Dijon is a city where history, architecture, and wine come together in a compact, walkable setting. It’s a destination that rewards curious travelers with its well-preserved medieval streets, Renaissance buildings, and legendary mustard. For those wanting to understand this city beyond just its surface charm, there are several excellent historical tours to consider. We particularly like the Small-Group Full-Day Tour of Burgundy’s Vineyards for its combination of wine and heritage, and the Private Walking Tour for a personalized deep dive into Dijon’s story. Both offer unique perspectives—one through the lens of France’s celebrated wine regions, and the other through intimate city exploration.
While Dijon is famed for its mustard, its streets are also lined with stories—ranging from medieval gates to Renaissance palaces. This variety makes it a perfect city for a broad spectrum of history-focused experiences, from guided city walks to tasting tours. Whether you are a history enthusiast or just a curious traveler, these tours help you unlock the city’s secrets with expert insights and authentic encounters.
Quick Overview
Our list features six of the best historical tours in Dijon, each offering a different way to explore the city’s past. Some focus on the region’s renowned wine heritage and include visits to picturesque vineyards (Tour #1), while others provide guided city walks through historic neighborhoods (Tour #3) or private explorations (Tour #5). For a more hands-on experience, there’s a regional wine tasting in the historic center (Tour #2), and for those interested in local gastronomy and architecture, tours that combine both are also available (Tour #4). Lastly, for a personalized touch, the private Dijon Heritage Tour offers tailored insights into the city’s landmarks.
1. Small-Group Full-Day Tour of Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune Vineyards and Beaune Historical District
At number one, this full-day wine tour from Dijon combines the best of Burgundy’s vineyard scenery with a deep dive into regional wine history. The tour is limited to just eight people, ensuring personalized attention as you visit boutique wineries and learn about Premier and Grand Cru classifications. The driver takes you through scenic vineyard landscapes, and the guide shares stories about how soil, slope, and climate influence Burgundy’s famous reds and whites.
You’ll gain access to local cellars, where you’ll sample a variety of 12 wines, including some from Premier Cru and Grand Cru vineyards—an experience that wine enthusiasts will find invaluable. The tour also includes free time in Beaune, the charming wine capital, to enjoy lunch (own expense), explore the old town, or visit the Moutarderie Fallot mustard house. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and unhurried pace, making this a top pick for anyone wanting a comprehensive wine and heritage experience. Bottom line: perfect for wine lovers who want a relaxed, intimate look at Burgundy’s vineyards and heritage.
2. Historic Center of Dijon: Discovery Tasting Wine Burgundy
For those interested in tasting regional wines while exploring the city’s historic heart, this Discovery Tasting offers a compact, budget-friendly introduction. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll visit a 16th and 18th-century cellar, where you’ll sample 5 wines, including a Premier Cru, paired with homemade gougère—Delicious! The tour emphasizes terroir and the history of Burgundy wine-making, providing context as you sip in an authentic setting.
What makes this experience stand out is the chance to taste wines directly vinified in the cellar, giving you a clear link between the land, the wine, and the tradition. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of Burgundy’s wine culture without committing to a full day. The reviews praise the authenticity of the cellar and the friendly guides. You also have the option to buy bottles directly from the shop or dine at the attached restaurant. Bottom line: a perfect quick stop for wine-curious visitors wanting flavor and history in a cozy setting.
3. Dijon: Historic Guided Walking Tour
If you prefer to explore on foot and get a solid overview of Dijon’s architecture and history, this 2-hour guided walking tour is a fantastic choice. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll see key landmarks such as the Palace of the Dukes, Liberation Square, and the Museum of Decorative Arts. The tour covers both Gothic and Renaissance architecture, providing context for the city’s evolution.
The guide shares fun tidbits like the legend of the Owl of Dijon, and the visit to the Maille mustard shop offers a flavorful peek into the city’s most famous product. The reviews reflect appreciation for the insightful commentary and the opportunity to see the city’s highlights efficiently. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a taste of Dijon’s historic fabric without a long commitment. Bottom line: a well-paced, informative intro to Dijon’s streets and stories.
4. Dijon: Discover its history and taste regional products
For those who want to combine history, architecture, and regional flavors, this guided tour offers a 3-hour deep dive led by a local author who has written extensively about Dijon. The guide, who has authored over ten books, takes you to places normally closed to the public for private tastings of local specialties and wines. You’ll learn about Dijon’s history while sampling regional cheeses, bread, and regional dishes.
This tour is especially valued for its customization options and the private tastings, making it suitable for foodies and history lovers alike. The guide’s expertise means you get rich anecdotes about the city’s traditions and architecture, plus access to hidden corners of Dijon. Reviewers mention how the tour provides unexpected insights and a personal touch. Bottom line: ideal for travelers seeking a tailored, gastronomy-focused experience blended with history.
5. Dijon: Private Walking Tour – Discover History & Heritage
For a personalized exploration, this Private Walking Tour offers a tailored experience of Dijon’s historic sites over 2 hours. Led by a dedicated guide, you’ll stroll through medieval streets and admire the Gothic Notre-Dame church, the Ducal Palace, and the symbolic Owl. The tour’s flexibility means you can focus on the landmarks that interest you most.
This tour is perfect if you’re traveling with a small group or as a couple and want a customized itinerary. The guide’s historical insights help you understand Dijon’s past in a relaxed, unhurried manner. Reviewers highlight the warm, engaging guide and the intimate atmosphere. The price reflects the personalized service and small-group experience. Bottom line: best suited for travelers who want a private, in-depth look at Dijon’s heritage with flexibility.
6. Dijon – Historic Guided Walking Tour
Finally, this shared city walk is an excellent option for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Dijon’s history and architecture without the need for a private guide. Covering landmarks like Place Darcy, the Porte Guillaume, and the Place de la Libération, the tour emphasizes Dijon’s medieval and Renaissance past.
The 2-hour walk is tailored to fit your interests and is suitable for those who enjoy casual, informative tours. The reviews mention the friendly guide and the opportunity to discover hidden details in the city’s streets. Comfortably paced and suitable for all ages, this tour offers good value for its price. Bottom line: a practical, engaging way to get your bearings and history fix in Dijon.
How to Choose the Best Historical Tour in Dijon
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and how deep you want to go into wine, architecture, or local gastronomy. For a comprehensive wine experience, the Small-Group Full-Day Burgundy Tour provides a perfect balance of scenery and tasting. If city history is your focus, the Guided City Walk or the Private Heritage Tour are excellent options, especially if you prefer a more personalized experience. Budget-conscious travelers might opt for the Discovery Wine Tasting, which delivers a rich taste of Burgundy’s wine culture in an intimate setting.
Timing is also important: summer and early fall are ideal for vineyard tours, while city walks can be enjoyed year-round. Book early during peak times, especially for private or small-group experiences, to secure your spot.
Dijon offers a diverse range of historical tours, from wine cellars and private heritage walks to city explorations. Whether you want to sip Burgundy’s finest wines in the vineyards or step back into medieval streets in the city center, there’s a tour suited to your interests. For the best experience, think about what aspect of Dijon’s story excites you most and pick a tour that matches your pace and curiosity. Now is the time to secure your spot—these tours tend to fill up!