Province of Bourgogne (Burgundy) and more! BOURGOGNE Burgundy (French: Bourgogne) is a historic region of east central France. The region's core is the fertile Rhone and Saone river valleys, where routes from Paris and the Rhineland to the Mediterranean converge. DIJON, a city famous as a gastronomic center, is the historic capital. Burgundy's WINEs, especially those of the celebrated Cote d'Or ("Golden Slope"), are among the world's most distinguished. The region prospered under Roman rule, with Autun becoming a center of learning and the capital of northeastern GAUL. By the 5th century the Burgundii, a Germanic tribe, had settled in the area and established a kingdom. In 534, Burgundy became part of the Frankish kingdom under the MEROVINGIANS and, after 751, the CAROLINGIANS.

During the various partitions of the Carolingian empire in the 9th century, two Burgundian states emerged: Lower (sometimes called Cisjurane) Burgundy, or PROVENCE, in the south; and Upper Burgundy, which was further divided into Transjurane and Cisjurane sections, in the north. These were united (933) as another Kingdom of Burgundy, later called Arles, which was part of the Holy Roman Empire from the 11th century until 1378, when it was ceded to France. Two other, relatively independent, divisions had been formed in the 9th century: the duchy of Burgundy (corresponding to the modern region), which remained part of France, and the Free County of Burgundy, or FRANCHE-COMTE. The duchy was ruled by a cadet branch of the CAPETIANS from 1031 until 1361 when the line died out. The golden age of Burgundy commenced in 1363 when JOHN II, king of France, granted the duchy to his second son, PHILIP THE BOLD.

With the death of his father-in-law in 1384, Philip added Flanders, Artois, Franche-Comte, and other lands to his holdings. Under his successors, JOHN THE FEARLESS, PHILIP THE GOOD, and CHARLES THE BOLD, Burgundy increased its territorial extent to include most of present-day Belgium and the Netherlands, as well as to Luxembourg, Alsace, and Lorraine. In the early 15th century the dukes of Burgundy sought to dominate French affairs (see ARMAGNACS AND BURGUNDIANS). When thwarted, they allied (1419) with England in the HUNDRED YEARS' WAR. Antagonism between the kings of France and the dukes of Burgundy climaxed with the defeat and death (1477) of Charles the Bold in battle near Nancy. Burgundy's northern territories passed to Habsburg rule while the duchy itself was annexed by the French king, Louis XI. Franche-Comte was acquired by France in 1678. Timothy J.

Rickard Source: The New Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia, Release #8, ©1996 Bibliography: Armstrong, C. A., England, France, and Burgundy in the 15th Century (1983); Vaughan, Richard, Philip the Bold: The Formation of the Burgundian State (1962), John the Fearless: The Growth of Burgundian Power (1966), and Philip the Good: The Apogee of Burgundy (1970). Dijon Dijon is the capital of Côte d'Or department in east central France and is located at the junction of the Suzon and Ouche rivers about 270 km (168 mi) southeast of Paris. The population of the city is 151,636 (1990); that of the conurbation is 226,025. The Burgundy Canal connects the city with the Asone River and with the rivers of the Paris Basin. Dijon is located in a rich agricultural area in the northern end of the famous BURGUNDY wine district.

Cassis, a black currant liqueur, originated there, as did Dijon mustard. The city has a large printing industry and manufactures electrical and optical equipment and pharmaceuticals. The city contains many art treasures and renowned buildings such as the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Wood-frame merchants' houses remain from the 15th and 16th centuries as well as two fine churches dating from the 13th century. Notre Dame, begun in 1229, is an excellent example of Burgundian Gothic architecture and has a well-preserved, elaborately carved exterior. The university was established in 1722. Saint-Michel church (15th-16th centuries) is a mixture of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The site was first settled as a Roman camp, and Dijon became the capital for the dukes of Burgundy in 1016. It came under control of the French crown in the 15th century. Dijon was occupied by the Germans during World War II. Lawrence M.

Sommers Source: The New Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia, Release #8, ©1996 Burgundy Links: Take a day out to visit one of the world's most famous wine regions, Saint-Emilion, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll sample the region's fine wines, take a cellar tour and visit the medieval village of Saint-Emilion. Highlights Led by a local guide Free drinks included The day begins with a tour of a Classified Growth (Clos Fourtet or Chateau Beau-Sejour Becot) in the Saint-Emilion appellation, followed by a wine grower's lunch at Chateau Haut-Sarpe. Your excursion ends with a visit to the medieval town of Saint-Emilion and its underground monuments. Dax - Dax is the top spa retreat in France providing temperate weather due to its proximity to the Atlantic and Europe's largest forest. Pau - Since the 19th century Pau has been extremely popular with English tourists for health reasons due to its favorable climate, both summer and winter. Saint Jean de Luz - With the Pyrenees as a back frame, this idyllic little commune is a convenient launching spot to the Basque region containing both French and Spanish cities.

Regional capital: Clermont-Ferrand The mountainous features of this region, in central France, have always contributed to its relative isolation feeling of going back in time. Towns in Auvergne Aurillac - Former the umbrella capital of France, the frosty town of Aurillac is generally considered one of the coldest cities in the country. Clermont-Ferrand - Surrounded by a chain of volcanoes and a major industrial area, the city of Clermont-Ferrand is one of the oldest in Europe. La Bourboule - This tiny commune in the Auvergne region is a get-away spa destination located in a scenic narrow valley. Montlucon - In central France on the Cher River, Montlucon is an industrial commune. Vichy - Renown for its therapeutic waters since Roma's founding of the city, circa 52 B. C., contemporary Vichy continues the therapeutic tradition with increasing attention to beauty products and health aids in general. Regional capital: Rennes Brittany currently is the main agricultural area of France and improved roadways and railroads have spurred new industrial development in its cities (motor vehicle plants in Rennes, engineering and electronics in Brest). Tourism also plays an active economic role.

Towns in Bretagne Brest - Yachting, windsurfing, and fishing are popular activities here. Interesting culinary offerings include Traou Mad (butter biscuit), Breton crepe, and Breton cider. Carnac - Close to the seaside resort of Carnac-Plage, this small town is also well known for it camping activities and lakes. Dinan - Dinan contains well-preserved ramparts, towers, and a castle complete with entrancing art and buildings. Dinard - What was once a nondescript fishing commune is currently a popular resort. Lorient - Lorient is a commune/seaport that welcomes the rivers Scorff and Blavet. Both empty into the Atlantic Ocean there. Quimper - Unlike its almost namesake, Quimperle, Quimper is more populous and has a renown pottery industry featuring traditional Breton blue and yellow designs. Rennes - Modern Rennes offers a diverse economy of tourism, telecommunications, and automobile (Citroen) production. Saint Malo - Saint Malo's swashbuckling past includes a period of time in the 16th century when it was under the control of an aggressive band of buccaneers.

Vannes - Established more than 2,000 years ago, Vannes is situated at the joining of the Vannes River and Gulf of Morbihan. Burgundy can be likened to a great autobahn on the north-south axis of the European continent. Towns in Bourgogne Auxerre - This lovely town in Burgundy has an active commercial life and is located on two hills northwest of Dijon, above the left bank of the Yonne River. Beaune - Historically, Beaune flourished as a residence of the dukes of Burgundy. Dijon Tours - Dijon's patron saint, Saint Kelly, reportedly introduced Christianity to the region before embracing (worshipfully, we might add) martyrdom. Online Reservations Situated in the heart of Burgundy, the Cote d'Or is worthy of its name, the Golden Ridge. The autumn vineyards are rich with a myriad of colors.

Today you will journey through the vineyards of the Cote de Nuits wine district, traveling through the villages of Fixin, Gevrey Chambertin, Morey Saint Denis, Chambolle-Musigny, Vougeot, Vosne-Romanee and Nuits St Georges on the Route des Grands Crus and along small vineyard roads. Your wine specialist-guide will explain the different varieties and wine qualities as well as different tasks performed throughout the year to care for the vines, the harvest, and historical aspects of the vines and villages. The tour stops for two guided cellar visits and comprehensive wine tasting where everything you've learnt throughout the day comes together. Enjoy the delights of Burgundy one sip at a time. Macon - The Macon wines are predominantly light red, must be imbibed young for their best effect, and are most compatible with red meat and mild cheeses. This region is of very high agricultural importance to France's cereal production. Towns in Centre Amboise - Amboise is located on the Loire's left bank and was formerly home of the French royal court and the focus of much political intrigue, religious and secular.

Blois - During the Medieval era Blois was the home for more than 400 years of French Kings and Queens. Bourges - Bourges sits at the convergence of the Yevre and Aveyron Rivers, and hosts a university and major industries devoted to armaments, tyres, and engineering. Chartres - Chartres is considered the commercial focal point of the plains of Beauce, known as the granary of France. Chateauroux - Local fare in Chateauroux is basic but savory as it is enhanced by a selection of interesting goat cheeses and wines. Chinon - On the banks of the Vienne River, Chinon is noted for its fine Cabernet Franc red wine. Orleans - Somewhat less than a 100 miles southwest of Paris on the Loire River, Orleans was established by an influential Celtic tribe and later became a Roman outpost. Tours - Tours is also referred to as the "garden of France? because of its plentiful city public gardens. Regional capital: Chalons-en-Champagne The Champagne region sports rich agricultural resources such as cereal crops and vineyards which produce the famous vintage, Champagne.

Towns in Champagne-Ardenne Chalons-en-Champagne - Capital of the Champagne-Ardenne region, Chalons-en-Champagne sits along the right bank of the Marne River. Epernay - Epernay is the 2nd largest producer of champagne (after Reims) though it is only 1/6th as populous as its more acclaimed competitor. Reims - Reims is one of the most historically significant cities in France as the coronation site for French kings from 988 to 1825. It also was the site where Germany surrendered in a formal ceremony to the Allies in May 1945. Regional capital: Ajaccio The island of Corsica is a self-contained region with a small population attributed to emigration, based upon poor economic prospects. Besanonc is the hub of France's watch and clock-making and high precision engineering industries. Towns in Franche-Comte Besancon - Besancon has won the title of France's greenest city and offers a fine university and many types of festivals. Dole - Another of France's lovely communes, located on the Doubs River.

Dole is the birthplace of Louis Pasteur and a popular barge tour destination. Montbeliard - Dating from the 8th century A.D., Montbeliard's economy is almost exclusively devoted to the Peugeot plant that employs two-thirds of its working citizens. Regional capital: Paris The region includes about 1/5 of the population of France, including the Paris metropolis, and has the highest concentration of economic activities in the country. Towns in Ile-de-France Chaumont - A suburb of Paris. Fontainebleau - This city lies 35 miles southeast of Paris in the largest state forest in France (50,000 acres) and is a favorite weekend get away for Parisians. Montigny-le-Roi - A small hamlet, Montigny-le-roi is a rural area located near a densely-forested area, approximately equidistant from Dijon and Nancy. Paris - The capital of France, Paris is, arguably, the most popular tourist destination in the world. Online Reservations Cruise down the Seine River on a dinner cruise which combines Paris sightseeing, French cuisine and evening entertainment in one unforgettable package.

During dinner there's sophisticated entertainment from a singer and band as you glide along the Seine River. Your fabulous three-course French dinner is prepared on board by Chef Gras, an Academie Culinaire de France chef, and his team. While enjoying the dishes, you'll glide down the Seine River aboard a Bateaux Parisiens boat. Bateaux Parisiens boats have a unique glass roof and panoramic windows, providing unobstructed views of the illuminated riverside sights of Paris. The cruise departs from the Eiffel Tower and sails along the Left Bank to the illuminated Ministry of Finance building at Bercy. The cruises return to the lights of the Eiffel Tower via the Right Bank. Highlights See the sights illuminated at night Choice of seating available Several menus to choose from Free drinks included Travel by boat and see the sights from the water Dinner included Provins - Over the years Provins and its historical ruins have been chronicled by Marcel Proust, Umberto Eco, Victor Hugo, Honore de Balzac, and others.

Regional capital: Montpellier Languedoc-Roussillon is currently enjoying a rebirth as a result of agricultural diversification, expansion of tourism, and the establishment of advanced technology industries and research, especially around Montpellier, an important university center. Towns in Languedoc-Roussillon Aigues Mortes - This is an attractive medieval walled city with ancient Roman roots that, to its benefit, has not been unduly restored. Albi - Constructed from red materials from the River Tarn, Albi is a charming town in appearance and an unexpected site of much of the art of Henri Tolouse-Lautrec. Ales - Punky Connors Irish Pub is supposed to have a brilliant lamb stew. No report in, thus far, on the Ales but we suspect the Porter might be quite good. Beziers - An industrial city in southern France, Beziers was formerly a Gallic fortress; currently has an important wine trading industry. Carcassonne - The enclosed section of this town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that presents itself as a walled, Medieval city.

La Grande Motte - A well-known, beach resort by the Mediterranean in southern France, La Grande Motte has modern marinas and sporting facilities. Montpellier - Modern Montpellier is a mult-national city with only about 20 percent of its populace being native. This is a rare circumstance in France. Narbonne - The first French area colonized by the Roman Empire, Narbonne today is a beautiful, wine-growing community with other industries that produce sulphur, clothing, and copper. Nimes Tours - Attractively situated at the base of the Cevennes mountains, Nimes sports an active textile industry, Perpignan - Perpignan lies on the Tet River in southern France with easy access to Spain and the Mediterranean. Saint Paul de Vence - Saint Paul de Vence encompasses a village-fortress-on a narrow ridge between two deep valleys-and outlying residences. Sete - An important commercial and fishing port, Sete lies at the foot of Mont St-Clair and is crossed by an elaborate canal system with 14 bridges. Regional capital: Limoges Limousin is important for its agri-foodstuffs and leather industries.

The "Porcelaine de Limoges" which produces world renown wares is also here. Towns in Limousin Brive - Brive still retains its medieval center, though it is now commercialised with retail shops and cafes. Limoges - A major crossroads on the Vienne River, Limoges can be discovered in an appealing agricultural area of central France. Regional capital: Metz Lorraine is now engaged in a far-reaching program of industrial conversion and diversification of activities in Metz and Nancy, the university center. Towns in Lorraine Epinal - Cloaked with extensive forests on both banks of the Moselle River, this city is famed for its colored prints. Metz - Of no little historical import, Charles II (Charles the Bald) was crowned in Metz in the 9th century A.D. Nancy - Nancy, another industrial city, is located in northeastern France on the Meurthe River with habitation roots dating to 800 B.C. The largest of metropolitan France's 22 regions and traditionally an agricultural area.

Towns in Midi-Pyrenees Cahors - Cahors, on the River Lot, can be discovered in southwest France along with some interesting, yet little known, wines. Castres - Castres has been a textile hub since the 13th century and currently also produces furniture and pharmaceuticals. Figeac - Primarily a market town, Figeac can be found on the Cele River. Lourdes - Comfortably situated in the foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains, Lourdes' quantity of hotels are said to be exceeded only by those in Paris. Moissac - The town is known for its foie gras and an extremely tasty gold grape, the Chasselas de Moissac AOC. Montauban - The second oldest bastide (a medieval fortress or town), after Mont-de-Marsan, Montauban dates from 1144 A.D. Montbard - Montbard is a small, industrial commune in eastern France on the Brenne River.

Rocamadour - Known as one of seven most famous pilgrimage sites during the 10th through 12th centuries, Rocamadour borrows its name from Saint Amadour, whose well preserved body was uncovered there in 1166. Rodez - Aside from tourism, Rodez has an agriculturally-based economy. Tarbes - Tarbes is situated on the Adour River within a large fertile plain. It is ideally placed for access to the Pyrenees National Parc and religious activities in Lourdes. Toulouse - Toulouse is the focal point of European aerospace activities and home to Airbus. Regional capital: Lille Tours The Province, France's major industrial region in the 19th century (thanks to the coal and textile industries) and the most heavily populated. Towns in Nord Pas-de-Calais Arras Tours - Arras has a different ambience than many French towns due to its spacious arcades and burgher-type residences that lend a Flemish flavor. Berck Sur Mer - Berck is a seaside resort in northern France that hosts giant kite festivals attracting fans and participants world from Australia, Europe, the United States, China and other countries.

Calais - Old Calais is encircled by canals and harbors and rests on a man-made island. It is considered the most English of French communes. Cambrai - A textile town since the 14th century, Cambrai is noted for fine linen. Its surroundings are fertile fields used for growing cereals and beets. Douai - Douai is a community in northern France on the Scarpe River that produced English translations of the Bible in the 15th and 16th centuries. Dunkerque - Exporter of steel products, sugar, fruits and vegetables, and cement, this town has historical note as a place of infamy for the British army retreat during World War II. Le Touquet - This town is a forested, seaside resort with numerous luxury hotels on the north coast of France, and enjoys a reputation as a playground for uber wealthy Parisians. Lens - Lens is a coal mining hub that has been the focus of many historical struggles for this "black gold." Lille Tours - Situated in the far northern reaches of France near Belgium, Lille sits astride the Deule River and recalls its wealthy past thanks to coal mining and textile (Lille cloth) industries.

A practical must-have, the Lille City Pass is the answer to all your visiting needs, whether you're staying one day or longer. Make considerable savings in Lille, the capital of the Nord-Pas de Calais region. Save money with the Lille City Pass The pass gives you free Access to 27 tourist and cultural sites including the Fine Arts Museum of Lille, the City Tour, Charles de Gaulle's Birthplace, Museum of the Hospice Comtesse and many more.

Highlights of the Lille City Pass Free access to the Lille urban area public transport system (buses, metro and tramway) 5% rebate on certain products at the boutique of the Lille Tourist Office Reductions and discounts in selected stores and restaurants 10% discount in the Les Galeries Lafayette store A glass of aperitif maison with a meal purchased at member of the Club des Tables Gourmandes Reduced price on segway rental 10% discount in Meert restaurant at La Piscine museum in Roubaix An discount check book with offered at Mc Arthur Glen in Roubaix 10% discount in Le Paradoxe restaurant in Tourcoing Reduced price for the spectacles of Atelier Lyrique de Tourcoing. Special price at the Cinema from Le Fresnoy in Tourcoing. The three day Lille City Pass gives you all of the above as well as free access to 8 tourist attractions in the Nord-Pas de Calais region and free access to the TER (regional express trains) network. Some museums are closed on Mondays and/or Tuesdays as well as on the first weekend of September.

Maubeuge - Maubeuge has primarily a manufacturing economy delivering machine tools, glassware, china, and railroad equipment. Montreuil-sur-Mer - Encircled by mediaeval ramparts, Montreuil-sur-Mer was the staging ground for the early action in Victor Hugo's Les Miserables. Saint Omer - This is a market village with additional industries of paper and glass manufacturing and textiles. Regional capital: Caen Formerly, an agricultural region its economy has undergone some change recently with the development of the agri-foodstuffs industry and the creation of a number of light industries (engineering, automobiles, electronics). Towns in Basse-Normandie Alencon - Out-of-doors devotees will relish a visit to Alencon for easy access to the Normandie-Maine Regional Nature Park nearby. Antibes Juan Les Pins - Antibes is a French Riviera (Cote d'Azur) community located on the western edge of the Bay of Angels. Bagnoles-de-l'Orne - This town is famous for its hydrotherapy baths, reputed to have healing powers for rheumatic, gynecologic and circulatory problems.

Bayeux Tours - A town in northern France best known for the Bayeux Tapestry, one of the few remaining artifacts recording the defeat of King Harold and the subsequent conquest of England by William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, in 1066. Online Reservations If time is tight and you'd like to tour the Normandy beaches, this quick morning tour from Bayeux will show you all the poignant highlights of these important World War II battle sites. Caen - Caen is located 5 miles from the English Channel, has historical structures that date to the reign of William the Conquerer (11th century A.D.). Cabourg - Reputedly Marcel Proust's favorite vacation spot in early 1800's, Cabourg is a popular Normandy seaside resort. Cherbourg - One of two seaports in Normandy, Cherbourg is also teeming with gardens and exotic plants. Coutances - Coutances is a venerable city located on a long hill above extensive plains in Basse-Normandy.

Deauville-Trouville - The general area was popularized in the mid 19th century due to the visits of Napoleon III, who was once referred to as an "imperial jackass." Honfleur - Situated on what is known as the "Flower Coast" of France Honfleur is a small port city that shares a common geography with the British Channel and the Seine estuary. Lisieux - St. Therese, canonized in 1925, is buried in Lisieux and spent much of her childhood there. Pilgrimages are still made to her final resting site in the Basilica of St. Therese. Mont St Michel Tours - Connected by causeway to the mainland, Mont St Michel dates to the early 700's A.D. Regional capital: Rouen The main feature of Upper Normandy economy is the extensive development of the Lower Seine with its two major ports of Le Havre and Rouen (France's 2nd and 5th largest). Towns in Haute-Normandie Dieppe - This town is a pacific, seaside resort on the Atlantic and provides important ferry and maritime industries.

Eu-Le Treport - Generally considered two separate resort communities in Normandy, Eu is located near the edge of a forest, while Le Treport is noted for its seaport. Evreux - An important commercial and market city in northern France, near the Iton River, whose name derives from a Gallic tribe (Eburovices), literally meaning "those who were overcome by the yew." Giverny - Giverny is best known for Monet's Garden. Le Havre - This town reputedly was the most heavily damaged port during War World II resulting in a paucity of post-war buildings. Pont Audemer - A small agricultural hamlet, Pont-Audemer delights in its attractive architectural legacy. Rouen - Rouen is the site where Joan d'Arc was burned at the stake in 1431. Regional capital: Nantes The region is second in France in terms of agricultural production and first place for livestock breeding. Towns in Pays de la Loire Angers - At various times Angers has been the capital of the country of Anjou, an English possession, and home to the polish provisional government.

Cholet - Cholet sits on the right bank of the Moine River and is noted for its linen products. La Baule - The nearby bay is said to be the most beautiful in Europe. La Roche Sur Yon - This government developed community in western France is primarily an agricultural center but does have tanning, hardware, and household appliances industries. Laval - Modern Laval is an industrial community in northwestern France situated on the west bank of the Mayenne River. Le Mans - Located on the Sarthe River Le Mans beckons to auto racing enthusiasts everywhere and is also known as the birthplace of Henry II of England in 1133. Les Sables d'Olonne - This community offers a diversion from the exaggerated tourism world of Paris with its efforts to out-French the Capital. Nantes - A city in western France on the Loire River, Nantes traces its lineage to a Celtic tribe (Namneti) about 70 B.C. Saumur - Another former Roman outpost and occupying a bank of the Loire River, Saumur has a highly-regarded religious medal industry that originated in the 17th century.

Picardy is another rich agricultural area which has an enhanced agri-foodstuffs industry (sugar, flour mills). Towns in Picardy Amiens - Sited on the left bank of the Somme River and famed for its linen, wool, and cotton ware, Amiens was previously, a chief town of the Ambiani, a Celtic tribe conquered by Caesar. Beauvais - Among Beauvais' economies is the interesting enterprise of tapestry manufacturing begun in the 17th century. Chantilly - Located near Paris, Chantilly has parks, lakes and beautiful countryside. Chateau-Thierry - This small town, located on the Marne River, was a prominent location of the last German offensive of World War I. Compiegne - Compiegne is an industrial city on the Oise River noted for its large glassworks. Regional capital: Poitiers The Poitou-Charentes region has been experiencing increased industrialization for the last few decades after evolving from an agrarian economy devoted essentially to cattle raising and vineyards to produce Cognac. Towns in Poitou-Charentes Angouleme - Angouleme is the centre of cartoon enterprises in France.

Cognac - The name of the town is synonymous with the world's finest brandy, which is produced here by Remy-Martin, Courvoisier, Camus, Hennessy and other prominent firms. Ile de Re - A popular island resort off the west coast of France, Ile de Re is accessible by motorcars by a 3 kilometer (2 mile) long bridge. La Rochelle - Though located at the same latitude as Montreal, Canada, this city is remarkably warm during the winter as a result of the gulf stream and certain geographical features. Le Vigeant - This small community is located in a beautiful river valley fed by the Vienne River and contains a motor racing circuit. Niort - Discover Niort in western France on the Sevre Niortaise River where it is famed for its angelica herb cultivations. Noirmoutier - Noirmoutier's economy boasts tourism, oyster harvesting, fishing, and sea salt exports from its extensive salt marshes.

Poitiers - Home to the 2nd oldest university in France, with Francis Bacon, Francois Rabelais, and and Rene Decartes as former students, Poiters also offers an economy based upon agriculture, communication services, and other industries. Saintes - In Saintes one can find physical reminders associated with the Gothic, Roman, and Romanesque dominions in the array of stone monuments remaining. Regional capital: Marseille Tours Provence is called Provence, because it was the Roman Province where they loved to come to escape the heat of Rome. The place is built out of Roman ruins, some of which are still standing like the Antique (meaning old) theatre in Orange, a glorious amphitheatre where Pavarotti once sang, and one of the original Arcs de Triomphe, which is riddled with very un-Roman bullet holes. This region owes its wealth to its Mediterranean coastline, excellent climate and natural beauty. Towns in Provence Aix-en-Provence - Site of thermal baths developed circa 15 B.C. from local mineral springs. Aix-en-Provence is home of art schools and several universities and features many fountains, museums, and historical architecture.

Arles - There are a large number of Roman structures and ruins around Arles that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WHO). Aubagne - This is another one of those prosaic, Cote d'Azur communities located about 10 miles east of Marseille. Avignon Tours - Not just another boringly beautiful Cote d'Azur city, Avignon is considered one of the most attractive towns in France. Online Reservations On this Grand tour of Provence you will first visit Orange, founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC. You will see the Triumphal Arch, one of the most remarkable of its kind in France. The arch is decorated with friezes commemorating Julius Caesar's victories over the Gauls in 49BC. You will also visit the Antic theater, built during the time of August Caesar. Enjoy a scenic drive in the vineyards around Chateauneuf du pape, where you will learn about grape varieties, vinification and aging cellars and wine tasting.

Your tour will continue to the Pont du Gard, the best preserved roman aqueduct, Les Baux de Provence, a picturesque medieval village in the Alpilles mountains, and then in the Luberon region, the famous villages of Gordes and Roussillon which rank among the most beautiful villages in France. Bandol - A port and holiday spot between Toulon and Marseilles, Bandol has two beaches of fine sand and one with coarse sand and pebbles, and its promenades delight the eye with a profusion of floral designs, palm trees, and pine trees. Cannes Tours - Home of the internationally famous Cannes Film Festival (held annually in May), this city enjoys its place in the sun on the French Riviera. Most of the eye-candy beaches are open to the public. Online Reservations Enjoy the glamorous atmosphere of Monaco with its amazing cars and beautiful people. Drive along the seaside, stop by the Palace and after a 3 course dinner enjoy free time to explore Monte Carlo at your leisure. Drive along the Corniche road, enjoying its panoramic view points on the way to Monaco.

On arrival at the Palace and you will have free time to have a look around before continuing on for a tour of the Formula One Grand Prix circuit before stopping in Monte-Carlo. You will then spend around 2.5 to 3 hours enjoying the glamorous atmosphere of Monte Carlo. During this time you will dine on a 3 course meal at Le Bistroquet overlooking the Grand Prix circuit, beside Casino Square. The choice of dishes is from the "gourmet" menu and 1/2 a bottle of wine or a beer or soft drink is included plus coffee. After dinner you are free to explore at your leisure. If you wish to enter Monte Carlo Casino, you will need to pay EUR10 directly to the Casino and you must bring your passport. This tour is conducted by 8 seater minivan with an English speaking guide. Cavaillon - Situated smartly on the right bank of the river Durance, Cavaillon has thriving canning and melon-growing industries. Draguignan - Primarily an agricultural haven in southeast France, Draguignan is the self-proclaimed City of Artillery. Gap - Gap is located in an alpine setting on the Luye River near its confluence with the Durance River.

Hyeres - The roots of this city can be traced to Greek and Roman artifacts found there dating to the fourth century B.C. Les Baux-de-Provence Tours - The community is said to have inspired Dante in his place renderings in "Purgatory", and many artists, including Van Gogh. Mandelieu-La-Napoule - A renown beach resort located 5 miles from Cannes at the base of the Tanneron-Massif and mouth of the Siagne River, Mandelieu-La-Napoule affords all the modern delights. Marseille Tours - The largest port in France, Marseille is the oldest city in France, tracing its roots back 30,000 years. It is also the oldest city in France, tracing its roots back 30,000 years. Marseille has also won the honor of being the European Capital of Culture in 2013. Online Reservations It is while driving along the Mirabeau Court, decorated with fountains and edged of 19th century's private hotels, that you will enter the heart of Aix en Provence.

Discover the architectural wealth of the city while driving by the 4 Dolphins Fountain, the Fountain of the Preachy, the Place Albertas, the Place of the city hall, the Place of the Cardeurs, and the Cathedral Saint Sauveur. Then, you will be able to join the workshop of Cezanne, small pavilion of the Lauves, before coming back to enjoy the shady squares of the painter's city. Martigues - About 20 miles northwest of Marseille, one can discover the ancient town of Martigues located on the Canal de Caronte. Menton - Menton enjoys a Mediterranean climate that is quite supportive of its renown gardens and citrus industry. Nice Tours - Because of its historical vassalage to varied nations and cultures, Nice offers a potpourri of linguistic dialects and culinary features. Online Reservations Discover the picture-postcard city of Nice on the French Riviera on a small group morning or afternoon sightseeing tour by minivan. Enjoy panoramic views over Nice from Mt. Boron, visit the Castel Park, and see the famous Promenade des Anglais.

Start your Nice City Sightseeing Tour with a visit to Castel Park overlooking the Bay of Angels and Old Town, site of the trading town founded by the Greeks 2,700 years ago. Immerse yourself in Nice's history on Place Garibaldi in the Old Town and marvel at the modern New Town as you stroll along along Promenade des Arts, home to the Modern Art Museum, Sosno's library and the Acropolis center. Arriving in Cimiez, winter home of Queen Victoria, you will have the opportunity to visit the Matisse Museum (closed on Tuesday) or walk among the olive tree gardens and the 15th century garden of the Franciscan Monastery. You will also visit the extraordinary Russian Cathedral, the most beautiful outside of Russia. Return by Promenade des Anglais passing its famous landmarks and "Belle Epoque" buildings. End your Nice City Sightseeing Tour with a visit to the flower market in Cours Saleya. Minivans hold a maximum of eight passengers, and a small group tour is the perfect way to see all that Nice has to offer.

Orange - Recognized for its Roman architecture and as having one of the best kept Roman theaters in Europe, you can find this Orange in southeastern France. Saint Raphael - Saint Raphael is a Cote d'Azur resort that is especially noted for its winding streets, tree-lined promenade, excellent beaches, and period villas of Palladian and Belle Epoque styles. Saint Remy de Provence Tours - Celebrated as the birthplace of Nostradamus (Michel de Nostredame), Saint Remy de Provence is also considered a hermitage for celebrities seeking privacy on the Cote d'Azur. Saint Tropez Tours - A post-War World II summer refuge for French existentialists, Saint Tropez first achieved its exalted status in the 1950's due to its selection as a site for several movies. Salon-de-Provence - One of the most ancient Provence communes, Salon offers beautiful views of countryside where the olive tree is venerated. Its oldest section rests on a small rise overseeing the narrow city byways.

Toulon - Harboring a large French naval base Toulon is also fortunately situated on the Cote d'Azur with all of its amazing beauty and attractions. Rhone-Alpes ranks second in importance in population and economic development among metropolitan France's 22 regions. Towns in Rhone-Alpes Aix-les-Bains - Aix-les-Bains is a spa resort in eastern France whose sulfur springs and hot baths are popular with tourists. Annecy - Annecy has sometimes been called the Venice of the Alps because of its extensive canal system. Chambery - This city can be found in southeast France, between the massifs of Beauges and La Grande Chartreuse. Its industry includes metallurgy, confectionary and shoe factories. Evian-les-Bains - Evian is an internationally famous resort and natural spa on the south bank of Lake Geneva. Grenoble - A former site of the Winter Olympics, Grenoble is also an industrial hub on the Isere River located amidst three ranges of the Alps. Lyon Tours - Credited with having made major historical cinematic contributions, Lyon is also touted as the culinary arts capital of France and has earned a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.

Geographically, Lyon displays intriguing features attributable to the confluence of the Rhone and Saone rivers to the south, two large hills-one to the north and one to the south, and a large flatland expanding to the east of the original downtown. This is your passport for exploring Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The easy-to-use city card offers total freedom for making the most of your stay in Lyon. The Lyon City card includes unlimited access to 19 of the most prestigious museums in and around Lyon, but restricted to one entrance per day and per museum. Enjoy guided tours, self-guided audio tours, boat tours (April 01 to October 30) of the city as well as unlimited use of the public transport system. Montelimar - Highly regarded as the nougat capital of the world by some sources, Montelimar offers two variants, brown and white. Roanne - Located on the Loire River Roanne's chief products are cotton and metal goods with secondary industries of automobile manufacturing, tanning, and artificial silk spinning. Saint-Etienne - Saint-Etienne is now noteworthy for its major bicycle manufacturing activities and has often played host to a stage of the Tour de France.

Valence - Valence is a terraced city on the Rhone River in southeast France with roots dating to the 4th century A.D. Villefranche-Sur-Saone - On the Saone River, Villefranche-Sur-Saone is a port and trade center for Beaujolais wine produced in the area. Cote d'Or, France: tourism, towns and villages and attractions including Dijon and Fontenay Abbey in Cote d'Or, Burgundy Cote d'Or: tourism and sightseeing Visit Cote d'Or, France One of the most popular and historically wealthy regions of Burgundy, highlights in the Cote d'Or department include the Abbey at Fontenay, quaint villages such as Flavigny and important historical centres like Dijon. Wine enthusiasts will also enjoy exploring the vineyards along the Route des Grands Crus such as Beaune and Nuits-Saint-Georges. Cote d'Or, Burgundy tourism The Cote d'Or department occupies the north-eastern part of Burgundy, in central-eastern France. The capital of Cote d'Or (and of the Burgundy region) is the impressive town of Dijon.

The name Cote d'Or comes from the golden leaves of the vines in the region. While the south and east of the department attract the most visitors because of historical towns such as Dijon and Beaune, and the famous vineyards in this region, there is much of interest to discover elsewhere in the department such as the village of Semur-en-Auxois and Fontenay Abbey towards the north-west. Places to visit in Cote d'Or with reviews from France This Way Below you can see a description of Cote d'Or and its highlights. For details of each place (town, village, attraction...) that we have reviewed see places to visit in Cote d'Or . Cote d'Or travel guide and highlights To make your planning easier and help you find places of interest close to your destination we have reviewed the Cote d'Or by region: North Cote d'Or The Chatillonais region to the north-west of the department is an extensive protected forested area. In the heart of the Chatillonais region you can visit the riverside village of Chatillon-sur-Seine , especially well known because of the ancient 'treasure of Vix' found nearby and now on display in a museum in the town.

Also in Chatillon-sur-Seine you should visit the lovely 10th century Church of Saint-Vorles. South-west of here and to the east of Montbard we highly recommend a visit to the world famous Fontenay Abbey , a UNESCO World heritage Site. The extensive collection of abbey buildings here is beautifully preserved and also in a very picturesque setting, and the highlight of your visit to the region! Between Chatillon and Montbard at Bussy-le-Grand you can visit the Chateau de Bussy-Rabutin - an understated castle, best known for its paintings and interior decoration. Close to Fontenay Abbey, the town of Montbard is a three star 'ville fleurie' (town in bloom) traversed by the Burgundy canal and a pleasant town to explore. The most important site is the impressive Parc Buffon, named after a famous 18th century French naturalist. You can find more evidence of Buffon's importance to the region when you visit the nearby 18th century 'Forges de Buffon' or take a stroll through the gardens at Montigny-Montfort castle.

Continuing south from Montbard, be sure to visit the attractive small town at Semur-en-Auxois , with an extensive historic centre and certainly among the most picturesque towns in the Cote d'Or department. To the east of Semur, Flavigny is a beautiful village with fortified walls and an interesting selection of religious buildings to admire. The village of Flavigny was made famous when it was used for the setting of the popular film 'Chocolat'. In the village you will also see aniseed being made by local monks. At Saint-Thibault, south-west of Flavigny, you can see the impressive romanesque style doorway and interior of the 13th century church. Also close to here is the site of Alésia, where Julius Caesar had his final battle with the Gauls, and now listed as one of the ' Grand Sites of France '. Excavations at the site attempt to prove that it was indeed site of the great final battle. South-west Cote d'Or To the south-west of the department the town of Saulieu is best known for its 12th century romanesque style basilica.

Saulieu is situated within the the rolling woodland countryside of the Morvan Regional Parc , an extensive natural region very popular with hikers and cyclists. The Castle Rochepot towards the south-west border of the department dates in part form the Middle Ages and is one of the most attractive and interesting in Cote d'Or, with numerous turrets, a multi-coloured roof, and attractive gardens. Close to here at the village of Vauchignon we suggest a walk around the 'Cirque du Bout du Monde', a circular cliff in a woodland setting. South east Cote d'Or Start your visit to the south-east at Dijon , the capital of the department. Bearing many traces of its rich and illustrious past, Dijon has many monuments of interest and is one of our favourite towns in France - and also of course famous for Dijon mustard ! To the north-east of Dijon you can visit the small village at Beze , then to the south-west of the town we recommend you explore the pretty hilltop village at Chateauneuf-en-Auxois.

Towards the southern border of the department be sure to see Beaune , a pleasant town with the medieval Hotel-Dieu (medieval hospital) complex a highlight of your visit. Of course, Beaune also gives its name to one of the most prestigious wine regions in France. Also close to Beaune, the village of Saint-Romain is in an attractive setting and Nolay has a small but picturesque historic centre with a medieval market hall and houses. The interesting town of Auxonne on the Saone River to the south-west of here also has several historical buildings including a cathedral and castle and an attractive centre to explore. Burgundy wine Wine enthusiasts will also want to follow the ' Route des Grand Crus ' that passes through the Cote d'Or department from Santenay to Dijon, with ample opportunities to try the wines en route and admire the countryside where the grapes are grown. Among the best known wines from this region are Beaune, Nuits-Saint-Georges , Pommard and Meursault. See also:

Question: Which French city, the capital of the Core D'Or department is famous for its mustard?
Answer: DIJON