Popular Dijon Attractions

Dijon, the gateway to the world class Cote d'Or vineyards, was an important capital of the wealthy Duchy of Burgundy from the 11th to 15th centuries, and is filled with beautiful buildings from this period. The Dukes filled the town with artists from all over Burgundy and today, Dijon has several outstanding art museums to display this rich inheritance. The Dijon Pass offers discounts on museums and tours. Dijon has a beautiful and well preserved medieval center; many pedestrian only streets make walking here a highlight.Located in this important wine region, Dijon has viticulture and enological training schools where even an occasional American takes on the daunting task of studying biochemistry in French. Food and wine are the main attractions in the entire Burgundy region. The kir (white wine or champagne and cassis -black current liquer) was invented in Dijon, and who hasn't heard of "coq au vin" or "boeuf bourgignon", both prepared with Burgundy wine? White Charolais beef fills the rich contryside. Medieval monks began making some of the famous cheeses of Burgundy: Citeaux, Chaource, Epoisses. And yes, Dijon mustard is from Dijon! First time visitors to Burgundy often stop for a few days in Dijon to become acquainted with the area. Dijon can be reached by the TGV-only about 1.5 hours from Paris, as well as by major roads leading south to the Mediterranean, east to Switzerland, Italy and Germany.