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Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne: A Burgundian Jewel

Discover centuries of Burgundian history and art at the Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne, home to a renowned fine arts museum and iconic landmarks in the heart of Dijon.

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The Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne, located in the heart of Dijon, is a stunning architectural complex that embodies centuries of Burgundian history and power. Originally built in the 14th century as the residence of the Dukes of Burgundy, it was expanded and transformed over the generations. Today, it houses the Hôtel de Ville (city hall) and the Musée des Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts Museum), one of France's oldest and most prestigious museums. Visitors can explore the palace's rich history, admire its diverse architectural styles, and immerse themselves in its impressive art collections, including the tombs of the Dukes of Burgundy and masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Climbing the Tour Philippe le Bon offers panoramic views of Dijon and the surrounding countryside, providing a memorable experience for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike. The palace stands as a symbol of Dijon's cultural heritage and a testament to the region's enduring legacy.

A brief summary to Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne

  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts for free access to its permanent collections, showcasing masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
  • Climb the Tour Philippe le Bon for panoramic views of Dijon; book a guided tour through the Tourist Office.
  • Explore the Place de la Libération, the grand square in front of the palace, for a taste of Dijon's vibrant atmosphere.
  • Check the Musée des Beaux-Arts website for temporary exhibitions and events during your visit.
  • Take advantage of Dijon's pedestrian-friendly city center to explore the palace and its surroundings on foot.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne is centrally located in Dijon's historic district, making it easily accessible on foot from most points in the city center. From Place Darcy, walk southeast along Rue de la Liberté, a pedestrian street, for approximately 10 minutes until you reach Place de la Libération and the palace. Alternatively, from the Dijon train station (Gare de Dijon), it's about a 15-minute walk. Exit the station and walk straight ahead, following signs for the city center (centre-ville). Continue along Avenue Maréchal Foch, then turn right onto Rue de la Liberté, which leads directly to the palace. The palace is located on Place de la Libération. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Dijon has an efficient public transportation system, Divia, including trams and buses. Several tram and bus lines stop near the Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne, with the closest stops being 'Libération' for trams and buses. From the Dijon train station, take tram line T1 towards Quetigny Centre and get off at the 'Darcy' stop, then take tram line T2 towards Chenove Centre and get off at the 'Libération' stop. Alternatively, several bus lines also connect the train station to the city center. A single ticket ('stopgap solution') costs €1.70 and is valid for one hour on all lines. Tickets can be purchased from vending machines at tram stops or directly from the bus driver.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Dijon. A taxi ride from the Dijon train station to the Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and time of day. Ride-sharing services like Uber may also operate in Dijon, offering a similar price range. Taxis can be found at designated taxi stands, including one near the train station, or hailed on the street. Ride-sharing services can be requested through their respective mobile apps.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking in the immediate vicinity of the Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne is limited and can be expensive. Several public parking garages are located within a short walking distance, including Parking Grangier and Parking Trémouille. Parking rates typically range from €0.70 for 15 minutes to €11-€12 for up to 24 hours in the hyper-center car parks. Street parking is also available but is subject to time restrictions and payment from Monday to Saturday. Parking is free on Sundays and public holidays. Consider using a parking app to find available spots and pay for parking remotely.

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Discover more about Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne

The Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne, a magnificent architectural ensemble in Dijon, stands as a powerful symbol of Burgundian history and artistic achievement. From its origins as a ducal residence in the 14th century to its current role as a home to the city hall and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, the palace has witnessed centuries of transformation and remains a captivating destination for visitors. The palace's story begins with the Dukes of Burgundy, who transformed Dijon into a major center of political and cultural influence. Philip the Bold initiated the construction of the palace in the late 14th century, and subsequent dukes, including John the Fearless, Philip the Good, and Charles the Bold, continued to expand and embellish the residence. During their reign, the palace served not only as a private home but also as a center for courtly life, diplomacy, and artistic patronage. Over the centuries, the palace underwent numerous architectural changes, reflecting the evolving tastes and styles of its occupants. The original Gothic structures were gradually replaced and augmented with Renaissance and Classical elements, resulting in a unique blend of architectural styles. The 17th and 18th centuries saw significant renovations, including the construction of the Palais des États de Bourgogne, designed to house the province's representative assembly. The Place Royale (now Place de la Libération) was also created during this period, further enhancing the palace's grandeur and prominence. Today, the Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne comprises several interconnected buildings and courtyards, each with its own distinct character and history. The Musée des Beaux-Arts, housed within the palace's eastern wing, is a major highlight, showcasing an extensive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Visitors can admire masterpieces by Burgundian artists, as well as works by renowned European masters such as Titian, Rubens, and Monet. The museum's collection includes paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and archaeological artifacts, providing a comprehensive overview of the region's artistic heritage. One of the museum's most prized possessions is the tombs of the Dukes of Burgundy, Philip the Bold and John the Fearless. These elaborate sculptures, created by renowned artists Claus Sluter and Claus de Werve, are considered masterpieces of late medieval art. The tombs depict the dukes in regal attire, surrounded by mourning figures representing their families and courtiers. The intricate details and emotional expressiveness of these sculptures are truly awe-inspiring. In addition to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, visitors can also explore other parts of the palace, including the Tour Philippe le Bon, a 15th-century tower that offers panoramic views of Dijon. Climbing the tower's 316 steps is a rewarding experience, providing a unique perspective on the city's historic center and surrounding landscape. The palace also houses the Hôtel de Ville (city hall), where visitors can admire the grand reception rooms and learn about Dijon's civic history. The Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne is not only a repository of art and history but also a vibrant cultural center. Throughout the year, the palace hosts a variety of events, including concerts, exhibitions, and theatrical performances. The Place de la Libération, located in front of the palace, is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike, offering a lively atmosphere and stunning views of the palace's facade. Visiting the Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne is an immersive experience that allows visitors to step back in time and discover the rich history and artistic heritage of Burgundy. Whether exploring the Musée des Beaux-Arts, climbing the Tour Philippe le Bon, or simply strolling through the palace's courtyards, visitors are sure to be captivated by the beauty and grandeur of this iconic landmark. The Musée des Beaux-Arts is open every day except Tuesday. From October 1st to May 31st, the opening hours are from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. From June 1st to September 30th, the opening hours are from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM. The museum is closed on January 1st, May 1st, May 8th, July 14th, November 1st, November 11th, and December 25th. Admission to the permanent collections is free. Temporary exhibitions may require a fee. The Tour Philippe le Bon can be visited only with a guided tour organized by the Tourist Office. Check the Tourist Office Dijon Métropole website for tour schedules and prices. The palace is easily accessible by public transportation. Several bus and tram lines stop near the Place de la Libération. The city center is also pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore the palace and its surroundings on foot.

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