Burgundy or Bordeaux? That’s the million-dollar question for any lover of French wine.
Should your fantasy be sipping a glass of Domaine de la Romanée Conti in situ, picnicking between golden vines at harvest time, or cruising past Grands Crus vineyards on the back of a vintage Mobylette, Burgundy it is.
Indeed, for those seeking a taste of quintessential France – think drop-dead-gorgeous villages, rolling countryside, and sumptuous cuisine – Burgundy beckons. Plan in advance to visit the right vineyard and vaulted cellar tour for you. And once you’re on the ground, under no circumstances should you ask for escargots à la bordelaise when dining out.
Planning Your Trip to Burgundy
Are You a Boater or Budget Explorer?
Focus on what you hope to get out of your trip to Burgundy and ensure your travel aspirations align with the season. This bucolic region of vineyards, canals, and mustard fields in eastern France has something to offer visitors throughout the year, but each season has its own surprises, challenges, and rewards.
Boaters, for instance, can only cruise Burgundy’s peaceful waterways between March and November. Sun worshippers and walkers should keep in mind that days remain chilly at either end of the boating season. Festivalgoers can join the Burgundian festivities in late spring and summer, while winter’s short days are ideal for museum buffs and budget explorers.
If You’re in Burgundy Just for the Wine, Visit in Fall
The mellow days of September and October – when vibrant vineyards transition to shades of gold, orange, and red – signal the vendange, or grape harvest. If you’re here to indulge your wine-tasting palate, there is no finer time to visit. Many châteaux welcome guests to their vineyards for picnic celebrations in September.
Decide Your Lifestyle Vibe and Find Accommodation to Match
Regardless of whether you’re a city slicker, small-town enthusiast, or rural recluse, there’s a type of Burgundian accommodation that will suit your personality and budget.
It is advisable to book hotels, chambres d’hôtes (B&Bs), and countryside gîtes (self-catering farms, cottages, and châteaux) at least a month in advance – especially for high-season summer stays. The most memorable options reflect the region’s rich history and winemaking traditions, allowing you to experience the charm of staying in a medieval turret or a centuries-old pilgrim’s hostel.
Sort Out Wheels: Two or Four?
Your activities during your time in the region will dictate how you wish to navigate around Burgundy.
If you’re happy moving between Dijon, Beaune, and other towns, traveling by train – while keeping your carbon footprint low – is simple. Local buses are available to surrounding villages in some areas, though services may be less frequent or unavailable on Sundays and school holidays. Check real-time bus and train schedules with the regional transportation app, Mobigo.
Download the Right Apps
Before hitting the road, download Balades en Bourgogne, a free app from the Côte d’Or tourist board that maps 160 walking, cycling, mountain biking, and driving itineraries around the region.
Score Music Festival Tickets
Festivals in Burgundy don’t require booking months in advance. However, to avoid disappointment, consider purchasing tickets online for summer festivals like Beaune’s Festival International d’Opéra Baroque et Romantique in July, and the Rencontres Musicales de Vézelay, which fills the village and its prized basilica with song during August.
Reserve Canal Boats, Bike Tours, and Hot-Air Balloons in Advance
Cruising along Burgundy’s waterways by houseboat is pure bliss, offering serene rivers and nature-rich canals lined with picturesque towpaths. Rental companies operate from late March to mid-November and recommend advance bookings; early bookings often attract discounts. Explore options with companies like France Afloat or Locaboat Holidays.
Reserve Tables at Gastronomic Hot Spots
Depending on the season, making reservations days or even weeks in advance is crucial at Burgundy’s top dining venues. Famous spots include exquisite restaurants helmed by renowned chefs, offering authentic Burgundian cuisine paired with the finest local wines.
Etiquette in Burgundy
Eat Snails Like a Burgundian
Locally reared escargots de Bourgogne (Burgundy snails) are a regional specialty, typically served stuffed with garlic and parsley butter. There is indeed a proper way to enjoy them.
Respect Mass in Churches and Abbeys
The region is dotted with historic churches and esteemed abbeys. Many serve as working churches where Mass is celebrated. If a Mass is underway, behave respectfully, remaining quiet and at the back of the church.
Favor Independent Eateries
Burgundians take immense pride in their culinary traditions. Embrace the chance to learn about cuisine bourguignonne before enjoying hearty dishes like boeuf bourguignon.
Never End a Meal with a Cappuccino
In Burgundy, un café (a short espresso) is the norm to conclude a meal.
Health and Safety in Burgundy
Drink the Right Water
Tap water is safe to drink here. A meal in France is considered incomplete without une carafe d’eau (a jug of tap water) on the table. If you prefer bottled water, order une bouteille d’eau plate (still) or une bouteille d’eau gazeuse (sparkling).
Most villages and towns boast a public fountain; check for signs indicating eau potable to find drinkable water.
