Paris to Dijon and Beaune: Private day trip

Explore Dijon's historic center starting at the magnificent Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, now housing the Museum of Fine Arts with its impressive collection spanning from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary works that tell the story of European art evolution and the sophisticated court culture that made Burgundy a rival to the French crown. Walk the Owl's Trail (Parcours de la Chouette) marked by brass plaques leading you through the city's most beautiful monuments including the Gothic Notre-Dame Church where you must touch the famous owl carving with your left hand for good luck according to centuries-old local tradition that connects modern visitors to medieval superstitions and hopes. Climb the 46-meter Philippe le Bon Tower for panoramic views over the distinctive glazed-tile rooftops in geometric patterns that have become Burgundy's architectural signature since the 14th century when Flemish influence brought this colorful tradition to France and created one of the most recognizable cityscapes in Europe. Discover the bustling covered markets in the heart of the old town and traditional boutiques selling authentic Dijon mustard (still made with verjuice from unripe grapes according to traditional recipes), pain d'épices (traditional gingerbread flavored with honey and exotic spices), and regional wines from prestigious appellations that have made Burgundy legendary among wine lovers worldwide. Don't miss the charming medieval streets lined with half-timbered houses and Renaissance mansions with their ornate facades, carved stonework, and elegant courtyards that tell the story of Burgundy's golden age when the Dukes rivaled the Kings of France in wealth, power, and cultural sophistication, creating a court culture that influenced European aristocracy for centuries.

Begin your Beaune exploration at the spectacular Hôtel-Dieu (Hospices de Beaune) with its iconic multi-colored glazed tile roof in geometric patterns and stunning Gothic architecture that has welcomed visitors for over 550 years as a symbol of Christian charity and Burgundian prosperity that demonstrates how medieval society balanced spiritual and material concerns. Tour this 15th-century charity hospital turned museum to see the famous polyptych altarpiece by Flemish master Rogier van der Weyden depicting the Last Judgment in extraordinary detail, and explore the Grande Salle with its original carved wooden ceiling, period furnishings, and medieval medical instruments that tell the story of healthcare through the centuries and reveal medieval approaches to healing that combined spiritual and physical treatment. Descend into the ancient wine cellars beneath the city for guided tastings of prestigious Burgundy wines in atmospheric stone-vaulted caves that maintain perfect temperature and humidity year-round, ideal conditions for aging some of the world's finest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines that express the unique terroir of these ancient slopes. Walk the medieval ramparts that still encircle the old town and explore the charming cobblestone streets with their wine shops, art galleries, and traditional restaurants serving regional specialties in buildings that have housed merchants and wine lovers for centuries, creating an unbroken tradition of hospitality and culinary excellence. Visit the Marché aux Vins in a former 15th-century church for comprehensive tastings of Côte d'Or wines, or book guided tours of prestigious wineries in the surrounding Golden Slope vineyards including Pommard, Volnay, and Meursault where ancient vines produce wines of extraordinary complexity and terroir expression that have made Burgundy the gold standard for wine excellence. Sample classic Burgundian cuisine like coq au vin made with local Pinot Noir, boeuf bourguignon slow-cooked in red wine, and creamy époisses cheese paired with the region's legendary wines that express the unique terroir of these ancient vineyard slopes and represent centuries of winemaking tradition and innovation.