Mustard, Dukes and Medieval Secrets self guided tour of Dijon

In 1513, 40,000 Swiss soldiers surrounded Dijon. The citizens carried a mysterious wooden statue through the streets, and two days later the army vanished. Centuries later, the Germans did the same. This self-guided audio tour walks you through the streets where these stories unfolded. From the original Maille mustard boutique to a gingerbread factory dating back to 1796, this is Dijon told through its flavours, scandals, and secrets. You'll learn why 80% of the world's "Dijon" mustard is actually made from Canadian seeds, touch the legendary Owl and hear the ghost story behind the tradition, and step inside the Ducal Palace museum for a narrated walkthrough most visitors miss entirely. No fixed start time, start when you want and pause for a wine tasting in Eiffel-inspired market hall.

1. 1

   Jardin Darcy

   Pass by

   Jardin Darcy: "A young boy, sickened by Dijon’s foul water, made a promise that would transform the city forever. The proof is hidden beneath this very park."

2. 2

   Porte Guillaume

   Pass by

   Delve into the fascinating transformation of Porte Guillaume from a medieval gateway to a triumphal arch honoring historical figures. You'll also discover the intricate reliefs that tell the story of Dijon’s past and its ties to the Prince of Condé.

3. 3

   La Boutique Maille

   Pass by

   La Boutique Maille: "How did one man’s decision to swap vinegar for unripe grape juice create the most famous mustard in the world? Step inside the boutique where it all began in 1845."

4. 4

   Stop 4

   Pass by

   You'll discover the charm of François Rude Street, with its medieval and Renaissance architecture, and learn the story behind Bareuzai Square's iconic wine-harvester statue.

5. 5

   Dijon Central Indoor Market Hall

   Pass by

   Dijon Market Hall: "A building inspired by Gustave Eiffel, who was born right here in Dijon. Inside: snail cake (yes, really), the best organic breads, and cheeses you won’t find anywhere else."

6. 6

   Stop 6

   Pass by

   Church of Our Lady: "Twice in history, Dijon faced certain destruction. Twice, the citizens turned to a mysterious wooden statue. Twice, the enemy left. Coincidence?"

7. 7

   The Owl of Dijon

   Pass by

   The Owl of Dijon: "Nobody knows where it came from. Nobody knows why people touch it. But there’s a ghost story from the 17th century that might explain everything."

8. 8

   Vogue Hotel

   Pass by

   Hôtel de Vogüé – Step into a courtyard where colourful tiles were fired three times and a monogram hides two marriages.

9. 9

   Stop 9

   Pass by

   Explore Saint Michael's Church, a unique fusion of Gothic and Renaissance styles, and uncover the inspiring story of Saint Elisabeth of the Trinity, whose profound faith continues to touch hearts.

10. 10

    Palais des Ducs et des Etats de Bourgogne

    Pass by

    Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne – Weigh the ambitions of dukes who controlled more territory than the French king himself.

11. 11

    Tour Philippe le Bon

    Pass by

    Climb the 316 steps of the Tour Philippe Le Bon to experience breathtaking views and delve into the legacy of Burgundy’s most powerful Duke. Discover the secrets behind this iconic tower and the prestigious Order of the Golden Fleece.

12. 12

    Cathedrale Saint-Benigne de Dijon

    Pass by

    Explore the Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, Dijon’s Gothic masterpiece, where stunning stained glass, intricate carvings, and a centuries-old crypt reveal the city’s spiritual and architectural heritage.

13. 13

    Mulot & Petitjean

    Pass by

    Mulot & Petitjean – Smell gingerbread made the same way since 1796, in a recipe that uses no milk and no butter.

14. 14

    Stop 14

    Pass by

    Archaeological Museum of Dijon – End your walk in a monks' dormitory turned museum, where Roman burial stones line the underground vaults.

15. 15

    La Moutarderie Edmond Fallot

    Pass by

    Edmond Fallot – Meet the last mustard house in Burgundy that refuses to use Canadian seeds.

16. 16

    Stop 16

    Pass by

    Au Vieux Millésime – Sip wines from vineyards first mapped by monks who walled off individual plots to study the soil.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• The total tour duration includes the time spent listening to information at the stop and time required to walk through all the stops.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.