Whether you are a passerby or have a small stay in Dijon, you can uncover some of the attractions within a short duration of time. All you need is a reliable transport option, a small itinerary with a list of places you want to explore, and some time in hand. Is it worth spending a day in the city? The answer is a definite yes! As Dijon provides a perfect French countryside experience, visiting some authentic locations would make your trip to France complete.
Mustard is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear about the Dijon commune in France. And why not! This is the main area where they used to make Dijon mustard (named after the area itself) during the late Middle Ages. Located in Eastern France, the city is also a gateway to popular Burgundy vineyards. Known for several other things such as its medieval past and appetizing cuisines, it is recommended to pay a visit to experience the entirety of how charming the city is.
Take a look at our top picks located in small proximity to one another, so you are able to cover most or all the attractions in Dijon in just a day or less-
Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne
Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne or Dijon Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church built between 1280 and 1325. This Burgundian Gothic cathedral is dedicated to Saint Benignus of Dijon, who was martyred in the late 2nd century. This national monument is one of the most popular buildings in the area. The magnificent roof of the church built in a Burgundian pattern surely draws the attention of tourists. Located in the heart of Dijon, the main attraction of the cathedral is its crypt which dates back to the 10th century; the crypt has the relics of Saint Benignus. Here you’ll also find sculptures dating back to the 11th century. If possible, attend the organ concert held in the cathedral all year round.
| From | To | Distance | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne | Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne | 1.9 km (6 min) | via Rue Condorcet |
Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne
Your trip to Dijon is incomplete without visiting Ducal Palace or Palais des Ducs. The residence of the Dukes of Burgundy during the 15th and 16th centuries, the exquisite palace is located in the historic center of Dijon, listed as a UNESCO world heritage site in 2015. The building has been preserved very well and has a city hall and a fine arts museum inside, which displays artifacts like antiquities and paintings from the Medieval Era. If you wish, you can also tour Philippe le Bon, a tower adjacent to the palace. For this, you need to climb 300 steps to the top of the tower and it will reward you with some gorgeous views of Dijon.
| From | To | Distance | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne | Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne | 1.0 km (4 min) | via Rue de Tivoli |
Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne
Housed in a 17th-century Bernardine Cistercian monastery, Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne or Museum of Burgundian Life displays a collection that sheds light on Dijon’s history, regional items from the 19th and 20th centuries including things such as costumes, household objects, furniture, aïence ceramics, and decorative items. The building is stunning with several medieval courtyards, a cloister, and gardens. And, you’ll also get to know about the history of popular Dijon mustard, a beloved condiment of France.
| From | To | Distance | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne | Parc de l’Arquebuse | 2.2 km (7 min) | via Rue Berbisey |
Parc de l’Arquebuse
For those who like to take a break and relax in the greenery, Parc de l’Arquebuse is a great spot. Located outside Dijon’s historic center, this lush green botanical garden has nearly 3,500 species of indigenous as well as exotic plants. The manicured flower beds, ponds, verdant lawns, and shady alleys of trees make the garden look even more beautiful. Jardin des Sciences & Biodiversité is another interesting place in the garden where you can explore the history of life and biodiversity concepts at the natural science museum and planetarium. So, when you have a botanical garden, a science museum, and a planetarium in one place, you just can’t skip it.
So, with these popular attractions in Dijon, you can take away the best travel memories from the city. And, if you would like to explore the city as well as the areas nearby, it’s advised to book a car rental in Dijon. If looking for affordable and quality rentals in the area, make a reservation with Cars Rental France, one platform for all your car rental needs in France. Book today and ensure a comfortable travel in Dijon!
