Burgundy attractions

On the northern wall of the Dijon Cathedral (Cathedral of Saint Benignus of Dijon) sits a tiny stone owl that has become a popular symbol of the city. Many believe (or like to believe) that this tiny bird has wish-granting powers, so centuries of people rubbing it for good luck has caused the owl to wear down quite a bit.

The Halles de Dijon, the indoor halls of the Dijon Market, might be the prettiest place you’ve ever done your weekly grocery shop. The building was constructed in the late 19th century and incorporates classically-influenced design features. Look up to see decorative animal and mythological motifs while picking out the freshest local cheese.

Part architectural experiment, part tourist attraction, Guédelon is a 13th-century castle being built from scratch in the 21st century. Using only medieval-era materials and construction techniques, construction started in 1997 and is set to be completed in 2023, with visitors following its progress each year.

Burgundy’s long history of winemaking is the focus of the Musée du Vin de Bourgogne, housed in the 14th-century Hôtel des Ducs de Bourgogne. Inside, you can admire old wine presses and winemaking equipment through the ages, brush up on your knowledge of Burgundy wine, and learn about the UNESCO–listed Climats, terroirs of the region.

Set on top of a 19th-century reservoir, and named after the engineer who first brought fresh drinking water to Dijon, the Darcy Garden (Jardin Darcy) is both a historic landmark and one of the city’s prettiest green spaces. With its fountains, waterfalls, and flower beds—plus sculptures and architectural features—it’s a great destination for visitors of all ages.

In the heart of Dijon, Place de la Libération is the city's main square and a great place for people-watching. This sprawling public space features fountains, cafés, and is the site of one of the city’s most important buildings: the Dijon Ducal Palace (Palais des Ducs et des Etats de Bourgogne).

Situated on Place Darcy in Dijon, Porte Guillaume— also known as William's Gate—is a large stone arch, sometimes likened to Paris’ Arc de Triomphe. It was built in the 18th century on a spot where old city walls once stood and is considered the gateway into Dijon’s pedestrianised center.

In the land of historic Burgundy wineries, Domaine Debray is the new kid on the block. This young wine estate was established in 2006, yet has made a name for itself as a quality producer of whites and reds. The winery prides itself on its traditional wine-production methods, such as grape collection by hand and vinification in French oak barrels.

One of the Burgundy region’s grandest churches and architectural landmarks, St. Michael’s Church (Église Saint-Michel de Dijon) traces its history back thousands of years. Known for its distinctive blend of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, and instantly recognizable for its soaring towers and sculptured portals, the designated historic monument is a must-visit on any Dijon sightseeing itinerary.

To learn more about Burgundian life and history beyond the vineyards, check out Dijon’s Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne (Museum of Burgundian Life). Located in an attractive 17th-century Cistercian convent, it exhibits items related to life in Burgundy in the 19th and 20th centuries, including clothing, crafts, and a model street with imitation stores.

Dijon’s Jardin de l’Arquebuse is a botanic garden with a sensory twist. Instead of just strolling through the pretty grounds while looking at plants, visitors can learn about edible plants in this prolific culinary region. This garden showcases around 70 varieties of grapes, as well as other edible plants, alongside an arboretum, rose garden, and more.

Just south of Dijon's city center, Parc de la Colombière is a 17th-century green space with large grassy areas, meandering paths, and thousands of trees. Thanks to playgrounds and animal enclosures it's particularly popular with families, and there’s plenty of space for kids to run around.

Known for its imposing Cluniac-style architecture, the 13th-century Collegiate Basilica of Notre Dame is one of Beaune’s most striking landmarks. Widely regarded among Burgundy’s most beautiful churches, it’s notable for its Renaissance-era bell tower, Gothic renovations, and series of 16th-century tapestries.

Drawing from three centuries of winemaking history, Maison Champy is not only one of the most prestigious of Burgundy’s Grand Cru wineries, it’s also the region’s oldest wine house. Established in 1720, the estate is known for its Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune wines, as well as its historic building, inspired by Gustave Eiffel.

For wine lovers, few names are more hallowed than Gevrey-Chambertin, the largest wine-producing village in Burgundy’s golden Côte d’Or—and Philippe Leclerc Wine Cellar offers visitors an opportunity to taste what makes the region famous. Open to tasters daily, the sprawling cellars have the added attraction of a small museum, which showcases the tools of the viniculture trade.

Founded in 1785, Bouchard Ainé & Fils is among Burgundy’s oldest and most prestigious winemakers, with a vast estate that includes Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards. At the Maison Bouchard Ainé & Fils in Beaune, you can enjoy tours and tastings in the historic cellars of the historic Hôtel du Conseiller du Roy.