Dijon, France: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Dijon is the capital of the Burgundy region in eastern France. It's known for its history, culture, and gastronomy. This city in the vineyard heartland offers many great experiences. You'll find the medieval Palace of the Dukes, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Owl Trail especially captivating.

Food lovers can explore the Les Halles Market and the Gingerbread Museum. They shouldn't miss the opportunity to visit the Moutarderie Edmond Fallot. Those keen on culture will enjoy the various museums and the Cité Internationale, celebrating food and wine. Outdoors, there's Kir Lake and the Coupes Moto Légende to enjoy. Dijon truly has something for everyone, whether it's history, food, wine, or just the charming vibe of the city.

Dijon is a top spot in France for countless reasons. Keep reading to find out about the top attractions and cultural experiences you can enjoy in this lively city.

Key Takeaways

• Dijon is a city rich in history, culture, and gastronomy, offering a wealth of experiences for visitors.
• The historic heart of Dijon features stunning medieval architecture, including the Palace of the Dukes and States of Burgundy and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• Foodies will delight in the vibrant Les Halles Market, the Mulot et Petitjean Gingerbread Museum, and the legendary Moutarderie Edmond Fallot.
• Cultural enthusiasts can explore the Musée Rude, the Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne, and the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin.
• Outdoor adventures await at Kir Lake and the Coupes Moto Légende.

Exploring the Historic Heart of Dijon

Dijon’s historic area is a mix of medieval buildings, important places, and lovely paths. They make you feel like you’re in the past. Its center is the amazing

Palace of the Dukes and States of Burgundy

. This grand building was once home to wealthy Dukes of Burgundy. It was also the area’s main government spot until the French Revolution. Now, it’s where the town works from, and you can see old parts like the kitchens and courtyards. These spots let you experience Dijon’s beauty and history.

Standing high above the town is the

Notre-Dame Cathedral

, a stunning Gothic church. It’s named after Saint Benignus, a local hero. Inside, you see a gorgeous roof, a detailed door, and an old, big organ. These things take you back to when the cathedral was first built in the 13th century.

, something special about Dijon, guides visitors to its key places. It’s marked by small owl symbols on the ground.

The

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon

, one of France's oldest museums, is in the Palace’s east wing. Open since 1799, it holds 130,000 artworks. These include pieces from ancient times right up to modern art. Visiting is free, and you can take a tour to learn more about Dijon’s art and culture.

Dijon's Gastronomic Delights

Dijon's cuisine is a treat for all. Central to its charm is Les Halles Market, alive under Gustave Eiffel's roof. This food market is where locals and visitors alike come to find top produce in Burgundy. Imagine wandering through, tasting various cheeses, fruits, and charcuterie before choosing what to buy.

Mulot et Petitjean Gingerbread Museum

The Mulot et Petitjean family, baking since 1796, is celebrated for their gingerbread. In their museum, you can see how they craft their gingerbread. They let the dough rest for weeks, then add spices for its unique taste.

La Moutarderie Edmond Fallot

Edmond Fallot's mustard is a cornerstone of Dijon. In the heart of the city at Rue de la Chouette, you'll find their shop. Here, you can discover a wide array of mustards, including special ones like cassis and pinot noir. They have a mustard bar where you can personalize your own jar. For a deeper dive, don't miss visiting their workshop in Beaune for a complete mustard experience.

Cultural Experiences in Dijon

Dijon is a city full of culture and art waiting to be explored. It offers a chance for visitors to dive into its artistic and historical roots. The city showcases the work of sculptor François Rude at the Musée Rude and the history of Burgundy at the Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne.

Musée Rude

The Musée Rude is in the old Saint Etienne Church. It celebrates the amazing sculptures of François Rude. La Marseillaise, his famous work on the Arc de Triomphe, is also shown there. Visitors get to know more about Rude's art and its cultural importance.

Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne

The Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne offers a special look at Burgundy's past. It has recreated vintage shops like that of hat stores, photography studios, and pharmacies. These exhibits give you a real sense of how people lived in Burgundy years ago.

Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin

Food and wine lovers should not miss the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin. It's an amazing place to learn about French and international food and wine. The museum has cool displays, interactive experiences, and a place to taste some of the best.

Outdoor Adventures and Activities

Only a quick 10-minute drive or less than an hour's walk from the city's heart lies Kir Lake. It's a beloved spot for those who love fresh air and activities. Strolling by the water, renting bikes or boats, and taking a swing at the nine-hole disc golf are some of the many things to do. The area is packed with paths for exercise, playgrounds for kids, making it perfect for a day outside in Dijon.

Coupes Moto Légende

Coupes Moto Légende is a must-see each September in Dijon. Over 1,300 vintage and new motorcycles are showcased. Visitors can also experience the track alongside famous racers like Carl Fogarty and Steve Baker. Even when the event isn't happening, the Circuit de Dijon-Prenois can be booked for those into motorsports and car events.

Dijon, France: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Dijon is the capital of Burgundy and a wonderful place to visit. The city is full of history. You can see the majestic Palace of the Dukes and States of Burgundy. Don't miss the delicious food at the Les Halles Market and the world-famous Moutarderie Edmond Fallot.

For those who love culture, Dijon has a lot to offer. Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Musée Rude, and the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin. If you prefer outdoor activities, explore Kir Lake and the Coupes Moto Légende. Dijon welcomes all, whether you're into history, food, wine, or just enjoying the atmosphere.

Experience everything from museums to historical sites in Dijon. This city is the perfect spot for anyone looking for a variety of fun activities. Use our travel guide to find the best things to do in Dijon for a memorable trip.

Wine Tasting in Burgundy

If you love wine, visiting Burgundy near Dijon is a top pick. The Domaine de Montmain vineyard is a must-see place, just a half-hour drive from the city. There, you can join a tour led by the friendly sommelier, Yoan. He'll teach you about making wine, including the types of grapes and let you taste from the barrels.

Beaune and the Côte de Beaune

The beautiful town of Beaune is close to Dijon and famous for its fine wines. At the Hôtel-DieuBeaune>, a striking old hospital, you can see important artworks. The Marché aux Vins, a church from the 12th century, offers wine tastingswine tasting>.

Not far from there is the Côte de BeauneCôte de Beaune>. This is a well-known wine area. It's a great place for wine lovers to try some of the best ChardonnayBurgundy wine> in the world.

Day Trips from Dijon

Beaune is a quick ride from Dijon. It's known for the Hôtel-Dieu, a 15th-century hospital turned museum. Inside, you'll find works by Jan Van Eyck and other important pieces. Don't miss out on the Romanesque Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Marché aux Vins. The church offers wine tastings, a true taste of the area's wine culture.

Beaune and the Hôtel-Dieu Museum

In Beaune, the Hôtel-Dieu catches the eye. It was once a hospital but is now a museum. This 15th-century gem boasts a Flemish triptych by Jan Van Eyck and more. The town also houses the Romanesque Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Marché aux Vins. The church is a unique spot for wine tastings, blending history with the region's winemaking legacy.

Getting Around Dijon

Dijon is easy to explore by walking. The Owl Trail offers a fun way to check out the historic area. You can see the city's key points of interest on foot. Don't like to walk? No problem. Dijon also has a tram system and bus network. These options help you move around the city effortlessly. Buying tickets for one ride or several is simple. This lets you travel around Dijon easily and at your own speed.

Exploring Dijon transportation is simple, whether on foot or using public transport. This charming city is a joy to move around in. With Dijon public transit, you can see top sites without the stress of driving or parking. The Owl Trail also lets you dive into Dijon's culture and history.

Where to Stay in Dijon

Dijon has many Dijon accommodations for different budgets and tastes. You might enjoy a stay at a Dijon boutique hotels like Residence Le Pré aux Clercs. It's close to the city's lively heart. If you prefer more traditional hotels, plenty of options await, including historic Dijon hotels and modern ones. They all offer a cozy home while you discover Dijon's charm.

Looking for a quieter place? Try one of the Dijon bed and breakfasts around town. These spots give you personal attention and a taste of local life. It's a chance to get to know Dijon in a more personal way.

Whatever you like, Dijon has the right place for your stay. Its many Dijon accommodations welcome you to the stunning city of Burgundy.

Conclusion

Dijon is the capital of the Burgundy region and a captivating place. It boasts rich history at places like the Palace of the Dukes. Visitors can also enjoy delicious food at the Les Halles Market. Don’t miss the chance to visit the famous Moutarderie Edmond Fallot. It’s all part of what makes Dijon's culture and food scene special.

Those who love the outdoors can enjoy the calm waters of Kir Lake. For more excitement, there's the Coupes Moto Légende event. And if you love art and history, Dijon’s museums and cultural sites are perfect for exploring. No matter what you're into, Dijon welcomes you with open arms. It's a city that blends history, food, and wine beautifully. This makes it a top spot to visit in France.