Is the tour available in English or another language?

No, the ‘Dijon Découverte’ tour is only available in French.

What sights will I see?

The tour offers visitors the chance to admire, amongst other things, the Palace of the Dukes and the Estates of Burgundy , Saint-Bénigne Cathedral , Notre-Dame , Saint-Philibert Church and the Philippe le Bon Tower .

Is the tour suitable for children and families?

Yes, it’s a walking tour of the historic centre , ideal for visitors who want to explore Dijon. For young children, please bear in mind that they’ll need to be able to concentrate for the duration of the 1 hour 45-minute guided tour.

Discover Dijon the essentials in one visit

Are you staying in Dijon and would like to find out more about the turbulent history of the capital of Burgundy? The tourist office offers the ‘Dijon Découverte’ guided tour, an unmissable walk to understand the history of the City of the Dukes and admire the finest monuments in the conservation area.

From

12 €

Free with the Dijon City Pass

Every day at 11.00 am, except Thursdays

1.45 hour

max 30 pers.

Prefix

12 €

Available in French
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Book now
Every day at 11.00 am (except Thursdays)

ALLER À L'ESSENTIEL

From the Dukes of Burgundy to the present day

Regarded as one of France’s most beautiful historic cities, Dijon boasts a remarkable architectural heritage shaped by a history closely linked to the era of the Dukes of Burgundy and the Parliament of Dijon.

Discover the epic story of the Great Dukes of the West who, from 1363 to 1477, turned Dijon into a European capital ahead of its time! Over the following three centuries, the parliamentarians erected majestic façades in the heart of the city, which is home to around a hundred mansions.

By the end of the 19th century, industrial and urban development necessitated the demolition of the old ramparts, which were replaced by the boulevards that now surround the conservation area.

Dijon’s must-see sights

Medieval architecture can be explored in Dijon through its grand religious buildings, of which the ‘city of a hundred bell towers’ is brimming. The Romanesque Church of Saint-Philibert and the two Gothic landmarks, Notre-Dame and Saint-Bénigne Cathedral, are among the finest places of worship in this Burgundian city.

Dijon’s most iconic monument is undoubtedly the majestic Palace of the Dukes and States of Burgundy. The first Duke of Valois, Philip the Bold, began rebuilding it in 1365 and transformed the Hall of the States into a veritable palace. Over the centuries, it underwent a transformation, with its classical façades designed by Jules-Hardouin Mansart, Louis XIV’s architect. Now serving as the town hall, it also houses the prestigious Museum of Fine Arts and the dukes’ tombs.

Old Dijon offers visitors a 97-hectare conservation area in which three thousand houses and nearly two hundred historic monuments stand alongside the natural surroundings of neoclassical squares and gardens. The panoramic view from the Philippe le Bon Tower allows visitors to admire this unique architectural heritage from the 46-metre-high ducal terrace.

The Dijon way of life

The reclaiming of pedestrian areas around Place de la Libération, the introduction of a bike-share scheme and the development of two tram lines are enhancing the quality of life in the capital of Burgundy.

Centred around Dijon’s culinary specialities – such as mustard, gingerbread and blackcurrants – tours of artisanal workshops are becoming increasingly popular, combining history with tastings.

Brunch at Les Halles de Dijon, tastings in unusual venues during‘Jeudis Vins’ (WineThursdays)and‘Les Apéritifs de la Tour’all contribute to the reputation of Dijon’s culinary art. On 6 May 2022, theCité internationale de la gastronomie et du vinopened its doors, creating a whole new district in the centre of Dijon. Alongside the cities of Tours, Lyon and Paris-Rungis, the Dijon centre will showcase ‘Le repas gastronomique des Français®’ and, in particular, the Climats of the Burgundy vineyards.

Further information

Period of validityAll year round

Guided tours take place every day at 11.00 am, except on Thursdays.

PRICES€12per person

Free with the Dijon City Pass

Good to know

Tour in French only
Booking essential

In a nutshell

Discover Dijon and its historic centre on a 1 hour 45 minute guided tour. From the Dukes of Burgundy to major urban developments, this tour reveals the iconic monuments, stately homes and secrets of the Burgundian capital. Tours are in French, by booking only, and run all year round at 11.00 am, except on Thursdays.

Accessibility

The tour takes place on foot in Dijon’s conservation area, in the heart of a historic centre that is largely pedestrianised. Some sections may have old or uneven surfaces. To help you prepare for your visit and check that the route is suitable for your needs, we advise you to contact the Tourist Office before making your booking.

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Testimonial

We discovered Dijon thanks to this guided tour and it was an unforgettable experience. Between the city’s rich heritage, the guide’s enthusiasm and the lively atmosphere of the historic centre, every moment felt like a real journey back in time. It was the perfect way to immerse ourselves in the spirit of Dijon and savour its treasures, both cultural and culinary. I’d highly recommend it to anyone who’s curious and loves history!

Stéphane

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