tasting class: €80 ($90)

• Bistro dinner: €15–30 ($17–34)

• Glass of sparkling Crémant de Bourgogne or Burgundy red: €5–15 ($5.65–17)