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The image shows a large, ornate stone fountain and bridge structure within a park setting, featuring a central fountain basin, a bridge with balustrades, and symmetrical staircases leading up to a wooded area.
CC BY-SA 4.0 • Photo by Benjamin Smith via Wikimedia Commons

2-day itinerary

Dijon Cultural Heritage

2-day Dijon cultural heritage and gastronomy tour

Length
2 days · 6 sights
Pace
Moderate
Estimated cost
€133 per person
Based in
Dijon

Day by day

  1. Day 1: Ducal Power and Medieval History

    Explore the heart of Dijon's political history, starting with the magnificent Palace of the Dukes and the oldest museum in France, followed by a stroll through the historic old town.

    • 09:00

      Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne

      Visit the 14th-century ducal palace, now housing the City Hall. Admire the Gothic and Renaissance architecture, the Chapel of the Templars, and the famous Dijon Owl clock. Explore the courtyards and the Treasury.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 10:30

      Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon

      Located within the same palace complex, this is France's oldest museum. View the famous medieval tombs of Philip the Bold and John the Fearless, along with an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures.

      About 2 hours

    • 12:30

      Lunch in the Old Town

      Enjoy a traditional Burgundian lunch at a bistro near Place de la Liberte. Try local specialties like coq au vin or boeuf bourguignon.

      About 60 min

    • 14:00

      Église Saint-Bénigne

      Walk to this stunning Gothic cathedral. Although the original structure was largely destroyed, the current building retains significant historical elements and offers a glimpse into the city's religious heritage. Check for special exhibitions or guided tours.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 15:30

      Shopping on Rue de la Liberté

      Stroll down this pedestrian shopping avenue, one of the longest in Europe. Browse local boutiques, souvenir shops, and perhaps pick up some Dijon mustard or local wine.

      About 60 min

    • 17:00

      Afternoon Snack and Apéritif

      Stop at a local café for a 'goûtier' (tasting plate) of local cheeses and charcuterie with a glass of Burgundy wine.

      About 60 min

    Meals:
    Lunch at Old Town / Place de la Liberte area; Snack at Local Café
    Where to stay:
    Stay in the city center near Place Darcy or Place de la Liberte for easy access to major sites.
    Getting around:
    All Day 1 activities are within walking distance of each other in the historic center.

  2. Day 2: Nature, Gardens, and Local Charm

    Relax in Dijon's beautiful green spaces, explore the natural history museum, and enjoy a leisurely walk through the city's charming streets.

    • 09:30

      Jardin de l'Arquebuse

      Visit the botanical garden and natural history museum. Enjoy the lush greenery, the greenhouse, and the dinosaur skeleton in the museum. It's a peaceful spot to start the day.

      About 2 hours

    • 11:30

      Walk in Parc de l'Arquebuse

      Stroll through the adjacent 17th-century park. It offers a serene environment with tree-lined paths, perfect for a morning walk and relaxation.

      About 60 min

    • 12:30

      Lunch near the Park

      Have lunch at a restaurant near the park or head back towards the center for a variety of options.

      About 60 min

    • 14:00

      Dijon Owl Trail (Parcours de la Chouette)

      Engage in the self-guided Owl Trail. Use the booklet or app to find the 22 bronze owls hidden around the city. This interactive tour connects various historical sites and adds a fun element to your exploration.

      About 2 hours

    • 16:00

      Explore Rue de la Liberté and Surroundings

      Return to the main shopping street to explore hidden alleys, visit local artisan shops, and perhaps buy some gourmet gifts like mustard, wine, or pain d'épices (gingerbread).

      About 1.5 hours

    • 18:00

      Farewell Dinner

      Enjoy a final dinner in Dijon, trying a classic Burgundian dish such as escargots or a rich beef stew, paired with a local Pinot Noir.

      About 60 min

    Meals:
    Lunch at Near Jardin de l'Arquebuse or City Center; Dinner at City Center
    Where to stay:
    Same accommodation as Day 1.
    Getting around:
    Walking is sufficient for most activities. The park is a short walk from the center.

Practical information

Dijon is best visited during spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when temperatures are mild, ranging from 10°C to 20°C, making walking tours comfortable. Summer can be warm and crowded, while winter offers a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets but requires preparation for cold, damp weather. The city is highly accessible via the TGV from Paris Gare de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, with journeys taking approximately one hour. From the station, the historic center is easily navigable on foot, as major attractions like the Palace of the Dukes and the Owl Trail are clustered within a compact area. For longer distances, the city’s tram system and bus network provide efficient connections to suburbs and parks like Colombière Park. Accommodation should be prioritized in the historic center, specifically around the Place Darcy or near the Cathedral, to maximize walkability to cultural sites. Boutique hotels and guesthouses in this zone offer convenient access to the International Centre of Gastronomy and the Fine Arts Museum. Budget considerations should account for Dijon’s reputation as a gastronomic hub; meals at traditional bistros can be moderately priced, especially if opting for daily specials or sharing Burgundy wines. Entrance fees for the Palace of the Dukes and the Owl Trail booklet or app are additional costs to factor in. While the city is walkable, budget for occasional tram tickets if staying slightly outside the core. Travelers should pack comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets in the medieval quarter and layered clothing to adapt to changing weather. A portable power bank is essential for using the Owl Trail app or navigating with digital maps. Bring a reusable water bottle, as public fountains are available, and a small daypack for carrying guidebooks or purchases from local markets. Important tips include booking museum tickets in advance during peak seasons and respecting quiet hours in residential neighborhoods. The International Centre of Gastronomy, opened in 2022, is a key cultural addition, so check its specific opening hours and exhibition schedules before visiting. Additionally, while the city is generally safe, standard precautions against pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas are advised. Finally, consider purchasing a Dijon City Pass if planning to visit multiple paid attractions, as it may offer savings on entry fees and public transport.

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