Thinking about paying a visit to Dijon, France on your trip to the wine region of Burgundy? Great choice! Just an easy 1h30 ride on a high-speed train from Paris (get your tickets here), this lively city has a ton to offer. Its old town center is strikingly well-preserved, and most of the downtown area is super pedestrian-friendly, making it an ideal spot for sightseeing.
The capital of Burgundy and a dream destination for travelers with a taste for world-class wine, rich history, and unforgettable culinary experiences. From there, you’re perfectly poised to delve into the wonders of the Burgundy wine region which is just south of the city. Whether you choose to rent a car or opt for a guided full-day tour, you’re in for a treat. Let our travel guide, painstakingly put together by our wine-loving team at Winalist, help you squeeze every last drop out of your trip!
TOP Things to Do and See in Dijon
Are you ready to explore Dijon? We’ve got a handpicked selection of spots and landmarks that you absolutely must visit during your stay.
Explore the majestic Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy
This grand complex in Place de la Libération was once home to the powerful Dukes of Burgundy. Today, it houses the Dijon tourist office, a beautiful courtyard, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon, one of France’s oldest museums. Don’t miss the tombs of the Dukes and take in the regal atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site at the heart of Dijon.
Marvel at the Gothic beauty of Église Notre-Dame de Dijon
Since its inception, this ancient basilica has been a beacon for pilgrims from across Europe, drawn to venerate the tomb of Saint Bénigne. Throughout its storied history, it has weathered fire, destruction, and pillage, yet has still been meticulously preserved. In fact, shortly after the Revolution, it was elevated to the status of a cathedral for a whole new diocese.
Delving into the history of Saint-Bénigne in Dijon offers valuable insights into its captivating past. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to tour the Romanesque crypt – nestled within the lower level of a grand rotunda, it showcases eye-catching sculptures hailing from the early 11th century!
Relax at Jardin Botanique de l’Arquebuse
The stunning Arquebuse Park, a favorite hotspot amongst the locals of Dijon, stretches out over a sprawling 5 hectares. This green sanctuary houses a botanical garden, a museum, and a planetarium. Within its borders, you’ll find an awe-inspiring variety of around 1500 different types of plants and a whooping 250 species of trees. This park is truly a paradise for nature lovers!
Indulge your taste buds at Edmont Fallot mustard factory
If you’re a fan of all things mustard, Edmond Fallot Moutarderie in Dijon is a place you simply can’t miss. Established in 1840, this family-run operation continues to honor age-old traditions while offering a diverse variety of artisanal mustards.
During your visit, you’ll get the inside scoop on the production stages– from scrutinizing mustard seeds to pot-filling. Experience the thrill of tasting delightful mustards and uncovering unique flavors that will revolutionize your palate. Stepping foot into the Edmond Fallot Moutarderie guarantees a singular experience that introduces you to the Dijon legacy and gives you a real taste of authentic Dijon mustard.
Nestled on Rue de la Chouette, Edmond Fallot’s mustard factory stands as one of Dijon’s biggest claims to fame. If mustard is your thing, you’re in for a treat! There’s plenty on offer to cater to all preferences and budgets – they even boast a tasting bar.
If you’ve got the time to delve deeper into the lore of Dijon mustard, the guided tour won’t disappoint. It winds up with an aromatic sampling of around fifteen unique mustards.
Experience local wine culture with Les Clos Vivants
Dijon marks the starting point of the famed Burgundy wine route. Stretching from North to South, it’s the ideal place to elevate your understanding and appreciation of Burgundy wines!
Venture into the heart of Le Clos Vivants’ wine cellar and experience an introductory tasting. This initiation will familiarize you with the unique ‘Climats’ of the Burgundy vineyard. So, what are the ‘Climats’? They’re the distinct vineyard areas across Burgundy, each boasting its own signature grape blend. Remarkably, the ‘Climats’ vineyards are honored as a UNESCO World Heritage site!
Stroll along the legendary Parcours de la Chouette (Owl Trail)
Follow the Parcours de la Chouette, a self-guided trail marked with 22 brass plaques and the famous Dijon owl, the emblematic symbol of Dijon. Winding through the center of Dijon, this trail offers a playful way to discover its historical monuments, from medieval halls to Renaissance mansions. Don’t forget to make a wish when you touch the owl with your left hand — a beloved local ritual.
Climb to the top of Tour Philippe le Bon
Take on the 316 steps of the Tour Philippe le Bon, perched in the palace of the dukes complex, and you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of rooftops stretching across Dijon and beyond. It’s one of the top attractions for photographers and anyone wanting a bird’s-eye look at this Gothic city.
Visit the bustling Halles de Dijon
Inspired by Gustave Eiffel and set in the vibrant market in Dijon, the Halles de Dijon are a paradise for food lovers. You’ll find everything from stinky cheeses and pain d’épices to fresh oysters and charcuterie. Stop here if you’re discovering the best places to eat or want a picnic-ready spread of Bourguignon delights.
Learn about life in Burgundy at Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne
Set in a former monastery, the Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne walks you through traditional life in Burgundy with historic mannequins, local costumes, and mock-ups of village life. It’s one of Dijon’s best hidden gems.
Experience Dijon’s culinary soul at the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie
The Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin is a gourmet’s playground dedicated to wine and de la gastronomie. Located near the old Hôpital de Dijon and filled with exhibits, immersive food learning zones, tasting workshops, and culinary events, this modern hub helps you experience de la vie bourguignonne and its celebrated flavors in new, interactive ways.
Discover artistic treasures at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon
Don’t miss the exceptional collections at the musée des beaux-arts — featuring works by Monet, modern art galleries, and medieval sculptures. Housed in architectural grandeur, it’s one of the top places to visit in Dijon for art lovers.
Soak up café culture in Place François Rude
Live like a local around Place François Rude, often called “Place du Bareuzai.” This photogenic square is surrounded by cafés, wine bars, delicate pastry shops, and the famous vintage sculpture of the grape treader — the symbol of Dijon. Grab a coffee and breathe in the atmosphere!
Touch the Arc de Triomphe and walk under Porte Guillaume
At the northern edge of the old town, Porte Guillaume stands as Dijon’s lovable arc de triomphe. Originally part of the fortified city, it’s now a gathering site perfect for photos, history lovers, and marking the edge of the city of Dijon.
What are the best things to do around Dijon?
Just a short drive from Dijon, prepare to immerse yourself in the renowned vineyards and cellars of the Cote de Nuits and Cote de Beaune wine regions. If history piques your interest, we invite you to take a jaunt to the charming neighboring town of Beaune. Here, you’ll discover the Hospices de Beaune – a breathtakingly beautiful medieval hospital that has been transformed into a fascinating museum.
Stroll through the vineyards of the Côte de Nuits
Heading out on a day trip to the famous vineyards of Burgundy from Dijon with your own private chauffeur is a superb way to delve into the beauty of the surroundings. This allows you the luxury of sitting back, unwinding, and soaking up the stunning landscape and top-notch wines that this region is internationally celebrated for. With a seasoned driver leading the way, you can forget about the hassle of navigation and logistics. Instead, pivot your attention to savoring tastings and diving deep into the rich history that this region proudly boasts of.
Explore the wine route of the Grands Crus
After a delightful exploration of Dijon’s wineries, we invite you to delve further into the enchanting vineyards of Côte d’Or. This region, gracing the northern part of Burgundy’s wine country, holds many hidden vinicultural treasures for you to unearth.
The dedicated team at Winalist has made your discovery journey even easier with the creation of an interactive map. This handy tool will serve as your pocket-sized guide, offering a curated selection of the best routes and activities. This way, you can maximize your visit to this stunning region, unlocking the best Burgundy wineries waiting for your arrival.
Uncover Gevrey Chambertin wines
Just a 30-minute drive from Dijon, you’ll find Domaine Quivy nestled in the heart of Gevrey-Chambertin village. This historic 18th-century mansion is not only a landmark but also a gateway to some of the most celebrated wines of the region. Come and experience the rich history and exquisite flavors Domaine Quivy has to offer.
The Vosne Tasting club
Dive right into the heart of Vosne-Romanée, an area famous for its iconic wines like Romanée-Conti. Explore our interactive tasting space and try some of Burgundy’s most notable vintages.
Join us on our ‘Vosne Confidential’ adventure through the magical village of Vosne-Romanée! As you journey through, you’ll uncover the history of each vineyard while being captivated by breathtaking views of expansive vineyards. And to make this experience unforgettable, you’ll get to indulge in five exquisite local wines – among them, a Grand Cru!
Visit Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy
Only 40 minutes by car from Dijon, Beaune is a historic gem nestled in the heart of de la Burgundy vineyard route. Famous for its colorful tiled roofs and the remarkable Hospices de Beaune, this town is packed with gothic architecture and rich traditions. A visit here isn’t complete without exploring wine cellars beneath cobblestone streets and visiting the local musée. Whether you’re planning a trip to France for the culture, the wine, or both, Beaune is a scenic destination that encapsulates life in Bourgogne.
Good to know before visiting Dijon
What is Dijon known for?
Both modern and historic, Dijon is one of the most popular cities in Burgundy for tourists. Its pedestrian city center makes walking pleasant, and you can discover most of the city in one day.
How to get to Dijon?
From Paris Gare de Lyon, the TGV allows you to reach Dijon in 1h40. By car, it will take about 3 hours. From Lyon, Dijon is 2 hours by car and 1h30 by train.
How to visit and get around Dijon?
From the tourist office in the city centre, pedestrian paths are offered to discover the essentials of Dijon: the Parcours de la Chouette, the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, or Les Halles as well as the parks and gardens of the center.
How many days do you need in Dijon?
Dijon is a very nice city to settle in, especially if you plan a wine trip in Burgundy. It gathers all elements that make a destination worth visiting: museums, amazing food, attractions, beautiful architecture, historical heritage and marvelous landscape. This being said, you can visit Dijon in just one day, but might regret not staying longer. The perfect compromise would be staying 3 full days.
Where to stay in Dijon?
Dijon offers many accommodations, from Luxurious hotels to more simple ones, in the city-center or in remote districts, you will find what you wish for. Check out on here where you can settle in Dijon!
Where to taste Dijon gastronomy?
On top of being a well-known city for a much appreciated gastronomy – actually one of the French gastronomy capitals with Lyon – foreign tourists confirm this reputation and praise Dijon’s cuisine by making it a top destination in Burgundy for this reason. In Dijon you will find many place to eat delicious specialties:
– Les Halles centrales: the best place to find all Burgundy local food treasures, perfect for your Burgundy picnic!
– Le Gourmet Dijon:
– Michelin restaurants not too expensive: Parapluie, L’Essentiel;
– Stared restaurants such as Loiseaux des Ducs;
– Pain d’Epices Mulot et Petitjean: factory and museum of French gingerbread, where you can buy the best gingerbread you have ever tasted.
Is Dijon worth visiting?
Absolutely! Dijon is a hidden gem in eastern France that’s rich in history, art, and gastronomy. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and mustard heritage, Dijon offers a perfect blend of culture, charm, and culinary delights. It’s a great destination for history enthusiasts, food lovers, and wine aficionados alike.
What not to miss in Dijon?
Some must-see attractions in Dijon include the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, the spectacular Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the Notre-Dame de Dijon church. Don’t miss the Owl Trail (Parcours de la Chouette), a self-guided walking tour that highlights 22 historical sights around the city. Be sure to rub the owl carving on the church wall for good luck!
What can you do with Dijon mustard?
Dijon mustard isn’t just a kitchen condiment—it’s a central element of local cuisine! Try it in traditional dishes like coq au vin or used as a dressing for salad lyonnaise. You can also visit the boutique mustard shops such as La Moutarderie Fallot to sample and purchase specialty mustards. Many cooking workshops in Dijon even show you how to make your own mustard from scratch.
What to do in Dijon for a day?
Start your day exploring the Owl Trail through the historic city center, followed by a visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Enjoy lunch at a local bistro (try Chez Léon or DZ’envies), then spend the afternoon strolling through the Jardin Darcy or tasting wines along the Route des Grands Crus. In the evening, dine in the old town and enjoy local Burgundy specialties paired with regional wines.
What are the best things to do in Dijon with kids?
Families with children have plenty to enjoy in Dijon. Visit the free-entry Jardin de l’Arquebuse, which features a botanical garden and a natural history museum. The Owl Trail is also kid-friendly and offers a fun treasure-hunt feel. On Sundays, check out the local markets or take a short train ride to the Dijon-Porte Neuve area where you’ll find family-friendly cafes and parks.
Is Dijon dog-friendly?
Dijon is quite welcoming to dogs. You’ll find many green spaces like Parc de la Colombière where dogs are allowed on leashes. Numerous cafés with outdoor seating are happy to accommodate pets. Always remember to check individual attractions and accommodations for their pet policies.
What to do in Dijon at night?
Dijon comes alive at night with wine bars, bistros, and scenic walks through beautifully lit historic streets. Enjoy a drink at Le Comptoir des Colonnes or experience live jazz at La Vapeur or L’Univers. The old town offers romantic evening strolls, and some museums host late opening hours on certain days.
What are the best restaurants in Dijon?
Dijon is a paradise for food lovers. Here are some top spots to explore: –
– Chez Léon: A classic for regional specialties like escargots and boeuf bourguignon.
– DZ’envies: Trendy spot serving creative takes on local dishes.
– La Maison des Cariatides: Fine dining experience with unforgettable Burgundy wines.
– Le Bouchon du Palais: Cozy, authentic bistro located near the Palace of the Dukes.
Are there things to do in Dijon on Sunday?
Yes! While some shops may be closed, Sundays in Dijon can be pleasantly relaxing. Start with a visit to the large market at Les Halles (in the morning), followed by a stroll in Parc de la Colombière or along Lake Kir. Some museums and the Owl Trail are open and relatively quiet, perfect for a laid-back day of culture and nature.
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