Dijon in a Day: The Court of the Dukes

For a century the Dukes of Burgundy outshone the kings of France. This was their capital.

Quick Overview

• Your group only (up to 6 people)
• Duration: About 9 hours, from Paris and back
• What we see: The Palais des Ducs, the ducal tombs and their mourners, Notre-Dame and the owl, rue des Forges, Les Halles
• What's special: The tombs of Philip the Bold and John the Fearless, ringed by their carved mourners
• Travel: High-speed train with me from Gare de Lyon (about 1 hour 35)
• Days: Wednesday to Monday (the museum closes on Tuesdays)
• Pace: Unhurried, and shaped around what you love
• Languages: English; ask if you need another language
• Best for: History lovers, food lovers, repeat visitors to France
• Your guide: Me, a state-licensed guide-conférencier with a background in French art history

The Experience

For a century the Dukes of Burgundy were richer than the kings of France, and Dijon was their capital. Their palace is now the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and their tombs are its masterpieces.

We visit the ducal palace and the tombs of Philip the Bold and John the Fearless with their procession of carved mourners, touch the owl on Notre-Dame for luck, and walk rue des Forges and its mansions to the covered market.

After lunch, there's time for mustard, gingerbread or the Cité de la gastronomie. It's about an hour and thirty-five minutes from Gare de Lyon, so you're back in Paris for dinner.

Route & Walking Info

• Distance: 4 to 5 km
• Terrain: Flat, pedestrian old town
• Pace: Whatever feels good to you. We take breaks when we need them.
• Accessibility: If you need to avoid stairs or long walks, tell me before booking and I'll adapt the route.

Good to Know

• Meeting Point: Gare de Lyon, in front of the Hall 1 departure boards. I'll send a map link and very clear instructions once you book.
• Timing: Meet me 15 minutes before the train; I'll have everything ready.
• Market days: The covered market is open several mornings a week; I'll plan our visit for one of them.
• Shoes: Wear your most comfortable ones. Really.
• Bags: Keep them small; many sites have security checks.
• Late Arrivals: Trains don't wait. If we miss ours, we'll take the next one; any ticket change fee is at your cost.

Optional Add-Ons

• Wine tasting in a Dijon cellar (18+)
• Côte de Nuits by car (licensed driver partner, billed separately)
• Other Languages (Ask me about availability)
• Afternoon Planning (I can help you map out the rest of your day nearby)

After You Book

• A personal confirmation once I've checked the date. I confirm every booking myself.
• My meeting instructions, clear and simple.
• I'll ask what you're most curious about (or what you'd rather skip), and shape the visit around it.
• Mobility needs or children in the group? Tell me early and I'll plan for it.
• Want lunch or dinner afterwards? I'll suggest a table I'd book myself nearby.

FAQ

Is it really private? Yes. Just you, your group, and me.

How long is the train? About 1 hour 35 each way from Gare de Lyon.

Is the museum free? I'll confirm current entry rules for your date; any tickets are paid separately.

Send me your dates and what you love most, and I'll shape the day around you.