Dijon Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Digital Tools

Applications

Divia Mobilités app:
Necessary for Dijon public transport, offering real-time data and e-tickets.
SNCF Connect:
Official app for French national train travel; check schedules and book tickets.
Google Maps:
A comprehensive navigation tool for walking, driving, and public transport directions.
Google Translate / DeepL:
Valuable translation apps for language barriers; download French for offline use.
Booking.com / Airbnb:
For managing accommodation reservations and discovering other options.

Useful Websites

Www.destinationdijon.com:
The official Dijon Tourist Office website with extensive information.
Www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/:
The official site for train tickets and information on French railways.
Www.divia.fr:
Official website for Dijon's public transport system, with maps and schedules.
Www.bourgognefranchecomte.fr:
Regional tourism portal for Burgundy-Franche-Comté, broader information.
Www.citegastronomiedijon.fr/en/:
Official site for the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin.

Print & Cultural Materials

Guidebooks

A general guidebook on France typically includes Dijon. Pick up free city maps at the Tourist Office.

Find Guidebooks

Local Reads

Explore The Wines of Burgundy by Clive Coates. Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child provides culinary insights.

Burgundy Wine Guide

Local Publications

Look for free city maps and brochures at the Tourist Office. Local magazines like Dijon Mag list current events.

Find Travel Journals Find Phrasebooks

Community & Learning

Online Communities

TripAdvisor forums and Facebook groups offer questions and shared experiences.
Engage with other travelers for advice and insights.
Discover local tips and updates from fellow explorers.
Connect before your trip for planning assistance.

Language Learning

Use Duolingo or Babbel to learn basic French phrases before your visit.
Practice common greetings and polite expressions.
Even a little effort in French is greatly appreciated by locals.
Offline access for language apps can prove invaluable.

Additional Content

Documentaries & Films

Search for documentaries on Burgundy wine or French history.
Films set in the region offer visual context.
These visual aids deepen your understanding.
Discover the region's rich past and present.

Music & Art

Explore French classical music or traditional chansons.
Listen to contemporary French pop.
Engage with French art history prior to your visit.
These cultural elements enrich your journey.

Podcasts & Digital

Listen to podcasts about French culture and history.
Find specific travel guides about France.
These provide enjoyable ways to learn on the go.
Stay informed and entertained.

Safety & Well-being

Emergency Contacts

Urgent Assistance

All emergencies (Europe-wide): 112 (ambulance, fire, police).
Medical Emergency (SAMU): 15 (serious medical cases).
Police (Police Secours): 17 (immediate police assistance).
Fire Brigade (Sapeurs-Pompiers): 18 (fire and rescue services).

Medical Facilities

CHU Dijon Bourgogne: The main university hospital with an emergency department.
Private clinics are also available in Dijon for various needs.
For minor ailments, local pharmacies offer excellent initial assistance.
Seek professional medical advice when needed.

Consular Aid

Locate your country's embassy or consulate in Paris for assistance.
They help with lost passports and emergencies.
Keep their contact information accessible.
They can also provide lists of local doctors or lawyers.

Document Procedures

Lost Documents

Report lost passports or IDs to local police without delay.
Obtain a police report; it is important for replacement procedures.
Contact your embassy for assistance with emergency travel documents.

Digital Copies

Keep photocopies or digital versions of all documents securely stored.
Email copies to yourself or save them to cloud storage for easy access.
This method significantly aids in quicker replacement processes.

Health & Insurance

Health Planning

Consult a travel doctor for any recommended vaccinations before your trip.
Ensure your routine immunizations are up-to-date for international travel.
Consider a Travel first aid kit for minor injuries and ailments.

Insurance Coverage

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and trip disruptions.
Verify your policy details and emergency contact information before departing.
World Nomads offers travel insurance policies for various needs.

Preparation Guidance

Checkpoints

Passport validity and visa requirements should be confirmed early.
International flights and accommodation reservations completed.
High-speed train tickets booked if traveling domestically.
Any specific tours or activities secured in advance.
International Driving Permit obtained if driving.

Final Steps

Confirm all bookings and notify banks of your travel plans.
Research phone roaming options or local SIM cards.
Pack your bags with necessary items, including adapters.
Make digital and physical copies of documents.
Exchange some local currency for immediate needs.

Arrival Essentials

Upon Arrival

Clear immigration and retrieve your luggage efficiently.

Cash & Cards

Locate an ATM for initial cash or verify card functionality. Exchange currency at favorable rates.

Settle In

Find transportation to your accommodation and drop off your bags.

Natural Disaster Protocols

In severe weather events, follow local news and official guidance. Public alerts are broadcast via radio or emergency apps.

Departure & Beyond

Departure Planning

Final Details

Souvenirs:
Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure for secure packing.
Shipping:
Inquire about shipping large or fragile items directly from shops or postal service.
VAT Refund:
Non-EU residents claim VAT refunds on purchases over €100.01; ask for a "détaxe" form.

Travel Logistics

Airport Arrival:
Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights; 15-20 minutes for trains.
Return Trip:
Confirm return flight or train details and have all documents accessible.
Transit Time:
Account for sufficient time to reach the airport or station, considering potential delays.

Future Journeys

Wine Regions

Explore Alsace for white wines or Bordeaux for renowned red blends.

Historic Sites

Discover Loire Valley châteaux, Normandy D-Day beaches, or Avignon's papal history.

City Escapes

Continue culinary adventures in Lyon or explore Strasbourg's unique culture.

Seasonal Returns

Winter Charm

Visit in December to experience festive Christmas markets in Dijon and nearby towns.
Enjoy a cozy and magical atmosphere during the holiday season.
Indulge in hearty winter cuisine and warm beverages.
Discover a different side of the city's beauty.

Off-Season Appeal

Consider a return visit during the off-season for a quieter experience.
Explore museums and cuisine without peak tourist crowds.
exploration of surrounding villages and countryside awaits.
Perhaps cycle the Canal de Bourgogne or embark on extensive hiking trails.

Long-Term Exploration

Culinary Depths

Explore the hints of Burgundian wine and cuisine.
Attend cooking classes to master local dishes.
Discover hidden culinary gems beyond typical tourist spots.
Engage with local chefs and food producers.

Art & History

Explore the architectural wonders of the Dukes of Burgundy.
Visit smaller, specialized museums off the main path.
Participate in historical walking tours for insights.
Uncover the stories behind Dijon's rich heritage.

Future Considerations

Your journey through Dijon is one chapter in a world of travel possibilities.

Dijon Travel Resources