
Tour Philippe le Bon Dijon
Climb 316 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of Dijon from the historic Tour Philippe le Bon, a 15th-century bell tower.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos

Tour Philippe le Bon Dijon
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Climb 316 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of Dijon from the historic Tour Philippe le Bon, a 15th-century bell tower.
"The views are incomparable and the tour was really inexpensive, as well as informative!"

🎟️ Book Ahead Online
Secure your spot for the Tour Philippe le Bon Dijon by booking online or at the tourist office.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be climbing 316 steps, so comfortable footwear is a must for the Tour Philippe le Bon Dijon.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views
Top of the tower
Experience unforgettable, sweeping views of Dijon's rooftops and landmarks from the tower's summit.

Informative Guided Tour
Throughout the tower ascent
Learn about the tower's rich history with engaging talks at intervals during your climb.

The 316 Steps
Tower staircase
Conquer the iconic 316 steps, a rewarding challenge with well-spaced stops to catch your breath.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tower Tour in Advance
Prepare for the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Ahead Online
Secure your spot for the Tour Philippe le Bon Dijon by booking online or at the tourist office.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be climbing 316 steps, so comfortable footwear is a must for the Tour Philippe le Bon Dijon.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city views from the top are incredible! Don't forget your camera for the Tour Philippe le Bon Dijon.
🗣️ English Tours Available
Tours are offered in both French and English, making the history accessible to all visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Ahead Online
Secure your spot for the Tour Philippe le Bon Dijon by booking online or at the tourist office.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be climbing 316 steps, so comfortable footwear is a must for the Tour Philippe le Bon Dijon.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city views from the top are incredible! Don't forget your camera for the Tour Philippe le Bon Dijon.
🗣️ English Tours Available
Tours are offered in both French and English, making the history accessible to all visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Tour Philippe le Bon Dijon for its incredible panoramic city views and the excellent, informative guided tours. The climb of 316 steps is considered manageable with frequent stops, and the overall experience is highly praised for its value and historical insights. Some note minor limitations with photography barriers at the very top.
"On the night of 21 July, 2024, my wife asked me if I’d join her to climb up the tower the following day, I said no right away as I did not want to repeat the knee straining experience.
My wife booked the 3pm guided tour and I watched possible signs of her from down under. I had thought about taking a photo take of her when she was up.
It tuned out that there was an additional safety barrier on the tower roof and I could only capture her selfie camera stick when she extended it beyond the barrier."
Peter Kam Fai Cheung
"Great view from the top of the tower over the city. The tour guide was excellent. 316 steps up but stop at intervals for a guided talk."
John O Gorman
"I honestly thought the climb would be harder. I didn’t get winded, and the stairs were wide enough not to have to “grapevine” sideways up and down them. The tour was really inexpensive, as well as informative! And there were a few breaks in the ascent to learn about the tower’s history, and catch your breath if necessary. And the views are incomparable!"
K J
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tour Philippe le Bon is located in the heart of Dijon, easily accessible by foot from the city center. If arriving by public transport, tram lines T1 and T2 stop nearby at the 'Godrans' station. Parking is available in several underground lots around the city center.
Yes, the tower is a prominent landmark in Dijon's historic center, often visible from many points. It's situated near the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, making it a central point of interest.
From Dijon train station (Gare de Dijon-Ville), you can take a short tram ride on line T1 or T2 towards the city center, alighting at the 'Godrans' stop. Alternatively, it's a pleasant 15-20 minute walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Tour Philippe le Bon Dijon must be purchased as part of a guided tour. You can book online through the official Dijon tourism website or in person at the Dijon Tourist Information Office. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Tour times vary depending on the season and day of the week. It's essential to check the official Dijon tourism website for the most up-to-date schedule and book your preferred time slot. Tours are typically offered in the afternoon.
The cost for the guided tour of Tour Philippe le Bon is generally very inexpensive, making it a great value for the experience and the views. Specific pricing can be found on the Dijon tourism website when booking.
While it might be possible to purchase tickets on the day if spots are available, it's strongly advised to book in advance, especially during busy periods, to avoid disappointment.
There are no specific age restrictions mentioned, but the climb involves 316 steps. Visitors should be able to manage the ascent. Children should be accompanied by an adult. The tour stops allow for breaks.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The climb involves 316 steps. While it's a good workout, the tour includes stops at intervals where the guide shares historical information, allowing you to rest and catch your breath. The stairs are described as wide enough for comfortable ascent and descent.
The entire guided tour, including the climb and the historical talks, typically lasts around 45 minutes to an hour. This allows ample time to enjoy the views and learn about the tower's history.
From the summit, you'll get a breathtaking panoramic view of Dijon's historic city center, including the rooftops, the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, and the surrounding landscape. It's considered an unforgettable part of a trip to France.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the base of the tower or within the tourist information center where tours often commence. It's advisable to use facilities before starting the climb.
Absolutely! Reviewers consistently praise the 'incomparable' and 'unforgettable' panoramic views from the top, making the 316-step climb a highly rewarding experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The most stunning photos will be taken from the very top, capturing the panoramic cityscape of Dijon. During the ascent, you can also capture interesting shots of the tower's architecture and the spiral staircase.
Yes, photography is generally permitted during the guided tour. However, be mindful of the guide's instructions and other visitors. The stops for historical talks are good moments to capture the views without rushing.
While general photography is allowed, there might be specific areas with safety barriers where extending equipment beyond them is not permitted. Always adhere to any posted signs or guide instructions.
Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for cityscapes. However, any time of day provides a great perspective. Check the weather for clear skies for optimal visibility.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a tour during a less crowded time if possible to allow for a more relaxed experience. The informative talks can be engaging for older children who are interested in history. It's a great way to combine physical activity with sightseeing in Dijon.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of Tour Philippe le Bon
Architecturally, the tower is a square-based structure that tapers slightly as it ascends. It features a prominent spiral staircase, comprising the 316 steps that visitors now ascend. The design prioritizes both structural integrity and a sense of grandeur. While its original function was tied to the ducal palace, it has since become a beloved landmark offering unparalleled views of Dijon, symbolizing the city's rich historical tapestry.
Today, the tower is a popular tourist attraction, offering a unique perspective on Dijon's past and present. The guided tours provide insights into its construction, its role in ducal life, and the stories behind its bells. The experience of climbing the tower is not just about the physical ascent but also about connecting with centuries of history embedded in its stones.
Experiencing the Climb: Tips from Visitors
Comfortable footwear is universally recommended. The stairs, while numerous, are described as wide enough to allow for a steady climb without feeling cramped. Some visitors mention that they didn't get winded, while others appreciated the opportunity to pause and enjoy the views that gradually open up as you ascend. The tour guides are praised for their excellent delivery, making the historical narrative engaging throughout the climb.
For those concerned about the physical exertion, remember that the tour is designed to be accessible. The reward at the top – the sweeping panoramic views of Dijon – is consistently described as breathtaking and well worth the effort. It's an experience that combines physical activity with historical discovery and stunning visual rewards.
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