Getaway to Beaune: 6 Tips to Plan a Perfect Weekend Visit
Paris is a city that never sleeps, which can be exhausting after a while. The best way to recharge your batteries and get away from the busy streets of the city for a weekend is to head over to Beaune in Burgundy. This charming town is perfect if you’re looking for some peace- it’s only two hours by train! Read my travel tips on what not to miss when visiting this fabulous French destination with its amazing culture, architecture, wine, and cuisine when you only have two days…
I am keeping this one short and sweet for those that A. will not have a car and B. who are newer to wine. If you are a wine professional or seasoned enthusiast stay tuned for special guides just for you! I’ve made it my goal to publish these guide style posts once a month in 2022. So make sure to Subscribe to get the goods as they come.
How to Get to Beaune
You have two options for the train to Beaune. The first is the faster TGV that leaves Paris from Gare de Lyon with a change in Dijon. You can get to Beaune in just two hours if you select this option. Book in advance or it can get a little pricey. The second, and my preference, is the slow train from Gare de Bercy. I like this option because it is rarely more than 36 euros each way. Sometimes you can get it as low as 12 euros! This is a regional TER train which means it will take 3.5 hours because it makes several stops. However, taking in the landscape of Bourgogne on the train is one of my favorite pastimes. It is a slow ride but worth it. Just make sure you sit by the window to get the lovely views.
Last year, I did a little video traveling from Paris to Beaune while testing tools before going on an assignment in the Rhone. Book your train here with and you’ll have one less thing to worry about!
Where to Stay in Beaune
There are a few different options for where to stay in Beaune. I would recommend staying close to the town center as everything is within walking distance.
Airbnb is a great option. Before moving to Beaune I stayed in several. If you want to do something a little more fun, I recommend l’Imprimerie. This little urban refuge guest house is boho chic and warm.
If you only have two days in Beaune, here are the must-sees:
(Reminder this is for those without a car)
– Start your day by taking a walk around the town center. There is so much to see with its beautiful architecture and historical buildings. Walking along the rempart is an educational experience and will give you a concise historical explanation of the village. There are QR codes with English translations. I’ve made an afternoon out of this activity on more than one occasion. I can’t recommend it enough for those that love history. Make sure to wander down all of the little side streets for some charming finds. This will make for some fun photo opportunities too.
– There is a farmers market every Saturday in the town center which means you will find some delicious produce to eat for lunch! If the weather is nice, pack a little picnic and walk into the Beaune Vineyards or Park Bouzaise.
– Be sure to visit the Cathédrale de Notre Dame. The cathedral was built in the 12th century and it’s one of France’s most beautiful. The architecture alone will take your breath away. If you are lucky you might catch a classical music concert inside.
– Make a stop at the Hôtel-Dieu. This former hospital is now a museum and it’s one of the oldest in Europe. It was founded in 1443! This is the site of the world’s oldest and most famous charity wine auction.
Wine Tasting and Cellar Visits in Beaune
Of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to Beaune without going on a wine tour. There are several options inside the center. These picks are what I suggest for those that haven’t tasted in Bourgogne before and are newer to wine. These suggestions are approachable and programs designed with the tourist in mind. Wine tourism in Bourgogne is not the same as other regions and certainly far from what one might be used to in places like Champagne or Napa Valley. It is much more closed . There is a lot more I want to discuss on this subject and I will in another post. I want to keep this easy for everyone. Again this post is for those that A. will not have a car and B. who are newer to wine.
- Joseph Drouhin is one of the oldest and largest. It’s an easy 3-minute walk from the Hôtel-Dieu which makes visiting very convenient! The tour includes a visit to the underground caves and a once in a lifetime opportunity to see an ancient Roman Wall. Fun Fact! Maurice Drouhin played a significant role in the resistance during WW2. This story is beautifully told in the Wine and War book by Don and Petie Kladstrup. I highly recommend this quick, easy read for anyone interested in Bourgogne and Champagne history.
- Patriarche Père et Fils is the second oldest wine estate in Burgundy. They offer tastings of several Bourgogne appellations and a tour of the historic cellars. This tasting tour is a crowd-pleaser.
- Bouchard Père et Fils is a must. It’s the one of the oldest négociants in France and has been producing wines since the 15th century! This estate plays a major role in the Wine Auction. They offer a wide range of Bourgogne wines to taste. This is a great way to wet your palate so to speak if you are new to wines from the region.
Wine Experiences in Beaune
-Embark on a wine culture and tour experience with two professional sommeliers – one French and one American. I’ve teamed up with Nicolas Fouilleroux to create a very special wine experience. Together we bring a rich Franco-American perspective to wine, making this the perfect opportunity to learn about wine through the lens of culture and history. Our wine experience in Beaune includes a tasting class of six Bourgogne wines and vineyard and history walk, ensuring you have a complete understanding and appreciation for Beaune wines.
To book email emily@grapegirlmedia.com
-Visit the Athenaeum bookshop full of wine books from all over the world. I get lost there regularly. I plan to dedicate an entire article to the librarie but if you want more #WineNerd bookstore information now, check out my post about the Librarie Goumound in Paris.
Where to Eat in Beaune
There are so many delicious places to eat in Beaune. I’m going to recommend a few of my favorites that are centrally located and within walking distance from each other. For the complete restaurant guide that I have in process, make sure to check out my IG guides.
- Les Pôpiettes is a bright little bistro. It’s a great place for lunch or dinner. The chef-owner, Giadda is an artist in her own right. I’ve had many memorable meals prepared by her this year. The menu changes daily with locally sourced seasonal offerings.
- Le Maufoux is classic French cuisine with a modern twist. The atmosphere is cozy and perfect for a romantic dinner. However, arrive early because they will push you out the door before 10 pm.
- The Caves Madeleine is on top of my list when I recommend restaurants to friends visiting Beaune. They serve lunch and dinner and have a fantastic wine list. The food here is something special. I’ve had some of the best wine of my life at Caves Madeleine. Book in advance!
Remember that there are so many other places I would love to recommend, but you will want to explore on your own! Make sure to check out my IG Travel Guide with all my favorite spots in Beaune. I love to connect with fellow travelers and wine lovers so make sure and say hello when you are passing through town. I’ve been splitting my time between Paris and Beaune, so there’s a good chance I’ll be there when you visit.
