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

Reims, France: A 5-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Reims, France offers a delightful family-friendly trip filled with history, culture, and fun activities. Visit the stunning Cathedral of Notre-Dame, where kids can explore its magnificent architecture and learn about its significance. Head to Champagne houses like Taittinger, where parents can indulge in wine tasting while kids enjoy their own special activities, making it a memorable destination for the whole family.

2-Day Food and Wine Adventure in Dijon, France

As a tourist visiting Dijon, France, one can expect to be enchanted by the city's historical architecture and quaint streets. With its numerous museums, art galleries, and landmarks such as the Palais des Ducs, there is plenty of culture to soak up. Of course, no Dijon trip would be complete without tasting the city's famed mustard and indulging in its rich gastronomy.

Tours, France: A Thrilling 3-Day Adventure!

Tours, located in the Loire Valley, is a charming town full of history, culture, and delicious food. Although it is known for its high-end wine and castle tours, Tours can still be enjoyed on a budget. There are plenty of free parks, markets, and visits to historical sites that can be explored without breaking the bank.

Metz, France: A Perfect 5-Day Adventure!

As a tourist, a trip to Metz, France promises a combination of medieval charm and contemporary vibrancy. One can admire the breathtaking Gothic architecture of the Saint-Étienne Cathedral or take a stroll by the tranquil Moselle River. Additionally, Metz's rich cultural offerings, including museums, theaters, and galleries, provide visitors with a glimpse into the city's vibrant artistic scene.