· FR

Beaune

Beaune, Bourgogne-Franche-Comte, France

Nestled in the heart of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region in France, Beaune is a charming and picturesque town that offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and gastronomy. Known as the wine capital of Burgundy, Bea…

#Wine region#Historic town#Cultural heritage#Vineyards#Gastronomy

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Beaune.

Top Hotels in Beaune

Top Flights to Beaune

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Beaune.

Tours

Explore the Hospices de Beaune

Discover the historical Hotel-Dieu, a former charitable almshouse now serving as a museum, known for its stunning Gothic architecture.

Visit the Burgundy Wine Museum

Explore the history and culture of Burgundy wine production in a museum dedicated to preserving the rich heritage.

Historic Beaune Walking Tour

Join a walking tour of Beaune's old town to explore medieval streets, landmarks, and hidden gems.

Climb to the Top of Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame

Enjoy panoramic views of Beaune from the top of this historic church tower.

Shopping

Shopping at Place Carnot

Visit the bustling Place Carnot, featuring various boutiques and artisan shops offering local products and souvenirs.

Millésimes à la Carte

Delve into a personalized wine tasting experience offering a selection of over 200 different wines by the glass.

Dine and Shop at Les Halles de Beaune

Experience gourmet dining and shopping at the indoor market Les Halles, featuring local food products.

Outdoor

Wine Tasting in the Vineyards

Enjoy a guided tour and wine tasting session in the famous vineyards around Beaune, renowned for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Hiking in the Morvan Regional Natural Park

Take a hike in the Morvan Regional Natural Park, offering lush landscapes and a variety of trails for all levels.

Relax at Parc de la Bouzaize

Unwind in Parc de la Bouzaize, a beautiful park offering boating, picnicking, and relaxing settings in nature.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Beaune.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

Information not available.

Languages

French, French

Average weather

Beaune

Jan

5°0°

Feb

7°0°

Mar

12°3°

Apr

16°6°

May

20°10°

Jun

24°14°

Jul

27°16°

Aug

26°15°

Sep

22°12°

Oct

16°8°

Nov

10°4°

Dec

6°1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Beaune.

What people love

Beaune, located in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of France, is a charming and historic town known for its wine production and picturesque surroundings. Here are some pros of traveling to Beaune:

Wine Tasting: Beaune is the wine capital of Burgundy and offers numerous opportunities for wine tasting and vineyard tours. Visitors can sample world-renowned wines such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the town's many wine cellars and tasting rooms.
Historic Architecture: Beaune is home to a number of well-preserved medieval buildings, including the iconic Hôtel-Dieu des Hospices de Beaune. This historic hospital, dating back to the 15th century, features a stunning Gothic facade and is now a museum open to the public.
Gastronomy: Beaune is a paradise for food lovers, with a wide range of gourmet restaurants, bistros, and local markets offering regional specialties such as escargot, coq au vin, and boeuf bourguignon. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a traditional Burgundian meal paired with local wines.
Scenic Beauty: The surrounding countryside of Beaune is dotted with vineyards, rolling hills, and charming villages, making it a perfect destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and hot air ballooning. The region's picturesque landscapes are sure to delight nature lovers and photographers alike.
Festivals and Events: Beaune hosts several annual events that showcase the region's rich cultural heritage, including the renowned Hospices de Beaune Wine Auction in November and the Beaune International Baroque Music Festival in July. These events offer a unique opportunity to experience Burgundian traditions and arts.

Overall, traveling to Beaune offers a delightful mix of wine, history, gastronomy, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Burgundy region of France.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Beaune in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, France, could include:

Limited public transportation: Beaune is a relatively small town, and public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities. This could make it more challenging to get around the area without a car.
Crowds during peak tourist seasons: Beaune is a popular destination, especially during the peak tourist seasons of summer and harvest time. This could lead to crowded streets, restaurants, and attractions, potentially affecting your overall experience.
Language barrier: While many locals in Beaune may speak English, you may encounter some language barriers, especially in more remote or traditional areas. It could be helpful to have some basic knowledge of French phrases to navigate communication challenges.
Higher prices: As a tourist destination known for its wine and gastronomy, prices in Beaune can be higher compared to other towns in the region. Accommodation, dining, and activities may be more expensive, particularly in the central areas.
Limited nightlife: Beaune is a quaint and charming town known for its wine culture and historical sites. However, if you're looking for a vibrant nightlife scene with clubs and bars, you may find the options in Beaune to be more limited.

Overall, while Beaune offers a unique and picturesque experience for travelers interested in wine and history, it's essential to be aware of these potential downsides to ensure you have a well-rounded and enjoyable visit.

Beaune is a town in the Côte-d'Or department in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of eastern France. It is renowned for its historical and cultural significance, particularly in the context of Burgundy wine production.

Early History:

Beaune has a history that dates back to pre-Roman times. It became a significant settlement during the Roman era, mainly due to its strategic location on the Via Agrippa, a major Roman road.
The town's name is believed to have derived from the Celtic word "Belena," referring to a local deity.

Medieval Era:

During the early Middle Ages, Beaune became part of the Duchy of Burgundy, which was one of the most powerful and culturally vibrant regions of medieval Europe.
In the 14th and 15th centuries, under the rule of the Dukes of Burgundy, Beaune flourished as a center of commerce and trade.

Significant Events:

The construction of the Hospices de Beaune, also known as Hôtel-Dieu de Beaune, in 1443 by Nicolas Rolin, the chancellor of the Duke of Burgundy, and his wife, Guigone de Salins, is a landmark event. This charitable hospital is one of the finest examples of 15th-century French architecture and is famous for its annual wine auction, which supports its operations.
Beaune was affected by the tumultuous events of the French Wars of Religion in the 16th century, but it managed to retain much of its prosperity and cultural heritage.

Historical Figures:

Nicolas Rolin (1376–1462): As the chancellor to Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, Rolin was instrumental in the construction of the Hospices de Beaune.
Guigone de Salins (1403–1470): Rolin's wife, who played a significant role in the establishment and endowment of the Hospices de Beaune.

Modern History:

Beaune remained relatively quiet through the French Revolution, maintaining its status as a center for wine production.
In the 20th century, Beaune was significantly impacted by both World Wars but avoided major destruction.

Important Landmarks:

Hospices de Beaune (Hôtel-Dieu): Known for its unique Burgundian-Flemish architecture, polychrome roof tiles, and world-renowned wine auction.
Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame: A fine example of Burgundian Romanesque architecture, containing tapestries and art from the 15th century.
The Ramparts: Beaune is partly surrounded by its old walls and ramparts, offering a glimpse into its medieval past.
Wine Cellars: Beaune is often considered the wine capital of Burgundy and is surrounded by famed vineyards. Numerous wine cellars in the town offer tastings and tours.

Cultural Significance:

Beaune is central to the Burgundy wine trade, hosting several wine-related festivals and events throughout the year, including the annual Hospices de Beaune Wine Auction.

Overall, Beaune's rich history, architectural beauty, and viticultural heritage make it a notable destination not just in France but in the wider world of wine and history enthusiasts.