Is it possible to go swimming in Dijon?

Yes, the Carrousel swimming pool is a great way to cool off right in the city centre. Lake Kir also offers areas where you can enjoy the water and the great outdoors.

Which attractions are best to visit during the hottest part of the day?

Museums, wine cellars and indoor venues are ideal for staying cool whilst exploring Dijon.

Can we go for a walk despite the heatwave?

Yes, by sticking to the shaded paths, the canal bank and the area around Lake Kir, and by avoiding the hottest part of the day.

To cool off | Dijon Bourgogne Tourisme & Congrès

Dijon in the sunshine, It works really well

When it gets too hot in Dijon, I take it easy and go in search of a bit of cool: shady gardens, Lake Kir, the fountains in Place de la Libération, the swimming pool or a museum. Between an ice cream in the city centre, a stroll along the canal harbour and a visit to a wine cellar, there’s plenty to enjoy a lovely day without ending up melted like an ice cream on a terrace.

My ideas for things to do... even when it’s hot

1. Shaded gardens

When it gets too hot, the first thing I do is look for some shade. The gardens in Dijon are perfect for taking it easy: I sit under a tree, have a drink of water and enjoy the peace and quiet before setting off again.

My tip: come early in the morning or late in the afternoon. That’s the best time to go for a walk without suffering from the heat, and the light is much more pleasant then.

Darcy Garden is perfect for a quick break right in the city centre: I often pop in there between visits, just to have a drink of water and enjoy the shade.
The Jardin de l’Arquebuse is more peaceful, with its green spaces and lush, leafy atmosphere; it’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll without feeling the heat.
For a proper stroll, I prefer the Parc de la Colombière. Its wide, shaded paths are perfect for getting some fresh air, having a picnic and simply enjoying yourself.
And if you fancy a change of scene, the Japanese garden offers a more intimate and soothing setting, ideal for a short break in the cool.

2. Water points

Nothing is as refreshing as being near the water.

As soon as the temperatures rise, I often head over toLake Kir. It’s my favourite spot for a cool day out: you can walk in the shade of the trees, settle down for a picnic, watch the water or enjoy water sports, depending on the season.
For a more leisurely stroll, the canal harbour isa lovely alternative. You walk alongside the water, hear the boats, take your time, and the air immediately feels less stifling.
If you’re in the Beaune area, the natural swimming pool is a lovely option for a swim in a different setting. The water, the natural surroundings and the refreshing atmosphere make it an ideal outing when the heat sets in.

3. Icy break in the town centre

For me, a hot day in Dijon almost always includes a stop for an ice cream. I love ice-cream parlours, cool cafés and the shaded terraces in the historic centre.

At Place de la Libération, children can also enjoy the fountains to cool their hands and feet.

Where can you get good ice cream in Dijon?

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Child at the water feature in Place de la Libération
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Jonas JACQUEL

4. Swimming pools

When the heat lasts for several days, the swimming pool becomes my go-to plan. The Carrousel pool or the Olympic-sized pool, for example, are great places to swim, relax or keep an eye on the children in a suitable environment.

I always take a water bottle, a towel, a hat and sun cream with me for the journey, as even getting to the swimming pool can be tiring in the sun.

5. A visit to the fridge

When the sun is at its highest, I also like to switch to an indoor visit. Museums are perfect: you get to explore the city, go at your own pace and enjoy a cool environment. Cellars are also a great idea, as their natural temperature offers a real sense of coolness.

My tip: plan your cultural visit between 1 pm and 4 pm, then head back out at the end of the day when the heat has eased off.

And if you’re simply looking for a practical break, a shopping centre can do the trick: you’ll find air-conditioning, places to eat and drink, and shops for souvenirs.

In Dijon, there’s no need to escape the heat All you need to do is seek out the shady spots, the water and the best places to go to turn the hottest days into lovely summer days.

They talk about it

I came to Dijon in the middle of a heatwave, feeling a bit worried about the heat. But after a visit to the Carrousel swimming pool, the day became much more bearable: we were able to cool off, enjoy the city and have a really good time despite the temperatures.

Théorus

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