“Pardon me, do you have any Grey Poupon?”

Uttered in many commercials throughout the 1980s and parodied in a variety of media thereafter, this well-known question marked the popularity – and luxury nature – of Dijon mustard. This classic condiment gives a small, but delicious sample of French cuisine from the Burgundy region.

Although Dijon is commonly associated with this mustard, there is more to this breathtaking destination and its fascinating history. Archaeological finds within Dijon date back to the end of the Stone Age, but the city was first established as a Roman settlement known as Divio. A waypoint for travelers on the road between Lyon and Paris, this city grew to be an incredible center of art, learning, science and culinary delights in France.

The City of Elevated Flavors

Dijon, like France itself, is closely connected with delicious cuisine and innovative flavors. This incredible city hosts its famous International and Gastronomic Fair every autumn, widely considered to be one of the most important fairs in France, where visitors can taste a variety of scrumptious international flavors.

This tradition of celebrating and improving on enticing culinary delights is well-established in the city’s history as well. Since its invention in 1336, mustard had been made with verjuice, an acidic juice from unripened grapes. However, in 1856, Jean Naigeon of Dijon decided to change this recipe and try something that had never been done before. Instead of adding verjuice to his mustard, he replaced it with vinegar, introducing the famous Dijon mustard that is known and loved around the world today.

Visiting Dijon with AmaWaterways

Enjoy this charming city with AmaWaterways on our new Flavors of Burgundy itinerary, beginning in 2024. Alongside your knowledgeable local guide, explore Dijon's medieval center and enjoy the vivid art and deep history this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases.

Along the included tour, you will see sites such as the Ducal Residence, also known as the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy. Home to numerous Dukes of Burgundy since founded by the Carolingian kings of France Louis III and Carloman II, this magnificent palace is now one of the oldest and richest art museums in France.

On the tour, receive detailed insight into finer points along your journey such as the Owl of Dijon, a carving on one of the outer corners of the Church of Notre Dame. According to local legends, the owl will grant a wish if you touch it with your left hand while your desire is at the forefront of your mind.

As you can see, there is so much more to Dijon than just its Grey Poupon fame, and we look forward to taking you there with AmaWaterways, the Heart of the River™.

Savor the rich history, culture and cuisine the Port of Dijon has to offer on our new Flavors of Burgundy itinerary in 2024.