Getting There & Away: Beaune

Air Travel

Major Airports

Travelers typically fly into major regional or international hubs for Beaune access.

Airport Options

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS): ~150 km south. Major international hub.
Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG): ~300 km north. France's largest and busiest international airport.
Paris Orly Airport (ORY): ~300 km north. Mainly domestic and European routes.

Flight Planning

Direct flights to Paris (CDG) and Lyon (LYS) are available from many global hubs.

Booking & Availability

Flight prices highest during peak summer (June-August) and major holidays.
Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) often present better value.
Booking flights well in advance, especially for high season, secures better rates.

From Lyon LYS

Rhônexpress tram to Lyon Part-Dieu train station (~30 min). Then TGV to Dijon (~1.5 hrs), followed by TER to Beaune (~20-30 min). Total ~2-3 hrs.

From Paris CDG/ORY

RER B to Gare de Lyon (~45-60 min from CDG). TGV to Dijon (~1.5-2 hrs), then TER to Beaune (~20-30 min). Total ~3-4 hrs.

Car Rental

Car rental at LYS (~1.5 hr drive to Beaune) or CDG/ORY (~3-4 hr drive to Beaune). Maximum flexibility for exploration.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Airport Services

All major airports (LYS, CDG, ORY) possess comprehensive facilities.
Car rental agencies, currency exchange, duty-free shops.
Wide selection of restaurants and cafes. Free Wi-Fi typically available.
Efficient public transport options for transfers to city/accommodation.

SNCF Connect

Pre-book TGV tickets via SNCF Connect for best rates.
Highly advisable for peak travel times and popular routes.
Travel time from Paris airports to Beaune by train is approximately 3-4 hours.
Drive from Paris to Beaune around 3-4 hours on motorways.

Land Transportation Overview

Train Network

Beaune served by its own train station, Beaune (Gare de Beaune), near the city center. TER trains frequent connections to Dijon and Chalon-sur-Saône. TGV trains mainly serve Dijon, requiring a TER transfer to Beaune.

Bus Options

Long-distance bus services (FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus) operate to major cities like Dijon. Connections from Dijon to Beaune via regional bus or train are possible.

Self-Driving

Driving an excellent way to explore Burgundy. Flexibility to visit smaller villages and vineyards. An International Driving Permit (IDP) required if your license is not from EU/EEA.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Beaune train station (Gare de Beaune) close to the city center.

Services

TER (Trains Express Régionaux): Frequent connections to Dijon (~20-30 min) and Chalon-sur-Saône (~20 min).
TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse): Do not stop in Beaune. Connect via Dijon.
Tickets available at stations or online via SNCF Connect.

Long-Distance Buses

Bus travel generally slower than trains but presents a more economical alternative.

Companies & Routes

FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus operate to major French cities, including Dijon.
From Dijon, regional bus or train connections to Beaune.
A budget-friendly option for inter-city travel.

Self-Driving in Burgundy

Driving freedom to explore Burgundy's wine region. Visit smaller villages and scenic spots.

Requirements

Valid national driving license. IDP if license not from EU/EEA. Carry both.
Major credit card in driver's name for security deposit.
Book Rental car in advance from major companies (Hertz, Europcar).

Road Conditions & Safety

France's roads generally in good condition. Be aware of speed limits and local driving rules.

Considerations

Excellent network of well-maintained roads. Autoroutes have tolls.
Speed limits strictly enforced, often by automated cameras.
Roundabouts common: prioritize traffic already in the roundabout.

Border Crossings & Sea/River Travel

Within Schengen Area: No formal border checks. Free movement.
Outside Schengen: Standard Schengen entry procedures at first entry point.
Ferry/Cruise: Not direct to Beaune. Requires further land travel from coastal ports.

River Cruises: Some stop in nearby Chalon-sur-Saône or Lyon.
From River Cruises: Land transportation (train, taxi, tour bus) connects to Beaune.
Scenic approach to the region combining river cruise with Beaune visit.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

France holds no specific exit fees or taxes on departing travelers. Any taxes included in tickets.

Timing Recommendations

Flights: 2-3 hours before international, 1.5-2 hours before European.
Trains: 15-30 minutes before departure for domestic/Schengen.
Time for check-in, baggage drop, security, VAT refund.

Airport & Station Facilities

Major airports possess comprehensive facilities for departing travelers.

Amenities

Check-in counters, self-service baggage drop, security screening.
Duty-free shops, wide range of restaurants and cafes. Airline lounges.
Train stations: Waiting areas, ticket offices, vending machines, shops/cafes.

Pre-Departure Check

Check your flight or train status online before heading to the airport or station.

Stay Informed

This keeps you informed about any delays or platform changes.

Travel Smart

Plan your journey to the airport or station with ample time to spare.

Travel Reminders

Double-check all travel documents before leaving. Have sufficient time for check-in and security.

Getting There & Away