Things To Do
in Dijon
Dijon sits in the heart of Burgundy, blending medieval streets with elegant 19th-century boulevards. The city is renowned for its mustard, wine, and refined Burgundian cuisine. Its skyline is marked by the Ducal Palace, Notre-Dame, and timber-framed houses along the Ouche River.
Dijon is a walkable gateway to the surrounding vineyards of the Côte d'Or.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a fresh croissant and café au lait at a local boulangerie. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the historic center, marveling at the stunning architecture of the Palais des Ducs. Don’t forget to visit the Owl's Trail, where you can learn about the city's rich history while following the charming brass owl markers.
After a leisurely lunch at a traditional bistro, head to the Musée des Beaux-Arts housed in the former ducal palace. Spend your afternoon admiring the impressive collection of artworks, including pieces from the Renaissance to contemporary art. As you leave, take a moment to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Place de la Libération, perfect for people-watching.
For dinner, indulge in a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant, savoring the unique flavors of Burgundy cuisine. After dining, take a moonlit walk along the Ouche River, where the reflections of the old buildings create a magical ambiance. End your evening with a glass of local wine at a cozy wine bar, soaking in the charm of Dijon.
Start your day with a visit to the local market at Les Halles, where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, and cured meats. Engage with local vendors, learning about the region's culinary traditions while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Grab some ingredients for a picnic later in the day.
After shopping, join a cooking class where a local chef teaches you how to prepare classic Burgundy dishes. Enjoy your creations for lunch, paired with regional wines that complement the flavors of your meal. Post-lunch, visit a nearby wine cellar for an intimate tasting session, learning about the nuances of Dijon’s famous wines.
As the sun sets, embark on a guided wine tour through the vineyards of the Côte de Nuits. Experience the breathtaking views and learn about the terroir that gives Burgundy its unique character. End the evening with a relaxed dinner at a vineyard, enjoying the fruits of your day’s explorations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍝Meal for two (mid-range restaurant, 3 courses) | $40-60 |
| 🧀Bottle of wine (local Burgundy) | $12-25 |
| 🚆Public transport 1-day pass | $6-8 |
| 🏨Hotel night in mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich culinary heritage and world-class wine nearby
- Compact, walkable historic center with impressive architecture
- Limited large-scale nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Can be crowded in peak tourist seasons and during market days
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est...?" - Where is...?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Dijon
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic square framed by grand buildings and the palace; great for golden-hour photography.
Gothic-era palace façade with the Tour Philippe le Hardi and surrounding arcades.
Timber-framed 15th-century house along the Ouche river, perfect for postcard-worthy shots.
Romanesque-Gothic cathedral with a tall façade and serene interior views.
Lush green spaces by the water with scenic footbridges and reflections at dawn.
Food in Dijon
Dijon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sharp, smooth mustard used in sauces, vinaigrettes, and on sandwiches; a must-try when paired with charcuterie.
Must-Try!
A creamy chicken dish with mushrooms and a subtle mustard sauce, showcasing Burgundian comfort cooking.
Eggs poached in red wine sauce with lardons and mushrooms, a classic regional starter.
Spiced honey cake traditionally enjoyed with tea or as a snack in markets.
Almond sponge cake glazed with chocolate, a beloved dessert of the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Covered market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, charcuterie, seafood, and bakery stalls; ideal for a tasting stroll.
Open-air market with seasonal fruit, vegetables, and regional specialties around the cathedral area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say Bonjour or Bonsoir to locals; address strangers with Madame/Sieur, and use vous form in formal settings.
Keep hands visible on the table; meals are social events and may last longer in good restaurants.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and speak softly inside.
Safety
Tipping in Dijon
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included in bills; if not, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common. Cash is handy for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cold, crisp days with occasional snow; charming Christmas markets and warm cafés dominate. Pack a warm coat and comfortable boots.
Mild days with fresh blooms; ideal for walking tours and market visits. Expect light showers.
Warm to hot days; long evenings perfect for al fresco dining and wine bars. Stay hydrated and plan shade breaks.
Harvest season; grape picking and wine tours are in full swing; cool mornings and pleasant afternoons.
Dijon at Night
Hiking in Dijon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and riverside trails just outside Dijon offering moderate hikes with scenic views.
Gentle to moderate hikes through rolling vineyards in Gevrey-Chambertin, Nuits-Saint-Georges, and surrounding villages.
Airports
How to reach Dijon by plane.
Small regional airport serving the Burgundy region; about 15-20 minutes from central Dijon.
Major international hub with connections to worldwide destinations; about 1.5–2 hours by fast train or car.
Geneva Airport with extensive international connections; roughly 2–3 hours by train or car via Dijon.
Large international hub; reachable by high-speed train (TGV) in about 1h40 to 2h from Dijon.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizeable student population from the University of Burgundy and other schools keeps the city lively in the evenings.
A mix of long-time residents and professionals in the urban core and surrounding neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and a passionate fan base; DFCO plays in regional leagues and draws crowds in season.
Burgundy’s rolling countryside makes cycling a popular pastime and a draw for visitors, especially during harvest season.
Public and private courts are common in parks and neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dijon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Dijon restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for seasonal vegetables, cheese dishes, and grain bowls. Ask for no meat stock in sauces or request vegetarian adaptations.