Browsing: Dijon

Dijon, the capital of Burgundy, is a city brimming with history, gastronomy, and charm. It’s famous for its mustard, of course, but there’s so much more to discover. Here’s a breakdown of what you can do in Dijon:

Historic & Architectural Highlights:

• Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne: A magnificent palace, once home to the Dukes of Burgundy. Explore its courtyards, museums (Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon), and climb the Philippe le Bon tower for panoramic views.
• Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne de Dijon: A Gothic cathedral with a crypt dating back to the 6th century.
• Église Notre-Dame de Dijon: A beautiful church with a unique facade featuring gargoyles and a Jacquemart clock.
• Rue de la Liberté: Dijon’s main pedestrianized shopping street, lined with elegant buildings.
• Les Halles de Dijon: A vibrant covered market where you can find local produce, cheeses, meats, and other delicacies.

Museums & Culture:

• Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon: Located in the Palais des Ducs, this museum houses a rich collection of art, including medieval sculptures and Renaissance paintings.
• Musée Archéologique de Dijon: Explore the history of Burgundy through archaeological artifacts.
• Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne: A museum showcasing the daily life in Burgundy in the past.
• Musée François Rude: Dedicated to the works of the sculptor François Rude, who was born in Dijon.

Food & Drink (Beyond Mustard):

• Dijon Mustard: Of course! Visit the Maille boutique for a wide variety of mustards, or try a mustard tasting.
• Burgundian Cuisine: Dijon is located in the heart of Burgundy, a region renowned for its gastronomy. Try dishes like “boeuf bourguignon” (beef stew), “coq au vin” (chicken in wine), or “escargots de Bourgogne” (snails).
• Local Wines: Burgundy is one of the most prestigious wine regions in the world. Sample wines from the Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune, or other appellations.
• Pain d’Épices: A traditional gingerbread cake, a Dijon specialty.
• Local Markets: Explore the markets for fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and other regional products.

Shopping:

• Rue de la Liberté: The main shopping street.
• Les Halles de Dijon: The covered market is a great place to find local products.
• Boutiques: Dijon offers a variety of boutiques selling local crafts, souvenirs, and fashion.

Other Activities:

• Walk along the Canal de Bourgogne: Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the canal.
• Explore the surrounding vineyards: Take a day trip to the nearby vineyards of the Côte d’Or.
• Attend a cooking class: Learn the secrets of Burgundian cuisine.

Tips for Planning Your Visit:

• Getting There: Dijon is easily accessible by train (TGV) from Paris and other major cities.
• Getting Around: The city center is easily walkable. Public transportation is also available.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather. Summer can be warm.
• Language: French is the official language. While English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing some basic French phrases is always appreciated.

Dijon offers a charming and sophisticated atmosphere, with a rich history, a thriving culinary scene, and beautiful architecture. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply looking for a charming French city to explore, Dijon has something to offer. It’s a perfect base for exploring the wider Burgundy region.