Rue des Forges, Dijon

Street in Dijon

Rue Des Forges
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Dennis G. Jarvis

Rue des Forges is one of the things to do in Dijon that no visitor should miss—a winding, elegant street running through the heart of the historic centre, lined with medieval timber-framed houses, opulent Renaissance mansions, and bustling boutiques. It connects Place François-Rude to Place de la Libération and offers one of the most atmospheric walks in the city, revealing centuries of architectural and cultural heritage. With landmarks such as the Hôtel Chambellan, Château de Belin, the Hôtel Aubriot, and the Hôtel Maillard, the street is a living museum of Dijon's prosperous past.

Today, Rue des Forges is often visited on walking tours of Dijon for its perfect blend of history and local life. Its mixture of shops, restaurants, charming façades, and noble townhouses gives it a timeless character that sums up the beauty of the old Burgundian capital.

History and Significance of Rue des Forges

Rue des Forges has been one of the most prestigious streets in Dijon since the Middle Ages, developing as a merchant and artisan route before becoming home to some of the city's wealthiest families. During the Renaissance and early modern period, affluent parliamentarians and nobles built private mansions here, each featuring elaborate courtyards, sculpted façades, and ornate Renaissance details.

The street's name hints at its medieval origins, recalling the blacksmiths and metalworkers who once plied their trade here. Over time, as Dijon grew into the capital of the powerful Duchy of Burgundy and later a thriving parliamentary city, the mansions along Rue des Forges came to symbolise status and influence. Many façades and courtyards remain remarkably intact, offering a fascinating journey through the city's architectural evolution.

Things to See and Do in Rue des Forges

A stroll along Rue des Forges reveals some of the most beautiful façades in Dijon. Highlights include:

Hôtel Chambellan, known for its stunning late Gothic staircase tower, carved timber beams, and atmospheric inner courtyard. Hôtel Aubriot stands out with its ornate stonework and medieval origins. The 16th-century Hôtel Maillard offers Renaissance elegance, while the Château de Belin displays refined 18th-century classical lines. Together, these mansions showcase centuries of artistic styles and civic pride.

Timber-framed houses with overhanging upper floors sit alongside Baroque and Renaissance façades, creating a rich visual tapestry. The street is also full of delightful boutiques, cafés, chocolatiers, and artisan shops, making it an excellent place to stroll, shop, or simply absorb the city's atmosphere. As one of the best places to visit in Dijon, Rue des Forges captures the essence of the old town's charm and refinement.

How to Get to Rue des Forges

Rue des Forges is located in the very centre of Dijon's historic district, running between Place François-Rude and Place de la Libération. Travellers flying into the region usually arrive via Lyon-Saint-Exupéry Airport, which has a wide range of international and domestic connections. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Dijon on Booking.com.

Dijon-Ville station, with frequent TGV services to Paris, Lyon, Strasbourg, and Lausanne, is within walking distance of the street or a short tram ride through the old town. 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.

Visitors travelling by car will find public car parks around the edges of the pedestrian zone, allowing easy access on foot to Rue des Forges. 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 Rue des Forges

  • Best time to visit Rue des Forges: Early evening, when façades glow warmly and shops are still open.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free; it is a public street.
  • Opening hours: Always accessible.
  • Official website: Check Dijon tourism listings for updates and mansion visiting hours.
  • How long to spend: 20 to 45 minutes for a stroll; longer if exploring shops or courtyards.
  • Accessibility: Fully pedestrian and mostly level; some courtyards may have steps.
  • Facilities: Shops, cafés, and rest areas throughout the street.
  • Photography tip: Capture the dramatic staircase tower of Hôtel Chambellan from within its courtyard.
  • Guided tours: Frequently included in Dijon heritage tours.
  • Nearby food options: Numerous restaurants and chocolatiers along and around Rue des Forges.

Where to Stay close to Rue des Forges

Staying near Rue des Forges places you in the heart of Dijon's old town. A luxurious and convenient option is Grand Hôtel La Cloche Dijon, offering refined comfort in a historic setting. A boutique choice closer to the palace district is Hostellerie du Chapeau Rouge, perfect for guests seeking elegance and gourmet dining. For a modern stay within easy reach of the street, Vertigo Hôtel blends contemporary design with central convenience.

Add a Is Rue des Forges Worth Visiting?

Yes, Rue des Forges is absolutely worth visiting. Its blend of grand mansions, medieval houses, lively shops, and atmospheric charm makes it one of Dijon's most iconic streets. Whether you're exploring architectural gems, capturing picturesque photos, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, it offers a memorable experience at the heart of the historic centre.

FAQs for Visiting Rue des Forges

What is the street best known for?
Its Renaissance mansions, Gothic details, and beautifully preserved façades.

Can you visit the courtyards?
Some are open during heritage days or special events; others are visible from the street.

Is Rue des Forges pedestrian-friendly?
Yes, it is part of Dijon’s main pedestrian zone.

How long does it take to walk the street?
Around 20 minutes without stops, longer if exploring shops or landmarks.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, families enjoy the traffic-free environment and nearby cafés.

Nearby Attractions to Rue des Forges

The Rue des Forges appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Dijon!

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Visiting Rue des Forges

Hours:

24 Hours

Price:

Free

Address: Rue des Forges, Dijon, France
Dijon: 0 km

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