The Last Minute Travel Fact Center

Once you’ve gotten your flights to France or gotten that great Paris travel or vacation or hotel deal, you can relax .  Now’s the time to really have fun and plan and explore.  You’ll soon see why Paris is the world’s top tourist destination.  Dijon, a day trip from Paris, is one such gem in France’s tourism crown.

Most Americans and Canadians are familiar with the funny Grey Poupon mustard commercials. When it comes to Dijon mustard, Grey Poupon is probably the most recognizable brand out there.  However, there is much about where this mustard originates from that folks don’t know . Beyond the influences of catchy condiment advertising is a region of culture and intriguing history.

Situated between France’s border with Switzerland and Paris, the City of Lights, is the charming little city of Dijon.  It was here that combinations of white wine and grape juice produced the uniquely flavored mustard of the same name .  Naturally, visitors will want to purchase an original jar of the famous mustard to take back home, but what else can be seen here?

Architecture of Dijon

Falling in line with many neighboring regions of France, Dijon claims some inspiring architecture as expressed in its churches. Often referred to as the “town of a hundred spires,” this charming locale is home to an amazing collection of churches and other religious buildings. Among these beautiful edifices is the La Chapelle de Elus, or Chapel of the Elected Representatives. Construction on the Chapelle began in 1738.  A tour of its interior presents an array of elegantly complex designs.  The intricately sculptured walls provide an air of refinement as you make your way through the lightly colored halls.

Shopping in Dijon

Dijon offers great shopping , a wonderful place to look for presents to give to your friends and family after returning from your vacation in France . In Dijon , visitors can find one of the famous Galeries Lafayette department stores. Located at 41, rue Liberté, this massive retailer offers a variety of items.  The La Toison d’Or is a second option for shoppers. There are also wonderful cafes, fashionable boutiques and tempting chocolate shops. Dijon only adds to the incentive to find dirt cheap airline tickets to France so that you can spend more of your vacation euros on shopping and gourmet treats!

Tour Philippe le Bon

The Tour Philippe le Bon, or “Good Philip’s Tower” stands at 46 meters and encircles the Dukes of Burgundy. The oldest portions of this historic structure date back to the fourteenth century. A trip to the top of the tower provides you with a breathtaking photo opportunity. All around, the town of Dijon sprawls out before you.  Buildings range from the mundane to the dramatically pointed spires and gently curved domes of churches.  Altogether creating an interesting skyline.  The ancient palace was demolished then later rebuilt in the seventeenth century, and currently acts as Dijon’s town hall. Many of the palace’s significant rooms, such as the vast reception halls and grand kitchens, were transformed into fine art museums.

Wine With Your Dijon?

Dijon, the capital of Burgundy is close to the famous Burgundy vineyards . Wine lovers must visit the Cote de Nuits and the Chateau du Clos de Vougeot. The wine cellars here date back to the twelve century, and when it is warm outside, these wine cellars provide a lovely, cool tour after roaming outside, taking in the beautifully vibrant vineyards. It goes without saying, no tour to Dijon or Burgundy would be complete without the obligatory wine tasting as you explore the cellars.    
The Route des Grand Crus, or “Road of the Great Wines” runs through this area. Most famous of the wine produced are excellent red wines. Clearly, getting your hotels in Paris, France chosen and cheap flights to Paris, France in hand is just the beginning, Dijon and the rest of France beckon!