Bargain Bonanza: 3 Days of Fun in Besançon

Discover French culture without breaking the bank in Besançon.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the History of Besançon

  • Start your day with a visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie, home to ancient Roman artifacts and contemporary art.
  • Next, head to the UNESCO-listed Citadel, a military fortress built in the 17th century that now houses a zoo, insectarium, and panoramic views of the city.
  • Grab lunch at Les Passants du Zinc, a cozy spot serving up local specialties and regional wines.
  • Take a stroll through the historic city center, admiring the Gothic St. Jean Cathedral and the quaint streets lined with half-timbered houses.
  • Finish the day at the Musée du Temps, a museum housed in a former 16th-century Palace that explores the concepts of time and space.
  • Hotel recommendation: Hôtel de Paris Besançon, a charming and affordable choice located near the heart of the city.
Day 2

Nature and Culture in Besançon

  • Start the day with a visit to the Jardin botanique de la Ville de Besançon, a beautiful botanical garden that is home to over 5,000 plant species.
  • Next, explore the Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, which showcases a variety of fossils, minerals, and preserved animals from around the world.
  • Check out the striking Stade Léo-Lagrange, a modernist sports stadium that is a testament to Besançon's love of sports.
  • Grab lunch at Le Caquelon, a cozy restaurant that serves up traditional fondue and raclette dishes.
  • Spend the afternoon at the Cinéma Mégarama Beaux-Arts, an arthouse cinema known for screening a variety of independent and foreign films.
Day 3

Food and Drink in Besançon

  • Start with a visit to the Marché Beaux-Arts, a bustling outdoor market that is open every morning and offers fresh produce and homemade products.
  • Check out the Brasserie du Bastion, a local brewery that offers tours and tastings of their craft beers.
  • Grab lunch at La Ferme à Dédé, a farm-to-table restaurant located in a renovated barn just outside of the city center.
  • Visit the Musée de la Vigne et du Vin, a museum dedicated to the history of winemaking in the region.
  • End the day with an aperitif at Le Bar du Battant, a trendy cocktail bar that serves up creative drinks made with local ingredients.
  • Hotel recommendation: Ibis Besançon Centre Ville, a modern and affordable hotel located in the heart of the city.

Length of stay

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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

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.

Escape to Romantic Besançon: 4-Day Getaway Guide

Besançon, in eastern France, is a picturesque and romantic getaway with its winding streets and hilltop fortress. Couples can stroll along the banks of the Doubs River, take a romantic boat ride or visit the stunning Besançon Cathedral. They may also enjoy sampling the local cuisine and wine at the many charming restaurants in the area.

Discover the Romance of Besançon: A Day Trip Guide

Besançon, France is a quaint, historic town nestled in the scenic hills of the Franche-Comté region. Perfect for a romantic trip, couples can explore the town's winding streets, soak in the local culture, and indulge in the delicious regional cuisine. From the impressive Vauban Citadel to the charming museums and cafes, Besançon offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

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.