Dijon - Historic Guided Walking Tour

Dijon, FR
88% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (9 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    French speaking guide
  • inclusion
    English speaking guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Entrance fees

Meeting Point

Meeting point at hotel possible if centrally located.

Meeting point

21000 Dijon , France

End point

What to expect

1

Porte Guillaume

The Porte Guillaume is an impressive gate dating from the 18th century. Located on the beautiful Place Darcy, the Porte Guillaume is standing on the remains of a 12th-century old gate. It was built in tribute to the Prince de Condé who was the governor of Burgundy. Its four magnificent sculptural reliefs have made the Porte Guillaume a landmark and historical monument of Dijon!

2

Orange

The next step of this tour is the Rue de la Liberté, a walking street leading you into the old town of Dijon. This shopping street is full of marvelous architecture! You will see the Place François-Rude and buildings dating from the 15th century like La Maison aux Trois Visages or the old hotel Millière. Nonetheless, you'll be able to discover the legendary Maille shop and its excellent mustard which made Dijon so famous worldwide!

3

Place de la Liberation

Place de la Libération is a meeting point for locals. Established in the historic heart of Dijon, Place de la Libération wasn't always named this way. Until 1782, its name was Place Royale, a name thought to sublimate the power of King Louis XIV. Today, an equestrian statue of the king is standing on this public square. Place de la Libération is now an opened space sublimating the palace of the dukes of Burgundy as well as the Tour Philippe le Bon. From there, you will have a good panorama of those monuments.

4

Tour Philippe le Bon

The Tour Philippe le Bon is a tower overlooking the heart of Dijon from its 45-meter-high. Built between 1450 and 1460, you will have the chance to look at its Classical and Renaissance styles architecture. The Tour Philippe le Bon was first a watchtower before becoming a symbol of the Dukes of Burgundy's power. It was even an astronomical tower for a few years! After a spiral staircase of 316 steps, the Tour gives an impressive panorama of the city.

5

Church of Our Lady

Thanks to its unique Gothic architecture from the 13th century, this masterpiece is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church façade is of a peculiar flatness which is very unique in French Gothic architecture! It houses the famous statue of Our Lady of Good Hope, formerly known as the Black Virgin. Furthermore, the church is adorned with two main symbols of Dijon: the Jacquemart and the owl. The owl is located on the side of the church and is the object of a superstitious practice. Locals and tourists caress this worn statue with their left hand, hoping their wish will be granted. Why not try it by yourself?

6

Palais des Ducs et des Etats de Bourgogne

The Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne can be called the Palace of the Dukes and Estates of Burgundy in English. It was a royal residence, hosting the estates of Burgundy. In the present day, it houses the town hall and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. The Palais is made of several areas. The oldest part is the stunning Gothic palace of the Dukes built in the 14th and 15th centuries. But the façade of classical style you will look at is from the 17th century. The Palais is impressive and well-preserved! It became an important landmark of Dijon with the Eglise of Notre-Dame.

7

Musee des Beaux-Arts de Dijon

Also called the Museum of Fine Arts, this step is located inside the Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne. It means not only you will visit one of the largest and oldest museums in France, but you will also look at the indoor of the former Ducal Palace! The museum's collections are among the richest in the country. The medieval collection is the most remarkable by its quality and quantity. The most famous pieces of the museum are the tombs of the Dukes of Burgundy, presented in the great hall of the Palace.

8

Eglise Saint-Michel de Dijon

Our walk will end in front of the Eglise Saint-Michel, a unique church of the 16th century. It is famous for its Renaissance façade, considered as one of the most beautiful in France! The façade is indeed quite unusual as it is a mix of two architectural styles: Gothic and Renaissance, with the influence of Italian art. The entrance of this church with the towers, the columns, and figures around the door are wonderful to look at.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by BlackBuck Travels

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try local mustard at Maille store.
  • icon
    Visit the Palace of the Dukes nearby.
  • icon
    Check out the market at Les Halles.
  • icon
    Enjoy a coffee at Café de la Gare.
  • icon
    Take photos at Place de la Libération.

More About this Experience

Introduction:

Discover the historical charm of Dijon on an unforgettable guided walking tour. As the former home of the Dukes of Burgundy, Dijon boasts a rich history and an array of architectural treasures. From the Capetian and Gothic styles to the Renaissance influences, this tour will take you through the centuries and immerse you in the city's fascinating past. But it's not just the history that makes Dijon special. This vibrant city is also renowned for its delicious mustard and its lively old town. So, join us on this 2-hour tour and explore the hidden gems of Dijon's historical heart.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can expect to soak in the beauty and grandeur of Dijon's most iconic landmarks. From touching the lucky owl statue on the side of the magnificent Eglise de Notre-Dame to admiring the impressive Tour Philippe le Bon, you'll be captivated by the city's architectural wonders. Walk along Rue de la Liberté and discover the medieval buildings that have stood the test of time, including La Maison aux Trois Visages and the old hotel Millière. Take in the panoramic view of the city from Place de la Libération, and explore the Palais des Ducs et des Etats de Bourgogne, which houses the town hall and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Ending at the picturesque Eglise Saint-Michel, you'll marvel at its unique blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and foodies alike. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this experience is designed for anyone who wants to delve into the rich history and culture of Dijon. From art and history students to curious wanderers, this guided walking tour is a great way to explore the city's heritage and get insights from a knowledgeable local guide. Dijon welcomes visitors of all ages and backgrounds, making it an inclusive and enriching experience for everyone.

Why book this?

This guided walking tour offers a unique opportunity to discover Dijon's historical gems while enjoying a leisurely stroll through its charming streets. With an experienced guide leading the way, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the city's history, architecture, and cultural significance. From the impressive Porte Guillaume to the awe-inspiring Eglise de Notre-Dame, each step of the tour unveils a new layer of Dijon's captivating past. The tour also includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the Tour Philippe le Bon and the Palais des Ducs et des Etats de Bourgogne, giving you a comprehensive overview of the city's architectural treasures. Moreover, Dijon's reputation as the birthplace of mustard makes this tour all the more enticing for gastronomy enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the flavors and history of Dijon with this unforgettable walking tour.

Good to know:

During the 2-hour tour, you can expect to walk at a leisurely pace, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of Dijon's historic center. The meeting point is conveniently located, and if your hotel is centrally located, a meeting point can be arranged there. The tour includes visits to various landmarks, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking architecture and picturesque scenes along the way. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and insights about each location, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Dijon's captivating history. Join this tour and unravel the secrets of Dijon's past while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Reviews:

Visitors who have experienced this guided walking tour in Dijon rave about the knowledgeable and friendly guides who bring the city's history to life. They appreciate the opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Dijon's old town, from the stunning Gothic architecture of Eglise de Notre-Dame to the grandeur of the Palais des Ducs et des Etats de Bourgogne. Many reviewers mention that the tour offers a great mix of historical and cultural insights, as well as the chance to sample the famous Dijon mustard. Travelers describe the tour as informative, enjoyable, and highly recommended for those who want to explore the rich heritage of Dijon in a fun and engaging way.

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