France’s most coveted wine region, Burgundy is so much more than bold Pinot Noirs. Visitors will find beautifully preserved medieval cities, Cistercian monuments, and UNESCO World Heritage sites galore while exploring Burgundian villages and cities. Aside from leafy vineyards and legendary wine, Burgundy is also known for its impeccable cuisine, highlighted in both Michelin Star restaurants, markets, and tiny bistros alike.
With this itinerary, you’ll dig into the region's largest city of Dijon, dapple in famous wine villages like Beaune and Chablis, and find time to squeeze in a visit to the medieval fortress town of Semur-en-Auxois. This is the ultimate three day itinerary through Burgundy!
One of Dijon’s impressive religious sites, Saint Michael’s Church is characterized by its twin, domed bell towers. Built in the flamboyant Gothic and Renaissance style from the 15th-16th centuries, visitors can step inside to see brilliant stained glass, a soaring nave, pulpit, and intricately carved portal.
An art museum highlighting the works of French sculptor François Rude, the Rude Museum is a must-see stop for lovers of art. Housed inside the former Eglise de Saint-Etienne, visitors can stroll through his monumental sculptures, including large busts and giant statues of French figures like Joan of Arc.
Stroll across the sprawling Liberation Square in the heart of Dijon. Flanked by the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, this half-moon shaped plaza is the perfect spot to grab a cafe au lait or glass of wine and people watch.
An assembly of palaces and other important buildings, the Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne was once the seat of the Dukes of Burgundy. Inside, visitors will find Dijon’s Fine Arts Museum, town hall, and more.
One of the oldest museums in France, the Museum of Fine Arts Dijon contains over 1,500 works of art. Housed inside the former ducal palace, visitors will find works from across the globe, including ancient Egyptian art and Impressionist paintings.
A 17th-century hotel particulier in the center of Dijon, all of the works inside the Musee Magnin were collected by the brother and sister duo Maurice and Jeanne Magnin. Mostly composed of 17th-century paintings, visitors can admire the art, scattered throughout the home in rooms like the Golden Lounge and Hercules Room.
Finished in 1460, the Tour Philippe le Bon is one of the oldest monuments in Dijon. Visitors can climb the tower's 316 steps for panoramic views of the city below.
Dijon’s most important religious site, the Eglise Notre Dame de Dijon is a striking and distinctive example of Gothic architecture, built in the 13th century. Visitors can admire several unique features, including the dramatic western facade, Latin cross floor plan, apsidioles, gargoyles, rose window, and a stately jacquemart.
Just one of the many animal carvings on the facade of the Notre Dame de Dijon, the “chouette” or owl is considered a good luck symbol of the city. Visitors should be sure to rub the owl for luck before leaving the city.
Designed after the Eiffel Tower, Dijon’s Marche Central is the best place to sample Burgundy’s best gourmet bites. Peruse the stalls in search of local products like honey, fresh baked bread, mustard, and more.
Opened in 1845, La Maison Maille Dijon is the city’s claim to mustard fame. Visitors can pop into the shop to sample different mustard flavors and grab a jar to bring home.
Housed inside a 12th century Cistercian nunnery, the Museum of Burgundian Life celebrates folkloric traditions in the region and highlights the collection of local Perrin de Puycousin. Visitors can pop into traditional shops like a chemist, clockmaker, and butcher, and explore Burgundian costumes, antique furniture, and more.
Another of Dijon’s many religious structures, the Cathedrale Saint Benigne de Dijon is fairly similar in design to Eglise Saint Michael. Finished in 1393, the cathedral was built in the Gothic style and features two stately bell towers and an impressive crypt.
Head to Dijon’s Arquebuse Botanical Garden to discover over 400 vines from 70 different varieties. The gardens also feature an arboretum, rose garden, rock garden, meadows, and more.
Like its fellow Burgundian cities of Beaune and Chablis, Dijon also has a Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin. Visitors can take a tour, learning more about the region's viticulture through interactive exhibits and end the experience with a wine tasting.
Want to experience the best of Burgundy without the stress of planning? Let Revigorate design your tailor-made journey, from vineyard tastings to historic towns and hidden gems.
The best time to visit Burgundy is in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. While the weather can be unpredictable, crowds are few and far between, and you might even catch the autumnal harvest! This is also the best time for budget travelers.
Spring and fall temperatures in Dijon range from 60-70°F for a high and 40-50°F for a low. Rain is fairly consistent at about 2 inches a month, although October can see up to 3 inches of rain.
Ready to turn this inspiration into your perfect French escape? Contact Revigorate today and let us craft a completely personalised itinerary through Burgundy and beyond.