Best Time to Visit Burgundy

The best time to visit Burgundy, France, largely depends on your interests and what you want to experience during your trip. Here are some seasonal highlights to help you decide:

Spring (April to June)

• Weather: Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make this a beautiful time to visit.

• Activities: Ideal for exploring vineyards, countryside walks, and visiting historical sites without the summer crowds.

• Events: Various wine festivals and village celebrations.

Summer (July to August)

• Weather: Warm and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities.

• Activities: Peak tourist season with bustling markets, outdoor festivals, and events. Great for biking, hiking, and river cruises.

• Events: The Beaune International Baroque Music Festival and many local food and wine festivals.

Autumn (September to November)

• Weather: Cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage.

• Activities: Harvest season in the vineyards, offering opportunities to participate in grape-picking and wine-tasting events.

• Events: The Hospices de Beaune Wine Auction in November, one of the most famous wine auctions in the world.

Winter (December to February)

• Weather: Cold, but charming with festive decorations and fewer tourists.

• Activities: Cozy wine tastings by the fire, exploring medieval towns, and enjoying hearty Burgundian cuisine.

• Events: Christmas markets and winter festivals.

Here's a list of annual events in Burgundy that are worth visiting:

• Saint-Vincent Tournante (Last weekend of January)

  • A traditional wine festival honoring Saint Vincent, the patron saint of winemakers, held in a different Burgundy village each year.

  Fêtes de la Vigne de Dijon (July)

  • A bi-annual folklore festival in Dijon celebrating Burgundy's viticultural heritage with traditional music, dance, and costumes.

• Festival Musical des Grands Crus de Bourgogne (July- September)

  • A classical music festival held in prestigious vineyards and historical sites throughout Burgundy, combining music and wine tasting.

    
    

• Fête de la Gastronomie (September)

  • A national celebration of French gastronomy with events, tastings, and cooking demonstrations across Burgundy.

• Les Journées Européennes du Patrimoine (September)

  • European Heritage Days when historical buildings and sites, often closed to the public, open their doors for tours and special events.

• Hospices de Beaune Wine Auction (November)

  • The most famous charity wine auction in the world, held at the Hospices de Beaune, attracting wine enthusiasts and collectors.

    
    

• Marché de Noël de Dijon (December)

  • A festive Christmas market in Dijon, offering a variety of local crafts, food, and holiday treats.