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Take the Scenic Route: Discover the Magic of Burgundy

Traci Parent |

May 13, 2025

Welcome to Burgundy, a land where every vineyard, stone path, and riverside village tells a timeless story. While the drive from Dijon to Lyon may take just two hours, we invite you to slow down and savor this extraordinary region over two unforgettable weeks.

Burgundy is a feast for the senses—a haven for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. Rolling vineyards, ancient abbeys, and world-renowned vineyards create a rich tapestry of landscapes, flavors, and culture waiting to be explored at a leisurely pace.

At French Detours, we believe the journey is just as important as the destination. So come with us as we take the scenic route through the heart of France.

Take your time. Burgundy is meant to be savored.

Dijon: Where History Begins

Our journey starts in Dijon, a city steeped in centuries of tradition. The Burgundians began settling here as early as 457 AD, and that sense of history lingers in every narrow street and stone archway. Wander through its well-preserved medieval core, marvel at the half-timbered houses, and step inside the grand Palace of the Dukes, a living testament to Burgundy’s golden age. Follow the “owl route” to lead you to every landmark.

The markets of Dijon are legendary. Don’t miss Les Halles, designed by Gustave Eiffel, where you can sample bold mustards, earthy truffles, artisan cheeses, and pastries crafted with the kind of care only the French can perfect. Every bite, every aroma tells a story. In fact, this is the perfect place to begin your culinary adventure in France, as the new Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin shares the celebration of the French meal and the art of living.

Beaune: The Heartbeat of Burgundy’s Wine Culture

As we head south, we arrive in Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy. Here, history and viticulture intertwine. Wander through the cobblestone streets to discover the stunning Hôtel-Dieu, a 15th-century charity hospital with its iconic colorful rooftops, and step into wine cellars that have stood for centuries.

In Beaune, even if you’re not a seasoned wine connoisseur, the warm-hearted locals will welcome you like family. You’ll meet winemakers whose families have tended these vines for generations, each bottle of wine a piece of living history. It’s a place to slow down, to taste, and to connect.

Mâcon: Gateway to the South

Continuing toward Lyon, the landscape softens and brightens. In Mâcon, the vineyards bask under the southern sun, and the villages take on a lighter, more Mediterranean feel. Stroll along the banks of the Saône River, sip a glass of local Chardonnay at a sidewalk café, and feel time stretch and slow.

Roman ruins, colorful markets, and a relaxed rhythm of life make Mâcon the perfect final pause before the vibrant energy of Lyon.

A Region Rooted in History

Burgundy’s story reaches deep into the past, shaped by Roman roads, medieval dynasties, and monastic devotion.

The Romans left their mark with grand amphitheaters and ancient gates, still standing in towns like Autun. The early medieval Burgundians gave the region its name and its first taste of political power.

But it was during the golden age of the Dukes of Burgundy that this land truly flourished. Under the rule of Philip the Bold, John the Fearless, Philip the Good, and Charles the Bold, Burgundy became one of Europe’s most powerful and cultured territories, rivaling even the French crown. The arts thrived, gothic cathedrals soared, and the traditions that define Burgundy today were born.

Religious life also shaped the landscape. Cluny Abbey once stood as the largest church in Christendom, Fontenay Abbey remains a perfect example of serene Cistercian architecture, and the hilltop village of Vézelay drew pilgrims from across Europe. These spiritual centers still echo with centuries of devotion.

Even after Burgundy was absorbed into the Kingdom of France, its spirit remained distinct, carried forward in its wines, its architecture, and its quiet, elegant way of life.

Burgundy Today: A Living Legacy

Today, Burgundy offers travelers the rare chance to walk through living history. Stroll Dijon’s medieval streets, marvel at the gothic spires of Beaune, sip wine in a centuries-old cellar, or follow ancient pilgrimage paths. Each experience, each moment, ties you to the rich story of this remarkable region.

Some favorite stops to inspire your journey include the Palace of the Dukes in Dijon, the Hospices de Beaune, the Roman ruins of Autun, the grand abbeys of Cluny and Fontenay, the hilltop village of Vézelay, and the elegant châteaux scattered across the countryside.

The best times to visit are spring and fall, when the vineyards shimmer with color and the pace is wonderfully unhurried.

Savor Every Moment

From the moment you arrive in Dijon to your final toast in Lyon, Burgundy invites you to slow down, look closer, and experience the art of living deeply.

At French Detours, we’re passionate about guiding you beyond the tourist trails to discover the soul of France. In Burgundy, every stone, every vine, every sip of wine tells a story—one that is waiting for you to become a part of it.

Let’s take the scenic route together.