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5 Top Tips to uncover Dijon, the City of Art and History

Dreaming of Dijon? Whether you're planning a trip or just love French culture, we've gathered insider tips from the Dijon Tourism Board to help you uncover the charm, history, and gastronomy of this Burgundy gem. Easily accessible from Paris by train (just 1h30), Dijon is the perfect destination for a delicious and art-filled escape.

1. Explore the Unesco World Heritage city centre


With Medieval narrow streets, half-timbered houses, Romanesque and Gothic churches, and the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, the city centre of Dijon has so much to offer! Don't miss the must-see sites with a guided tour or follow the Owl Trail with an audio guide.

Top tip: who in Dijon has never seen the owl of Notre-Dame church? You’ll find the statuette carved into a buttress on the chapel. Stroke it with your left hand and your wish will be granted!  



2. Admire the view from the Tower of Philip the Good


The Palace of the Dukes is still home to the Medieval Tower of Philip the Good. Climb the 316 steps to the top of the tower which stretches above the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy. The 46-metre-tall medieval tower offers a panoramic view over the city of Dijon.

Top tip: during summer, join the "tower apéritifs" and taste local wines on the rooftop terrace!



3. Embrace art and history at the Fine Arts Museum


The Fine Arts Museum of Dijon, which occupies the western wing of the Dukes’ Palace, has undergone major restoration work over the past ten years. The museography has been completely redesigned and a few contemporary extensions have been added to offer a brand new visitor experience, with 1,500 pieces on display.  



4. Book a wine tour


Dijon has always been a city of wine as it is the gateway to the Bourgogne vineyards. In 2015, the Climats of Burgundy vineyard was listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO, this marked the beginning of a new era for the wine-making industry in Dijon. From the vineyards of Côtes de Nuits to Mâconnais, enjoy wine tastings, in stunning surrounds. A unique and beautiful experience awaits.

Top tip: take a breath of fresh air and cycle to the nearest vineyard located only 1 km from the city centre.



5. Dive deeper into French gastronomy


Embrace French art de vivre at the museum of gastronomy La Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin! Join a premium wine tasting including a selection of 250 Vins Grands Crus, and shop la crème de la crème of French food at the delicatessen food hall. For more information, contact Dijon Tourism Board.

Top tip: enjoy local Burgundy gastronomy at home with this mouth-watering recipe for the renowned Poulet Gaston Gérard using the world-famous Moutarde de Dijon (recipe from The Good Life France).


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