Chablis Travel Guide

Explore Chablis, France with this travel guide. Discover top attractions, renowned vineyards, wine tasting tours, local cuisine, outdoor activities, and charming accommodations in this picturesque Burgundy town. Plan your perfect visit to Chablis.

Chablis, located in the northernmost part of Burgundy, is renowned for its exceptional Chardonnay wines. This picturesque town offers a mix of historical charm, scenic vineyards, and culinary delights, making it a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts and travelers seeking a tranquil escape.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Chablis depends on your preferences and desired activities:

Spring (April to June): Mild weather, blooming landscapes, fewer tourists, ideal for exploring vineyards and enjoying outdoor activities.
Summer (July to August): Warm and pleasant, peak season for wine tourism, outdoor activities, more tourists, and higher prices.
Autumn (September to October): Cooler temperatures, beautiful autumn foliage, grape harvest season, vibrant vineyard colors, harvest-related events, and wine tastings.
Winter (November to March): Cold and quiet, fewer tourists, cozy wine tastings, lower accommodation prices, but some attractions may have limited hours.

Getting to Chablis and Getting Around Chablis

Getting to Chablis

By Air

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): The largest international airport, about 180 km from Chablis. From here, you can take a train or rent a car.
Orly Airport (ORY): Another major airport in Paris, about 170 km from Chablis, with similar options for continuing your journey.

By Train

From Paris: Take a train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Auxerre, which is about 20 km from Chablis. From Auxerre, take a taxi or local bus to Chablis.
Train Stations: The closest major train station is in Auxerre, which has connections to other cities in France.

By Car

From Paris: Approximately a 2-hour drive via the A6 motorway.
From Lyon: Around 3 hours via the A6 motorway.
From Dijon: About 1.5 hours via the A6 and D965 roads.

Getting Around Chablis

By Car

Car Rentals: Available in nearby larger towns and at airports. Renting a car is convenient for exploring the surrounding vineyards and countryside.
Driving Tips: Roads are well-maintained, but be cautious of narrow village streets.

By Bike

Bike Rentals: Available in Chablis and nearby towns. Biking is a popular way to explore the vineyards and enjoy the scenic countryside.
Bike Routes: There are dedicated cycling routes through the vineyards and along the Yonne River.

By Foot

Walking: Chablis is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance. Walking tours are a great way to explore the town’s historical sites and local shops.

By Bus

Local Buses: Buses connect Chablis to nearby towns like Auxerre, but schedules may be infrequent. Check local timetables for the latest information.

Taxis

Taxi Services: Available for hire in Chablis and can be arranged for short trips or day tours to nearby vineyards and attractions.

Guided Tours

Wine Tours: Many companies offer guided wine tours, which include transportation to various vineyards and wineries.
Historical Tours: Guided tours of Chablis and surrounding areas provide in-depth knowledge of the region’s history and culture.

Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Chablis

Top Attractions and Activities

Saint-Martin Church: A beautiful Gothic church with stunning stained-glass windows and a rich history dating back to the 12th century.
Pontigny Abbey: Located a short drive from Chablis, this Cistercian abbey is one of the largest in France, featuring serene architecture and beautiful gardens.
Obédiencerie de Chablis: A historical building where monks once made wine. Today, it serves as a wine cellar and museum, offering insights into Chablis' winemaking heritage.
Town Center: Wander through the charming streets of Chablis, lined with medieval buildings, quaint shops, and cafes.
Chablis Market: Held on Sunday mornings, this lively market offers fresh local produce, cheeses, meats, and artisanal goods.
Fosse Dionne: A beautiful natural spring in nearby Tonnerre, historically significant and visually stunning.
Les Caves Bailly Lapierre: Located a short drive from Chablis, these extensive underground caves house the production of Crémant de Bourgogne, Burgundy's sparkling wine.
Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the scenic countryside surrounding Chablis through various hiking and nature trails.
Local Cuisine: Savor the flavors of Burgundy with dishes like escargots, gougères, and local cheeses.
La Maison des Vins de Chablis: This wine house offers a comprehensive tasting experience of Chablis wines, showcasing a variety of local producers. It’s a great place to start your wine journey in Chablis.
Musée de l'Avallonnais Jean Després: Located in nearby Avallon, this museum features local history, art, and archaeology, providing a deeper understanding of the region.
Le Parc de la Libération: A lovely park in Chablis perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic, offering scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Boat Trips on the Yonne River: Enjoy a leisurely boat trip along the Yonne River, offering a unique perspective of the beautiful Burgundy countryside.
Artisan Workshops: Participate in local artisan workshops such as pottery, cheese-making, or cooking classes to immerse yourself in Burgundy’s cultural traditions.

Top Vineyards to Visit in Chablis

Le Petit Pontigny: An ancient winery and historic site offering a glimpse into the region’s monastic winemaking past.
Domaine Laroche: Known for its historical significance and excellent wines, Domaine Laroche offers guided tours of its vineyards, cellars, and the 13th-century Obédiencerie. Tastings here provide a deep dive into the rich flavors of Chablis wines.
Domaine Jean-Marc Brocard: A family-run vineyard famous for its organic and biodynamic wines. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and tastings that showcase their commitment to sustainable viticulture.
Domaine Billaud-Simon: Established in 1815, this vineyard combines tradition with modern winemaking techniques. The tastings here highlight the elegant and mineral qualities of their Chablis wines.
La Chablisienne: One of the largest wine producers in Chablis, La Chablisienne offers a wide range of wines to taste. The cooperative’s cellar visits provide insight into the collective efforts of local winegrowers.
Domaine Louis Michel & Fils: A historic estate that has been producing wine since 1850. Known for its pure and expressive Chablis wines, the vineyard offers intimate tours and tastings.
Domaine Vincent Dauvissat: A prestigious vineyard producing highly sought-after wines. Visits are typically by appointment, providing a personalized and exclusive tasting experience.
Domaine William Fèvre: A key player in Chablis winemaking, this estate is known for its exceptional Premier and Grand Cru wines. The vineyard tours and tastings here are both informative and enjoyable.
Domaine Long-Depaquit: Part of the Albert Bichot family, this vineyard offers guided tours of its historic cellars and tastings of its refined Chablis wines. The estate's gardens are also worth exploring.
Domaine Christian Moreau Père et Fils: This family estate produces outstanding Chablis wines with a focus on sustainability. Visitors can enjoy detailed tours and tastings that reflect the family’s dedication to quality.

Local Cuisine

While Chablis shares many culinary traditions with the broader Burgundy region, there are a few specialties and culinary practices that are particularly associated with this wine-centric area. Here are some unique aspects of Chablis cuisine:

Chablis-Infused Dishes

Pôchouse: A traditional fish stew made with freshwater fish such as pike, perch, and eel, cooked in a Chablis wine sauce. The addition of Chablis wine imparts a distinct flavor that is unique to this dish.
Escargots de Bourgogne: While a Burgundian classic, in Chablis, these snails are often prepared with a Chablis wine reduction, adding a local twist to the traditional garlic and herb butter.
Coq au Chablis: A variation of the classic coq au vin, using Chablis wine instead of red Burgundy wine. This dish features chicken braised in Chablis, offering a lighter, more delicate flavor.

Local Cheeses

Soumaintrain: A soft, washed-rind cheese produced in the Yonne department, which includes Chablis. It has a strong aroma and rich, creamy texture, often enjoyed with a glass of Chablis.
Chaource: A creamy, soft cheese with a mild flavor, also from the nearby Aube region, frequently served as part of a cheese platter with Chablis wines.

Wine Pairings

Gougères: These cheese puffs, made with choux pastry and local cheeses, are a perfect match for Chablis wine. They are often served as an appetizer or snack during wine tastings.
Oysters: Chablis wines are famously paired with oysters. The crisp, mineral qualities of the wine complement the briny, fresh flavors of the oysters, making this a popular pairing in local restaurants.

Local Ingredients and Produce

Truffles: Chablis is close to Burgundy’s truffle-producing regions. Truffle dishes, such as truffle butter or truffle-infused sauces, are often paired with Chablis wines.
Charcuterie: Local charcuterie, including pâtés, terrines, and cured meats, is frequently enjoyed with Chablis wines. These can be found in local markets and served in traditional meals.

Where to Experience Chablis Cuisine

Hostellerie des Clos: A renowned restaurant in Chablis offering gourmet dishes that often incorporate local wines and ingredients.
Au Fil du Zinc: A popular bistro known for its modern take on traditional dishes, frequently featuring Chablis wine in its recipes.
La Cuisine au Vin: A restaurant dedicated to wine-based cuisine, providing an authentic taste of Chablis culinary traditions.

Best Areas to Stay in Chablis

Chablis Town Center

Highlights: Staying in the heart of Chablis provides easy access to local attractions, restaurants, shops, and markets. The town center is charming, with narrow streets, historic buildings, and a lively atmosphere.
Ideal For: Those who want to be in the middle of the action, with everything within walking distance.
Top Accommodations: Hôtel du Vieux Moulin, Hostellerie des Clos.

Near the Vineyards

Highlights: For a more tranquil experience, consider staying near the vineyards surrounding Chablis. Many wineries offer guest accommodations, providing an immersive experience amidst the picturesque landscapes.
Ideal For: Wine enthusiasts looking for a serene setting and direct access to vineyard tours and tastings.
Top Accommodations: Domaine Jean-Marc Brocard

Nearby Villages

Highlights: Explore the charm of nearby villages such as Préhy, Courgis, and Maligny. These areas offer a glimpse into the rural life of Burgundy and often feature charming bed and breakfasts or boutique hotels.
Ideal For: Those who enjoy a quieter, more intimate setting and don’t mind a short drive to Chablis.

Travel Tips for Chablis

Accommodation

Book in Advance: Especially during peak seasons like the grape harvest and major wine festivals, accommodations can fill up quickly.
Stay in Vineyards: For an immersive experience, consider staying at a vineyard that offers guest accommodations.

Wine Tasting

Reservations: Many wineries require reservations for tastings, so plan ahead.
Designated Driver: Ensure someone in your group is a designated driver or arrange for transportation, as you'll likely visit multiple wineries.

Exploring the Area

By Bike: Chablis and its surrounding vineyards are great for cycling. Rent a bike and explore at a leisurely pace.
Walking Tours: The town center is best explored on foot. Consider joining a guided walking tour for historical insights.