Discover Dijon by following the Owl’s Trail:
Dijon is famous for Dijon mustard, however the capital of the province of Burgundy has lots more to offer than just this condiment.
From the early 11th century AD until the late 1400s, the province was home to the Dukes of Burgundy . Burgundy was a place of tremendous wealth and power and was one of the great European centres of art, learning and science. The Dukes of Burgundy left behind a legacy of
architectural splendour which visitors will see in the historic city centre of Dijon. During the 17th – 18th centuries the wealthy parliamentarians also built elegant ‘hotel particuliers’ or private mansions in town, adding to the town’s grand architecture.
Dijon today remains culturally rich and has a famous university. It also has a reputation for food fairs and its annual International Gastronomic Fair attracts lots of visitors to town. Florissimo, an international flower show is also held here once every three years.
Dijon Owl’s Trail
There is a lot to see and do in Dijon and it’s easy to find your own way around town. Just follow the Owl’s Trail or “Le Parcours de la Chouette“. The trail is named after the stone owl at the Notre-Dame church. Look for the tiny owl on the facade of the church and don’t forget to stroke it for good luck and to ensure you will return!
The Owl’s Trail walk can be done in an hour, but that really doesn’t leave you time to hang around to enjoy the sights, so it’s best to allow yourself more time. If you’re travelling with children, they will love seeking out the owls along the trail.
You can get purchase an English language brochure or hire an audio guide from the tourist office and see Dijon’s top 22 attractions at your own pace. As we stayed at the very elegant Sofitel Dijon La Cloche, we started our walk from Porte Guillaume on Place Darcy, Dijon’s very own Arc de Triomphe.
Dijon Cote de Nuits Pass
If you’re going to be in Dijon for a couple of days, it’s worthwhile purchasing a Dijon Cote de Nuits Pass which will give you free admission to more than 30 top attractions as well as unlimited transportation on Dijon’s public network for the duration of your pass. The Nuits Pass also provides information on the Owl’s trail and an audio-guided tour of the town. The pass also entitles you to a variety of discounts and added value offers at a selection of over 60 shops and wine cellars. There is a choice of a 24, 48 or 72-hour Pass.
Dijon is connected to Paris by the TGV high-speed train and is approximately one hour and 40 minutes southeast of Paris.
For other Dijon tours, click HERE
See Travelsignposts Dijon Photos HERE.
Dijon Tourist office
Place Darcy – 21000 Dijon
Tel. : +33 (0)8 92 70 05 58 (0.34€/min)
11 rue des Forges – BP 82296 – 21022 Dijon Cedex
Tel. : +33 (0)8 92 70 05 58 (0.34€/min)
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