Abbaye de Cîteaux
A historic Cistercian abbey known for its profound monastic legacy and the production of its famous cheese.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better tour access
Abbaye de Cîteaux
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better tour access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Cistercian abbey known for its profound monastic legacy and the production of its famous cheese.
"A quiet, historically significant site, but manage expectations regarding original buildings and tour content. "
🎯 Check Tour Schedule
Guided tours are essential. Verify times in advance to avoid missing out! :calendar:
🧀 Buy the Famous Cheese
Don't leave without trying or buying the delicious Cîteaux cheese. :cheese_wedge:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Guided Historical Tour
Step back in time with a guided exploration of the abbey's history and reconstructed scenes.
Cîteaux Cheese Shop
Sample and purchase the renowned Cîteaux cheese, a delicious local specialty.
Peaceful Abbey Grounds
Enjoy the serene atmosphere and quiet surroundings of this historic monastic site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tour Times are Key
Manage Expectations for Authenticity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Tour Schedule
Guided tours are essential. Verify times in advance to avoid missing out! :calendar:
🧀 Buy the Famous Cheese
Don't leave without trying or buying the delicious Cîteaux cheese. :cheese_wedge:
🚶♀️ Prepare for History
The visit focuses on history and reconstructions, not original buildings. :books:
🚫 No Cheese Factory Tours
You can buy cheese, but you won't see it being made on-site. :noentrysign:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Tour Schedule
Guided tours are essential. Verify times in advance to avoid missing out! :calendar:
🧀 Buy the Famous Cheese
Don't leave without trying or buying the delicious Cîteaux cheese. :cheese_wedge:
🚶♀️ Prepare for History
The visit focuses on history and reconstructions, not original buildings. :books:
🚫 No Cheese Factory Tours
You can buy cheese, but you won't see it being made on-site. :noentrysign:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often find Abbaye de Cîteaux to be a quiet and historically significant site, particularly for those interested in the Cistercian order. However, many express disappointment that there are few original buildings and that the guided tours, while informative, can be dry and unsuitable for children. The renowned Cîteaux cheese is a definite highlight for many.
"Unfortunately when I was there they had only guided tours. And I was just to late for the 11:30 tour.
So I had to console myself having a look at the small free exhibition in the entrance"
Seimen Burum
"An hour and a half of dry historic lecture. You see in 3 buildings where they have reconstructed scenes badly. There is really nothing original left there. I thought we at least would get to see the cheese being made but no. Sold in shop but no tasters. Do not take kids they would be so bored. Could have read all they said in a history book."
Philippa Brown
"what a disappointment! we would NOT recommend it (abbaye de Fontenay yes!)
- no original buildings on site, not one.
- you visit 4 rooms, that's it (and not even originl buildings, sorry to insist)
- no garden to visit, there is just a plain field next to it
- visit only with a guide, which means you either have to book in advance or check the times
- you dont get to see the cheese factory either
- and if you were hoping for a bit of cheese tasting at the shop.... well you're not at the right place."
Vanessa Pietrasik
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Abbaye de Cîteaux is located in Burgundy, France. Driving is the most convenient way to reach it, with parking available on-site. Public transport options are limited, so check local bus schedules if you're not driving.
Public transport to Abbaye de Cîteaux is challenging. While buses may serve nearby towns, direct routes to the abbey are rare. Renting a car or using ride-sharing services might be necessary.
From Beaune, driving is recommended for the most direct route to Abbaye de Cîteaux. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's highly recommended to check the tour schedule and potentially book in advance, especially during peak season, as tours have limited capacity and specific timings.
The abbey is primarily accessible via guided tours, which have specific, limited daily schedules. It's crucial to check these times before your visit as they can vary.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for the guided tours. The cost covers the historical presentation and access to the abbey's designated areas.
No, visits to Abbaye de Cîteaux are exclusively through guided tours. Independent exploration of the main abbey areas is not permitted.
There might be a small free exhibition area near the entrance, but the main historical sites are only accessible via paid guided tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tours typically cover the history of the Cistercian order and showcase reconstructed scenes within a few rooms. You won't see many original structures.
No, visitors cannot see the cheese production process. The cheese is made off-site or in areas not accessible to the public.
Many visitors find the historical lecture-style tour to be quite dry and potentially boring for children, suggesting it's better suited for adults interested in history.
The guided tours are generally around an hour and a half, focusing on historical narratives and reconstructed displays.
The abbey grounds are quite plain, with no extensive gardens to explore. The focus is on the historical tour.
🍽️ 🧀 Food & Dining
Unfortunately, cheese tasting is generally not offered at the shop. You can purchase the cheese, but tasting opportunities are rare.
There are no on-site restaurants or cafes. Visitors typically bring their own snacks or plan to dine in nearby towns.
The abbey's shop is the primary place to purchase authentic Cîteaux cheese. It's a popular item for visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do decide to visit with children, manage their expectations beforehand. Perhaps focus on the cheese shop as a highlight and keep the tour brief. Consider alternative family-friendly attractions in Burgundy if you have younger travelers in your group.
🏛️ History Buffs
Be prepared for a focus on narrative and reconstructed scenes rather than original architecture. The abbey's significance is more in its historical role and the story of its foundation than in preserved medieval structures.
🧀 Foodies & Cheese Lovers
It's advisable to check the availability of the cheese in the shop before your visit, as it can sometimes sell out. Consider pairing your cheese purchase with other local Burgundy products for a delightful culinary experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Cistercian Legacy
Key takeaway: The abbey's significance lies more in its historical impact and the Cistercian way of life than in preserved medieval architecture. Visitors should approach the site with an appreciation for its history and the story of the order.
The Famous Cîteaux Cheese
While you can purchase this delicious cheese at the abbey shop, don't expect to see the cheese-making process itself. The production facilities are not open to the public, and tasting opportunities are usually limited or non-existent. Nevertheless, taking a wheel of Cîteaux cheese home is a popular souvenir for many visitors.
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