Besançon Bliss: The Ultimate 5-Day Family Adventure

A joyous adventure awaits in Besançon, France - perfect for a family-friendly escape!

19 July 2023

Besançon, France is a perfect destination for a family friendly trip with its charming atmosphere and numerous attractions. Explore the historic masterpiece of the Vauban Citadelle, offering panoramic views of the city and interactive exhibits for children. Discover the fascinating world of animals at the Franche-Comté Museum of Natural History, where kids can observe various species up close and enjoy engaging exhibits.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Historic Center

  • Start your day with a delightful stroll through the enchanting streets of Besançon's historic center, where time seems to have stood still.
  • Visit the iconic Besançon Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that will leave you in awe of its intricate details.
  • Wander around the lively market square, Marché Granvelle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere while picking up some local delicacies.
  • Step back in time and enter the magnificent Musée du Temps, a museum dedicated to the concept of time, where you can lose yourself in fascinating exhibits.
  • Take a leisurely boat ride along the Doubs River, meandering through picturesque landscapes and offering a unique perspective of the city.
Day 2

Discovering the Citadel

  • Strap on your walking shoes and prepare to conquer the imposing Vauban Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that towers above Besançon.
  • Explore the extensive network of underground tunnels, known as the Musée de la Résistance et de la Déportation, which tell stories of courage and resistance during World War II.
  • Admire panoramic views of Besançon from atop the Citadel's ramparts, as you soak up the breathtaking landscapes that surround the city.
  • Take a break in the idyllic Citadel Park, where charming botanical gardens and peaceful lakes create a perfect oasis for a family picnic.
  • Uncover the secrets of the Natural History Museum and marvel at its vast collection of fossils, skeletons, and preserved animals from across the globe.
Day 3

Embracing Nature

  • Escape the city and venture into the tranquil Parc Micaud, a magnificent green space where families can unwind and bask in the beauty of nature.
  • Embark on an adventure-filled hike along the stunning trails of Montfaucon, offering spectacular vistas and an opportunity to spot local wildlife.
  • Indulge in a leisurely afternoon of picnicking by the serene Lac Saint-Point, surrounded by lush forests and pristine waters that invite relaxation.
  • Experience the thrill of tree climbing at the Parc de Bregille, where a variety of challenging courses await both children and adults.
  • Savor a delectable dinner at Le Casino, a charming restaurant nestled in the heart of Parc Micaud, renowned for its gourmet cuisine and elegant ambiance.
Day 4

Cultural Immersion

  • Immerse yourself in Besançon's vibrant art scene at the Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie, housing an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures.
  • Delve into the city's rich history at the Musée de la Révolution Française, where interactive exhibits bring the tumultuous era to life.
  • Explore the captivating Astronomical Clock at the Palais Granvelle, a fascinating masterpiece of intricate mechanics and celestial movements.
  • Discover unique treasures at the charming Marché aux Puces de Besançon, a flea market brimming with vintage clothing, antique furniture, and quirky trinkets.
  • Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at Le Cèdre, a cozy restaurant offering a delightful mix of French and Mediterranean cuisine, with options to please every palate.
Day 5

Culinary Delights

  • Dive headfirst into Besançon's culinary scene with a visit to the renowned Les Gourmandises de Sibérie, where you can savor scrumptious Russian pastries.
  • Explore the bustling Saint-Jean Market, where you'll be enticed by an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal treats.
  • Indulge in a traditional Franc-Comtois meal at Le Café des Artistes, where regional specialties like Comté cheese and melt-in-your-mouth Montbéliard sausages take center stage.
  • Delight your taste buds with a visit to Maison Lanne, a charming chocolate shop where you can sample exquisite handmade truffles and pralines.
  • Conclude your culinary adventure with a delightful dinner at La Table des Halles, a cozy bistro serving up delicious French classics in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

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

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