Hello, fellow explorers! Today, we’re taking you to Beaune, one of Burgundy’s most enchanting cities. This is the place for you if you enjoy drinking wine or are simply searching for a lovely location with lots of things to do. Everyone will find something to enjoy in Beaune. n this blog post, we’ll explore the best things to do in Beaune, from visiting historic landmarks to indulging in local cuisine. So grab a glass of wine and let’s get started!

1- Visit the Hospices of Beaune

First up on our list of things to do is exploring the Hospices de Beaune. Now, we know what you’re thinking – “a hospital? That doesn’t sound like fun.” But trust us when we say that this is no ordinary hospital. It’s more like a fairytale castle that just so happens to have been used for treating patients back in the day.

The Hospices de Beaune is a stunning 15th-century building with Gothic architecture that will leave you in awe. Plus, it has an impressive art collection and holds an annual wine auction that’s worth checking out.

Okay, so picture this: it’s 1443 in Burgundy, France. Nicolas Rolin, the chancellor to Duke Philip the Good, decides he wants to build a hospital for the poor and sick. But not just any hospital – one that looks like a fairytale castle straight out of your wildest dreams. And thus, the Hospices of Beaune was born.

Fast forward to today, and you can still visit this stunning Gothic masterpiece. Inside, you’ll find all sorts of cool stuff. There’s a pharmacy room filled with ancient medical equipment that looks like it could be used to torture people (thank goodness for modern medicine!). And then there’s the Salle des Pôvres, which has a ceiling painted with scenes from medieval life. It’s like stepping into a time machine!

And if you’re interested in religious art, be sure to check out the Chapelle Sainte-Anne (Saint Anne Chapel) with its beautiful stained glass windows.

2- Check out the wine auction at the Hospices de Beaune

Oh boy, the wine auction at the Hospices of Beaune is like Christmas morning for wine lovers! It’s held every November and it’s a big deal. I’m talking people flying in from all over the world just to get their hands on some of that sweet, sweet Burgundy wine.

And let me tell you, these aren’t your average bottles of vino. We’re talking top-notch stuff here – the kind of wine that makes you want to do a happy dance after just one sip. The auction features barrels from some seriously prestigious vineyards, so you know you’re getting the good stuff. We’re talking millions of euros being thrown around like it’s no big deal.

But it’s not just about buying wine – there’s a whole event built around this thing. There are parades, concerts, fireworks…you name it. It’s like a giant party with amazing wine as the guest of honor.

And don’t worry if you’re not exactly rolling in dough – there are plenty of smaller lots available for those of us on a budget (aka us). So even if you can’t afford to drop millions on a single barrel (who can?), you can still take part in the excitement and maybe walk away with a few bottles to impress your friends back home.

So mark your calendars for November and get ready to bid, drink, and have an all-around awesome time at the Hospices of Beaune wine auction!

3- Head to the Notre Dame de Beaune Cathedral

Ohhh the Notre Dame de Beaune cathedral – it’s like something out of a fairytale! This structure has been standing tall since the 12th century, so you know it’s seen some stuff. But don’t worry, it’s still looking good as new.

When you step inside this romanesque building with a few gothic additions, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time. The stained glass windows are absolutely breathtaking and the vaulted ceilings will make you feel like a tiny little ant (in a good way). Plus, there are all sorts of cool sculptures and artwork to check out.

And let us tell you, this place has hosted some seriously fancy events over the years. We’re talking royal weddings and coronations – basically anything involving people wearing crowns. So when you visit, make sure to channel your inner royalty and strut your stuff down those aisles.

And get this – during the French Revolution, many churches and cathedrals were destroyed or repurposed for other uses. But somehow, Notre Dame de Beaune managed to survive unscathed. Talk about luck!

ll in all, the Notre Dame de Beaune cathedral is definitely worth a visit. Even if you’re not into history or architecture (who isn’t?), it’s worth going just to marvel at its gorgeousness!

4- Marvel at the Remparts of Beaune

The Remparts de Beaune! We’ve got great taste in suggesting landmarks. These city walls are a sight to behold

Basically, these walls were built all the way back in the 15th century to protect the town from invaders. And boy, did they do their job well! The walls are still standing strong today, and they offer some seriously impressive views of the surrounding countryside.

But let’s be real for a second: if you’re more interested in taking selfies than learning about medieval military strategy, that’s totally okay! Because the Remparts de Beaune are just as photogenic as they are historic.

Seriously, picture this: you standing on top of the wall with your hair blowing in the wind (or maybe that’s just us- we have very windy hair), looking out over the vineyards and fields beyond. It’s like something straight out of a fairy tale!

If you’re interested in exploring specific parts of the remparts, let’s start with Château de Beaune. This 15th-century watchtower is a true masterpiece of architectural design. It was originally built as part of the city’s defenses, but it later served as a residence for some pretty fancy people (including the Dukes of Burgundy). Today, it’s open to visitors who want to explore its winding staircases and learn about its rich history.

Next up is Bastion Saint-Anne. This imposing structure dates back to the 17th century and was also part of Beaune’s defensive fortifications. But don’t let its military origins fool you – this bastion is downright beautiful. Its red brick walls and perfectly symmetrical shape make it a photographer’s dream come true.

Finally, we have Tour des Billes. This late 14th-century watchtower might be small in size, but it packs a big punch when it comes to history. It’s known for it’s unique cylindrical shape and was used to store wood in the past.

So if you’re in Beaune, make sure to add the Remparts to your itinerary. Who knows, maybe you’ll even find a hidden turret or secret passageway…okay, maybe not. But it’s still pretty cool!

Next, let’s talk about wine tasting at local wineries. We don’t want to sound biased, but Burgundy produces some of the best wines in France (or even the world) so it would be a shame not to try them while you’re here. Some of our favorite wineries near Beaune include Domaine Prieuré Roch or Domaine Chandon de Briailles, but don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and discover some hidden gems.

If wine isn’t your thing (we won’t judge… okay maybe a little), then fear not because there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy in Beaune. Take a stroll through the Old Town and snap some Instagram-worthy pics at landmarks like Place Carnot or Notre-Dame Basilica. And if you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike from Bourgogne Randonnées or Bourgogne Evasion and explore Burgundy’s vineyards and countryside scenery.

But let’s be real – one of the best parts about traveling is trying new food. And when it comes to cuisine in Beaune, it doesn’t get much better than traditional Burgundian dishes like coq au vin or escargots. Trust us when we say that your taste buds will thank you.

And while we’re on the topic of food, don’t forget about shopping for souvenirs! La Moutarderie Fallot offers mustard made with local ingredients (perfect for spicing up your sandwiches back home), La Fromagerie sells cheese made by artisanal producers (because who doesn’t love cheese?), and Les Caves Madeleine offers fine wines produced by small independent winemakers (because why not bring home some delicious memories?).

Before we wrap things up, we have two more suggestions for things to do in Beaune: attending concerts and having picnics. Collegiale Notre-Dame Church hosts classical music concerts during summer months while Auditorium de l’Athenaeum hosts jazz concerts throughout year – perfect if you want to immerse yourself in French culture further. As for picnics – grab some breads, cheeses, charcuterie meat cuts or fruits bought at marketplaces like Marché aux Fruits et Légumes and head out into nature!

All in all, whether you’re interested in history, culture or just good food and wine (let’s be real… who isn’t?), Beaune has something for everyone. So pack your bags and come explore this charming town with us!