Road Trip in Burgundy: Visit the Region on the Road!

Hello Globe-Trotters! Are you dreaming of a memorable road trip through Burgundy ? You've come to the right place!

Here, we offer you captivating itineraries, ideas for unusual walks, and practical advice for exploring this unique region by car, motorbike or van.

Whether you are a lover of fine wines, a history buff, a lover of bucolic landscapes or simply looking for adventure, this guide has been designed to help you plot the perfect route.

So, are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure on the most beautiful roads of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté? Let's go! 🚗✨

The essential routes for a road trip in Burgundy 📍

Do you want to create your own tourist circuit? Discover the most beautiful corners of Burgundy thanks to our itinerary suggestions below:

Burgundy Wine Tour (2-3 days)

The Epicurean Route, for Bon Vivants

Departure / Arrival : Dijon – Bourg-en-Bresse
Distance : 230 km
Duration : 3 days
Description : A tasty itinerary combining gastronomy and heritage. Start in Dijon with its market and wine bars, visit Beaune to discover Burgundy mustard, then take a detour to the Cîteaux Abbey for its Époisses cheese. Finish with the andouillette of Mâcon and the famous Bresse chickens. Perfect for gourmets in search of culinary discoveries.

The prestigious Grands Crus route, for amateur oenologists

Departure / Arrival : Dijon – Santenay
Distance : 60 km
Duration : 2-3 days
Description : Follow the legendary Route des Grands Crus and explore the most prestigious vineyards in Burgundy. Pass through iconic wine villages such as Gevrey-Chambertin, Pommard and Meursault, while tasting local grape varieties. This short but rich itinerary is ideal for an epicurean weekend.

The Crémant route, for bubble lovers

Departure / Arrival : Châtillon-sur-Seine – Châtillon-sur-Seine (loop)
Distance : 120 km
Duration : 2 days
Description : Discover the secrets of Crémant de Bourgogne by exploring the vineyards of Châtillonnais. Follow the brown signs that will guide you through 23 picturesque villages and taste white or rosé Crémants. Don't miss the Crémant Festival in March in Châtillon-sur-Seine and visit the Musée du Pays Châtillonnais to admire the famous Cratère de Vix. Perfect for a sparkling weekend.

Discovery of historical heritage (3-5 days)

The medieval road of Cluny

Departure / Arrival : Cluny – Vézelay
Distance : 400 km
Duration : 3-5 days
Description : Travel through medieval Burgundy visiting major historical sites. Start in Cluny with its abbey ruins, continue to Dijon and Beaune for their monuments and museums, and finish with UNESCO treasures like Fontenay Abbey and the Basilica of Sainte-Madeleine in Vézelay. A complete immersion in Burgundian history and culture.

Immersion in Burgundy nature (2-4 days)

The Morvan Road

Departure / Arrival : Morvan Natural Park – Roche de Solutré
Distance : 150 km
Duration : 2-4 days
Description : Explore the natural wonders of Burgundy, from the forests and lakes of the Morvan to the spectacular views of the Roche de Solutré. Enjoy hiking, water sports, and stops in charming villages for a rejuvenating experience in the heart of nature. 

Today, a road trip in Burgundy remains an invigorating experience. Traveling through its small winding roads is to immerse yourself in landscapes of striking beauty: vineyards as far as the eye can see, mustard fields with golden hues, forests where truffles abound.

Each stage is an invitation to discovery: family wine farms, small castles, villages perched on the hills or abbeys full of serenity.

Route 71, for lovers of beautiful landscapes

Departure / Arrival : Chalon-sur-Saône – Mâcon
Distance : 120 km
Duration : 2 days
Description : Travel through southern Burgundy through half-timbered villages, Romanesque churches and meadows populated by Charolais cattle. Don't miss the Roche de Solutré for a spectacular hike and finish in Mâcon with its white wines. Spend a night in Tournus to enjoy its abbey church and a Michelin-starred dinner.

The best activities to do on the way 🍷

In Burgundy, each stage of your road trip is an invitation to discovery. Here is a selection of the best outings to enrich your trip and make each stop unique.

Tasting of wines and local products

• Tasting at Château de Meursault : Discover exceptional wines in a prestigious historic setting, surrounded by vineyards.
• Visit and tasting at Bouchard Père & Fils in Beaune : Explore cellars dating back to the 13th century and taste emblematic grands crus.
• Beaune Market (Saturday morning) : Stroll among the stalls and taste local products such as gingerbread or Époisses cheese.
• Louhans Market (Monday morning) : Famous for its poultry market and authentic farm produce.

Unusual activities to spice up your road trip

• 2CV ride through the vineyards : A retro and romantic experience to explore the Burgundy roads with charm.
• Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Vineyards : Admire the region from the air at sunrise or sunset.
• Caving in the Balerne cave (Morvan) : A fascinating underground adventure to discover the geological wonders of the region.
• Truffle hunting in Cortevaix : Accompany a guide and his dogs to find black winter truffles, followed by a tasting.

Cultural and historical discoveries

• Visit the Basilica of Sainte-Madeleine in Vézelay : A UNESCO-listed site, unmissable for its architecture and spiritual atmosphere.
• Cluny Abbey : Delve into medieval history as you discover the remains of one of the most influential abbeys of its time.
• Dijon Museum of Fine Arts : Admire rich collections ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary art.
• Château de Couches : Explore this medieval castle and its gardens on an immersive guided tour.
• Hospices de Beaune : A Gothic masterpiece not to be missed, with its famous glazed tile roofs.

Do you only have one weekend in our beautiful region? Discover all our recommendations for spending the perfect wine weekend in Burgundy .

The Road trip in Burgundy: possible with all vehicles!

Whether you are driving a comfortable car, looking for thrills on a motorbike, or a fan of the freedom offered by a converted van, Burgundy lends itself to all adventures. Each type of vehicle has its own unique experience on the roads of this fascinating region!

Comfortable road trip by car 🚘

A road trip by car is the perfect choice for those looking for comfort and practicality. The small roads of Burgundy are ideal for a pleasant drive, and a well-equipped car ensures that each stage goes smoothly.

With plush seats, a large trunk for your luggage (and a few bottles of wine!), the car makes the journey smooth and relaxed.

Recommended models:

• Peugeot 3008 : Perfect for combining comfort and elegance on hilly roads. Its spacious interior and high-tech options make it an ideal companion.
• Renault Captur : Compact yet practical, this SUV is perfect for navigating picturesque villages and parking easily.
• Volkswagen Golf : A safe bet for its comfort and reliability. Ideal for trips as a couple or with friends.

Where to get supplies?

• Rental : Renting a car is the best option if you want to avoid maintenance or wear and tear on your own vehicle. Check out agencies like Sixt , Hertz or Europcar .
• Your own means : If you already have a well-maintained and adapted vehicle, this remains the most economical. Just remember to have it serviced before leaving to avoid unpleasant surprises!

Wild road trip on a motorbike 🏍️

For the adventurous at heart, nothing beats the freedom and thrill of a motorcycle road trip.

Burgundy, with its winding roads and wide open views, is a perfect playground for bikers. The wind in your hair, impromptu stops at the edge of the vineyards... It's the very essence of escape.

Recommended models:

• BMW R 1250 GS : Comfortable for long journeys, this motorcycle combines power and reliability. Perfect for exploring the Morvan or the wine routes.
• Kawasaki Versys 650 : A versatile model, ideal for bikers who want good value for money.
• Harley-Davidson Sport Glide : For lovers of retro sensations and ultra-comfortable driving.

Where to get supplies?

• Rental : Platforms like Club Moto Rent or Rent A Ride offer perfectly maintained motorcycles for short or long road trips.
• Your own means : If you are a regular biker, your motorcycle may be sufficient. Make sure you have good tires and a mechanical check before leaving.

Original road trip in a van or camper van 🚐

A van is the ultimate freedom. Travel with your home on wheels, sleep wherever you want (in campsites or even in the heart of nature), and turn every stop into a magical moment.

The van road trip is ideal for families or couples looking for disconnection and adventure.

Recommended models:

• Volkswagen California : A classic for vanlifers. Well-equipped with space for cooking and sleeping, it is perfect for exploring Burgundy independently.
• Ford Transit Custom Nugget : Compact but ultra functional, this model is ideal for an adventure as a couple or with friends.
• Mercedes Marco Polo : Combining luxury and practicality, this van offers you all the comfort you need for a high-end trip.

Where to get supplies?

• Rental : Agencies like Van Away , Yescapa or Indie Campers offer vans adapted to your needs. Ideal if you do not intend to travel regularly in a van.
• Your own means : If you own a van or are considering buying one, it is a long-term investment for fans of regular getaways. Look for second-hand options on platforms like Le Bon Coin or from specialist dealers.
  
  

The Road Trip in Burgundy: a great idea for everyone!

Full of historical treasures (archaeological excavations, ancient Roman villas, fortresses, majestic churches, etc.), Burgundy is a wine-growing region in eastern France which has long hosted the famous "Route des Vacances" , also called "Nationale 6", since the 1920s.

The most elegant Parisian motorists happily descended it, along the bucolic banks of the Seine and the Yonne to reach the Mediterranean or Italy. This tradition has shaped the identity of Burgundy, a territory that embodies the French art of living 🇫🇷

Now, this enchanting land can be visited with family, as a couple and even with friends!

Romantic road trip for couples ❤️

A road trip in Burgundy is a true ode to love, ideal for couples looking for magical moments. The region is full of itineraries that combine breathtaking landscapes, enchanting accommodations and intimate dinners.

• Start in Dijon with a stroll through its medieval streets before enjoying a candlelit dinner in a Michelin-starred restaurant.
• Head to Beaune , where you can stay in a charming guesthouse with spa, perfect for a pampering evening after a visit to the Hospices de Beaune.
• End in Vézelay , strolling hand in hand to the Basilica of Sainte-Madeleine, followed by a romantic dinner overlooking the hills.

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Family road trip for young and old 🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒

Traveling with your family in Burgundy guarantees memorable memories for young and old alike. The itineraries are designed to combine nature, discovery and fun activities.

• Start in Autun , where children will marvel at the Roman remains and can take part in interactive history workshops.
• Take a detour to the Bois de la Folie Adventure Park , with its treetop adventure courses suitable for all ages.
• Visit Cluny Abbey , where children can explore the ruins through fun games and activities.
• Finish with a gentle hike with a donkey in the Burgundy hills, an activity always appreciated by the youngest.

There is no shortage of family accommodation, with spacious lodges and campsites offering child-friendly facilities.

Adventure road trip for thrill seekers 💪

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Burgundy offers thrilling activities in beautiful natural settings.

• Start in the Morvan , with a climbing session on the rock faces of the Cirque du Bout du Monde.
• Then head to Lac des Settons to try water skiing or e-foil flying surfing, a futuristic activity that will literally have you flying above the water.
• Spend a night hanging on a cliff , an unforgettable experience at Easter for the most daring.
• End your adventure in Tournus with a game of paintball in a field in the middle of the forest.

These activities will allow you to push your limits while enjoying the incredible landscapes of Burgundy.

Practical tips for a memorable trip 📝

To make your road trip in Burgundy a real success, some preparations are necessary. Here are our practical tips to fully enjoy your adventure and avoid the unexpected.

How long does a road trip in Burgundy last on average? ⌛️

A road trip in Burgundy can last from 2 days to a week , depending on your desires and priorities.

• For a weekend : Ideal for exploring a specific theme, such as the Wine Route or a gastronomic tour around Dijon and Beaune.
• For 3 to 5 days : You will have time to combine several experiences, such as discovering the historical heritage (castles and abbeys) and enjoying the natural landscapes of the Morvan.
• For a full week : Perfect for exploring the region in depth, combining culture, nature, gastronomy and relaxation. It also allows you to plan breaks to savor each stage without rushing.
  Your ideal duration depends on your interests, but whatever happens, every kilometer in Burgundy is a discovery!

When to hit the road? ☀️🌱❄️

Burgundy can be visited all year round, but certain seasons make the experience even more magical:

• Spring (April to June) : The vineyards are turning green, temperatures are mild and the Burgundy nature is awakening. It is the perfect time for hikes and walks.
• Autumn (September to November) : The grape harvest season brings the wine villages to life, while the warm colours of the vines offer breathtaking landscapes.
• Summer (July-August) : Days are long and good for exploring, although some roads can be busier. Great for enjoying local events.
• Winter (December-February) : Perfect for a cozy getaway. Enjoy Christmas markets, comfort food, and less crowded roads.

Choose the season that suits your desires and let yourself be seduced by Burgundy in all its facets.

Where to sleep? 🛌

Burgundy offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all desires and budgets:

• Rural Gites : For a total immersion in the Burgundy countryside. Perfect for families or groups of friends looking for a friendly atmosphere.
• Boutique hotels : Ideal for couples or travelers looking for comfort and charm. Unique addresses in Dijon, Beaune or Mâcon offer memorable experiences.
• Campsites for vans and motorhomes : For those who love freedom, well-equipped campsites allow you to set up camp in the heart of nature. Some even offer specific services for converted vans.

Check out ourunusual stay gift boxes to make your visit to Burgundy absolutely memorable!

What you need to know before you go 🔍

A successful road trip requires preparation! Here are some essential points to help you set off with peace of mind:

• Roads and local driving : The small roads of Burgundy are picturesque but can be narrow. Adjust your speed and be prepared to encounter cyclists or tractors.
• Useful apps : Download tools like Google Maps, Waze for directions, WineMaps to locate wineries or the Bourgogne Chic app to manage your vehicle rental.
• Essential equipment : Prepare a first aid kit, a phone charger for the car, a cooler for your gourmet purchases, and a good GPS to avoid getting lost.
• Weather forecast : Check the weather before leaving to adapt your itinerary and your luggage (umbrella, warm clothes, etc.).
  
  

Why choose Burgundy for a road trip? 🍇

Imagine a place where every turn immerses you in a new story, where roads undulate between golden vineyards and medieval villages frozen in time. Burgundy is more than a region: it is an invitation to slow down, savor every moment and rediscover the pleasure of the road.

Taking a road trip in Burgundy is to treat yourself to a visual and sensory symphony. Each kilometer takes you to meet breathtaking landscapes: from the green hills of Morvan to the majestic castles that seem to come straight out of a fairy tale.

It is also an adventure for epicureans. Here, the road is not just a path, it is a gateway to the pleasures of the table. Stop at a wine estate to taste a great vintage directly at the source, or at an inn to enjoy a beef bourguignon that melts in your mouth. In Burgundy, gastronomy is an essential part of your trip.

And then there is this very special atmosphere. Burgundy welcomes you with simplicity, authenticity and timeless charm. The small winding roads, the bell towers that point to the horizon, the local markets where the inhabitants share their love of the land... Everything here breathes calm and the sweetness of life.

So why choose Burgundy for a road trip? Because it's a promise of adventure, a breath of fresh air, and a return to basics. On the road, you'll be free, curious, and fully alive. Take the wheel, open the windows, and let Burgundy tell you its story.

And if you want to experience all this with a touch of nostalgia, why not do it aboard a retro 2CV? Discover our gift boxes for a 2CV getaway and go on an adventure! 🚗✨