Rue de la Chouette, Dijon Travel Guide

Discover Dijon's lucky charm on Rue de la Chouette, where a touch of the owl brings good fortune and a glimpse into history.

Home
Travel Guides
France
Dijon
Rue de la Chouette

The Rue de la Chouette (Owl Street) in Dijon is a charming lane named after a small owl sculpture on the side of the Notre-Dame church. Legend says touching the owl with your left hand while making a wish will bring good luck. This tradition has made it a must-see for tourists and locals alike.

A brief summary to Rue de la Chouette

Dijon, 21000, FR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Rue de la Chouette.

Touch the owl with your left hand (the hand closest to your heart) while making a wish to increase your chances of good luck.
Be prepared for a possible queue, as the owl is a popular attraction.
Explore the nearby Maison Millière for a glimpse into Dijon's medieval past.
Follow the 'Parcours de la Chouette' (Owl Trail), a marked walking tour that guides you to Dijon's main attractions.
Visit the street early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the biggest crowds.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Saint Nicolas Tower of Dijon

William Gate

Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne

Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne de Dijon

Tour Philippe le Bon

Explore Rue de la Chouette on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Rue de la Chouette, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Rue de la Chouette is located in the heart of Dijon's historic center, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From Place Darcy, walk south along Rue de la Liberté, then turn left onto Rue des Forges. Continue onto Rue de la Chouette. The owl is located on the exterior of the Notre-Dame church. No costs are associated with this approach.
Public Transport

Dijon's tram and bus network, Divia, provides access to the city center. Take a tram or bus to the 'Notre-Dame' stop, which is a short walk from Rue de la Chouette. From the stop, walk along Rue de la Liberté, then turn onto Rue de la Chouette. A single 1-hour ticket costs €1.70.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Dijon. A short taxi ride from the Dijon train station to Rue de la Chouette typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and the specific service.

Discover more about Rue de la Chouette

The Rue de la Chouette is one of Dijon's most iconic streets, steeped in history and local lore. Its name, meaning Owl Street, comes from the small stone owl ('chouette' in French) carved into a corner of the Église Notre-Dame. This unassuming sculpture has become a symbol of Dijon, drawing visitors who follow the tradition of touching it with their left hand while making a wish.The exact origins of the owl are debated, with some believing it dates back to the 17th century. Others suggest it may be even older, possibly linked to the church's construction. Over the centuries, the owl has become a beloved symbol for the city.Located in the heart of Dijon's historic center, the Rue de la Chouette is a short but memorable street. Besides the famous owl, the street offers a glimpse into Dijon's architectural heritage, including the Maison Millière, a beautiful half-timbered house dating back to 1483. The street is also home to antique shops and boutiques, adding to its charm.The owl itself has faced challenges, including damage in 2001 that required restoration. Today, cameras keep watch over the sculpture, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Despite the crowds and the watchful eyes, the tradition continues, making the Rue de la Chouette a unique and enchanting destination in Dijon.