My wife and I are traveling to France in November and will spend the first three nights in either Dijon or Beaune as our base for Burgundy and then spend the next 6 nights in Paris. Any opinions concerning which is a better base, Dijon or Beaune. If we stay in Beaune, we will stay at Le Cep. We aren't sure of where we would stay in Dijon. Thanks

Beaune will always hold a special memory for us. we were there for two days last September and we were at dinner in Beaune on September 11. <BR><BR>The people of Beaune that we came in contact with were outstanding!<BR><BR>We loved the city, there are exceptional restaurants and while we did not go out into the countryside we loved the place. We stayed at the Athenor Golden Tulip and enjoyed it very much.<BR><BR>Cannot say which is better but we did enjoy our stay in Beaune!<BR><BR>US

I've stayed at Le Cep in Beaune and loved it and the city. I think the only drawback might be that you could have to park some small distance away from the hotel, depending on the current parking situation. But at any rate, it wouldn't be very far. And the hotel can help you with parking. Beaune is also a smaller and cozier town (as far as the "old town" is concerned). Dijon is quite a bit bigger (about a 7 to 1 ratio) and more like a real city, but the advantage of Dijon is that there are more things to see there. Personally, I like the charm of a smaller village as a place to stay, so I would choose Beaune.

I would also advise Beaune and Le Cep. Beaune is ideal for touring the villages. Beaune being in between the Cote de Beaune & Cote de Nuit makes it ideal for excursions. In terms of dining, Beaune offers many fine choices including Ma Cuisine-amazing wine list, Lameloise-3 star in Chagney and Le Jardin des Ramparts-1 star. Many others (if you need recs ask and I will post). In addition, if you haven't already, be sure to make reservations ahead of time if you plan on visiting the Domaines. Bonne chance, Gregg

Would recommend Beaune over Dijon. You are smack in the middle of the wine area, whilst Dijon is on one side.

Hi Murray, We were in Dijon and Beaune a few months ago and whereas my recollection of Dijon is dim, I recall Beaune is charming. Have you been to Lyon? It is a wonderful place and the surrounding countryside is beautiful.<BR>

I was in Beaune five years ago and really enjoyed the town. I would recommending seeing the Hospices de Beaune H&ocirc;tel-Dieu. I had a great meal at the Cellar, I can't remember the address.