Dijon France Things to do : 5 unmissable sites
Dijon is a city in eastern France, located in the Burgundy region. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious mustard. Dijon has a population of around 150,000 people and is the capital of the Côte-d’Or department.
The city has a long and fascinating history, dating back to Roman times. In the Middle Ages, Dijon was an important center of the Burgundian duchy and later became the capital of the Burgundy region. The city played a significant role in the Hundred Years’ War and the Wars of Religion in the 16th century.
It is a charming city located in eastern France, known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and, of course, its famous mustard. Here are five sites to visit in Dijon:
Le Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne
The Palais des Ducs et des Etats de Bourgogne, also known as the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, is a historic building located in the heart of Dijon, France. It was the residence of the Dukes of Burgundy from the 14th to the 16th century and played an important role in the region’s political and cultural history.
The palace was originally constructed in the 14th century and underwent several expansions and renovations over the centuries. It is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture and features a stunning facade with intricate carvings and sculptures.
Today, the Palais des Ducs et des Etats de Bourgogne houses several museums and cultural institutions. The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon is located in the palace and features an impressive collection of art and artifacts, including works by artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Monet. The Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne, which showcases the everyday life and traditions of the Burgundy region, is also located in the palace.
Visitors to the Palais des Ducs et des Etats de Bourgogne can explore the palace’s many rooms and halls, including the Salle des Gardes, the Grand’Salle, and the Tour Philippe le Bon. The palace also has a beautiful courtyard and garden, where visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll and take in the palace’s stunning architecture.
Notre-Dame de Dijon
Notre-Dame de Dijon is a beautiful Gothic church located in the historic center of Dijon, France. Construction on the church began in the 13th century and continued over several centuries, resulting in a blend of architectural styles.
The church is best known for its stunning stained glass windows, which date back to the 14th and 15th centuries. The windows depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of saints and are considered some of the finest examples of medieval stained glass in France. The church’s rose window, which dates back to the 14th century, is also a notable feature.
Inside the church, visitors can admire the soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate carvings, and beautiful paintings. The church also has a 14th-century crypt, which is open to visitors and contains the remains of several important figures from the history of Dijon.
Notre-Dame de Dijon is still an active place of worship, and visitors are welcome to attend services. The church is open to visitors throughout the year, and admission is free. Guided tours are also available for those who want to learn more about the church’s history and architecture.
Le Jardin de l’Arquebuse – Dijon France Things to do
Jardin de l’Arquebuse is a beautiful public garden located in the heart of Dijon, France. The garden is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The garden covers an area of around 5 hectares and is home to a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers. Visitors can stroll along the garden’s winding paths, relax on one of its many benches, and enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings.
One of the highlights of the Jardin de l’Arquebuse is its botanical garden, which features a diverse collection of plants from around the world. The botanical garden is divided into several themed areas, including a rose garden, a medicinal plant garden, and a collection of exotic plants.
The garden also has a small zoo, which is home to a variety of animals, including deer, goats, and peacocks. Visitors can also rent paddle boats and enjoy a leisurely ride on the garden’s small lake.
Throughout the year, the Jardin de l’Arquebuse hosts a variety of events and activities, including concerts, exhibitions, and outdoor film screenings. The garden is open to visitors year-round, and admission is free.
Have a rest at La place Darcy et la vieille ville
Place Darcy is a large public square located in the center of Dijon, France. It was named after Gustave Darcy, a famous Dijon-born engineer who played a key role in the development of the city’s water supply system.
The square is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes surrounding it. It is also home to several notable landmarks, including the Darcy Fountain, which was designed by the famous French sculptor Jean-Pierre Victor André in the late 19th century.
The Darcy Fountain features a central statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, surrounded by various sea creatures and mythological figures. The fountain is a beautiful example of French sculpture and is considered one of the most important landmarks in Dijon.
Place Darcy is also an important transportation hub, with several bus and tram lines converging at the square. It is a convenient starting point for exploring the city, with many of Dijon’s most popular attractions located within walking distance. The square is particularly lively on market days, when local vendors set up their stalls to sell fresh produce, flowers, and other goods.
Taste the cooking from Dijon
Dijon is famous for its gastronomy and the region is known for producing some of the finest culinary delights in France. Here are some of the most popular dishes and specialties from Dijon:
Dijon Mustard – Dijon is famous for its unique mustard, which is made with white wine instead of vinegar. The mustard is a key ingredient in many classic French dishes, including coq au vin and vinaigrettes.
Boeuf Bourguignon – This classic beef stew is a regional specialty that originated in Burgundy. It is made with beef braised in red wine, vegetables, and herbs, and is typically served with potatoes or crusty bread.
Pain d’épices – This sweet and spicy gingerbread is a traditional dessert in Dijon. It is made with honey, spices, and rye flour, and is often served with cheese or foie gras.
Kir – This classic French apéritif is made with crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur) and white wine. It was invented in Dijon in the mid-20th century by the mayor of the city at the time, Félix Kir.
Fromage de Langres – This soft, washed-rind cheese is a local specialty that is typically aged for at least three weeks. It has a distinctive pungent aroma and a creamy texture, and is often served with bread or crackers.
