Dijon Travel Guide: Tourist Places & Activities
Located in the Burgundy region, this city is renowned for its mustard, fine wines, and historical architecture, including the Palace of the Dukes. It also boasts a rich cultural scene with museums and a pleasant culinary heritage.
- Population
- 156,000
- Size
- 40 square km
- Airport
- Dijon-Bourgogne at 3 km – domestic
- Train Station
- Gare de Dijon-Ville
- Est. Visit Days
- 2 days
Overview
Dijon, a city in eastern France, is known for its rich history and beautiful architecture, notably the Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne. The city is also famous for its mustard and traditional Cassis liqueur. Visitors can explore the well-preserved Old Town and enjoy the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses an impressive collection of art. However, Dijon can be quite rainy, which might deter outdoor activities. Additionally, some tourists find the city relatively small compared to other major French destinations.
Traffic & Transport
The city's compact size and well-planned urban layout make it ideal for exploring on foot, especially in the historic city center where traffic can be congested. For longer distances, the most efficient way to navigate is by using the extensive public transportation network, which includes buses and trams. Bicycles are also a popular and convenient option, with several bike rental services available for visitors. However, driving is not recommended for tourists due to limited parking and pedestrianized zones. For those preferring taxi services, several reliable taxi companies operate in the city, such as Taxi Dijon and Allo Taxi. Additionally, the use of taxi-booking apps like Uber provides a convenient option for securing a ride, offering both traditional taxis and private hire vehicles.
History
Historically, the city was a place of significant strategic importance due to its position on the trade route between the Mediterranean and the North Sea. It was the capital of the Duchy of Burgundy in the late Middle Ages, a time when the region was a leading center of art, learning, and science in Europe. The city was the site of several peace treaties, most notably the Treaty of Arras in 1435, which ended a long-standing conflict between the Armagnacs and the Burgundians during the Hundred Years' War. This period of prosperity and cultural flourishing is reflected in the city's well-preserved historic center, which features many fine medieval and Renaissance buildings. The city is also renowned for its traditional mustard, which has been produced here since the Middle Ages and is still a significant part of its culinary heritage.
Itinerary Sample
Explore Dijon over two days, focusing on its rich history and lively culture.
– First day: Visit the Palace of the Dukes, stroll through the historic center, and explore the Museum of Fine Arts.
– Second day: Tour the Mustard Museum, walk in the Jardin Darcy, and enjoy local cuisine in Les Halles market.
Near Excursion
This city is a great starting point for several exciting day trips. Here are some suggestions:
– Beaune at 45 km: Famous for its wine production and the historic Hospices de Beaune.
– Châteauneuf-en-Auxois at 35 km: A Nice medieval village with a well-preserved castle.
– Flavigny-sur-Ozerain at 60 km: Known for its charming streets and the production of anise-flavored candies.
– Semur-en-Auxois at 70 km: A medieval town with impressive fortifications and a beautiful Old Town.
– Vézelay at 110 km: Home to the Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Attraction
Known for its rich history, architecture, and gastronomy, this city offers a variety of attractions for tourists.
– Palace of the Dukes: Explore the historic palace that now houses the Museum of Fine Arts.
– Notre-Dame Church: Admire the Gothic architecture and the famous owl carving for good luck.
– Les Halles Market: Experience local food and produce in this Nice covered market.
– Museum of Burgundy Life: Discover traditional Burgundian culture and history through various exhibits.
– Darcy Garden: Relax in this beautiful public park with fountains and sculptures.
– Rue des Forges: Stroll along this charming street lined with historic buildings and shops.
Activity
In Dijon, travelers can enjoy unique mustard tastings, architectural walks, and historical tours.
– Owl's Trail: Follow brass owl markers to discover Dijon's historical sites.
– Mustard Tasting: Visit local mustard shops for unique flavors.
– Canal Boat Tours: Relax on a boat ride along the Burgundy Canal.
– Owl's Night Walk: Experience a guided night tour of Dijon's illuminated landmarks.
Cuisine
The city is known for its rich culinary heritage, particularly its mustard and Burgundy wine. The local cuisine features hearty dishes and fine pastries.
– Boeuf Bourguignon: Beef stew braised in red wine with onions, mushrooms, and bacon.
– Coq au Vin: Chicken slow-cooked in red wine with mushrooms, onions, and garlic.
– Escargots de Bourgogne: Snails cooked in garlic, parsley, and butter sauce.
– Pain d'épices: Spiced bread made with honey and various spices.
– Gougères: Baked savory choux pastry made with cheese.
– Kir: Aperitif made with white wine and crème de Cassis (blackcurrant liqueur).
Shopping
The city offers a delightful shopping experience, especially for those interested in culinary delights and regional specialties. The covered market, designed by Gustave Eiffel, is a great place to explore local foods. Mustard, notably from a historic mustard shop, makes an excellent gift, embodying the essence of the region. Pain d'épices, a traditional gingerbread, is another unique gift option. Additionally, the area is known for its fine wines, making a bottle of Burgundy wine a perfect souvenir. These items not only serve as great gifts but also provide a taste of local culture and tradition.
Arts & Culture
The city hosts the annual Dijon International and Gastronomic Fair, one of the top ten fairs in France, which includes a variety of cultural events. It is also home to the Musee des Beaux-Arts, one of the oldest museums in France, housed in the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy. The city's rich history in the arts is celebrated with numerous galleries and theaters, including the Consortium Museum, a contemporary art center. Additionally, the "Dijon Opera" offers a diverse program of music and dance performances throughout the year.