Best things to do in Burgundy

Burgundy also has countless activities to offer. From culture and heritage to hiking, biking, water sports and outdoor activities, you're sure to find what you're looking for!

There are plenty of opportunities for cultural discovery. Châteaux, churches and religious sites, each more beautiful than the last, invite you to visit the four corners of the region. The Château du Clos Vougeot, a landmark on the route des Grands Crus, the Château de Meauce and its nearly 1000 years of history, and many others, will amaze you with their architecture and their unique past. For those who prefer more in-depth, detailed visits, there are also numerous museums and archaeological sites to visit in the region.

One of Burgundy's strong points is its multitude of hiking and biking trails. The region has always been a welcoming place for walkers, with many pilgrimages taking place here. Today, it boasts some 6,000 kilometers of hiking trails. Two Grande Randonnée (GR) trails are accessible in Burgundy. The GR2 follows the Yonne valley through peaceful, natural river landscapes, and the GR13 takes you through the Morvan hills, from Vézelay to Autun, two exceptional villages among others.

What's more, numerous greenways and circuits have been laid out for cyclists - a real paradise for amateur and experienced cyclists alike! The Tour de Bourgogne à vélo (Tour of Burgundy by bike) immerses you in the region's 800 kilometers of cycling trails. In short, Burgundy can also be visited perfectly by bike, whether on the Voie des Vignes à vélo, which winds its way through UNESCO-listed vineyards, as well as several must-see sites such as Dijon, Beaune or the Château du Clos Vougeot. The Voie Bleue (Blue Way) along the Saône River, meanwhile, takes in all the exceptional landscapes Burgundy has to offer. There's plenty for you, your family or your friends to discover this region by bike.

Burgundy is also water country. Indeed, the region boasts the largest network of rivers and canals in France, with over 1,300 kilometers of waterways! The perfect opportunity for water-based activities with family and friends! Embark on a boat trip along Burgundy's various canals for a few hours to discover the landscape and many charming little villages along the way, or take a multi-day cruise if you'd like to explore the region in peace and quiet during a luxury stay aboard a peaceful barge where you can recharge your batteries.

You can also rent canoes, paddles or take sailing lessons on various lakes and rivers in Burgundy. Something for all water sports enthusiasts!

Burgundy also offers a wide range of outdoor activities. From zoos and animal parks to tree-climbing and amusement parks, families will find plenty to do for their children.

And for the more adventurous, why not opt for a hot-air balloon flight? Several departure points are available in Burgundy, so you can take to the skies to discover an exceptional panorama overlooking landscapes as far as the eye can see, as well as Burgundy's mythical vineyards. It's an unusual activity that's sure to fill you with wonder, and leave you with a lifetime of memories!

Finally, Burgundy is wine country, so you're bound to find plenty of wine-related activities. You'll be able to explore Burgundy's vineyards from the air (in a microlight or hot-air balloon), or on land, on horseback, by bike or, even more unusual, in a vintage car!

Meet the winegrowers, who will be delighted to explain everything you need to know about the region's different vineyards, share their know-how and let you taste the wines they produce. What's more, some châteaux also offer tastings in addition to their traditional tours: such is the case of Château de Pommard and its famous Pinot Noir red wine appellation.

For those wishing to deepen their knowledge of oenology, a visit to the Cité des Climats et des vins de Bourgogne is an excellent activity. There are three different ones, one in Chablis near Auxerre, one in Mâcon in southern Burgundy and the largest of the three in Beaune, capital of Burgundy wines! An excellent way to learn about all aspects of viticulture, this interactive tour is accessible to all, whether you're with family or friends! Workshops are also available to learn more about wine-tasting techniques, as well as oenology courses - perfect if you'd like to get started or even perfect your skills! Whether you opt for a self-guided tour or one led by an expert in the field of oenology, this visit will be rich in discoveries.