Perfect Day in Beaune: Wine, Cuisine, and Charming Village Life
Emily's Perfect Day In France
Breakfast In Beaune > Hospices > Lunch > Wine Tasting & Village Visits > Book Store > Evening Walk
"As someone who sold everything and moved to France to follow my passion for wine, I can genuinely say that Bourgogne is my home and the community of this region is truly magical. There's a reason the wines from our region are some of the most sought after in the world. They encapsulate both the natural environment and the rich culture of Burgundy. I hope that you, too, can experience this magic with a visit to Beaune." - Emily Lester Fouilleroux
Morning
Breakfast at Imprimerie Cantine - Kick off your perfect day with a scrumptious breakfast and freshly brewed coffee at Imprimerie Cantine. A popular spot for both locals and visitors, this café is known for its cozy atmosphere and delectable pastries.
Explore Hospices de Beaune (Hôtel-Dieu) - Next, delve into the fascinating history and stunning architecture of Hospices de Beaune, a former hospital turned museum. This marvel of Gothic architecture dates back to the 15th century and is sure to captivate you with its rich past.
Lunch
Savour Regional Cuisine at La Table du Square or Soul Kitchen - Treat yourself to a mouthwatering lunch at one of these two exceptional restaurants:
La Table du Square: Located just outside the city walls, this restaurant focuses on natural wines and local produce. With skillful culinary techniques, La Table du Square elevates ingredients to a high level of excellence. Enjoy their delectable creations in a relaxing and sophisticated atmosphere, just a short 5-10 minute walk from the Hospices de Beaune.
Soul Kitchen: Intimate and cozy, this restaurant has only five tables and is run by a passionate chef who crafts a daily menu with two options – regional Bourgogne or a culinary exploration outside the region. The simplicity of the concept allows the food to shine, while the wine list, though limited, is thoughtfully selected to complement the dishes.
Afternoon
Wine Tasting and Village Visits - No visit to Beaune would be complete without sampling some of the region's finest wines. Expand your knowledge of Burgundy wines with a tasting experience at either Joseph Drouhin or Patriarche Père et Fils. Both wineries are located in the center of town and offer a unique and immersive experience specifically designed for tourists, allowing you to appreciate the nuances of their wines.
Optional Idea
For those who want to see a smaller estate - After your wine tasting, drive or bike (if the weather is nice and you're physically able) to one of the nearby wine villages: Pommard, Savigny-lès-Beaune, or Meursault for a visit to a local wine producer. Remember, scheduling in advance or hiring a professional guide is essential in Bourgogne, as wine tourism in France is very different from that in the USA or Australia.
Early Evening
Discover Wine Literature at Athenaeum Bookstore - Continue your wine-themed day by immersing yourself in the world of wine literature at the Athenaeum bookstore. This treasure trove of books and resources is a haven for wine enthusiasts, offering an extensive collection of works related to wine, gastronomy, and local history. Plus, an array of Bourgogne wines in their bottle shop for you to take home!
Stroll Around Beaune's Historic Center - As your perfect day in France comes to a close, spend the remainder of your evening leisurely strolling around the charming center of Beaune. Take in the picturesque streets, historic ramparts, and beautiful architecture that make this town such a delight to explore.