Discover Besançon: Exciting Day Trip Guide

Discover the magnificent history and culture of Besançon, France.

22 April 2023

Besançon is a charming city nestled in the heart of the Franche-Comté region of eastern France, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. As a tourist, you can explore its historical sites like the Vauban Citadel, cathedrals, museums, and galleries, and savor its local delicacies like cheese, wine, and sausages. You can also enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking in the nearby Jura Mountains or take a leisurely stroll along the river Doubs.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Besançon

  • Start your day with a croissant from Pâtisserie Fabrice Gilles, a local favorite.
  • Visit the Citadel of Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive views of the city.
  • Take a stroll through the charming old town and don't forget to check out the monumental fountain of Place Granvelle.
  • Head to the Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie, which showcases a fantastic collection of artwork from ancient times to the present day.
  • For lunch, try some classic French cuisine at Restaurant Le Pirate, known for its delicious beef bourguignon.
  • End your day with a relaxing boat ride on the Doubs River or a walk along the scenic riverbanks.

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

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.

The Ultimate Long Weekend in Besançon, France

As a tourist in Besançon, France, travelers can explore the charming Old Town with its vibrant cafes, museums, and shops. The city also offers stunning views of the Doubs river from the historic citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Must-see attractions include the Museum of Fine Arts and Archeology and the Astronomical Clock at the Cathedral of St. John.

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.

Discover Besançon: Exciting Day Trip Guide

Besançon is a charming city nestled in the heart of the Franche-Comté region of eastern France, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. As a tourist, you can explore its historical sites like the Vauban Citadel, cathedrals, museums, and galleries, and savor its local delicacies like cheese, wine, and sausages. You can also enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking in the nearby Jura Mountains or take a leisurely stroll along the river Doubs.