Beaune

Beaune is a charming town in the heart of Burgundy, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and, of course, fantastic wine. With your family in tow, you’re in for a delightful experience! Here’s a fun and engaging 2-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and a bit of indulgence.

Day 1: Discovering Beaune’s Heritage

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Try some fresh pastries like croissants or pain au chocolat, paired with a café au lait. The Café de la Place is a lovely spot with a great atmosphere.

• Visit the Hôtel-Dieu: After breakfast, head to the iconic Hôtel-Dieu, also known as the Hospices de Beaune. This stunning medieval building is famous for its colorful tiled roof and rich history. The kids will love exploring the grand halls and learning about its role in caring for the sick in the past. Don’t forget to snap some family photos!

Lunch:

• Picnic in the Parc de la Bouzaize: Grab some fresh baguettes, cheese, and charcuterie from a local market (like Marché de Beaune if it’s a Saturday) and head to the Parc de la Bouzaize. This lovely park has plenty of space for the kids to run around, and you can enjoy a relaxing picnic surrounded by nature.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Town: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Beaune. Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame and admire its beautiful architecture. You can also pop into some local shops for souvenirs or wine tasting. The kids might enjoy a visit to the local chocolate shop for a sweet treat!

Evening:

• Dinner at a Family-Friendly Restaurant: For dinner, consider a family-friendly restaurant like Le Goret, where you can enjoy traditional Burgundian dishes. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for families.

• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a stroll through the illuminated streets of Beaune. The town has a magical feel at night, and it’s a great way to wind down after a busy day.

Day 2: Wine and Nature

Morning:

• Breakfast at the Hotel or Local Bakery: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or try a local bakery for some fresh pastries and coffee.

• Visit a Vineyard: After breakfast, take a family-friendly vineyard tour. Many vineyards around Beaune offer tours that are suitable for families, where you can learn about the winemaking process. Some even have grape juice tastings for the kids! Consider visiting Château de Pommard, which has a beautiful estate and offers engaging tours.

Lunch:

• Lunch at a Vineyard: Many vineyards have restaurants or picnic areas where you can enjoy lunch. This is a great way to soak in the beautiful scenery while enjoying local cuisine.

Afternoon:

• Bike Ride through the Vineyards: Rent bikes and explore the scenic vineyards surrounding Beaune. There are family-friendly routes that are safe and enjoyable for all ages. You can stop along the way to take pictures and enjoy the stunning views.

Evening:

• Dinner in Beaune: Head back to Beaune for dinner. Try a restaurant like Le Relais de Saulx, which offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu that caters to families.

• Gelato Treat: End your day with a visit to a gelato shop for a sweet treat! The kids will love picking out their favorite flavors.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Pack Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure everyone has comfortable footwear.
• Check Opening Hours: Some attractions may have specific opening hours, so it’s a good idea to check in advance.
• Engage the Kids: Involve the kids in planning some activities, like choosing which vineyard to visit or what to have for lunch.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Beaune with your family! Enjoy your trip! 🍷🌞