Besançon Unleashed: The Ultimate 4-Day Family Adventure

Discover history, culture, and family fun in Besançon, France!

19 July 2023

Besançon, France offers an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. The city is known for its rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Families can explore the ancient fortifications, visit museums that cater to children, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking along the Doubs River.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Old Town Charm

  • Check into Hotel Le Sauvage, a cozy boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the old town.
  • Stroll through the picturesque cobbled streets of the historic center, filled with charming cafes and quirky shops.
  • Step back in time at the mesmerizing Besançon Cathedral, where ancient walls whisper enchanting stories.
  • Unleash your inner art enthusiast at the Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie, housing hidden artistic gems.
  • Sip on a divine cup of coffee at Café Leffe and indulge in a slice of tarte aux griottes for the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
Day 2

A Date with Time and Nature

  • Embark on an adventure to the remarkable Musée du Temps, where timekeeping takes on unexpected dimensions.
  • Breathe in the fresh air as you wander along the enchanting Promenade Granvelle, offering stunning views of the river and surrounding hills.
  • Hop on a boat tour along the Doubs River and soak in the tranquility of the picturesque countryside.
  • Unwind with a family picnic at Parc Micaud, a verdant oasis offering playgrounds, mini-golf, and delightful boat rentals.
  • Savor a delicious dinner at Le Poker d'As, where traditional regional dishes will tantalize your taste buds.
Day 3

Bastions and Battlements

  • Traverse the impressive Citadelle de Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and lose yourself in its imposing fortifications.
  • Immerse yourself in captivating history at the Musée de la Résistance et de la Déportation, honoring the courage of local heroes.
  • Explore the fascinating Musée Comtois, where the customs and traditions of the Franche-Comté region come to life.
  • Indulge in a lunchtime feast at Le Petit Polonais, savoring authentic Polish cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Enjoy an evening performance at the Théâtre Ledoux, a magnificent theater that showcases a diverse range of artistic talents.
Day 4

Unleashing Your Inner Adventurer

  • Discover the hidden gem of the Gouffre de Poudrey, a mesmerizing cave system that will leave you in awe.
  • Ascend to new heights at La Boucle, a panoramic viewpoint offering breathtaking vistas over Besançon.
  • Immerse yourself in nature at the Parc de Chalezeule, complete with serene walking paths and delightful picnic spots.
  • Dive into a gastronomic journey at Le Petit Zinc, where culinary creativity meets traditional French flavors.
  • Bid farewell to Besançon with an evening stroll along the charming Quai Vauban, savoring the final moments of this enchanting city.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Besançon

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.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Besançon Bonanza: Your Ultimate Family Day Trip

Besançon, France, offers a perfect family-friendly getaway with a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the beautiful 17th-century Vauban Citadel and enjoy interactive exhibits at the Museum of Time. The city's surrounding scenic landscapes also provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnic spots along the Doubs River.

Unleash the Fun in Besançon: A 4-Day Budget Guide!

Besançon, located in eastern France, offers a rich history and stunning architecture for those on a limited budget. Travelers can explore the historic Old Town, visit the impressive citadel, or cycle along the Doubs river. Affordable accommodation options can be found in hostels or budget hotels, and delicious French cuisine can be enjoyed at local cafés and markets.

Budget-Friendly Charm: A Day in Besançon

Besançon, located in eastern France, offers a charming and affordable destination for budget travelers. Visitors can explore the city's rich history by visiting the Citadel and numerous museums, or relax in the lush parks and gardens. Accommodation options include budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses, while delicious French cuisine can be enjoyed at local markets and affordable cafes.

Escape for a Long Weekend: Besançon, France

Besançon is a charming French town known for its picturesque streets and historic landmarks, making it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. Visitors can stroll along the river Doubs or take a boat ride, enjoy a candlelit dinner in one of the many restaurants offering delicious French cuisine, and explore the city's rich heritage sites such as the citadel, museums, and cathedrals. Overall, Besançon offers a lovely balance of romantic ambiance and cultural attractions for couples seeking a memorable retreat.