Besançon Travel Plans

Looking for a place with a famous citadel, a rich history, and a healthy obsession with cheese? Look no further than the city of Besançon - locals say it's all the things Paris wishes it could be, but with fewer tourists and more cows.

Save destination

Best of lists

How long are you staying?

Romantic stays

Stays on a budget

Family-friendly stays

How to get to Besançon

Plane

The best way to get to Besançon by plane is to fly into EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg in Switzerland, which is about an hour and a half away by car or train. From there, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to the city center of Besançon.

Car

The best way to get to Besançon by car is to follow the A36 motorway from Mulhouse or Dijon. The journey takes about 2 hours from Mulhouse and 1.5 hours from Dijon, depending on traffic. There are several parking options in the city center, including underground car parks and on-street parking.

Train

The best way to get to Besançon by train is to take a high-speed TGV train from Paris. The journey takes about 2.5 hours and the train arrives at Besançon Franche-Comté TGV station, which is about 11 kilometers east of the city center. From there, you can take a taxi or a local train to get to your final destination.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Besançon by boat, but you can take a boat tour along the Doubs River. These tours operate from April to October and depart from various cities in the region, including Dole and Besançon. The tours offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and some even include stops at local wineries and restaurants.

Bus

The best way to get to Besançon by bus is to take one of the long-distance bus services that connect major cities in France. There are several bus companies that offer services to Besançon, including Flixbus and Ouibus. These buses arrive at Besançon Bus Station, which is located in the city center and within walking distance of many attractions and hotels.

Explore elsewhere

Romantic Long Weekend in Champagne City Reims

Reims is a charming city in the Champagne region of France, perfect for a romantic getaway. Enjoy a glass of champagne at the famous Maison Ruinart or explore the stunning Notre-Dame de Reims cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. End your day with a candlelit dinner at a cozy French bistro and savor the delightful local cuisine.

Dijon Delights: Family-Friendly Fun on a Budget

Dijon, France is a great destination for a family friendly trip, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the charming streets of the town center, where kids can marvel at the colorful medieval houses and discover the world-famous mustard tradition. Take a memorable family bike ride or hike through the scenic vineyards of the Burgundy region, where everyone can enjoy the picturesque landscapes and taste some delicious local wines.

Two Days of Budget Bliss in Tours, France

Visiting Tours, France on a limited budget is not hard to achieve with the city's affordable accommodations, free attractions, and cheap transportation. Take a self-guided walking tour of the charming old town and enjoy some of the local delicacies at one of the farmer's markets. Explore the beautiful Château de Villandry with its stunning Renaissance gardens or take a bike ride along the scenic Loire River.

4 Days of Fun and Adventure in Metz, France

A trip to Metz on a limited budget can still be enjoyable by exploring the city's many free attractions. One can stroll through the beautiful Parc de la Seille, visit the Centre Pompidou-Metz museum for free on the first Sunday of the month, and take a self-guided walking tour of the city's historic buildings and sites. For affordable accommodations, opt for a hostel or budget hotel and dine at local brasseries for authentic French cuisine without breaking the bank.