Dijon Burgundy And The Rhone, France Travel Guide
While Dijon has a regional airport (DIJ) with limited commercial flights, most international visitors arrive via larger hubs and connect by train or car. Key international airports include Lyon-Saint Exupéry (LYS), Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Paris Orly (ORY), and Geneva Airport (GVA) in Switzerland. Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner help find flights.
From CDG, take the RER B to Paris Gare de Lyon, then a TGV train directly to Dijon Ville (1h 40m - 2h). From LYS, take the Rhônexpress tram to Lyon Part-Dieu, then a TGV or TER train to Dijon (1h 30m - 2h). From GVA, a local train to Geneva Cornavin, then a TGV or TER train to Dijon (2h - 2h 30m). Car rental options are also available at these airports.
Flight prices typically peak during high season (June-August) and holidays.
April-May, Sep-Oct provide better value flights and fewer crowds.
Major airports supply full facilities including car rentals, shops, and lounges.
A valid national driver's license is needed. For non-EU/EEA licenses, an International Driving Permit (IDP) accompanies your national license. Most rental companies need drivers to be 21-25. DiscoverCars.com for rental options.
France has an excellent road network. Autoroutes (motorways) have tolls. Speed limits undergo strict enforcement. Drive on the right. Seatbelts are mandatory. A Car charger for your phone helps with navigation.
Driving in Dijon's city center can present challenges due to narrow, one-way streets, pedestrian zones, and limited parking. Parking can also attain a high cost in central areas. Underground garages are available.
No specific exit fees or taxes apply upon departure from France for tourists; your ticket typically includes all taxes. For international flights from major airports (CDG, LYS, GVA), arrive 2-3 hours prior. For European flights, 1.5-2 hours. For domestic train departures, arrive at Dijon Ville station 15-20 minutes prior.
Major airports (CDG, ORY, LYS, GVA) extend extensive facilities for departing travelers, including a wide array of shops, restaurants, cafes, lounges, and duty-free areas for last-minute purchases. Dijon Ville train station supplies basic amenities like newsstands, cafes, and waiting areas.
France is part of the Schengen Area, simplifying entry.
Car rentals available for regional exploration.
Dijon is inland; direct sea/river access is not applicable.
Road conditions in and around Dijon maintain an excellent standard. Be prepared for tolls on autoroutes (motorways). Speed limits receive strict enforcement. Driving in Dijon's city center can present challenges due to narrow, one-way streets, pedestrian zones, and limited parking. A GPS navigation device aids navigation.
On-street parking in Dijon's city center is mostly paid and often is a maximum of two hours. Underground parking garages (e.g., Darcy, Grangier, Sainte-Anne) are available and gain recommendation for longer stays or overnight parking. Parking can reach a high cost in the most central areas. Outside the city center, street parking may be free or less regulated.
International car rental company with offices in Dijon, often at the train station.
Widely available major rental brands in Dijon for various vehicle types.
Additional options for car rentals, with competitive pricing.
Opting for high-speed train travel (TGV) from Paris or Lyon often has the most efficient and comfortable way to reach Dijon's city center, bypassing airport transfers and parking concerns.
