Bienvenue à Dijon
People often ask me why I chose Dijon when I moved to France.
While my answer is usually multi-fold, it is also a simple one:
Dijon is the perfect combination of wine & culture blended into a backdrop of cultural heritage, architectural elegance, and culinary excellence . The charm of this ‘big little’ preserves its rich history and upholds its reputation as a UNESCO site while providing endless views that draw you into its embrace.
When you are planning your visit to Burgundy, I recommend you make Dijon your home base (instead of the default location of Beaune, located farther South). Why?
1) Accessibility & Affordability
Dijon is a short 90-minute train ride (on the TGV) from both Paris and Lyon, making it accessible from the two main airport hubs. Its central location in the Northern part of France also provides easy access to not only the Côte d’Or (a 40-mile stretch situated just South of Dijon), but also the lesser known, but equally stunning regions at the foothills of the French Alps - Jura and Savoie. Dijon is not only walkable (most sights are a maximum 20-minute walk), but the city is graced with an easily navigable and very affordable tram (Divia) that reaches the outer rings of Dijon. Most importantly for me, Dijon is more affordable than its Southern counterpart, Beaune - including the prices at restaurants & wine shops.
2) Historical Significance & Heritage
Many travelers find it surprising to hear that Dijon, not Beaune, is the official capital of Burgundy. While it’s true that Beaune holds its own significance within the region (hosting the yearly auction Hospices de Beaune), Dijon is home to the Palais des Ducs, where the influential Dukes of Burgundy, lived and reigned in the 14th & 15th centuries. Dijon is indelibly linked to the prestigious wine culture of Burgundy - the gateway to the ‘Route des Grands Crus’ that winds through the most celebrated vineyards of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
3) Culinary Diversity & the Arts
While Dijon is known for its wine (and yes, of course its mustard), one of the reasons I love living here is its diverse culinary offerings and its appreciation of the arts - all showcased in the vibrancy of its restaurants, bistros, wine bars, and the year-round performances at the Opéra de Dijon and the Théâtre Dijon Bourgogne , and the 18th-century Musée des Beaux Arts.
4) Access to Green Space
As someone who thrives on access to green space and nature, Dijon is my ideal city with a rich tapestry of green spaces, all easily accessible from Centre Ville. My favorites for walking, running, and of course, wine picnics, are below:
Jardin de l’Arquebuse: My favorite place to find respite from the hustle of life, Dijon’s 5-hectare botanical garden houses over 1,500 plant species, more than 230 varieties of roses, and an experimental vineyard. It is the perfect place to unwind after a day tof wine tasting and sight-seeing.
Promenade de l’Ouche: A serene path running alongside the Ouche River, offering a peaceful setting for walking, jogging, or cycling, and connects to Lac Kir.
Parc de Colombière: Spanning 33 hectares, the Parc de la Colombière is the largest public park in Dijon. A classic French garden layout with symmetrical paths and expansive lawns, it also offers amenities such as children's play areas, animal enclosures, and seasonal activities like tree-top adventure courses.
In conclusion, when deciding where to stay during your Burgundy adventure, don’t underestimate Dijon!
