A Weekend in Dijon: Burgundy’s Medieval Gem of Wine, Mustard & Timeless Charm

#summervacay Tucked between **vineyard-covered hills** and **half-timbered houses**, Dijon is more than just mustard and wine—it’s a **feast for the senses**. As the former capital of the Burgundian dukes, this city blends **Gothic grandeur**, gourmet delights, and a laid-back vibe. Here’s how to savor it all. --- ## **First Impressions: A Walk Through History** Stepping into the **pedestrianized center**, I was greeted by **cobblestone streets**, **Renaissance courtyards**, and the unmistakable **scent of pain d’épices (gingerbread)** wafting from Mulot & Petitjean. The **owl carvings** on buildings (Dijon’s mascot) hinted at the city’s medieval secrets. 🦉 *Fun Fact:* Rub the **Owl of Notre-Dame** (on the church’s exterior) with your left hand for good luck—it’s been polished smooth by centuries of wishes! --- ## **Must-Do Experiences in Dijon** ### **1. Palais des Ducs & Musée des Beaux-Arts** - The **Dukes’ Palace** dominates the skyline with its **Burgundian Gothic towers**. Inside, the **free fine arts museum** showcases everything from **Egyptian artifacts to Monet**. - Climb the **Tour Philippe le Bon** for **360° views** of the city’s terracotta rooftops. ### **2. Follow the Owl’s Trail** - A **self-guided route** (marked by brass owl plaques) leads past **22 landmarks**, including: - **Notre-Dame de Dijon:** A 13th-century church with a **jacquemart (clock with animated figures)**. - **Hôtel de Vogüé:** A **pink-and-gold Renaissance mansion** with secret gardens. ### **3. Market Day at Les Halles** - **Tuesday, Friday, or Saturday mornings**, the iron-and-glass **market hall** buzzes with **Burgundy snails, aged Comté cheese, and blackcurrant liqueur (crème de cassis)**. - Grab a **jambon-beurre (ham baguette)** and picnic in **Place de la Libération**. ### **4. Mustard & Wine Tasting** - **La Moutarderie Fallot:** Tour the last **family-owned mustard mill** and sample **honey-mustard or truffle-infused varieties**. - **Caves de la Chartreuse:** Sip **Burgundy’s finest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay** in a **12th-century cellar**. ### **5. Escape to the Vineyards** - A **20-minute drive** takes you to **Côte de Nuits** villages like **Gevrey-Chambertin** or **Vougeot** (rent bikes or join a tour). --- ## **Hidden Gems** - **Jardin Darcy:** A **tiered Art Nouveau garden** with a **polar bear statue** (Dijon’s quirky mascot). - **Church of St. Philibert:** A **Romanesque gem** with **acoustic magic**—whisper into a pillar, and someone across the room hears you! - **Le Consortium:** A **contemporary art museum** in a converted mustard factory.