Explore the rich history and culinary delights of Dijon, France, with our travel guide. Discover top attractions like the Palace of the Dukes, Dijon Cathedral, and the famous Les Halles Market. Enjoy wine tastings, mustard samplings, and traditional Burgundian cuisine in this charming city at the heart of Burgundy.
Dijon, the capital of the Burgundy region in eastern France, is a city renowned for its rich history, exquisite architecture, and culinary delights. Once the seat of the powerful Dukes of Burgundy, Dijon boasts well-preserved medieval and Renaissance buildings, including the majestic Palace of the Dukes and the Gothic Dijon Cathedral. The city is also famous for its mustard, fine wines, and traditional Burgundian cuisine. Visitors can explore vibrant markets like Les Halles, stroll through beautiful gardens such as Jardin Darcy, and enjoy the lively cultural scene. With its blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy, Dijon offers a captivating experience for all who visit.
Best Time to Visit
Dijon, located in the heart of the Burgundy region, offers a unique charm and vibrant culture that can be enjoyed year-round. However, the best time to visit depends on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and activities. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect each season:
Spring (March to May)
Weather: Mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
Highlights: Spring is a beautiful time to visit Dijon as the city's parks and gardens, such as Jardin Darcy, come to life with blooming flowers. The pleasant weather is perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and enjoying al fresco dining.
Events: Spring is generally a quieter time for major events, but the mild weather is perfect for enjoying Dijon’s outdoor markets and parks.
Summer (June to August)
Weather: Warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
Highlights: Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, such as strolling through the historic town center, visiting vineyards along the Burgundy Wine Route, and enjoying recreational activities at Lake Kir. The longer days provide ample time for sightseeing.
Events: The Dijon International and Gastronomic Fair, one of France's largest food fairs, occurs in July and extends into September, offering a taste of regional and international cuisines. The Fêtes de la Vigne, a festival celebrating wine and folk traditions, typically occurs in July.
Crowds: This is the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors and higher accommodation prices.
Autumn (September to November)
Weather: Mild and cool, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
Highlights: Autumn offers a picturesque setting with colorful foliage. It's an excellent time for wine lovers to visit, as the grape harvest season is in full swing, and many vineyards open their doors for tastings and tours.
Events: Journées Européennes du Patrimoine (European Heritage Days), Held in mid-September, this event opens up many historical and cultural sites that are usually closed to the public.
Crowds: Fewer tourists compared to summer, making it a pleasant time to explore.
Winter (December to February)
Weather: Cold, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F).
Highlights: Winter in Dijon is quieter, providing a peaceful atmosphere to explore the city’s historical sites and museums. The holiday season brings festive decorations and Christmas markets, offering a cozy and charming experience.
Events: The Saint Vincent Tournante wine festival takes place in January, celebrating Burgundy's wine heritage. Christmas markets and holiday festivities add a magical touch to the city.
Crowds: This is the low tourist season, so you can enjoy the city's attractions without the crowds.
Getting to Dijon and Getting Around Dijon
Getting to Dijon
By Air
Nearest Airports:
Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS): Approximately 2 hours by train or car.
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): About 1.5 hours by TGV (high-speed train) from Paris Gare de Lyon.
Geneva Airport (GVA): Around 3 hours by train or car.
By Train
High-Speed Trains (TGV): Direct TGV trains connect Dijon with major cities like Paris (approximately 1.5 hours), Lyon (about 2 hours), and Strasbourg (around 2 hours).
Regional Trains: TER Bourgogne-Franche-Comté trains connect Dijon with other towns and cities in the region.
Train Station: Dijon-Ville is the main train station, conveniently located near the city center.
By Car
Highways: Dijon is accessible via the A6 (from Paris and Lyon) and A31 (from Luxembourg and Nancy) highways.
Driving Times:
Paris to Dijon: Approximately 3 hours.
Lyon to Dijon: About 2 hours.
Geneva to Dijon: Around 3 hours.
Getting Around Dijon
On Foot
Description: Dijon's city center is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore the main attractions on foot.
Public Transportation
Trams and Buses: Operated by Divia, the public transportation system includes an efficient network of trams and buses.
Tram Lines: Two main tram lines (T1 and T2) cover the city and its suburbs.
Bus Routes: Extensive bus routes connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas.
Tickets: Can be purchased at ticket machines, Divia shops, or via mobile apps. Day passes and single tickets are available.
Timetable: Buses and trams run frequently from early morning until late evening.
Biking
Bike Rentals: Dijon has a bike-sharing program called DiviaVélo, with numerous stations throughout the city.
Bike Lanes: The city has dedicated bike lanes, making it safe and easy to get around by bike.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Taxis: Available at designated taxi stands, train stations, and can be booked in advance.
Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber are available in Dijon.
Car Rentals
Rental Services: Major car rental companies have offices in Dijon, particularly around the train station.
Parking: Several parking lots and garages are available in and around the city center.
Tours and Excursions
Guided Tours: Various guided tours are available, offering insights into Dijon's history, architecture, and gastronomy.
Day Trips: Dijon is a great base for exploring the Burgundy wine region, with many vineyards and charming villages within easy reach.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Dijon
Top 25 Attractions in Dijon
Palace of the Dukes and States of Burgundy: An impressive palace that was once the residence of the Dukes of Burgundy, now housing the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon.
Place de la Libération: A beautiful square in front of the Palace of the Dukes, surrounded by elegant buildings and lively cafes.
Musée des Beaux-Arts: Housed in the Palace of the Dukes, this museum features an extensive collection of art from antiquity to contemporary works, including masterpieces by European artists.
Dijon Cathedral (Saint-Bénigne): A magnificent Gothic cathedral built between the 13th and 14th centuries, featuring a crypt that dates back to the 6th century.
Church of Notre-Dame: Known for its remarkable Gothic architecture and the famous "Owl of Dijon" sculpture, which brings good luck to those who touch it.
Les Halles Market: A bustling covered market designed by Gustave Eiffel, offering a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and regional specialties.
Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne: Set in a 17th-century monastery, this museum is dedicated to the cultural and daily life of Burgundy through the ages.
The Well of Moses (Puits de Moïse): An exceptional Gothic sculpture by Claus Sluter, located in the former Chartreuse de Champmol.
Jardin Darcy: A beautiful public garden in the heart of Dijon, ideal for a relaxing stroll.
Lake Kir: A man-made lake offering various recreational activities such as swimming, sailing, and picnicking.
Musée Magnin: Housed in a grand 17th-century mansion, this museum features an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
The Owl's Trail (Le Parcours de la Chouette): A self-guided walking tour that takes you through the historic center of Dijon, following bronze plaques embedded in the pavement. See more.
Rue des Forges: One of Dijon's most charming streets, lined with half-timbered houses, Renaissance mansions, and quaint shops.
Maison Millière: A historic 15th-century house and garden, known for its half-timbered architecture and charming café.
Parc de la Colombière: A large public park offering walking trails, a mini-zoo, playgrounds, and beautiful green spaces.
Musée Rude: Dedicated to the works of Dijon-born sculptor François Rude, showcasing plaster casts of his famous sculptures.
Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique de l’Arquebuse): A serene garden featuring a wide variety of plants, a small arboretum, and a natural history museum.
Port du Canal: A picturesque area by the Burgundy Canal, perfect for a relaxing walk, boat rides, and dining at waterfront restaurants.
Museum of Sacred Art (Musée d'Art Sacré): Housed in the former Bernardine convent, this museum displays a rich collection of religious art and artifacts.
St. Michael's Church (Église Saint-Michel): Known for its mix of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles and intricate facade.
Maison des Cariatides: A notable Renaissance building adorned with caryatids (sculpted female figures serving as architectural supports) also home to a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin: A cultural and culinary complex dedicated to the art of French cuisine and wine, offering exhibits, workshops, and tastings.
Dijon Opera House (Opéra de Dijon): Hosting a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and concerts, in a beautifully restored 19th-century theater.
Rue Verrerie: A historic street lined with antique shops, art galleries, and medieval buildings, perfect for leisurely exploration.
Museum d’Histoire Naturelle: Located within the Jardin Botanique de l’Arquebuse, this natural history museum showcases a variety of exhibits on geology, paleontology, zoology, and botany.
Top 10 Activities
Wine Tasting Tours: Explore the renowned Burgundy wine region with guided tours that include tastings at local vineyards and wineries.
Mustard Tasting: Visit the Maille Mustard Boutique for a unique tasting experience of various Dijon mustard flavors.
Food Tours: Join a gastronomic tour to sample local specialties like boeuf bourguignon, coq au vin, and Burgundy snails.
Bike Rides Along Canal de Bourgogne: Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the picturesque Burgundy Canal, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Cooking Classes: Participate in a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Burgundy dishes.
Attend a Performance at Dijon Opera House: Experience a range of performances, including opera, ballet, and concerts, in a historic setting.
Explore Local Markets: Visit Les Halles Market to shop for fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and regional specialties.
Boat Rides on Lake Kir: Engage in recreational activities such as sailing or simply enjoy a picnic by the lake.
Follow The Owl's Trail (Le Parcours de la Chouette): Take a self-guided walking tour through Dijon's historic center, following bronze plaques embedded in the pavement.
Attend Local Festivals: Participate in events like the Dijon International Gastronomic Fair or the Fêtes de la Vigne, celebrating the region’s culinary and wine traditions.
Visit Local Artisanal Shops: Explore shops that sell local crafts, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs.
Enjoy Outdoor Cafés: Relax at one of Dijon's many outdoor cafés, perfect for people-watching and savoring the local atmosphere.
Best Shopping
Dijon offers a variety of shopping experiences, from historic streets lined with boutique shops to modern shopping centers. Here are some of the best places to shop in Dijon:
Rue de la Liberté
Description: One of the main shopping streets in Dijon, Rue de la Liberté is a bustling pedestrian thoroughfare lined with a mix of high-end boutiques, well-known brands, and specialty shops.
Highlights: Fashion stores, jewelry shops, bookstores, and cafés.
Les Halles Market
Description: Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this covered market is the perfect place to buy fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and regional specialties.
Highlights: Local cheeses, Burgundy wines, fresh pastries, and artisanal products.
Galerie Lafayette
Description: A branch of the famous French department store, offering a wide range of high-end fashion, cosmetics, and home goods.
Highlights: Designer brands, luxury goods, and a gourmet food section.
Rue Verrerie
Description: A historic street known for its antique shops, art galleries, and unique boutiques.
Highlights: Antique furniture, fine art, handmade crafts, and vintage clothing.
Maille Mustard Boutique
Description: Visit this iconic store to sample and purchase a wide variety of Dijon mustards, including unique flavors and artisanal products.
Highlights: Mustard tastings, gift sets, and exclusive mustard blends.
Place François Rude (also known as Place du Bareuzai)
Description: A charming square surrounded by shops and cafés, offering a pleasant shopping experience with a touch of local flavor.
Highlights: Local boutiques, specialty food shops, and souvenir stores.
La Toison d'Or
Description: A large shopping mall located just outside the city center, featuring a wide range of international and French brands.
Highlights: Fashion, electronics, home décor, and a variety of dining options.
Local Cuisine
Dijon is particularly known for its culinary delights, with several specialties that reflect the rich gastronomic heritage of the Burgundy region. Here are some of the key foods Dijon is famous for:
Mustard
Dijon Mustard - Perhaps the most iconic product associated with Dijon, this mustard is renowned worldwide for its sharp and tangy flavor. It is used in a variety of dishes, from dressings and sauces to marinades and spreads.
Wine and Beverages
Burgundy Wine - The region is famous for its exceptional wines, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The vineyards around Dijon produce some of the best wines in the world, making wine tasting a must-do activity.
Kir - A popular aperitif made from white wine and Crème de Cassis (blackcurrant liqueur), named after Félix Kir, a former mayor of Dijon.
Charcuterie
Jambon Persillé - A traditional Burgundian terrine made with ham and parsley, set in a savory gelatin. It's a popular appetizer and often served with mustard.
Andouillette - A type of sausage made with pork intestines, known for its strong flavor and unique texture. It's a specialty not for the faint-hearted but cherished by locals.
Cheese
Epoisses - A soft, pungent cheese washed in Marc de Bourgogne, a local brandy. It has a strong aroma and a creamy texture, making it a favorite among cheese lovers.
Sweets and Pastries
Pain d’épices - A traditional gingerbread made with honey and spices, often enjoyed during festive seasons.
Nonettes - Small spiced cakes filled with jam or honey, originating from medieval times and still popular today.
Main Dishes
Boeuf Bourguignon - A classic French stew made with beef braised in red wine, often Burgundy wine, with garlic, onions, and mushrooms. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that’s a staple of the region.
Coq au Vin - Another traditional dish, made with chicken braised in wine (often red Burgundy), with mushrooms, onions, and sometimes bacon.
Sauces
Sauce à la Dijonnaise - A creamy mustard sauce that’s often used to accompany meats, particularly chicken and pork.
Restaurants to Experience in Dijon
Maison Millière
Description: Housed in a charming, historic building dating back to the 15th century, Maison Millière offers a unique dining experience with a menu that emphasizes traditional Burgundian cuisine.
Specialties: Coq au Vin, Boeuf Bourguignon, and various regional cheeses.
Ambiance: The rustic and cozy setting, complete with a beautiful garden, enhances the overall dining experience.
Le Pré aux Clercs
Description: Located in the heart of Dijon, Le Pré aux Clercs is a classic brasserie with a long history. It's known for its elegant atmosphere and high-quality French cuisine.
Specialties: Burgundy snails, foie gras, and fresh seafood.
Ambiance: Elegant and refined, with a mix of traditional and contemporary decor.
Loiseau des Ducs
Description: Part of the renowned Bernard Loiseau group, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience with a focus on modern interpretations of classic Burgundian dishes.
Specialties: Gourmet tasting menus featuring seasonal and local ingredients.
Ambiance: Sophisticated and modern, with a focus on fine dining.
Chapeau Rouge - William Frachot
Description: This Michelin-starred restaurant, led by chef William Frachot, is known for its inventive and beautifully presented dishes that highlight the best of regional and seasonal ingredients.
Specialties: Tasting menus that change with the seasons, featuring local produce and innovative techniques.
Ambiance: Contemporary and stylish, offering an intimate and luxurious dining experience.
La Dame d’Aquitaine
Description: Situated in a historic vaulted cellar, La Dame d’Aquitaine provides a unique setting for enjoying traditional French cuisine with a focus on Burgundy specialties.
Specialties: Escargots de Bourgogne, duck confit, and extensive wine selection.
Ambiance: Romantic and historic, perfect for a special occasion.
Chez Léon
Description: A beloved local institution, Chez Léon is known for its warm hospitality and hearty, traditional Burgundian dishes.
Specialties: Jambon persillé, andouillette, and oeufs en meurette.
Ambiance: Casual and welcoming, with a focus on comfort and tradition.
Le Bistrot des Halles
Description: Located near the covered market (Les Halles), this bistro offers a lively atmosphere and a menu filled with regional specialties.
Specialties: Tartare de boeuf, charcuterie platters, and fresh market produce.
Ambiance: Bustling and vibrant, perfect for a casual meal.
Best Mustard in Dijon
Maille
Location: 32 Rue de la Liberté, Dijon.
Highlights: One of the most famous mustard brands, Maille offers a wide variety of mustards. The shop in Dijon provides tastings and allows you to fill jars directly from mustard pumps.
Recommendation: Try their classic Dijon mustard as well as unique flavors like truffle mustard and Chardonnay mustard.
Edmond Fallot Mustard Mill
Location: Beaune (day trip destination), but their products are available in Dijon.
Highlights: Known for artisanal mustard production and a variety of unique flavors.
Recommendation: Visit their shop or look for their products in Dijon’s gourmet stores.
Tips for Buying Mustard
Tastings: Many mustard shops offer tastings. Take advantage of this to find your favorite flavors.
Unique Flavors: Don’t just stick to the classic Dijon mustard. Try unique varieties like blackcurrant, gingerbread, or green peppercorn.
Gifts: Mustard makes a great souvenir. Consider buying beautifully packaged jars as gifts.
Where to Stay
When visiting Dijon, several areas stand out for their convenience, charm, and proximity to key attractions. Here are some of the best areas to stay in:
Historic City Center (Centre-Ville)
Highlights: This area is perfect for those who want to be close to major attractions like the Palais des Ducs, Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the beautiful Place de la Libération. It offers a blend of historic architecture, boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Accommodation: A mix of charming boutique hotels, upscale hotels, and vacation rentals.
Place Darcy
Highlights: This area is centered around the beautiful Place Darcy and Darcy Garden. It's a lively area with shops, cafes, and the starting point of the Rue de la Liberté, a main shopping street.
Accommodation: Mid-range to upscale hotels, offering modern amenities.
Toison d'Or
Highlights: Located slightly outside the city center, this area is great for those looking for modern accommodations and proximity to the Toison d'Or shopping center. It's a good choice for business travelers or those who prefer quieter surroundings.
Accommodation: Modern hotels and budget-friendly options.
La Gare (Train Station Area)
Highlights: Convenient for travelers arriving by train, this area offers easy access to public transportation and is within walking distance to the city center. It’s practical for short stays and day trips to nearby attractions.
Accommodation: Budget and mid-range hotels, as well as convenient business hotels.
University Area
Highlights: A lively area with a youthful vibe, thanks to the presence of the University of Burgundy. It offers a range of affordable dining options, bars, and cultural activities.
Accommodation: Budget hotels, hostels, and apartments.
Day Trips from Dijon
Beaune
Highlights: Famous for its wine production and the Hospices de Beaune, a medieval hospital now a museum.
Travel Time: About 40 minutes by train.
Activities: Wine tasting, exploring the historic center, and visiting local markets.
Châteauneuf-en-Auxois
Highlights: A picturesque medieval village with a stunning castle.
Travel Time: About 45 minutes by car.
Activities: Touring the castle, walking through the quaint village streets, and enjoying panoramic views.
Abbaye de Fontenay
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car.
Activities: Exploring the abbey’s beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens.
Flavigny-sur-Ozerain
Highlights: A charming village known for its anise-flavored candy and as the filming location for the movie "Chocolat."
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car.
Activities: Visiting the candy factory, exploring the village, and enjoying the scenic countryside.
Nuits-Saint-Georges
Highlights: A small town renowned for its Burgundy wines.
Travel Time: About 25 minutes by train.
Activities: Wine tasting at local wineries, visiting the Cassissium (a museum dedicated to blackcurrants), and exploring the town.
Travel Tips
Visiting Dijon can be a delightful experience with its rich history, stunning architecture, and renowned gastronomy. Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your trip:
Explore on Foot
Tip: Dijon’s historic center is compact and pedestrian-friendly. Walking allows you to fully appreciate the city's architecture and ambiance.
Recommendation: Follow the "Owl’s Trail" (Parcours de la Chouette), a self-guided walking tour marked by bronze owl plaques, leading you to key attractions and hidden gems.
Visit the Markets
Tip: The Les Halles market is a must-visit for food lovers. Open several days a week, it's the perfect place to sample local produce, cheeses, and other specialties.
Recommendation: Visit on a Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, or Saturday morning for the full market experience.
Wine Tasting
Tip: Dijon is at the gateway to the Burgundy wine region. Consider taking a wine tour to nearby vineyards and wineries.
Recommendation: Join a guided wine tour to learn about the wine-making process and enjoy tastings of some of the world’s best Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Cultural Sites
Tip: Spend time visiting Dijon's museums and historical sites, such as the Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
Recommendation: Allocate at least a couple of hours for the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the present.
Accommodation
Tip: Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or major events.
Recommendation: Consider staying in the historic center for the most convenient access to attractions and dining options.
