Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Spain
Finland
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
the United States
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Australia
Fiji
Viewpoint · Dijon, Borgonha-Franco-Condado
Tour Philippe le Bon
46-metre tower of the ducal palace, built between 1450 and 1460. There are 316 steps to the terrace, with a 360-degree view over Dijon’s roofs and, on clear days, as far as the Côte de Nuits. Ascent only on guided tours.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Tour Philippe le Bon
The Tour Philippe le Bon, also called the Tour de la Terrasse, is the tallest tower of the ducal palace. It was built between 1450 and 1460 by architect Jean Poncelet, for Duke Philip the Good, atop an older 12th-century tower.
It stands 46 metres high and has a spiral staircase of 316 steps, ending in a stone vault supported by a spiral column. It began as a watchtower and became a symbol of the dukes’ power. In the 18th century it functioned as an astronomical observatory and in the 19th century housed a Chappe optical telegraph station on its summit on the Paris–Toulon line.
From the terrace you can see the centre of Dijon from above, with the coloured glazed roof tiles typical of Burgundy, the towers of Notre-Dame and the Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne and, in the distance, the vineyard-covered hills to the south.
The ascent is done only on a guided tour of about 45 minutes, in French and English, in small groups. There is also a longer tour that includes the old astronomy room.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 45 minutes for the guided visit.
Best time
On a clear day to see further. In winter, with short days, opt for early-afternoon slots. Places are limited: book in advance at the tourist office.
How to get there
The tour entrance is in the Palais des ducs, in the historic centre, about a 15-minute walk from Dijon-Ville station. Tickets are sold by the Dijon tourist office.
Tip
There are 316 steps with no elevator: wear comfortable shoes. Climb dates vary according to the time of year, so check before you go.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Tour Philippe le Bon
Do you need to book the climb?
Yes, it's advisable. The climb is only done as a guided visit with small groups, and tickets are sold by the Dijon tourist office.
Is the climb tiring?
There are 316 steps in a spiral staircase, with no elevator. People with mobility difficulties or fear of heights should take this into account.
Is the tour in Portuguese?
No. The visits are in French and English.