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I had the absolute pleasure of hosting my friend Mel as we explored some of the best wine regions of France. While I love hosting people in my city (Bordeaux!), I also love the adventure of discovering a new place together. When we knew we wanted a trip focused on wine, Burgundy became our must-stop. Home to some of the best Pinot Noirs and grand cru Chardonnays exploring this famous wine region is an absolute must for any casual or serious wine enthusiasts. What we didn’t expect was the joy of guiding ourselves through Dijon’s owl trail, more on that below!
While I researched how best to see Burgundy, I quickly realized that the towns of Dijon and Beaune were essential stops. They are perfect bases for exploring Burgundy’s famous wine subregions: Côte de Nuits, Côte d’Or, and Côte de Beaune. While this was a very wine-focused trip (read about our bike adventure on the Voie des Vignes here), what surprised me most was how much I fell in love with the town of Dijon.
About Dijon
Dijon is more than mustard, it’s a picturesque city with the charm of a village, welcoming locals, leafy parks, and historic architecture around every corner. Just exploring around town had me ooh-ing and ah-ing. One of the top things to do in Dijon, and something I knew I couldn’t miss, was the Parcours de la Chouette (Owl Trail).
If you’re not a Francophone, “chouette” means owl (though the French also use it to mean “cool” as well). Legend has it that an owl saved Dijon from destruction and ever since, the little bird has been the city’s mascot.
The Chouette Trail guides you through Dijon’s historic center in the most delightful way possible and is the number one thing to do while visiting Dijon. The plan is simple, follow the golden triangular plaques embedded in the ground, each one etched with an owl pointing the way. The plaques are numbered which makes following this guide quite easy. The best part is, this walking tour is self-guided and free ! If you are interested in my full Burgundy region guide you can grab it here.
However, if you want to take the guess work out of a walking tour, I recommend checking out a guided tour:
- 2 Hour Dijon Walking Tour
- Express Walking Tour: 1 hour
- 90 minutes of the best photogenic spots in Dijon
Below, I’ve outlined all 22 stops on Dijon’s Chouette Trail with details, history, and tips. If you’re dreaming of a trip to France and wondering where to go, I hope this convinces you that Dijon deserves a place on your list.
Le Parcours de La Chouette
1. Jardin Darcy
This elegant public garden marks the starting point of the trail. Designed in the 19th century, Jardin Darcy is known for its fountain and its stone bear statue by sculptor François Pompon. We visited in spring when the flowers were blooming and the fountains had just been turned back on, magical.
2. Grand Hôtel La Cloche
Once an imperial palace welcoming Dijon’s most prestigious visitors, this building is now a five-star hotel. Its façade is gorgeous during the day, but if you come back in the evening, the illuminated exterior has a completely different glow.
3. Porte Guillaume
Dating back to 1788, this triumphal arch was built in honor of Guillaume de Volpiano who found numerous abbeys in Burgundy and Normandy. It stands as one of the few remaining gates into Dijon and marks the western entrance to the old city.
4. Poste, Place Grangier
Named for Henri and Sophie Grangier, who left their fortune to Dijon, this square is home to several architectural gems. Don’t miss the striking Art Nouveau Hôtel Central and the grand post office. If you need a break, nearby Espresso-T is a great café, my order in France is always a café noisette (double espresso with a dash of milk).
5. Les Halles
Every French city has a market, but Dijon’s covered market is exceptional. Designed by Gustave Eiffel’s workshop in the 19th century, Les Halles is the beating heart of local life. You’ll find produce, cheeses, Burgundy wines, and mustard, of course. Visit in the morning when it’s at its liveliest, grab a snack, or even enjoy a glass of wine.
6. Place François Rude
This lively square is named after Dijon-born sculptor François Rude. You will know Rude from his La Marseillaise relief on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Don’t miss the carousel in the middle, a charming spot surrounded by cafés and mustard shops.
7. Rue des Forges
Rue des Forges is considered Dijon’s most beautiful street as it is lined with historic mansions. Look out for Hôtel Aubriot, Maison Maillard, and Hôtel Chambellan, each a testament to the city’s prosperous past.
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8. Notre-Dame de Dijon
This 13th-century Gothic church is famous for its intricate façade with gargoyles and mechanical clock, the Jacquemart, which chimes every quarter hour.
9. La Chouette
On the north side of Notre-Dame you’ll find Dijon’s most beloved symbol: the little stone owl. Legend says if you rub it with your left hand while placing your right hand over your heart, your wish will come true.
10. Maison Millière
Maison Millière is an excellent example of preserved medieval architecture in Dijon. It was built in 1483 and is half-timbered. Luckily, Dijon was spared heavy WWII bombings, which is why so many historic structures like this remain intact.
11. Hôtel de Vogüé
This 17th-century private mansion is one of the city’s finest Renaissance buildings. Today it hosts cultural events, expositions, and concerts.
12. Place du Théâtre
This spacious square houses several cultural landmarks: the Dijon Opera House, the Musée Rude, and Église Saint-Michel.
13. Place de la Sainte-Chapelle
Here you’ll find the entrance to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Dijon’s best art museum, housed in the former palace of the Dukes of Burgundy.
14. Square des Ducs
This is the perfect spot to enjoy views of the Tour Philippe le Bon, the tower that dominates Dijon’s skyline.
15. Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne
The grand palace of the Dukes of Burgundy dates back to the 14th century. Once the seat of ducal power, it now houses Dijon’s City Hall and part of the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
16. Tour Philippe le Bon
Climb the 316 steps of this 15th-century tower for the best panoramic view of Dijon. Tours are organized by the Dijon Office of Tourism, and it’s worth every step.
17. Place de la Libération
Designed in the 17th century by Jules Hardouin-Mansart (the architect of Versailles), this semi-circular square is considered one of France’s most beautiful royal squares. Fountains dance here in the evening, adding to the atmosphere. This was by far my favorite stop on the Chouette Trail.
18. Palais de Justice
This 16th-century former courthouse can still be visited by booking with the Dijon Office of Tourism. While skippable if short on time, it offers an interesting glimpse into Dijon’s legal history.
19. Hôtels Particuliers
Also known as Hôtel Legouz de Gerland, this 19th-century townhouse is especially admired for its elegant courtyard.
20. Saint-Jean and Place Bossuet
This former 14th-century church has been repurposed as a theater. The surrounding square, named after Bishop Bossuet, is a quiet corner of the old town.
21. Saint-Philibert
Built in the 11th century, this is Dijon’s only Romanesque-style church. It hasn’t been used for religious services since the French Revolution but remains an important historical site.
22. Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne
This 13th-century Gothic cathedral is named after Saint Bénigne, a 1st-century martyr. Its crypt is one of the oldest Christian monuments in Burgundy, and stepping inside is well worth your time.
The Bottom Line
I hope this guide helps you save the town of Dijon with the help of its legendary owl. Whether you’re here for mustard, wine, or history, this charming walk is one of the best ways to discover the city.
If you want more, check out my full Burgundy wine guide here or read about my hilarious (and actually best ever) day bicycling through Burgundy vineyards. And if you’re planning a trip to France, don’t hesitate to reach out, I love helping fellow travelers make the most of their adventures.
