The most beautiful villages to visit around Dijon

The Burgundy region, and in particular the area around Dijon, is full of magnificent villages that have preserved their charm of yesteryear. With their architectural heritage, rich history and breathtaking scenery, these villages are ideal for a romantic getaway or a family discovery. Here is our selection of the most beautiful villages to visit just outside Dijon.

Flavigny-sur-Ozerain: a medieval village in the heart of the Auxois region

Located around 60 kilometres north-west of Dijon, Flavigny-sur-Ozerain is a charming medieval village listed as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”. Perched on a rocky outcrop, the village offers panoramic views over the surrounding valleys. Its cobbled streets, lined with stone houses, will take you back in time. Don’t miss a visit to

• The 8th-century Benedictine abbey, which today houses a workshop where the famous Flavigny aniseed is made.
• The Musée du Pays Châtillonnais – Trésor de Vix, which traces the history of the region and exhibits a Celtic treasure that is unique in Europe.

Châteauneuf-en-Auxois: a medieval castle dominating the landscape

Around 50 kilometres from Dijon, Châteauneuf-en-Auxois is another village listed as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”. Overlooking the valley of the Canal de Bourgogne, this fortified village boasts an imposing 12th-century medieval castle, which offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside. You can also discover :

• The narrow, winding streets lined with half-timbered houses and old mansions
• Saint-Jean-Baptiste church, a Gothic building dating from the 13th century
• The Musée d’Art Populaire Bourguignon, which displays objects and works of art relating to local culture and traditions

Semur-en-Auxois: a medieval town on the banks of the Armançon river

Around sixty kilometres from Dijon, Semur-en-Auxois is a charming medieval town on the banks of the river Armançon. Surrounded by ramparts, it is dominated by the octagonal keep of the former castle of the Dukes of Burgundy. Sites to visit include

• The collegiate church of Notre-Dame, a 13th-century Gothic church with magnificent stained-glass windows
• The municipal museum, with its collections of archaeology and local art
• The old wash-houses along the Armançon, testimony to the town’s prosperous past

Fontenay: a Cistercian abbey in a green setting

Situated around 80 kilometres from Dijon, Fontenay Abbey is an architectural treasure trove and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in 1118 by Saint Bernard, this Cistercian abbey is nestled in a green setting and offers a peaceful setting for a cultural visit.

Just outside Dijon, a number of picturesque villages await you for a journey back in time and an immersion in Burgundy’s history. Don’t hesitate to discover these architectural and cultural gems during your next stay in the region.