The Best Dijon Walking Itinerary & Things to Do in Dijon

Welcome to Dijon, the charming and picturesque capital of Burgundy! Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a foodie, this town has plenty to offer. And the best way to explore it all? By foot, of course!

There are plenty of things to do in Dijon, from exploring the many museums to indulging in the local cuisine.

Plan your perfect itinerary for Dijon’s old town

I’ve planned the best itinerary for walking in the old town of Dijon, which includes all of the must-see sights.From the stunning Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy to the iconic Notre-Dame Church, you’re sure to see all the highlights. This small French city is bursting with charm and history, making it a truly unique place to visit. The best way to soak up all that Dijon has to offer is to create a walking itinerary for the old town. You can wander through the streets while admiring the stunning Gothic cathedrals and taking in the sights of the unique half-timbered houses.

The Best Dijon Walking Itinerary & Things to Do in Dijon

• Begin at the Gare de Dijon-Ville railway station and make your way on foot to Darcy Park, a small green area with a fountain and swimming pool.
• Pass through Porte Guillaume, the local triumphal arch, and continue on Rue de la Liberté until you reach Rue du Chapeau Rouge.
• Stop by Maille Dijon mustard on 32 Rue de la Liberté for a tasting before continuing on to see old half-timbered houses on Rue Bossuet.
• Take a break at Place François Rude for coffee or wine before heading to Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Dijon to see the famous Dijon Owl.
• Visit the tourist office for maps, postcards, souvenirs, and excursion bookings.
• Walk through narrow streets and visit La Moutarderie Edmond Fallot for more mustard tastings.
• Continue walking through affordable restaurants and bars towards Place de la Libération, where you can find fountains and more dining options.
• Explore Tour Philippe le Bon for beautiful views of the city from above. Purchase tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.

Don’t Miss a Thing on Your Dijon Adventure with “Following the Owl”

When you’re visiting a new city, it can be overwhelming to decide what to see first. Thankfully, Dijon has a unique trail to help tourists explore its landmarks. “Following the Owl” is a trail made up of 30 golden slabs that represent different sites throughout the city. It’s an excellent starting point, but let me give you a few extra recommendations. I suggest beginning your tour at either Place Darcy or Porte Guillaume, both located near the Arc de Triomphe. From there, wander down the bustling Rue de la Libertie. Be sure to take your time absorbing the architectural beauty and popping into trendy shops. Trust me, this tour is the perfect way to spend a day in Dijon.

Here are the best things to do in Dijon

• Indulge in over 100 flavors of mustard, including unique blends like raspberry basil and cognac at the Maille mustard store
• Snap photos of the charming half-timbered houses on Rue Bossuet
• People watch from the cafes on cozy Place François Rude
• Make a wish at the iconic Dijon Owl on the wall of Notre-Dame Cathedral
• Experience the taste of Burgundy snails
• Admire the grand Palace housing the Museum of Fine Arts in Place de la Liberation
• Browse Gothic architecture like Notre Dame Church and St. Venignus Cathedral
• Explore the quaint shops and cafes lining the historic Calle Liberte
• Enjoy outdoor fun at parks like Lake Kir and Park Quarry Bakan
• Discover Renaissance influences at St. Michael’s Church dating to the 16th century
• Indulge senses browsing fresh products at the bustling Dijon Flea Market

Half-timbered houses

Hey, did you know that half-timbered houses are not just found in Germany, but also in France? That’s right, places like Strasbourg and even Dijon have their fair share of these stunning buildings. And speaking of Dijon, did you know that the city has preserved half-timbered houses from both the 12th and 15th centuries? That means you can actually see homes that date back to the very founding of the city. These structures are defined by a visible frame structure on the facade, giving them a really unique and charming look. It’s like stepping back in time!

Discover the world of Dijon mustard on Rue de la Liberté

If you’re a mustard lover, then you can’t miss out on Mustard Maille Dijon! This specialty store is located on Rue de la Liberté and is exclusively dedicated to Dijon mustard. We recommend taking advantage of the street tasting and trying out several different flavors before making a purchase. But don’t rush yourself, because just a little further down the road you’ll find another similar establishment. Once you’ve had your fill of mustard, keep strolling down the street until you reach the intersection with Rue Bossuet. There, you’ll be greeted by charming old half-timbered houses that have even made it onto postcards. It’s the perfect spot to snap a few photos and take in the quaint beauty of Burgundy.

Place Fr. Rude.

Make sure to stop by Place François Rude (D) after walking just a couple of tens of meters. The cozy square boasts a wonderful fountain and a carousel that turns almost all year round. If you’re in need of a caffeine fix or a glass of wine, the cafes here have got you covered for just 2-8 euros. Once you’ve had your fill of people watching, head along Rue de Forde and then Place Notre Dame to the iconic Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Dijon (F). Don’t forget to make a wish at the Dijon Owl (G) on the outer wall of the cathedral – rumor has it that your wish will come true if you rub the little chouette with your left hand.

Place de la Liberation and the Palace

Place de la Liberation and the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy. From the stately stone benches to the graceful fountains and inviting cafe terraces, this place is just breathtaking. And to top it all off, the palace itself now houses the city hall and an incredible Museum of Fine Arts. There’s truly something for everyone in this beautiful corner of France!

Experience the taste of Dijon with our Burgundy snails

If you’re strolling through the charming streets of Dijon, you simply have to try Burgundy snails. These little delicacies are a staple in French cuisine and make for a delightfully indulgent starter. Cooked in an aromatic broth and served in their shells, the snails are then showered with a rich and flavorful snail butter consisting of parsley, garlic, shallots, salt and pepper. Whether you’re on a romantic getaway or traveling with friends, you’ll want to savor every bite of this quintessential French dish.

Notre Dame Church

If you love medieval architecture, then Dijon is the place to be! One must-see is the Notre Dame Church, built in the Gothic style at the start of the 13th century. The walls are adorned with all sorts of cute and creepy creatures, from gargoyles to anthropomorphic monsters. The church’s design might remind you of the impressive Strasbourg Cathedral. But that’s not all – Dijon also has a Gothic cathedral of the same era, the Cathedral of St. Venignus, named for the city’s patron saint. And for a transitional taste of both Gothic and Renaissance styles, don’t miss the 16th-century St. Michael’s Church.

Calle Liberte

If you find yourself in the charming city of Dijon, you simply have to take a stroll down Calle Liberte – the main street that cuts through the historic center. This quaint, pedestrian street is bustling with life – from the adorable cafes to the cute little shops that line it. And don’t miss the chance to browse the much-loved Galeries Lafayette and Place François Rude while you’re there. Fun fact: did you know that this spot used to be home to the Parliament of Burgundy in the 14th century, when it was the administrative center for the entire region? These days, it’s the Court of Appeal that you’ll find here. Don’t miss out on all the charm and history that Calle Liberte has to offer!

Dijon Parks

Dijon may be known for its famous mustard, but the city has so much more to offer. If you’re looking for some outdoor fun, you’ll find it at one of the many Dijon parks.

Park Colombiere is a great option for families, with a mini-zoo and carousels to keep the kids entertained.

Meanwhile, Lake Kir offers a picturesque beach in summer and cycling trails year-round. If you’re up for an adventure, head to the Combe à la Serpent nature reserve, but make sure to set aside a whole day to explore.

And don’t miss my personal favorite, the Park Quarry Bakan, which boasts a beautiful stone bowl and waterfall. All of these Dijon parks offer an untouched atmosphere that’s perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

St. Michael’s Church

Dating from the 16th century, this architectural gem is an excellent example of the transitional period from Gothic to Renaissance styles. Featuring an impressive blend of styles that grants it a unique appearance, St. Michael’s Church is undoubtedly the most beautiful cathedral in Dijon. As you roam from one attraction to the next, make sure to add this exquisite church to your itinerary.

Dijon Flea Market

The bustling atmosphere and delightful French charm are sure to transport you to another time and place. But that’s not all! With an array of fresh, farm products on offer, you’re sure to find something that tickles your tastebuds. And once you’re tired of all the browsing and feasting, it’s time to head to the quaint cafes and quirky shops that dot the town.

Dijon Mustard

Indulge in over 100 flavors of mustard, including unique blends like raspberry basil and cognac

Indulge in over 100 flavors of mustard, including unique blends like raspberry basil and cognacDijon is famous for its mustard, and once you’re here, you can discover new depths of mustard art that will blow your mind! With over several hundred types of mustard, the Maille store is an excellent place to start. Not only will they give you several types to taste, but they also have unique flavors such as raspberry basil, cognac, tarragon, and blackcurrant liqueur. And if that’s not enough, they also have mustard muffins and gingerbread cookies.

Where to buy Dijon mustard in Dijon?

Are you looking for the perfect place to buy Dijon mustard in Dijon? For the largest selection of different flavors, head to Maille Dijon mustard at 32 Rue de la Liberté or La Moutarderie Edmond Fallot at 16 Rue de la Chouette.

However, if you’re in a rush and can’t make it to these specialized stores, don’t worry. You can still find mustard in jars of different sizes in any souvenir shop or supermarket.

While the selection may not be as varied, prices are almost the same, meaning you won’t have to break the bank to satisfy your mustard cravings.

So, what are the best things to do in Dijon

• The historic center of Dijon is home to charming half-timbered houses from the 12th to 15th centuries.
• Mustard lovers can tour the Maille store on Rue de la Liberté and sample over 100 flavors, like raspberry basil and cognac mustard.
• Place François Rude offers cafes and a carousel, and is near half-timbered houses photographed on postcards.
• The Cathedral of Notre-Dame and Gothic St. Venignus Cathedral date to the 13th century.
• Calle Liberte cuts through the center amid shops, cafes and the former Parliament of Burgundy.
• Parks like Park Colombiere and Lake Kir offer entertainment and scenery within and around the city.
• Dating from the 1500s, St. Michael’s Church beautifully blends Gothic and Renaissance styles.
• The flea market and cafes along with fresh products and charm transport visitors back in time.