Think small boutiques, think 17th century mansions, think gingerbread factory, think colored roofs and voilà: you think of Dijon. The city about 6 hours' drive from the Netherlands, where there were once 14 spice cake factories. They are no longer there, but when you walk around Dijon, you can feel that flavors and delicacies were (and are) well represented here. From mustard to wine, gastronomy breathes through all the monumental buildings, streets and towers. And the vineyards also breathe the joy of life. Nomnomnom. In addition to toasting good luck and prosperity, a visit to 'Chouette Animal' is indispensable for a better life. This little owl – the emblem of Dijon – is sculpted on the northern facade of the church of Notre-Dame. If you stroke the stripe with your left hand, it brings good luck. Like we said, we prefer to toast, but if you're in... Dijon the Owl Route is a real must. For those who want to experience even more culture: Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon! This is the second largest museum in France, which, like the Louvre, is located in a palace. And although there is a lot of beautiful, old art, the museum is brand new: its reopening was celebrated last May. Hip hip!

photo left: © Rozenn Krebe, photo right © OT Dijon

Does the further south the better for you? Only the problem. Grab your suitcases and hop, we're going to Avignon. Located on the Rhône, which always provides that extra atmosphere of mysticism. And you can bet that Avignon is immersed in mysticism. After all, this city was once, long ago, the capital of Christianity. In other words, before the Popes packed up for the Vatican, they lived in Avignon. Hence the imposing Pope's Palace, which can call itself the largest Gothic, medieval building in Europe.

And if you think that's interesting, wait for it: Avignon is now – as we speak – the capital of the region Côtes du Rhône. Which actually means: the second largest wine region in France, with about 44.000 hectares of vineyards. Need we say more? No eh. Well, let's add one more thing: Carré du Palais. The local shopping center for wine. Need we still say more? No, not really. Hihi.

Photos © Empreinte d'Ailleurs

Unexpected perhaps, but really: another absolute recommendation Strasbourg. We were somewhat surprised by that too. Because Strasbourg is political and politics is boring, right? Corn nun! As the capital of Alsace, Strasbourg is much more than that. Of course thanks to the unmissable cathedral, but also thanks to La Petite France. This district is a mecca of must-sees. You see typical half-timbered houses, water everywhere (makes us think: is there a word for French canals?), balconies full of flowers and cute streets. This makes Strasbourg a very different France than, for example, Reims and look, now we can finally say it: told you so. France is infinite. You want to drink wine from Alsace on the terrace (do it!).

photos © Philippe de Rexel