Are there any ‘souvenir’ activities you can do as a family?

The mustard-making workshop is perfect for this. Children often really enjoy the idea of making their own jar, because they get to take home something they’ve actually made themselves.

What exhibitions are there to visit with children in Dijon?

For example, the Cité internationale de la gastronomie et du vin offers a range of highly engaging and interactive permanent and temporary exhibitions, perfect for sparking children’s curiosity whilst introducing them to Dijon in a different light.

What can you do in Dijon with the family when it’s raining?

You can opt for foodie tours, exhibitions at the Cité internationale de la gastronomie et du vin, or even places such as the Natural History Museum to ensure you have an enjoyable programme even when staying indoors.

Family activities | Dijon Bourgogne Tourisme & Congrès

My perfect weekend as a parent

I’m a parent, like many of you.

And when we go on a family holiday, with our children – and sometimes the grandparents – there’s one thing we’re looking for above all else: that everyone gets something out of it. No ‘must-see attractions that put the children to sleep’, no ‘theme parks where the adults get bored’. Just simple, enjoyable moments where everyone can find their own pace.

And we found Dijon to be perfect for that. Here are my top picks for a weekend that the whole family will love.

Day 1

The morning the owl’s journey

We start in the historic centre, and very quickly the children spot the little owl symbol on the ground.

The idea is simple: follow the trail, find the owls and make your way through the town. The trail has around 22 stops, covering just over a kilometre. It takes an hour or two, depending on your pace.

The children love searching for the little bronze owl, which is sometimes well hidden in a street corner. We take the opportunity to discover building façades, inner courtyards and architectural details we would otherwise have overlooked. And the grandparents, for their part, appreciate being able to sit down now and then, and walk at a leisurely pace, without being rushed.

Lunchtime Picnic at Darcy Square and the carousel

We make the most of being in the town centre to buy some picnic food, then head to Darcy Garden. With its fountains, ponds and playground, it’s the perfect place to relax. The children run about, the adults sit down, and the grandparents enjoy the peace and quiet and the scenery.

After a lovely meal, we head to the carousel on Place François Rude. The children can enjoy a spin on the carousel, whilst the rest of the family relaxes on the sun-drenched terraces.

In the afternoon A climb up the Philippe le Bon Tower & a gourmet break

Off to the Philippe le Bon Tower.

316 steps – it might sound daunting, but the climb is a gentle one, with landings where you can catch your breath. The children love counting the steps and setting themselves little challenges, and everyone climbs at their own pace. At the top, 46 metres up, the view over Dijon and its colourful rooftops is well worth the effort. We take the time to admire the panorama, spotting the glazed rooftops, the church spires and the parks.

On the way back down, we follow it up with a tasty break: we pop into a few stalls to sample mustard, gingerbread, blackcurrants… Just what we need to recharge our batteries.

The evening Dining in the town centre, fountains and a terrace

We round off the day with a meal in the town centre, often near Place de la Libération or the market halls. The children choose their own dishes, the adults enjoy the local cuisine, and the grandparents appreciate the peace and quiet of a shaded terrace.

After dinner, we take a stroll past the fountains on Place de la Libération. When it’s hot, they become an attraction in their own right: the children love running between the jets and getting splashed, putting on a great show for passers-by.

Day 2

The morning A green break at Parc de la Colombière

On Sundays, we take it easy and head to the Parc de la Colombière.

Spanning33 hectares, with animal enclosures, Rosalies and plenty of space to run about: Parc de la Colombière is a real playground for the whole family. With its play areas, walking trails and seasonal activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

In the afternoon Arquebuse Botanical Garden + International Centre for Gastronomy

Next up is the Arquebuse Botanical Garden, where you can combine a stroll through nature with a visit to the Natural History Museum or the planetarium. It features an arboretum, a rose garden and shaded areas where you can relax. Amidst the plants, rare trees and curiosities, everyone can observe, learn and marvel in their own way.

Then it’s off to the Cité internationale de la gastronomie et du vin. Interactive exhibitions, sensory workshops, culinary techniques and the history of wine can all be explored by touching, smelling and playing: a visit that inspires the whole family to ask questions, taste and learn together.

The evening Lake Kir for a gentle finish

Before setting off again, we treat ourselves to one last refreshing break at Lake Kir. A short distance from the town centre, there’s a sandy beach, picnic areas, and sometimes even entertainment for families. It’s the perfect place to round off the weekend on a relaxed note, let the children run about one last time, and enjoy one final moment together before heading home.

In a nutshell A family-friendly town

What stands out about Dijon is that it’s a city where you can go from one sightseeing spot to the next, enjoy games, savour delicious food and take breaks without feeling as though you’re ‘following a set itinerary’. The children have fun, the adults explore, and the grandparents can keep up without getting out of breath.

If you’re looking for a destination where there’s something for everyone, Dijon really does tick all the boxes.

They talk about it

We had a lovely weekend in Dijon with our children (aged 5 and 12) and their grandparents. The Owl Trail delighted the little ones, the Cité de la Gastronomie was a hit with the foodies, and the walks through the historic centre were enjoyed by everyone. Everything is within walking distance, there’s a wide range of activities on offer, and the welcome is warm and friendly. Dijon really is an ideal destination for families: there’s something for everyone, whatever your age!

The Dubois family

FAQ

Are there any ‘souvenir’ activities you can do as a family?
What exhibitions are there to visit with children in Dijon?
What can you do in Dijon with the family when it’s raining?

Extend the experience...

Places to discover, panoramic views to admire, parks to explore and flavours to savour: Dijon is brimming with ideas to keep the whole family entertained. Carry on exploring and start planning the rest of your stay.