Experience Besançon's Charm in 4 Days

Experience the magic of medieval architecture in the heart of Besançon, France.

22 April 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arriving in Besançon

  • Check into quirky and cozy Hôtel Siatel Chateaufarine.
  • Explore the city's imposing Citadel and savour panoramic views from the ramparts.
  • Visit the nearby Musée de la Résistance et de la Déportation, an insightful exhibition that tells the story of Besançon's role in World War II.
  • Enjoy a quintessential Burgundian meal at Le Bistrot du Breuil, with escargots, boeuf bourguignon, and plenty of local wine.
  • Grab a bittersweet chocolat chaud at Chocolaterie Daniel Stoffel and admire their chocolate sculptures.
Day 2

Art and Gardens

  • Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Parc Micaud and marvel at its ornate fountains and gardens.
  • Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie, housed in a grand 18th-century mansion, showcasing a collection of paintings, sculpture, and ancient artefacts.
  • Admire the contemporary art exhibitions at FRAC Franche-Comté, a cutting-edge museum in a converted warehouse.
  • Have a delicious picnic in the Jardin botanique de la Faculté des Sciences, surrounded by rare plants and flowers.
  • Indulge in a luscious tarte citron at Les Mille et Une Feuilles, a charming patisserie with a French flair.
Day 3

History and Wine

  • Take a train and enjoy a scenic ride to Salins-les-Bains, a town famous for its salt mines and thermal baths.
  • Tour the salt mines and learn about the history of salt production in the region.
  • Visit the Maison du Comté and taste the delicious Comté cheese that is made in the Jura Mountains.
  • Visit the Vine and Wine Museum and learn about the history and production of the region's wines.
  • Finish with a wine-tasting at Domaine Berthet-Bondet, a boutique winery with biodynamic vineyards and a family-owned character.
Day 4

Tasting Besançon

  • Take a walking tour of the old town's narrow alleys and cobblestone streets, visiting the Cathedral of St. John and the ornate Hôtel de Ville.
  • Enjoy a coffee and a pastry at the iconic Cafe Leffe, a famous meeting place for intellectuals and artists.
  • Visit the Marché Beaux-Arts and sample some of the region's famous saucisses de Morteau and Poulet de Bresse.
  • Take a cooking class at La Saline and learn how to make traditional Besançon dishes like Chicken in Wine Sauce or Croûte aux Morilles.
  • Finish with a celebratory cocktail at Les 3 Petits Cochons, a chic and quirky bar with an eclectic ambiance.

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

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 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.

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.

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.