Dijon may be best known for its mustard, but spend a day wandering its cobbled streets and you’ll discover it’s so much more, a city of history, wine, art, and stories etched into every stone.
Getting to Dijon
Dijon is incredibly easy to reach:
• From Paris: Just two hours by high-speed train (TGV).
• My Route: I was coming from the mountains of Chamonix, passing through Annecy and Lyon. From Lyon Part-Dieu station, I hopped on a train straight to Dijon Gare. Even with connections, it was smooth and straightforward.
Once you arrive, the city is compact and walkable. Staying in the center meant I could step out and instantly be in the heart of the old town.
Staying in the City Center
On this solo trip, I chose to stay at the City Loft Apart Hotel, right in the city center. The hotel is set in a lovely old building with beautiful architecture, and the rooms were surprisingly large by French standards.
For me, traveling alone, staying central is always a priority, it makes exploring easier, cafés and restaurants are just a short walk away, and I always feel more connected to the city’s heartbeat. In Dijon, that decision made everything seamless.
The Magic of the Owl Trail
The highlight of Dijon is undoubtedly the Owl Trail (Parcours de la Chouette). Here’s what makes it so special:
Why an Owl? The owl is the city’s mascot, believed to bring luck and wisdom. A little carved owl can even be found on the side of Notre Dame Church, locals say touching it brings good fortune.
How It Works: Small bronze plaques with owls are embedded in the pavements throughout the old town. They’re numbered and easy to follow, leading you like breadcrumbs through Dijon’s most historic streets.
The Experience: Following the trail feels like a treasure hunt. At each stop, you stumble upon landmarks, gothic churches, Renaissance courtyards, the Palace of the Dukes, half-timbered houses, and lively squares. No guidebook needed, the city reveals itself step by step.
Tip: Pick up the small “Owl Trail” booklet from the tourist office. It explains each stop in detail and makes the walk even more meaningful.
Top Things to Do in Dijon
Musée des Beaux-Arts (Museum of Fine Arts)
Inside the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, this museum is one of France’s oldest. Its collection spans Egyptian relics, medieval treasures, and European masterpieces. Even if art isn’t usually your thing, the setting alone will impress you.
Cafés & City Squares
Dijon’s Place de la Libération and the surrounding lanes are perfect for a coffee break. Order a café crème or a glass of Burgundy wine, and watch the city’s rhythm flow around you.
Burgundy Wines
Dijon is the gateway to Burgundy’s wine country. I’m not much of a wine connoisseur myself, so I didn’t go deeper into the region, but for those who are, Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy, is just a quick 20-minute train ride away. It’s home to the famous Hospices de Beaune and surrounded by prestigious vineyards. If wine is your passion, this little detour is worth every sip.
The Mustard Experience
Dijon’s mustard boutiques are a world of flavor. I discovered everything from walnut and truffle mustard to fruity blends like blackcurrant. My suitcase left heavier, stuffed with jars of spicy souvenirs.
Where to Eat
• Suzette: Cozy spot for crêpes that taste like happiness folded onto a plate.
• Japanese Ramen House: A surprising find in Burgundy, but perfect comfort food after a day of walking.
• Local Bistros: Classic French dinners, often paired with the region’s wines, set the tone for leisurely evenings.
Best Time to Visit
• Spring & Autumn: Pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Summer: Livelier atmosphere with outdoor dining, but warmer temperatures.
• Winter: Quieter, with the bonus of Christmas markets in December.
Why Dijon Belongs on Your List
Dijon is one of those cities that surprises you, intimate yet full of grandeur. The Owl Trail turns sightseeing into an adventure, the mustard and wines add flavor, and the museums and squares add depth.
And if you’re traveling solo like I was, Dijon is perfect: safe, compact, easy to navigate, and full of cozy cafés and friendly spots that make you feel at home.
It’s not just a stopover; it’s a city that stays with you, one owl at a time.
Travel with me for more stories like this, every journey has its own tale, and every suitcase carries a memory.
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