Travelling Through History

Start your second day by driving 40 minutes southwest of Dijon to the town of Beaune. This car park is conveniently located for your morning's activities.

Beaune is a walled city and its ramparts were constructed over the course of two hundred years during the Middle Ages (encompassing the duration of the Hundred Years' War).
Many of these protective walls and buildings still exist today, including the Tour des Corderliers. You can explore the ramparts in a circular loop around Beaune, following this map.

Following the map, you’ll encounter plenty of exciting and iconic places. Be sure to look out for the Porte Saint-Nicolas, which has hosted many important people in France – Henri II, Charles IX, accompanied by the Queen Mother, and Louis XIII.

Following the Hundred Years' War, most of the population was left in poverty, so the Hôtel-Dieu des Hospices Civils de Beaune was created to take care of the poor and sick. Its philanthropic mission still lives on today through its annual charity wine auction.
The building is one of the best-preserved examples of Renaissance architecture in Europe.
Buy your ticket for touring the Hôtel-Dieu in English or in French. It’s open every day, but open hours fluctuate, so check it online in advance.

Head back to your car and continue onwards to the town of Autun.

You may be surprised to discover a number of Roman structures in this small town, but Autun was actually founded by the Romans. One of the most remarkable structures left behind is the Théâtre Romain, which was built into the natural slope of the land to accommodate 20,000 spectators.
Stroll around the theatre, take a seat, and imagine watching a Roman performance.

For lunch, enjoy a fresh goat's cheese and honey salad in the shady square right next to the cathedral in warmer months, or a hearty beef bourguignon inside the cosy stone-walled restaurant in cooler months.
Finish it off the classic French way with a cheese platter, dessert, and coffee.
For bookings, see Le Cathedral's contact details on their website.
Opening Hours: Wednesday – Monday: 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m., 7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Tuesday: Closed

Stop at this hilltop viewpoint, which used to be the site of a castle until it was destroyed in a battle between the Duke of Burgundy, known as Charles the Bold, and Louis XI. Some of the ruins are still there, but more impressive is the 360-degree view of the surrounding region. Get to know the landscape by using the orientation table.
Street parking is available on Rue du Calvaire. There is a pedestrians- and cyclists-only footpath leading to the top of the viewpoint.

The production of faience, or tin-glazed pottery, was a huge industry in the city of Nevers after it was introduced by Italian migrants in the 16th century. The local industry slowly shut down following the 19th century, but there are still two artisans producing these iconic ceramics in Nevers today.
Visit Faïencerie Georges to browse these pieces of art and buy your own piece of local heritage.
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Sunday – Monday: Closed

This car park is the easiest place to find parking near your next destination, the Marais (or marshes) of Bourges.

The Marais de Bourges acts as a green lung for the city — it's a space for locals to breathe and unwind away from the hustle and bustle. The 135 hectares of marshland are made up of allotment gardens, which have been in use since the 17th century.
Discover the marsh by strolling along the public paths between gardens, or take a boat ride along the rivers and canals if visiting between April and September. Check the official Bourges Tourism website for information about boat trips. Booking in advance is essential.
If you aren't in the mood for boat trips or travelling out of boat season, they also have a map of the marshes, including footpaths. You can stroll around the Marais all year round.

After a wonderful exploration of the Marais de Bourges, make your way back to your car so that you can head to your hotel and check in for the night.

Your hotel for today is l'Hôtel de Panette, which is located in a mansion built by 18th-century nobility. Check in and freshen up before dining out.
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This bistro takes a more modern and creative approach to French cuisine, which is evident in dishes such as the beef tartare with parmesan, tomato confit, olives and pesto, and the pork belly served with an olive and sage jus.
If you're a dessert lover, don't miss the liquorice panna cotta with raspberries and yuzu chocolate.
Book your table online.
Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday: 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Friday – Saturday: 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. Sunday: Closed

The hotel retains its historical charm by maintaining an ornate design fit for nobility. Expect glistening chandeliers, embroidered furniture, and bronze candelabras.
Each of the rooms is themed after a renowned person who once made the mansion their home. You'll sleep like a king or queen tonight!
Book Now
If you are a TCS member and would like to book a hotel with 3% cashback, please follow the instructions in this link.