A Travel Price Comparison for France Paris vs. Dijon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Paris or Dijon?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Paris or Dijon? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Paris

Paris is a bustling, energetic, and beautiful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Dijon

Dijon is a relaxing, historical, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Paris and Dijon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paris or Dijon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris than Dijon, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Paris is more touristy than Dijon and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower. Dijon is popular for its cuisine, wine, and nearby vineyards.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Dijon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dijon and Paris. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paris or Dijon?

Paris is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paris that are not to be missed. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Many visitors head to Dijon specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.

Is Paris or Dijon Better for Theater?

Paris is terrific for theatre. However, Dijon is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Dijon is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Paris or Dijon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Paris and Dijon.

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Dijon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

Is Paris or Dijon Better for Nightlife?

Paris is terrific for nightlife. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Paris is a must-see party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Dijon. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

Is Paris or Dijon Better for Music?

Paris is terrific for live music. However, Dijon is not a live music destination.

Paris is a world class music destination. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Dijon is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Dijon?

Paris is terrific for shopping. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Paris is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dijon. For the best shopping in town, head to the main shopping street - Rue de la Liberté. It's lined with everything from clothing stores to wine shops and larger department stores. You'll even be able to pick up some of the famed mustard while you're in town.

Is Paris or Dijon Better for Christmas?

Paris is terrific for its Christmas activities. However, Dijon does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris is a fantastic destination at Christmas. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Dijon does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Paris or Dijon Better for Families?

Paris is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Dijon is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the open space that the city offers. There are parks where they can run around, like The Parc de la Colombieres which has a carousel and a ropes course. There are also many museums including two favorites for young ones - Musee de la Vie Bourguignonne and Musee d'Histoire Naturelle.

Is Paris or Dijon Better for Couples?

Paris is terrific for romance. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Dijon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art, palaces, gardens, and fine wine make it a perfect couple's getaway. There is some of the best food in France, as well as a welcoming culture and many beautiful sights to explore.

Is Paris or Dijon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is terrific for backpackers. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paris is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Dijon is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a beautiful city with a touristy vibe, so you'll likely meet other travelers while you're in town.

Is Paris or Dijon Better for Students?

Paris is terrific for students. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Plenty of students visit Dijon. While it's quieter than the bigger cities, you'll find a young vibe and enough of a nightlife scene to keep it interesting.

Is Paris or Dijon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paris is terrific for its public transit. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Paris can take you anywhere. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Dijon has some public transit options. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.

Is Paris or Dijon a more walkable city?

Paris is notable for its walkability. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Paris is very walkable. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

Dijon is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the inner city is walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Paris Worth Visiting? and Is Dijon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dijon or Paris?

How long in Paris or Dijon?

It's fun to spend time in either Paris or Dijon. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Paris due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Paris, and 2-4 days is enough time in Dijon.

Families should spend more time in Paris than Dijon. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Paris than Dijon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Dijon if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Paris.

One day in Paris or Dijon?

Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Dijon, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this relaxing destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Paris or Dijon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dijon. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paris or Dijon?

Paris is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Dijon is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Dijon. Lots of people come for the food. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paris or Dijon?

Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Dijon. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paris and Dijon, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Dijon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dijon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dijon and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris than you might in Dijon.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Paris Expensive? and Is Dijon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paris or Dijon?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Dijon. When comparing the sizes of Paris and Dijon, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Paris or Dijon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Paris or Dijon in the Summer?

Both Dijon and Paris during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Paris because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dijon this time of year.

Paris is around the same temperature as Dijon in the summer. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Dijon fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Dijon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paris. In the summer, Paris often gets less sunshine than Dijon. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 266 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets more rain in July than Dijon. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Dijon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Dijon. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dijon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Paris is around the same temperature as Dijon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paris in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Dijon averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Paris usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dijon during autumn. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 121 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paris usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dijon. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paris or Dijon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Paris as well as Dijon. Many travelers come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dijon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Dijon can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Paris. In January, Paris is generally a little warmer than Dijon. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 5°C (40°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Paris often gets more sunshine than Dijon. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 53 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Dijon. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Dijon in the Spring?

Both Dijon and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Paris in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Dijon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Paris is around the same temperature as Dijon in the spring. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Dijon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Paris usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dijon during spring. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paris usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dijon. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dijon and Paris