Budge your way through Besançon in 5 days!

Discover the charm of Besançon without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Besançon, France is a charming and affordable destination that offers numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travelers. Its stunning architecture, historic museums, and outdoor attractions provide a wealth of experiences that won't break the bank. With budget-friendly accommodations and delicious local cuisine, Besançon is a great choice for those seeking an authentic French experience without breaking the bank.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check into Hôtel du Nord, a budget hotel with a charming French atmosphere
  • Take a stroll along the Doubs river and admire the Pont Battant bridge
  • Visit the Besançon Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and marvel at its ancient fortifications
  • Wander around the historic center and indulge in some window shopping
  • Head to Café Leffe for a cup of coffee and people-watching
Day 2

Art and Culture

  • Explore the Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie and admire its collection of paintings and sculptures
  • Visit the Time Museum and learn about the history of timekeeping
  • Stroll through the Musée du Temps, a fascinating museum dedicated to clocks and watches
  • Lunch at Le Sapin Vert, a cozy brasserie serving traditional French cuisine
  • Catch a movie at Cinéma Mégarama, a modern movie theatre with comfy seats.
Day 3

Nature and Relaxation

  • Take a day trip to the beautiful Chapelle de Ronchamp and appreciate its unique architectural design
  • Go for a hike in the Jura Mountains and immerse yourself in nature
  • Picnic by the Lac de Saint-Point and soak up the sun
  • Indulge in a spa treatment at Palais Granvelle, a luxurious spa and wellness center
  • Enjoy a gourmet meal at Brasserie Lipp, a popular restaurant known for its authentic French cuisine
Day 4

Local Experiences

  • Visit the Marché Rivotte, a bustling local market selling fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs
  • Tour the Brasserie du Rhin brewery and sample their distinct French beers
  • Take a cooking class at L'atelier des Chefs and learn how to prepare classic French dishes
  • Sip on some wine at Les Caprices de Bacchus, a cozy wine bar with an extensive selection of French wines
  • Head to Chez Ta Mère, a quirky bar with a local vibe, for a nightcap.
Day 5

Final Day in Besançon

  • Grab a croissant from La Pâtisserie des Remparts and enjoy breakfast on the go
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the Parc Micaud and relax by its picturesque lake
  • Visit the Musée du Jouet, a charming museum dedicated to toys
  • Lunch at Le Ô Barbecue, a local favorite BBQ joint with delicious grilled meats
  • Take a final walk along the Doubs river and admire the beauty of Besançon one final time.

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.

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.

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.

Besançon Bonanza: Your Ultimate Family Day Trip

Besançon, France, offers a perfect family-friendly getaway with a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the beautiful 17th-century Vauban Citadel and enjoy interactive exhibits at the Museum of Time. The city's surrounding scenic landscapes also provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnic spots along the Doubs River.