Bonjour! I’m Emily, also known as Paris Wine Girl. Burgundy is a region that has captured my heart. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of exploring its vineyards, building meaningful relationships with winemakers, and crafting personalized wine experiences. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for more, wine tours in Burgundy promise an unforgettable journey into one of the world’s most storied wine regions.
My journey in France began in 2017 when I moved here from the USA. I started in Paris, then made my way to Beaune in 2021 to create a life with my husband in the heartland of wine. In 2025, I relocated to Lyon, but Burgundy continues to hold a special place in my life and work.
Burgundy isn’t a region to rush through; it’s one that rewards curiosity and thoughtful planning. With that in mind, I’ve put together eight essential tips to help you make the most of your trip and truly savor the unique character of this remarkable region.
1. Plan Ahead
Let’s start with the golden rule: wine tours in Burgundy require planning. If you take anything from this post let planning ahead be it. Many wineries here are small, family-run operations, and visits often need to be scheduled in advance. Restaurants and accommodations also book up quickly, particularly during peak seasons which are May through October, so get those reservations in early. Use the SNCF website directly to book your trains not third party sites.
2. Choose Your Base
Where you stay makes a big difference. Beaune or Dijon are perfect for exploring the Côte d’Or, home to legendary villages like Beaune, Meursault, and Gevrey-Chambertin. If you want to include the Mâconnais or Beaujolais, Lyon is a fantastic base with easy access to all three regions.
Some helpful blog archived for you:
- 6 Reasons Why Lyon Needs to Be Your Starting Point to Visit French Wine Regions
- Uncovering Dijon: A One-Day Itinerary for Wine, History, and Gastronomy
- The Beaune Guide: everything you need to explore Burgundy’s wine capital
3. Ask Yourself What Matters Most
What’s your vision for this trip? Are you here to check off the bucket-list spots or create the perfect Instagram photo? That’s totally fine! But if you’re visiting as a wine lover or hoping to better understand Burgundy’s deep connection to its terroir, take time to study the region before booking your itinerary. Understanding a little of the history, appellations, and winemaking styles will make your tour even more meaningful.
4. Work With a Guide You Trust
Burgundy can feel overwhelming and with good reason. In my opinion, it’s the most intricate wine region in the world to navigate. But that complexity is part of its draw. To truly appreciate what Burgundy has to offer, it helps to lean on someone with local expertise, whether that’s a guide or a trusted itinerary planner. Keep in mind that many wineries here are small, family-run operations where producers handle everything themselves. Tourism isn’t always part of their day-to-day activities, so visits may be limited and by appointment only.
Additionally, the language barrier can sometimes pose a challenge. Having a guide or itinerary planner who can help bridge this gap will make your experience smoother and more rewarding. Yes, I am putting myself forward here.
5. Book Restaurants in Advance
If you want to experience the best of Burgundy, dining well should be at the top of your list—and trust me, you won’t regret it. Reservations are essential, whether you’re aiming for a Michelin-starred restaurant or a quaint farm-to-table bistro tucked away in a village. Burgundy’s cuisine reflects its heritage: refined yet deeply rooted in the land.
Here’s where I’ll make a bold, and perhaps controversial statement: the food in Burgundy (and Lyon) easily rivals, and often surpasses, what you’ll find in Paris. Sorry but not sorry. When you’re this close to the source: local vineyards, cheese production, and fresh seasonal produce, the flavors are unparalleled.
If you need some recommendations for dining check out my post: 10 Best Restaurants in Beaune (and Nearby) – 2024 Edition
6. Pack With Intention
Remember, Burgundy is an agricultural region with cobblestone streets and vineyards as far as the eye can see. Casual, comfortable attire is key, but keep it polished and respectful. This isn’t Napa. The climate is continental meaning you have four clearly defined seasons. Think about layers.
7. Consider Transportation
How you get around depends on your base and the scope of your trip. Renting a car offers flexibility for visiting smaller villages and hidden gems, but the train is also a great option for connecting towns like Dijon and Beaune. A combination of the two often works best.
Read more about traveling to wine region via train: 3 Best Ways to Travel from Paris to Burgundy by Train
8. Learn a Little French
Even just a few simple words, like bonjour, merci, or s’il vous plaît, can go a long way in Burgundy. While many in the wine tourism industry speak some English, making an effort to communicate in French shows respect and will absolutely enhance your experience. No, I’m not saying you need to sign up for French classes right now. But having a little cultural literacy is important—especially in rural, agricultural regions like Burgundy, where many people may not speak English or may prefer to stick to their native language. Phrases like excusez-moi (excuse me), parlez-vous anglais ? (do you speak English?), or even je ne parle pas français (I don’t speak French) can help you navigate your visit with ease and show that you’re making an effort. It’s the little things that make a big difference!
Final Thoughts
At its heart, Burgundy is about connection: to the land, to the people, and to the centuries of tradition that make its wines so exceptional. By planning thoughtfully and approaching your trip with intention, your wine tours in Burgundy can be truly unforgettable.
If you have any questions or want help planning your trip, feel free to reach out—I’d love to help you explore this extraordinary region.
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