Things to do in Dijon

Things to do in  Dijon

Cut the mustard

The ancient stomping ground of the Dukes of Burgundy, Dijon is now best known for its two most famous exports—Dijon mustard and Pinot Noir wines. Gothic spires, half-timbered houses, and gabled rooftops line the streets of the UNESCO-listed historic center, where roaming gastronomes can shop at Dijon's renowned covered market and tuck into local specialties, boeuf Bourguignon and escargots de Bourgogne. A visit to the Dukes' palace is another top thing to do in Dijon, as is a wine-tasting tour of the surrounding Cote de Nuits wine region.

Top 5 attractions in Dijon

Dijon Ducal Palace (Palais des Ducs et des Etats de Bourgogne)

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One of Dijon’s most important historical landmarks (and included in the Historic Center of Dijon UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Dijon Ducal Palace was, for centuries, the seat of Burgundian power. Constructed in the 14th century, it is today host to a museum and government offices, and is open to the public.More

Dijon Cathedral (Cathedral of Saint Benignus of Dijon)

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Among Dijon’s most prominent religious landmarks, the Dijon Cathedral is recognizable for its turret-capped towers and its Gothic facade. Though a church has stood on the site since the 6th century, the version that stands today was constructed beginning in 1281. Today, the building is a symbol of the city and part of the UNESCO-listed Historic Center of Dijon.More

Rue des Forges

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One of the oldest and most evocative streets in Dijon, the picturesque Rue des Forges is located in the city’s historical center. Featuring several hôtels particuliers (historical manor homes), the street also wends its way past the Palace of the Dukes and Burgundy States and connects to the verdant Square des Ducs.More

Hôtel de Vogüé

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One of Dijon’s loveliest historical landmarks, the Hôtel de Vogüé dates to the 17th century and was built as a hôtel particulier—a luxurious manor house—for Etienne Bouhier, an adviser to the Parliament of Burgundy. The building is renowned for its stone carvings, colorful roof tiles, grand courtyard, and other ornamental flourishes.More

Route des Grands Crus

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One of France’s greatest wine routes, the Route des Grand Crus (the Road of Great Wines) weaves 37 miles (60 kilometers) south from Dijon to Beaune and Santenay through the Burgundy wine region. Visitors trace the trail through rolling vineyards, pausing at estates, châteaux, and wine villages to taste and learn about the much-lauded wines.More

All about Dijon

When to visit

Summer brings the crowds to Dijon, whether partying at the VYV music festival (June), lounging on the beach at Lake Kir, or escaping the city heat for a wine-tasting tour of the surrounding vineyards. The weather cools in fall, which makes the season another popular time to visit, with wine lovers and foodies congregating to celebrate the wine harvest and to enjoy the Dijon International Food Fair.

Getting around

Dijon’s self-guided Owl Trail will take you on a walking tour of the city center—pick up a map from the tourist office and work your way around the sights on foot. For longer journeys, trams and buses take you just about anywhere you want to go. Alternatively, do as the locals do and sign up for the DiviaVélo or Vélodi bike shares. The city center is mostly flat and largely pedestrianized, making it ideal for cycling.

Traveler tips

Foodies take note—these are the must-visit addresses on your Dijon tasting tour. First up is Les Halles food market, where Le Gourmet deli is packed with picnic treats, including the region’s famous escargots (snails). Next, swing by Café Gourmand in Place de la Libération for a hearty boeuf bourguignon (Burgundy beef stew) and the Edmond Fallot Moutarderie for a mustard tasting. Finally, indulge your sweet tooth with homemade gingerbread at Mulot & Petitjean.

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People Also Ask

Is Dijon worth visiting?

Yes, Dijon is worth a visit, and not just for the mustard. Its architecture is a journey through the last 1,000 years, ranging in style from Capetian to Gothic to Renaissance. Look skywards to the eye-catching polychrome roofs—tiled in terracotta, green, black, and yellow in various patterns.

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What is Dijon most known for?

Dijon mustard is its specialty, having been produced here since the 14th century. It’s also known for intellect. Home to the Dukes of Burgundy from the 11th and 15th centuries, it was a place of learning, particularly in arts and science. Today, roughly a fifth of the population are students.

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How do I spend a day in Dijon, France?

Start by walking around the city center to admire the varied architecture styles. A particular highlight is the Church of Notre-Dame of Dijon, a Gothic masterpiece. It dates from the 13th century and has elaborately carved gargoyles, intricate stained glass windows, and a clock tower. Finish with a mustard tasting.

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What food is Dijon famous for?

Mustard, of course. Dijon mustard is sold in shops worldwide and was first made here in 1390. The city (and Burgundy overall) is a foodie paradise. Other famous French dishes such as beef bourguignon and coq au vin also come from here, and the region counts 30 Michelin-starred restaurants.

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How many days do you need in Dijon?

Plan for at least three days. Exploring Dijon merits two—don’t miss the Beaux Arts Museum and 13th-century Church of Notre-Dame. The cathedral is unmissable, as is the view you get after climbing the 316 steps up Philippe Le Bon Tower. Discover the Burgundy vineyards on your last day.

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What is there to do in Dijon in the winter?

Dijon is good in all seasons, and the medieval architecture looks especially atmospheric when the tiled roofs are slicked with rain and framed against a steely sky. The Christmas market is one of the area’s best. And, if you’re cold, you can always warm up with a wine tasting.

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Frequently Asked Questions
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