The Owl of Dijon: A Lucky Charm
Discover the magic of Dijon with a touch of luck at the iconic Owl of Notre-Dame, a centuries-old symbol of the city and a starting point for exploring Burgundy's rich heritage.
Nestled on a corner of the Notre-Dame de Dijon church, the Owl of Dijon, or *La Chouette*, is more than just a carving; it's a symbol of the city and a bringer of good fortune. For centuries, locals and tourists alike have touched the owl with their left hand while making a wish, a tradition that has worn away the stone features over time. This small, unassuming sculpture, added to the church in the late 15th or early 16th century, has become an integral part of Dijon's identity, representing everything from the local football team to the city's official tourism trail. The Owl Trail, marked by bronze owl plaques, guides visitors through Dijon's historic center, ensuring they don't miss any of the city's architectural and cultural gems. Despite facing vandalism in the past, the Owl of Dijon remains a beloved landmark, closely monitored and cherished by all who visit.
A brief summary to The Owl of Dijon
- 11 Rue de la Chouette, Dijon, 21000, FR
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Touch the Owl with your left hand while making a wish for good luck, but be mindful of the delicate stone.
- Follow the Owl Trail (Parcours de la Chouette) to discover Dijon's historic center and key landmarks.
- Visit the Halles de Dijon market for a taste of local Burgundian specialties.
- Explore the Palais des Ducs and Musée des Beaux-Arts for a glimpse into Burgundy's rich history and art.
- Consider a day trip to the Burgundy wine region for wine tasting and vineyard tours.
Getting There
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Walking
The Owl of Dijon is located on Rue de la Chouette, in the heart of Dijon's historic center, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From Place de la Libération, walk north towards the Notre-Dame church; Rue de la Chouette runs alongside the church's north side. Look for the throngs of people gathered around the corner of the church. The Owl is free to visit and accessible at any time. Be aware that Rue de la Chouette is a pedestrian street.
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Public Transport
Dijon's Divia bus and tram network provides easy access to the city center. Several tram and bus lines stop near the Notre-Dame church. From the République tram stop (lines T1 and T2), walk north along Rue de la Liberté, then turn left onto Rue de la Chouette. Alternatively, use the free city center shuttle, which connects to tram and Liane lines, operating every 10 minutes, Monday to Saturday, from 8 am to 7 pm. A single tram or bus ticket costs €1.70 and is valid for one hour.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Dijon. Request a ride to Rue de la Chouette near the Notre-Dame church. Be aware that Rue de la Chouette is a pedestrian zone, so the taxi may drop you off at the nearest accessible point, a short walk away. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between €8 and €12.
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Driving
Driving directly to the Owl of Dijon is not recommended due to the pedestrianized city center. Parking is available in several underground car parks around the city center, including Parking Grangier (Place Grangier) and Parking Darcy-Liberté (Place Darcy). From these car parks, it's a short walk to Rue de la Chouette. Parking fees typically range from €2 to €3 per hour, with daily rates around €15 to €20.
Discover more about The Owl of Dijon
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rue de la Chouette
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Maison Millière - Restaurant Boutique Bar à vin et Salon de thé
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Step back in time at Dijon's Maison Millière, a beautifully preserved 15th-century building housing a restaurant, tea room, and local boutique.
Rue Verrerie
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Antiquités PORRO
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Rue des Forges
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Dijon central indoor market hall
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La Maison des Cariatides
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Fondation du patrimoine - Délégation Bourgogne-Franche-Comté à Dijon
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Preserving local French heritage in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region through fundraising, partnerships, and community engagement.
Place Francois Rude 2nd Carousel
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La Fontaine Place François Rude
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Pl. François Rude
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Pl. du Bareuzai
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Loiseau des Ducs
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Saint Nicolas Tower of Dijon
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Tour Saint-Nicolas
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Unmissable attractions to see
Church of Our Lady
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Église Notre-Dame
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Vogüé Hotel
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Place notre Dame
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Дижон
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Tour Philippe le Bon
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Chapelle des Élus
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Dukes Square
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Office Du Tourisme
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Tourist Information Center
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Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne
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Maison Maillard dit Milsand
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Hôtel Aubriot
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Les Halles Market
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Museum of Fine Arts Dijon
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Essential places to dine
Dr. Wine
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L'un des sens
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Les Fils à Maman Dijon
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DZ’envies
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CaféGourmand
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Le Pré aux Clercs
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L'BOUT D' LA RUE
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SPICA
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Le Bouchon Du Palais
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Restaurant Le Carpe Diem
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Villa Vauban
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Restaurant Chez Léon
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LE CENTRAL PLACE
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CIBO restaurant gastronomique à Dijon
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L'Aspérule DIJON
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Moutarderie Fallot - Boutique Atelier Dijon
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Mémoire d'un Mur
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La Burgonde
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centre commercial
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Le Baldaquin
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L'atelier Du Fennec
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A dream life
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Counter Japan
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ANTIQUITÉS MAISON GOSSOT
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La Boutique des Escargots et de la Truffe
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Plaisirs de France
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L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
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Damidot Patrick
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Au Duché de Bourgogne
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Fouchet Didier
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le Terrier
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Monsieur Moutarde
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La Gobeleterie
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La Buvette des Halles
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Pub Mac Callaghan
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L'Happy Blues, café brasserie
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The Duke
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Caveau de la Chouette
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La Comédie
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BamJam
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Trinidad
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La Cave Se Rebiffe
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L'Archipel Cocktail Bar
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The CRAFT BEER PUB
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Barberousse Dijon
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