A Guide To The Dijon Neighborhood Of Port du Canal

Located in the southern part of the town, the lively neighborhood of Port Du Canal in Dijon, France is home to around 15,000 residents and offers a wonderful mix of both history and modern living.

As you stroll around this vibrant area, you’ll notice the picturesque canal that gives the neighborhood its name. The Burgundy Canal winds its way along the town’s southern edge, providing a scenic backdrop for cozy cafes, bustling shops, and peaceful walks. The historic center of Dijon is only an easy 15-minute walk from the canal, so you’re never far from the heart of this charming French city.

In Port Du Canal, you’ll experience the best of both worlds – a tranquil, picturesque setting combined with the energy and liveliness of a flourishing university town. If you’re looking for an authentic experience amidst the beauty of Dijon, then Port Du Canal is just the neighborhood for you. 

Historical Significance

Dijon, known for its mustard and medieval history, has loads of charm and a friendly atmosphere usually found in smaller towns. One significant part of its history is the Port du Canal neighborhood. This picturesque area got its name from its geographical location.

In the 18th century, King Louis XV of France ordered the creation of the Canal de Bourgogne, and Port du Canal de Dijon served as a crucial trade center. It has since transformed into a recreational port, offering a tranquil spot for locals and visitors to relax and soak in the area’s beauty.

Cultural Highlights

Dijon’s Port du Canal neighborhood is rich with cultural experiences that you can savor. Let’s dive into some of its top attractions.

First up, the canal itself from which Port Du Canal derives its name.

Art isn’t just confined to galleries in this area; the Port du Canal is a living, breathing example of the French concept of art de vivre. As you stroll along its banks, you’ll notice beautifully-painted barges and houseboats. The atmosphere is so serene and idyllic; it’s hard to believe you’re in the heart of a bustling city.

From Port du Canal, you can dive right into the culinary culture of Dijon at Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin. Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin is a culinary showcase of French food. At the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie, you can attend a tasting, take a class, or head out on a culinary tour of the city.

Leisure and Recreation

Port du Canal is a picturesque neighborhood in Dijon, perfect for those looking to unwind and soak in the beauty of the city. The area is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists, owing to its peaceful atmosphere and scenic setting.

One of the best ways to kick back and relax in the Port du Canal neighborhood is by taking a leisurely stroll along the serene waterways. You’ll find plenty of paths and green spaces, providing you with a great opportunity to soak up the natural beauty of the area. Make sure to keep an eye out for the impressive Rêve Ailé (Winged Dream) sculpture by Robert Rigot, featuring a sleek metallic bird taking flight.

If you’re more into green spaces and gardens, the nearby Jardin des Sciences de l’Arquebuse is definitely a must-visit. This stunning botanical garden offers a wide variety of plants and flowers, making it an ideal spot to unwind with nature. In addition, it incorporates a science museum and even a planetarium, if you’re in the mood for a bit of learning during your relaxation time.

The neighborhood also offers various parks that cater to your relaxation needs, including the good-sized Promenade du Bief de l’Ouche. Feel free to pack a picnic and head to any of these lush areas, or simply find a comfortable spot to read a book or people-watch. You’ll be amazed at how quickly time flies by as you unwind amongst the greenery.

So, if you find yourself in Dijon and are searching for the perfect place to relax and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city, look no further than the charming Port du Canal neighborhood. It’s a little oasis right in the heart of the city, waiting for you to explore and enjoy.

Gastronomic Experience

As the heart of Burgundy, Dijon is all about delicious food and wine. So, it’s no surprise that your taste buds are in for a treat when you dive into the Port du Canal neighborhood’s gastronomic experience. From mouthwatering mustard to delicate Chablis, you simply must indulge during your visit.

The jewel in Port du Canal’s culinary crown, of course, is the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin. While not exactly a food hall, the Cité Internationale does hold regular tastings of local food producers, making it a perfect spot for popping in to sample some local flavor. 

And, of course, you can’t leave without unearthing some Chablis. This world-famous white wine is a Burgundian treasure, and it’s perfect paired with the local cuisine. 

Port du Canal has just one of the right places to do it. La Cave de la Cité is one of the city’s most beloved wine bars. The bar is known for serving up French grand crus, the crème de la crème of French wines, for the tasting.

Fleur De Lys

Want to travel a bit further along the canal?

You can do so on the Fleur De Lys.

Port du Canal is the launching point for the Fleur De Lys, a boat tour that travels from, you got it, the Port du Canal neighborhood of Dijon to Saint-Léger-sur-Dheune to the southwest.

This canal transport takes you right through the heart of one of Dijon’s closest wine regions, allowing you to soak in the wine culture of the area while getting from A to B.

Neighboring Areas of Interest

While the Port du Canal neighborhood in Dijon, situated in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, is definitely worth exploring, there some great things to see in the surrounding areas as well. Here are some of the neighboring spots you can’t miss while you’re there.

Les Bourroches: This neighboring area is just a stone’s throw away from Port du Canal. It’s a residential zone, which means it’s a great spot to get a feel for the local lifestyle and even make some new friends. Don’t miss the chance to chat with residents at the local market or grab a coffee at a charming café.

Marina: At the heart of Port du Canal lies the marina, an excellent place to admire the boats and maybe even go for a scenic boat trip yourself. Whether you’re a boat enthusiast or just looking for a serene place to relax, this marina has got you covered.

Amenities and Conveniences

Dijon’s Port du Canal neighborhood provides you with all the necessities and comforts you’d expect when exploring this charming area. With easy access to public transport options and nearby supermarkets, you’ll find everything you need right on your doorstep.

Public Transport: Getting to the Port du Canal neighborhood is a breeze, all thanks to Dijon’s efficient light rail system. Just catch a tram from the République or any central stop to the Monge stop, and you’re a five-minute walk away.

Supermarket: If you need to stock up on supplies or grab a quick snack, there’s no shortage of supermarkets in the area. You’ll find everything from small convenience stores to larger chain supermarkets, offering a wide range of groceries and essentials to cover all your daily needs.

Plus, unlike in the City Center, when shopping in Port du Canal you’ll be mixing almost entirely with locals, giving your cultural experience in Dijon an authentic twist.