Burgundy

A great historical region of France, Burgundy is famous for its fine and expensive wines.

The area’s colourful history has produced a rich heritage of Romanesque architecture, still standing as testaments to the skilled labourers of the time.

After a long day of sightseeing and exploring all that the region has to offer, round the evening off by trying one of the many local liqueurs. Marcs liqueur is very popular in Burgundy but also well known outside of France and has been matured for years in oak casks to get its rich flavour.

Major towns and cities

• Auxerre – the River Yonne is the main focal point of this historical port town
• Beaune – this walled city is known as the centre for Burgundy wines
• Dijon– capital city of Burgundy, filled with medieval and Renaissance buildings
• Chalon sur Saône – an old town with a picturesque centre and ancient narrow streets

Regional attractions

• Musee de L’Hotel-Dieu – A historical hospital dating back to the 15th century
• St Madeleine – a huge medieval cathedral dominating the village of Vezelay
• L’Abbaye de Fontenay – one of the oldest Cistercian abbeys in Europe
• Cathedrale St-Etienne – the oldest of the Gothic cathedrals in France