Hello. We are planning a car trip to Burgundy in May and have a couple of questions. Maybe someone has advice. Is it difficult to drive into Dijon and to stay there at a hotel? I would like to see Dijon, but some people say it isn't worth the hassle of driving into the sprawling city to the city center.
Also, does anyone have an opinion about traveling to Burgundy in May as far as the weather goes? Is it better (warmer) to go in June?
Thanks!
We had a rental car in Burgundy and Dijon. We ended up staying in Talant, a lively northern suburb of Dijon. We stayed at the Hotel Bonbonniere which was great with a good breakfast and free parking. Driving around Dijon was challenging but GPS really helped. We wanted the rental car mainly to drive around the small villages of Burgundy.
I know that I did drive into Dijon 20 years ago with no particular issue, but then I left the car parked and took a bus into the city center. Here's an example of a parking garage near the train station, which is usually a well-signed destination and also near some hotels. From Beaune train station to Dijon train station (for instance), is a very straight driving route, as well as a straight train ride, if you no longer need the car.
I've been in Burgundy in wet mid-April and also in June. I think May would be spectacular, but of course you can run into bad weather any time. June will get you later sunsets and more daylight.
Especially with a car, in the spring, I woudn't stay in Dijon when I could stay in a smaller town or even out in the countryside. But I should not think it is hard to visit Dijon for a day trip, using your car to get there, as long as you plan to do your actual sightseeing on foot.
If you are able to park the car near the train station, it is a pleasant walk from there to the centre of Dijon. You will pass the Tourist Office on your way (if it hasn’t been relocated.)
Thanks to everyone for your advice! Good thoughts on staying outside the city and leaving the car near the train station. I think we'll get GPS in the car also, so that will certainly help.
I started to question even going to Dijon, because a family member said it wasn't worth it, but it looks like a fascinating and historical city to me. She seemed to think Lyon was more worthwhile for a visit.
FWIW, I have visited both cities.
Lyon is fabulous, Dijon pleasant. Not in the same league by an order of magnitude.
Thank You Adam from Boston! I needed that extra nudge to make my decision. Lyon it is!
