Palais des Ducs, Dijon

Palace in Dijon

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ketounette

A visit to Dijon often begins at the Palais des Ducs, the architectural and emotional heart of the city. This grand complex reflects centuries of Burgundian history, from its medieval towers to its classical façades shaped by Jules Hardouin-Mansart. It is one of the top sights in Dijon, and wandering through its courtyards gives you a sense of the city's layered past, all within steps of its vibrant café scene. The palace embraces the Place de la Libération, a beautifully curved square created in the 17th century and now a favourite place for locals to gather, especially since traffic was removed and the space became a peaceful haven for pedestrians.

Dominating the palace's eastern side is the 14th-century Tour de Bar, home to the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Nearby stands the 15th-century Tour Philippe-le-Bon, a soaring tower accessible only by guided visit. The climb rewards you with far-reaching views of Dijon's rooftops, including the colourful glazed tiles of the Hôtel de Vogüé and the cathedral's towers. This spot is one of the best places to see in Palais des Ducs, often visited on walking tours of Dijon for the perspective it offers over the cityscape and, on clear days, even the distant Jura Mountains.

History and Significance of Palais des Ducs
Things to See and Do in Palais des Ducs
How to Get to Palais des Ducs
Practical Tips on Visiting Palais des Ducs
Where to Stay close to Palais des Ducs
Is Palais des Ducs Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Palais des Ducs — display questions in bold and answers non-bold .
Nearby Attractions to Palais des Ducs

History and Significance of Palais des Ducs

The Palais des Ducs began as the residence of the powerful Dukes of Burgundy, whose influence in medieval Europe rivalled that of kings. Their court was renowned for its wealth, culture, and political reach, and the palace they built in Dijon still reflects this ambition. The oldest section, the Tour de Bar, dates to the 14th century and served both strategic and symbolic purposes as a demonstration of ducal strength.

As the centuries progressed, the palace evolved. When Burgundy became part of France, the complex gained a new role as the seat of regional administration. In the late 17th century, architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart reshaped much of the site into a more classical French style, creating the sweeping courtyards and the elegant Place de la Libération. Today, the Palais des Ducs is not only a historic monument but also home to Dijon's town hall and the outstanding Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of the oldest museums in France.

Things to See and Do in Palais des Ducs

Exploring the palace begins in the Cour d'Honneur, where the classical façades frame a wide, open space ideal for appreciating the building's scale. From here, it is easy to wander directly into the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which spans everything from medieval sculpture to 19th-century painting. The preserved tombs of the Dukes of Burgundy are among the museum's most captivating displays.

The Tour Philippe-le-Bon is another highlight. Accessed only via guided tour, it offers an immersive journey through Dijon’s medieval architecture before culminating in the wide-open terrace at its summit. The panoramic views stretch across the entire city, from the patterned roofs of Burgundy’s grand houses to the rolling countryside beyond.

How to Get to Palais des Ducs

Dijon is easy to reach by air thanks to its proximity to major airports in Lyon and Paris. After landing, direct trains or regional connections make the journey straightforward. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Dijon on Booking.com.

Travelling by train is one of the simplest ways to arrive in Dijon, which sits on major high-speed routes linking Paris, Lyon, Strasbourg, and beyond. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

Reaching the palace by car is also possible, with several parking areas available around the historic centre, although it is best to park once and explore on foot due to pedestrian zones. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Palais des Ducs

Best time to visit Palais des Ducs: Spring and early autumn offer comfortable weather and fewer crowds.
Entrance fee in Euros: The Musée des Beaux-Arts is free; the Tour Philippe-le-Bon has a small guided-tour fee.
Opening hours: Hours vary seasonally, so it is best to check before you go.
Official website: Available through the city of Dijon’s cultural information portal.
How long to spend: Plan around two hours, more if you want to explore the museum fully.
Accessibility: The courtyards are accessible, though the tower requires climbing stairs.
Facilities: Cafés, restaurants, public restrooms, and tourist information are all nearby.
Photography tip: The top of the Tour Philippe-le-Bon offers wide views and excellent light at sunset.
Guided-tours: Required for accessing and climbing the Tour Philippe-le-Bon.
Nearby food options: Numerous cafés and brasseries line the Place de la Libération.

Where to Stay close to Palais des Ducs

Staying near the Palais des Ducs places you in the centre of Dijon's historic district, ideal for exploring on foot. Boutique options such as Grand Hôtel La Cloche offer a blend of classic comfort and modern luxury. A smaller and more intimate stay can be found at Maison Philippe le Bon, which combines period charm with contemporary design. Travellers seeking modern convenience might prefer Hostellerie du Chapeau Rouge, just a short walk from the palace.

Is Palais des Ducs Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Palais des Ducs is absolutely worth visiting. Its blend of medieval and classical architecture, free museum access, and the unforgettable views from the Tour Philippe-le-Bon make it one of the must-see places in Dijon. Whether you enjoy art, history, or simply wandering elegant European squares, the palace offers a rewarding experience.

FAQs for Visiting Palais des Ducs — display questions in bold and answers non-bold .

Example Question
Example answer

Nearby Attractions to Palais des Ducs

Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne: A charming museum exploring Burgundy’s rural and urban heritage.
Jardin Darcy: A pleasant green space perfect for a quiet stroll.
Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne: A striking church with a fascinating crypt.
Rue de la Liberté: Dijon's main shopping street, lively and easy to explore.
Hôtel de Vogüé: A masterpiece of Burgundian Renaissance architecture with its iconic glazed tiles.

The Palais des Ducs appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Dijon!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!