Family Fun in Besançon: Exploring the Charms!

Discover the charm of Besançon: A family-friendly adventure awaits in the heart of France!

19 July 2023

Besançon, France is a perfect destination for a family friendly trip with its charming atmosphere and abundance of activities for all ages. Explore the impressive Fort de Besançon, offering stunning views of the city, or visit the interactive Museum of Time for a fun and educational experience. Take a leisurely boat ride along the peaceful Doubs river, or enjoy a picnic in one of the many beautiful parks, making Besançon an ideal destination for family bonding and creating lasting memories.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Besançon Bliss: Discovering the City's Charms!

  • Check in at the cozy and family-friendly Hôtel du Nord, nestled in the heart of Besançon's charming Old Town.
  • Step back in time as you explore the imposing Besançon Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers breathtaking views of the city.
  • Embark on a whimsical adventure at the Museum of Time, where you'll wander through fascinating exhibits showcasing the history and art of horology.
  • Indulge in a gourmet lunch at La Cigogne, a delightful café with a vintage ambiance that serves up mouthwatering regional dishes.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the tranquil banks of the Doubs River, adorned with picturesque bridges and lined with charming terraces.
  • Round off the day with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts and Archaeology, where you'll encounter ancient artifacts and masterpieces from renowned artists like Gustave Courbet.
Day 2

Flavors & Enchantments: A Memorable Day in Besançon

  • Start your day with a delectable breakfast at La Grange Rouge, a rustic eatery offering a scrumptious spread of freshly baked pastries.
  • Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at the Jardin des Sens, a sensory garden bursting with vibrant flowers, aromatic herbs, and interactive installations.
  • Enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the peaceful Doubs River, spotting adorable ducks and graceful swans along the way.
  • Savour a long lunch at Le Petit Plaisance, a picturesque restaurant nestled amidst vineyards, serving up mouthwatering dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
  • Delight the entire family with a visit to the Museum of Natural History, where you'll encounter a fascinating array of taxidermy animals and immersive exhibits.
  • End the day with a leisurely picnic in the Parc Micaud, a lush green oasis where children can play in the playground while parents relax and soak up the sun.

How to get there

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.

More travel plans

Experience Besançon's Charm in 4 Days

As a tourist visiting Besançon, prepare to step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of this charming city. Take a stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage site of the historic city center, stop by the impressive Citadel, and indulge in the delicious local cuisine. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply enjoying the French way of life, Besançon is sure to offer an unforgettable experience.

Bite-sized Besançon: Exploring on a budget

Besançon, located in eastern France, is a charming city steeped in history and culture. Visitors on a limited budget can enjoy the numerous free attractions including the Citadel, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the charming old town. Affordable accommodations can be found in the form of hostels and budget hotels, and visitors can also sample delicious local cuisine at affordable prices.

Bargain Bonanza: 3 Days of Fun in Besançon

Besançon, located in eastern France, is a hidden gem for budget-conscious travelers. Home to historic forts, cathedrals and museums, the city offers plenty of free or affordable attractions. With budget-friendly accommodations and delicious, reasonably priced cuisine, Besançon is a perfect destination for an affordable European adventure.

Besançon Bonanza: A 3-Day Adventure for the Whole Family

Besançon, France is a charming and family-friendly destination that offers a diverse range of activities for everyone to enjoy. The city is renowned for its impressive citadel, which houses a zoo and a museum, providing an exciting educational experience for kids. Families can also explore the historic city center, filled with picturesque squares, beautiful architecture, and delightful cafes serving delicious French pastries.