Forget Paris-Have A Fantastic Dijon Vacation

Dijon - Paris's Burgundian Neighbor: An Appetizing Break From Paris

Once you've gotten your cheap airfare to Paris, France or found that great Paris travel or vacation or hotel deal, you can take a deep sigh of relief. Now you are ready to have fun, focus and explore. You'll soon see why Paris is the world's top tourist destination. Dijon, a day trip from Paris, is one such jewel in France's tourism crown.

Many Americans are familiar with the humorous Grey Poupon mustard commercials. When it comes to Dijon mustard, Grey Poupon is probably the most recognizable brand . 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 history.

Situated between France's border with Switzerland and Paris, France's capital , is the quaint little city of Dijon. It was here that combinations of white wine and grape juice produced the uniquely flavored mustard now know around the world as Dijon mustard. Naturally, visitors will wish to grab an original jar of the famous mustard to take back home, but what else can be seen here?

Dijon's Architecture

Just like 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 quaint locale is home to an amazing collection of churches and other religious buildings. Among these buildings 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 interesting designs. The intricately sculptured walls provide an air of inspiration as you make your way through the lightly colored halls.

Shopping in Dijon

Dijon offers outstanding shopping , a wonderful place to search for presents to give to your friends and family after returning from your trip to 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 lots of cafés , fashionable boutiques and decadant chocolate shops. Dijon only adds to the incentive to find cheap flights to Paris, 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 14th century. A trip to the top of the tower provides visitors with a breathtaking photo opportunity. All around, the town of Dijon lay before you. Buildings range from the charmingly ordinary to the sharply pointed steeples and gently curved domes of churches. Altogether creating an interesting skyline. The ancient palace was demolished then later rebuilt in the 17th 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 lies in close proximity to Burgundy's famous vineyards . Wine lovers must visit the Cote de Nuits and the Chateau du Clos de Vougeot. The wine cellars here date back to the 12th century, and when it is warm outside, these cellars provide a lovely, cool tour after roaming outside, taking in the beautifully vibrant vineyards. Of course, no tour to Dijon 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. As you can see, getting your Paris hotel deals and cheap flights to Paris, France in hand is just the beginning, Dijon and the rest of France beckon!