5 days of French fun: Besançon bound!

Discover the heart of Franche-Comté in Besançon, France.

22 April 2023

Besançon is a charming city in the east of France that draws visitors in with its rich history and stunning natural beauty. Tourists can explore the historic Citadel, take in the views from the scenic Doubs River, or admire the city's impressive architecture, including the Cathedral of St. Jean. With excellent cuisine and plenty of cultural events, Besançon is an ideal destination for anyone looking for an authentic French experience.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and exploration

  • Check in to the quirky Hotel Vauban, housed in an old prison
  • Visit the Citadel of Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning views over the city
  • Take a stroll through the picturesque streets of the historic center, admiring the ornate buildings and cute cafes
  • Stop by the Museum of Fine Arts and Archeology to see the impressive collection of artworks and artifacts
  • Indulge in some local specialties at Le Saint Pierre, a trendy restaurant known for its innovative cuisine
Day 2

Escapades in nature

  • Head to the Jardin Botanique, a beautiful botanical garden with over 6,000 plant species
  • Visit the fascinating Museum of Natural History and Ethnography to learn about the region's flora and fauna
  • Take a scenic bike ride along the Doubs River, enjoying the peaceful countryside scenery
  • Cool off at the nearby Lac de Chalain, a stunning lake surrounded by forests and cliffs
  • Savor some delicious charcuterie and cheese at La Truite Joyeuse, a cozy restaurant nestled in a charming village
Day 3

Art and architecture

  • Visit the impressive House of Victor Hugo, where the famous author lived during his exile
  • Explore the eclectic Museum of Time, with its fascinating exhibits on watchmaking and clocks
  • Take a guided tour of the beautiful Saint-Jean Cathedral, with its intricate Gothic architecture and stained glass windows
  • Marvel at the stunning frescoes and sculptures at the Museum of Resistance and Deportation
  • Enjoy some wine and tapas at La Cantine des Bains, a stylish bar with a lively atmosphere
Day 4

Food and drink

  • Visit the bustling Marché Beaux-Arts, a colorful market where you can sample local produce and delicacies
  • Take a cooking class at the delightful Atelier des Sens, where you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes like coq au vin and tarte tatin
  • Visit the famous Brasserie du Commerce, a historic brewery that has been producing beer since 1864
  • Relax and soak up the atmosphere at the trendy Bar du Théâtre, a popular spot for evening drinks and cocktails
  • Sample some delicious chocolate treats at Maison Cassandre, a charming chocolatier in the heart of the city
Day 5

Street art and culture

  • Take a walking tour of the colorful street art murals that adorn the city's walls and buildings
  • Learn about local history and culture at the fascinating Museum of Comtois Houses
  • Explore the charming Porte Noire, a Roman triumphal arch built in the 2nd century
  • Visit the trendy 1:53 Art Club, a hip gallery showcasing the work of exciting contemporary artists
  • Reward yourself with a delicious meal at La Table du Square, a sophisticated restaurant with a Michelin-starred chef.
  • Au revoir, Besançon! I'll definitely be back for more of your charming mix of history, culture, and quirky delights.

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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5 days of French fun: Besançon bound!

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