Buying and Living in Dijon and the Surrounding Burgundy Region

Dijon, the capital of the Burgundy region in eastern France, is a city of both historical significance and contemporary charm. Famous for its rich culinary heritage, world-renowned wines, and medieval architecture, Dijon offers a unique blend of old-world elegance and modern living. For anyone considering buying property or settling in France, the Burgundy region, with Dijon at its heart, provides an exceptional quality of life, complemented by beautiful landscapes, excellent transport connections, and a thriving cultural scene.

Burgundy is known for its vineyards, producing some of the finest wines in the world, such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, making it a paradise for wine lovers. Beyond its renowned wines, Burgundy is home to exquisite châteaux, rolling hills, picturesque villages, and a slower pace of life. Whether you’re attracted by the historic charm of Dijon, the serenity of Burgundy’s rural countryside, or the region’s food and wine culture, it’s a destination that offers both relaxation and a sense of discovery.

The Appeal of Dijon and Burgundy
Dijon, with its vibrant medieval center, is one of France's most important historical cities, offering an exceptional quality of life. The Old Town of Dijon is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning Gothic and Renaissance architecture, quaint streets, and grand buildings. The city is famous for its mustard, fine dining, and, of course, its proximity to the famous Burgundy vineyards. The Route des Grands Crus, a wine route that passes through some of Burgundy’s best vineyards, is a short drive from Dijon, offering residents easy access to the region's renowned wine estates.

Dijon also boasts a lively cultural scene, with museums, theaters, music festivals, and a variety of local markets showcasing the best of Burgundy's gastronomic offerings. The city's beautiful parks, green spaces, and proximity to the Côte-d'Or hills make it a pleasant place to live year-round.

Burgundy itself, the surrounding region, is equally captivating. Known for its scenic beauty, the region offers a rural yet sophisticated lifestyle with historical towns, villages, and expansive vineyards. The Canal de Bourgogne and the Saône River are popular for leisurely boat trips, while the Morvan Regional Natural Park provides excellent opportunities for hiking, cycling, and outdoor activities.

Living in Dijon: Towns and Villages in the Surrounding Region
Dijon is an attractive urban hub with a rich cultural life, yet it is surrounded by tranquil villages and towns that offer a more rural lifestyle. The Burgundy region is a mix of vibrant towns with historic buildings, vineyards, and quiet countryside, making it ideal for a variety of lifestyles.

Key Towns in Dijon and Burgundy
Dijon: As the region's capital, Dijon combines historical charm with modern conveniences. The city is home to a dynamic cultural and culinary scene, making it an ideal location for those seeking an active urban lifestyle while still being able to enjoy the countryside. Dijon has a population of about 160,000, offering a balance between the amenities of a city and the charm of a smaller town.
Beaune: A 30-minute drive from Dijon, Beaune is often considered the capital of Burgundy wine. Known for its medieval architecture, stunning wine estates, and the famous Hospices de Beaune, the town has a relaxed pace of life with plenty of opportunities to enjoy local wines and cuisine. Beaune is also a popular destination for those seeking a more tranquil lifestyle, but with easy access to Dijon and its cultural offerings.
Chalon-sur-Saône: Located along the Saône River, Chalon-sur-Saône is one of Burgundy’s larger towns. It boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times and is a gateway to the Côte Chalonnaise, a wine-producing region. The town is well-connected by train, providing easy access to Dijon, Lyon, and Paris.
Mâcon: On the border of Burgundy and the Rhône-Alpes region, Mâcon is a charming town located along the Saône River. Known for its excellent wines, especially Pouilly-Fuissé, Mâcon offers a more relaxed lifestyle compared to Dijon but retains easy access to major cities and amenities.
Semur-en-Auxois: A beautiful medieval town located in the Côte-d'Or department, Semur-en-Auxois is known for its historic stone bridges, narrow streets, and surrounding countryside. The town offers a quieter, more rural lifestyle while still being within reach of Dijon’s urban amenities.
Smaller Villages
Burgundy is home to many small, picturesque villages with stone houses, vineyards, and winding lanes. Villages like Flavigny-sur-Ozerain, Noyers-sur-Serein, and Châtillon-sur-Seine are examples of peaceful communities where time seems to stand still. Many expats and retirees are drawn to these villages for their tranquility and connection to French heritage.

Living in a smaller village typically means a closer-knit community, a slower pace of life, and an opportunity to live surrounded by nature. However, it’s important to consider the availability of local amenities and public transportation when choosing a rural location.

Buying Property in Dijon and Burgundy
The Burgundy region offers a range of affordable properties, from charming countryside cottages and stone houses to grand châteaux and modern homes. The cost of property in Burgundy is generally lower than in other French regions such as the Côte d'Azur, making it an appealing option for property buyers.

Popular Property Types

Châteaux and Manor Houses: For those looking for something grander, Burgundy offers a wide variety of castles and manor houses for sale. These properties offer the chance to own a piece of French history, often with sprawling grounds and vineyards. While these properties can be expensive, they are often available for a fraction of the price of similar properties in more famous regions like the Loire Valley.
Stone Houses and Farmhouses: Traditional maisons de caractère are highly sought after in Burgundy. These stone houses often come with large gardens, vineyards, or farmland. The appeal of these homes lies in their historical features, such as exposed beams, large fireplaces, and spacious rooms.
Vineyard Properties: Burgundy is synonymous with wine, and owning a vineyard is a dream for many wine lovers. There are opportunities to buy both small, family-run estates and larger commercial vineyard properties in areas like Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune. While owning a vineyard can be a financial commitment, Burgundy’s strong wine industry ensures that there is potential for a profitable investment.
Modern Homes: There are also contemporary properties available in Burgundy, particularly in towns like Dijon, Beaune, and Mâcon. These homes offer modern conveniences while maintaining the charm of the region.

Cost and Process
Property prices in Burgundy are lower than in France's more expensive regions. For example, while a traditional stone house in the countryside may cost between €150,000 to €250,000, a grand château or vineyard property can run into the millions. The cost will depend on the location, size, and condition of the property.

The property buying process in Burgundy is similar to the rest of France. After agreeing on the sale, the buyer will sign a compromis de vente, which is a binding preliminary contract. The final sale is completed through a notary, who ensures that all legal requirements are met. Additionally, buyers will need to account for notary fees, which can be around 7–8% of the property price.

Transportation and Connectivity
Burgundy’s transportation network makes it easy to get around, whether by road, rail, or air.

Airports
Dijon-Bourgogne Airport: Offers domestic flights and some international connections, particularly to destinations in Europe.
Lyon-Saint-Exupéry Airport: Located about 2 hours from Dijon, Lyon’s airport offers extensive international connections, making it convenient for those traveling abroad.
Geneva Airport: Located around 3 hours from Dijon, Geneva offers international flights and can be an option for those looking for additional travel connections.

Trains
Burgundy is well-connected by the French rail network. Dijon and Beaune are served by TGV lines, with direct connections to Paris (about 1.5 hours), Lyon (about 2 hours), and other major cities. The region’s other towns, like Chalon-sur-Saône and Mâcon, also have good rail connections to Dijon and beyond.

Road Access
Dijon and the Burgundy region are well-served by highways and local roads. The A6 autoroute runs through the region, connecting Burgundy with Paris, Lyon, and the south of France. Burgundy’s rural roads are also perfect for leisurely drives through the vineyards, with plenty of scenic routes to enjoy.

Lifestyle and Practical Considerations
Cost of Living
Burgundy offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to more metropolitan areas like Paris or Lyon. Housing is one of the most affordable in France, with costs significantly lower than in the larger cities. The cost of food, wine, and dining out is also lower than in major urban centers, although dining in the region’s famous gastronomic restaurants can be closer in price to larger centres.

Healthcare
France has a high standard of healthcare, and Burgundy is no exception. Dijon and other major towns have well-established medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized care centers. The French healthcare system is renowned for its quality, and expats who are eligible for the French social security system can access healthcare services with ease.

Education
Burgundy offers a range of educational options, including public schools, private institutions, and international schools. Dijon, as the largest city, has several international schools catering to expats, while smaller towns like Beaune and Mâcon provide excellent local schools with strong community connections.

Climate
Burgundy enjoys a temperate climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The region’s climate is perfect for wine production, but it’s also ideal for outdoor activities, including cycling, hiking, and enjoying the many local vineyards.

Conclusion
Dijon and the surrounding Burgundy region offer an exceptional quality of life with a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to Dijon’s historic center, the picturesque vineyards of Beaune, or the peaceful countryside, Burgundy provides an affordable and rewarding lifestyle. With its beautiful architecture, world-class wine, and charming towns and villages, Burgundy is an ideal place to buy property and settle down in France.