Why you must not skip Dijon when visiting france.
Bourgogne or Burgundy is a region in France and its capital Dijon is Amazing
Breath-taking scenery, wines produced for royalty, and food to delight the heart of a Queen; these are just three reasons to visit Burgundy in France; they are not the only reasons. Beautiful Burgundy or Bourgogne (the french name) is a region located in the heart or lets say the stomach of France. Burgundy, France, offers a rich tapestry of activities that cater to a wide range of interests, making it a delightful destination for travelers.
Renowned for its world-class vineyards, wine enthusiasts can indulge in tours and tastings at prestigious estates in regions like Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune.
History buffs will find a treasure trove in the medieval architecture of Dijon, the region’s capital, and the UNESCO-listed abbey at Fontenay. Outdoor lovers can explore the scenic Burgundy Canal by boat, bike, or foot, while the Morvan Regional Natural Park offers hiking trails through lush landscapes.
Culinary experiences abound with gourmet dining featuring local specialties such as escargot, beef bourguignon, and creamy Epoisses cheese.
The charming villages and vibrant local markets further enhance Burgundy’s appeal, providing a quintessentially French experience that beautifully blends culture, nature, and gastronomy.
Attractions within the city of Dijon
Burgundy’s capital city, Dijon is a showcase of its former wealth. Every wall and stone tells a story of the fearless dukes that once ruled. The city center is compact and a walking tour will offer you the best experience to explore the grandeur of the city.
The fusion of Gallo-Roman and Celts culture beam in the architecture around the city, and a prime example is the Ducal palace, which is a true jewel that’s a must-see at night. When the sun sets on Dijon enjoy some comedy, a dance, or listen to an orchestra at the theater, enjoy an authentic french dinner, or even just a pint at a pub with friends.
Dijon City Pass is a Must
If you would like to travel carefree and also be organized at the same time, the Dijon city pass is a Must. It is excellent value for money, that gives you:
1. some gifts from this region in France.
2. access to Many of the museums as well as other architectural sites
3. a monetary voucher to aid your wallet while shopping, is always welcome (wink-wink at the time of writing this is was 10 euros)
4. and a variety of experiences within the city, as well as wine tasting and included visits or discounts on visits to the wine-producing villages just outside of the city.
It is truly everything you need to get to see this gem of a city.
I will cover the Dijon city pass in More detail in the following article, so please follow so that you don't miss it.
10 Things I highly recommend doing in Dijon beside getting your free pot of mustard
Dijon, the capital of Burgundy, France, offers a diverse array of activities that highlight its rich history, culinary excellence, and vibrant culture.
Explore the Ducal Palace: Visit the Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne, which houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts, showcasing an impressive collection of fine art from various periods.
Tour the Wine Region: Embark on a wine-tasting tour in the nearby Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune regions, renowned for their exceptional Burgundy wines.
Stroll through the Old Town: Wander through the medieval streets of the historic center, admiring the well-preserved timber-framed houses and the iconic Owl Trail (La Chouette), a self-guided walking tour.
Visit Dijon Cathedral: Explore the Gothic architecture of Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and venture into its crypt, which dates back to the 11th century.
Discover Les Halles Market: Experience the bustling atmosphere of this covered market, designed by Gustave Eiffel, where you can sample local delicacies like Dijon mustard, cheeses, and pastries.
Climb the Philippe le Bon Tower: Ascend the 316 steps of the Tour Philippe le Bon for panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. (They also offer an aperitif in the evenings in a room located in the tower, and will be worth booking just for the views)
Relax in Jardin Darcy: Enjoy a leisurely stroll or picnic in this beautiful urban park, which features a large fountain and the striking Porte Guillaume.
Taste Local Cuisine: Savor traditional Burgundian dishes at local restaurants, including specialties like coq au vin, escargot, and pain d’épices (spiced bread).
Visit the Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne: Learn about regional history and culture through exhibits that showcase Burgundian life from the 18th century to the present. (Most of the Museums are free and are a brilliant option for rainy days)
Attend Festivals and Events: Time your visit to coincide with local events such as the International and Gastronomic Fair of Dijon or the Festival International du Film Policier for a unique cultural experience.
Exploring the Countryside of Burgundy
If you picture yourself in the French countryside with a glass of wine playing petanque (boules in English) in a shaded square, then make your way to the charming villages of Chablis and Beaune, with their ancient cobblestone streets and rich historical buildings, you will be immersed in powerful ancient France, or maybe you fancy a pilgrimage of their precious wine, you will be spoiled for choice. After which you can take a stroll through the food markets, and sample some of the specialties from the region.
Burgundy for the Adventurer
For those seeking adventure, Burgundy offers bike tours along the Nivernais Canal, golf, sailing, fishing, horse riding, and hot air balloon trips over the vineyards, if you have a “need for speed”, try out some go-karting or take a ride through the countryside on quad bikes. Or just fall into the lap of luxury at a health spa which is an adventure for the senses
Visitor Information
Burgundy can be reached by train from Paris Or Lyon in only 90 minutes, and offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets, from luxury châteaux to charming bed and breakfasts and modern hotels.
Get Gregory Chetty’s stories in your inbox
Join Medium for free to get updates from this writer.
Here are some recommendations across various categories, the last Category on my list Unique Stays (Logement insolite) are quite popular in France you will find an array of Logement Insolite dotted around the country and they are some of the most enjoyable stays I've ever had, and Dijon has a few of its own. Here is some of what you can expect.
What is your preference? (let me know in the comments)
Luxury Stays
- Château de Gilly: A stunning historical château with beautiful gardens, located near the vineyards of Nuits-Saint-Georges. It features elegant rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a swimming pool.
- Relais Bernard Loiseau: Situated in Saulieu, this five-star hotel combines luxury with gastronomy, offering a Michelin-starred restaurant, a spa, and beautifully appointed rooms.
Boutique Hotels
- La Maison d’Olivier Leflaive: Located in Puligny-Montrachet, this boutique hotel offers wine lovers a unique stay with wine tours and tastings, charming rooms, and an excellent restaurant.
- Hôtel Le Cep: In the heart of Beaune, this charming boutique hotel is renowned for its classic French decor, luxurious spa, and proximity to historic wine cellars.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Hostellerie Le Cèdre: Located in Beaune, this four-star hotel offers comfortable rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a lovely garden, perfect for relaxing after a day of wine tasting.
- Ibis Styles Dijon Central: Situated in the center of Dijon, this hotel offers modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and a convenient location for exploring the city’s attractions.
Budget Options
- Hotel Athanor: A budget-friendly option in Beaune, offering basic but comfortable accommodations in a historic building near the Hospices de Beaune.
- B&B Hôtel Dijon Centre: A simple and affordable hotel in the heart of Dijon, providing easy access to the city’s main sights and attractions.
Bed and Breakfasts
- Les Jardins de Lois: A charming B&B in Beaune with beautifully decorated rooms, a delightful garden, and a welcoming atmosphere.
- La Ferme de Marie-Eugénie: Located in the countryside near Louhans, this B&B offers a peaceful retreat with rustic charm, delicious breakfasts, and cozy rooms.
Unique Stays
- Abbaye de la Bussière: A former Cistercian abbey turned luxury hotel, offering a unique historical ambiance, gourmet dining, and beautiful gardens.
- Hameau de Barboron: A restored 17th-century hamlet near Beaune, providing a rustic yet luxurious experience with spacious rooms and picturesque surroundings.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious château experience, a cozy B&B, or a budget-friendly hotel, Burgundy has accommodation options to make your stay comfortable and memorable.
Getting Around
You could hire a car, but the streets are rather small and if you are in the city of Dijon, it caters more for pedestrians than cars, so use a bicycle or use the excellent public transportation system on your voyage of discovery, it is much less stressful and after all that amazing wine…You get the point ;-)
Air B&B and Booking.com
Air B&B I would be a little cautious of using Air B&B in France, many Scammers use this platform to Scam tourists and locals alike, however the customer service of Air B&B is amazing and will refund you in an instant; it does mean you will need to find other accommodation and that's not a problem, unless it is the peak season.
Booking.com is a lot more reliable in France and you are sure to almost never be scammed; However you are wise, and I trust, you will not throw caution to the wind.
The Weather
Burgundy, France, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations between winter and summer.
Burgundy, you can expect cold winters and fairly warm summers, and with average temperatures around 24°c, it makes for comfortable afternoons and a pleasant temperature for long walks. However, as the climate changes, each day brings its own surprises, extreme heat or a downpour, are not uncommon, so take all the precautions necessary to be comfortable.
Here’s what you can typically expect during Winter and Summer in more detail:
Winter (December to February)
Temperature: Winter temperatures in Burgundy can be quite chilly, often ranging from 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F). Nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing, particularly in January and February.
Weather: Winters are generally cold and damp, with frequent overcast skies. Rain is common, and snowfall can occur, especially in higher elevations like the Morvan Regional Natural Park, though it is usually light.
Summer (June to August)
Temperature: Summers in Burgundy are warm, with temperatures typically ranging from 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F). July and August are the warmest months, with occasional days exceeding 30°C (86°F).
Weather: Summer weather is generally pleasant, with plenty of sunshine and occasional rain showers. The region can experience heatwaves, but these are usually brief.
So whats stopping you.
