Dijon, the capital of the Burgundy region in eastern France, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-famous gastronomy. As the former seat of the Dukes of Burgundy, Dijon boasts a wealth of cultural and historical treasures, including grand palaces, medieval streets, and beautiful churches. The city is also famous for its mustard, wine, and cuisine, making it a haven for food lovers. Here are some of the best places to visit in Dijon, France:
1. Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy (Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne)
The Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy is a magnificent complex that once served as the residence of the powerful Dukes of Burgundy. Today, it houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts, showcasing a rich collection of European art, including works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
- Key Attractions: Ducal Palace, Musée des Beaux-Arts.
- Activities: Exploring the museum, admiring the architecture.
- Location: Place de la Libération, Dijon.
2. Church of Notre-Dame of Dijon (Église Notre-Dame)
The Church of Notre-Dame of Dijon is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, known for its distinctive facade adorned with gargoyles and the famous “owl” carving, which is said to bring good luck. The church’s interior features beautiful stained glass windows and a Renaissance organ.
- Key Attractions: Gothic architecture, gargoyles, owl carving.
- Activities: Visiting the church, making a wish on the owl.
- Location: Rue de la Liberté, Dijon.
3. Dijon Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne)
Dijon Cathedral is a historic Gothic cathedral dedicated to Saint Benignus of Dijon. The cathedral is known for its impressive Gothic facade, beautiful stained glass windows, and the crypt, which houses the remains of Saint Benignus.
- Key Attractions: Gothic architecture, crypt.
- Activities: Exploring the cathedral, visiting the crypt.
- Location: Rue Danton, Dijon.
4. Musée Magnin
The Musée Magnin is a fine arts museum housed in a beautiful 17th-century mansion. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 17th to the 19th centuries, featuring works by French, Italian, and Flemish artists.
- Key Attractions: Fine arts collection, historic mansion.
- Activities: Exploring the exhibits, admiring the mansion’s architecture.
- Location: Rue des Bons Enfants, Dijon.
5. Les Halles de Dijon
Les Halles de Dijon is the city’s covered market, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local specialties. The market is a bustling hub of activity and a great place to experience the local food culture.
- Key Attractions: Local produce, gourmet food.
- Activities: Shopping, food tasting.
- Location: Rue Bannelier, Dijon.
6. Place de la Libération
Place de la Libération is a grand square located in front of the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy. The square is surrounded by elegant buildings and is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The square also features beautiful fountains and cafes.
- Key Attractions: Fountains, cafes, historic buildings.
- Activities: People-watching, dining, relaxing.
- Location: Central Dijon.
7. Rue des Forges
Rue des Forges is one of Dijon’s most picturesque streets, lined with historic buildings, boutiques, and cafes. The street is a great place to explore the city’s architectural heritage and enjoy a leisurely stroll.
- Key Attractions: Historic architecture, shopping.
- Activities: Walking, shopping, dining.
- Location: Central Dijon.
8. Parc de la Colombière
Parc de la Colombière is a large public park in Dijon, offering extensive green spaces, walking paths, and recreational facilities. The park is a popular spot for picnics, jogging, and enjoying nature.
- Key Attractions: Green spaces, playgrounds.
- Activities: Walking, picnicking, sports.
- Location: Avenue Roland Carraz, Dijon.
9. Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne
The Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne is a museum dedicated to the history and traditions of the Burgundy region. The museum is housed in the former Bernardine Monastery and features exhibits on local customs, crafts, and daily life.
- Key Attractions: Burgundy’s cultural heritage, historic building.
- Activities: Exploring exhibits, learning about regional history.
- Location: Rue Sainte-Anne, Dijon.
10. Maison Millière
Maison Millière is a beautifully preserved half-timbered house dating back to the 15th century. The house is now a restaurant and tea room, offering a charming setting to enjoy traditional Burgundian cuisine.
- Key Attractions: Historic building, traditional cuisine.
- Activities: Dining, enjoying the ambiance.
- Location: Rue de la Chouette, Dijon.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Distance from City Center |
|---|---|---|---|
| Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy | Historic palace and art museum | Ducal Palace, Musée des Beaux-Arts | Place de la Libération |
| Church of Notre-Dame of Dijon | Gothic church with iconic gargoyles | Gothic architecture, owl carving | Rue de la Liberté |
| Dijon Cathedral | Historic Gothic cathedral | Gothic architecture, crypt | Rue Danton |
| Musée Magnin | Fine arts museum in a 17th-century mansion | Fine arts collection | Rue des Bons Enfants |
| Les Halles de Dijon | Covered market with local specialties | Fresh produce, gourmet food | Rue Bannelier |
| Place de la Libération | Grand square with fountains and cafes | Fountains, historic buildings | Central Dijon |
| Rue des Forges | Picturesque street with historic buildings | Historic architecture, shopping | Central Dijon |
| Parc de la Colombière | Large public park with green spaces | Green spaces, playgrounds | Avenue Roland Carraz |
| Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne | Museum of Burgundy’s cultural heritage | Regional history, historic building | Rue Sainte-Anne |
| Maison Millière | 15th-century half-timbered house | Historic building, traditional cuisine | Rue de la Chouette |
How to Reach Dijon
By Flight
Dijon Bourgogne Airport is a small regional airport located about 6 km from the city center, with limited flights. The nearest major airport is Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, approximately 200 km away. From there, you can take a train or rental car to reach Dijon.
By Train
Dijon is well-connected by train, with the Gare de Dijon-Ville offering services to major French cities, including Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. The high-speed TGV trains provide quick and convenient travel options.
By Road
Dijon is accessible via several major highways, including the A6 and A31. The city is well-connected by road to other parts of France, and regular buses and car rental services are available for travel within the region.
Best Time to Visit Dijon
The best time to visit Dijon is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The summer months (July to August) offer warm temperatures and numerous festivals but can be more crowded. The winter months (November to March) are quieter and offer a chance to experience the city’s cozy atmosphere and local cuisine.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Dijon is famous for its mustard, but the city also offers a variety of traditional Burgundian dishes, such as boeuf bourguignon (beef stew), coq au vin (chicken in wine), and escargots de Bourgogne (Burgundy snails). Don’t miss the opportunity to try local wines, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
- Cultural Insights: Dijon has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums, galleries, and cultural events. The city is known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant arts scene, making it a great destination for history and art enthusiasts.
- Safety Tips: Dijon is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to take standard precautions, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start with a visit to the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Explore the Church of Notre-Dame of Dijon and make a wish on the owl carving.
- Afternoon: Head to the Dijon Cathedral and the Musée Magnin. Have lunch at a local restaurant in the Old Town.
- Evening: Stroll along Rue des Forges and visit Maison Millière for dinner. End the day with a visit to Place de la Libération.
Weekend Getaway
– Day 1: Begin with a visit to the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Explore the Church of Notre-Dame of Dijon and the Dijon Cathedral. Have lunch at Les Halles de Dijon. In the afternoon, visit the Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne and enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant.
Day 2: Spend the morning exploring Parc de la Colombière. Visit the Musée Magnin and stroll through Rue des Forges. End the day with shopping and dining in the Old Town.
Dijon offers a blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and culinary delights, making it a captivating destination to explore.
