Palais Des Ducs

In the heart of Dijon, the Palais des Ducs (Palace of the Dukes) stands as a magnificent testament to the power and ambition of the Valois dukes who ruled Burgundy in the 14th and 15th centuries. This sprawling complex, part of which now houses the city's art museum, offers a journey into a golden age when Burgundy rivaled the French crown. The palace's grand kitchens, soaring towers, and ornate tombs evoke a world of lavish feasts, political intrigue, and artistic patronage that shaped European history.

Highlights & What to See

• Tour Philippe le Bon: Climb the 316 steps of this 46-metre tower for panoramic views over Dijon's terracotta rooftops and the surrounding Côte de Nuits vineyards — a photographer's dream at golden hour.
• Musée des Beaux-Arts: Housed in the palace's former ducal apartments, this museum boasts an exceptional collection from the Middle Ages to modern art. Don't miss the monumental tombs of Dukes John the Fearless and Philip the Bold, with their exquisite alabaster mourners.
• Grande Salle des États: This vast Gothic hall, once used for meetings of the Burgundian parliament, features a stunning hammer-beam roof and a monumental fireplace — imagine the banquets held here.
• Ducal Kitchens: Explore the massive medieval kitchens with their six enormous fireplaces, where feasts for hundreds were prepared. The vaulted ceilings and original bread ovens are remarkably well preserved.
• Cour d'Honneur: The main courtyard offers a striking view of the palace's façade, with the Tour Philippe le Bon as a dramatic backdrop. It's a perfect spot to orient yourself and admire the Renaissance-style well.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least half a day to do justice to the Palais des Ducs. Spend two to three hours exploring the museum's highlights (the tombs and medieval art are the stars), then allow an hour for the tower climb and the kitchens. If you're a history or art enthusiast, consider a full day — the museum's collections are extensive and include works by Veronese, Cranach, and Monet. For a more relaxed visit, combine the palace with a morning at Dijon's market and a leisurely lunch in the old town.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dijon Old Town: A maze of half-timbered houses, Gothic churches, and lively squares like Place de la Libération. Follow the famous 'Owl's Trail' (Parcours de la Chouette) to discover 22 key sights marked by brass arrows in the pavement.
• Côte de Nuits Wine Route: Just south of Dijon, this famous stretch of the Burgundy wine trail passes through iconic villages like Gevrey-Chambertin and Vosne-Romanée. Many domaines offer tastings by appointment.
• Beaune: A 40-minute drive or train ride south, Beaune is the wine capital of Burgundy. Its must-see Hôtel-Dieu (Hospices de Beaune) with its colourful Burgundian-tiled roof is one of France's most beautiful medieval buildings.
• Abbaye de Fontenay: A UNESCO-listed Cistercian abbey about an hour's drive northwest, set in a tranquil valley. It's one of the oldest and best-preserved monastic complexes in Europe, offering a serene contrast to the ducal opulence.

Please check official sources for current details.