Introducing Dijon

For centuries, Dijon languished on the sidelines as a provincial, rather dull sort of place famous only for its mustard. Recently, the great Renaissance city which flourished during the 15th century has sprung to life, thanks to François Rebsamen (Dijon’s trailblazing mayor) and his mastermind project, ‘Le Grand Dijon.’ Along with shiny new trams, pedestrianized streets, and spruced up squares, the city’s aura of musty classicism is now imbued with a sleek modern edge.

The former capital of the Dukes of Burgundy, Dijon’s historic center bursts at the seams with medieval and Renaissance buildings which stack up against half-timbered houses and exquisite 17th-century mansions. Many of the streets that encircle the Neoclassical Palais des Ducs—the lavish former palace of Burgundy’s dukes—are named for the traditional industries that flourished during the 15th century: Rue Verrerie (glassmaking); Rue Vannerie (basket weaving); and Rue Forges (metalwork). The eastern wing of the palace houses the stellar Musée des Beaux-Artes, widely considered one of the nation’s preeminent museums. A treasure trove of sublime sculpture and European art spanning the 14th through 19th century, it’s one of the city’s must-see sights.

Dijon is a city that likes to indulge the mind and body. Refined cuisine forms a pleasing counterpart to the region’s prized red wines. The city has more than its share of gourmet restaurants, with a sprinkle of Michelin stars to boot. It’s during the summer months that Dijon really shows its cultural stripes. Where lively cafés spill out on to the city’s Neoclassical squares, philosophical chit chit fills the air. And, there are festivals galore, spanning music, art, film, fashion, and flowers.

Airports within a 50-mile radius of the Dijon:

  • Longvic Airport (DIJ)
    • Challanges Airport (XBV)
    • Tavaux Airport (DLE)

Popular aircraft charters* in the Dijon area include:

  • Citation Excel (super light)
  • Learjet 45 XR (super light)
  • Citation CJ3 (light)
  • Learjet 31ER 400A (light)
  • Learjet 60 XR (midsize)
  • Citation III (midsize)
  • Gulfstream G200 (super midsize)
  • Citation Sovereign (super midsize)

*This is just a sample. Zephyr provides access to aircraft at every end of the spectrum, from luxurious VIP airliners, to ultra long range business jet, helicopters, and economical turboprops.