Besançon

Besançon is a charming city located in eastern France, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The city is home to various historical landmarks, including the impressive Citadel of Besançon, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Besançon is a vibrant cultural hub, with numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters showcasing the city's artistic heritage.

The picturesque old town of Besançon is a delight to explore, with its cobbled streets, quaint squares, and inviting cafes.

Key Phrases

Speak like a local

  • "Bonjour (Hello)" - Hello
  • "S'il vous plaît (Please)" - Please
  • "Merci (Thank you)" - Thank you
  • "Excusez-moi (Excuse me)" - Excuse me
  • "Oui (Yes)" - Yes
  • "Non (No)" - No

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Exploring Old Town

morning:Start your day with a visit to the remarkable Musée du Temps to marvel at the splendid clock collection. Then, stroll through the picturesque Old Town streets and visit the charming Saint-Jean Cathedral. Indulge in a delightful breakfast at Le Petit Bruit d'Eau with a scenic view of the Doubs River.

afternoon:Discover the rich history of Besançon by exploring the UNESCO-listed Citadel, featuring breathtaking views of the city. Afterwards, relish a delectable lunch at Brasserie du Commerce, known for its delectable regional cuisine. Take a leisurely walk around the beautiful Parc Micaud.

evening:Enjoy an enchanting evening at Les Quais de la Gare, a lively area with a great selection of bars and restaurants for a delightful night-out.

day 2

Art and Nature

morning:Immerse yourself in artistic wonders at the Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie. Then, take a serene stroll through the peaceful Parc de la Gare d'Eau and admire the beautiful landscapes. Treat yourself to a lovely breakfast at La Taverne Espagnole, offering a delightful spread of Spanish and French cuisine.

afternoon:Explore the fascinating ancient artifacts at the Musée Comtois and gain insights into the local cultural heritage. Indulge in a scrumptious lunch at Restaurant Le Chat qui Rit, known for its delectable menu. Take a soothing walk in the enchanting Jardin botanique de Besançon.

evening:Unwind and enjoy a wonderful night-out at Le Bar du Caveau, a cozy place offering an exceptional selection of wines and cozy ambiance.

day 3

Riverside Serenity

morning:Embark on a delightful river cruise along the serene Doubs River, offering stunning views of the city's picturesque landscape. Then, visit the fascinating Musée Comtois and delve into the captivating local history. Try delightful pastries and coffee at the charming Pâtisserie Marnier-Lapostolle.

afternoon:Explore the enthralling Parc Saint-Etienne and enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst lush greenery. Then, savor a delightful lunch at La Bottega Della Pasta for a taste of authentic Italian cuisine. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks.

evening:Experience a vibrant night-out at Place Granvelle, boasting a lively atmosphere and a fantastic selection of bars and cafes for an enjoyable evening.

day 4

Cultural Delights and Gastronomy

morning:Begin your day with a visit to the fascinating Musée du Temps for an intriguing exploration of timepieces. Then, wander through the delightful Old Town and stop by the prestigious Museum of Resistance and Deportation to learn about the city's tumultuous past. Treat yourself to a delectable breakfast at L'Essentiel, offering a delightful array of morning treats.

afternoon:Immerse yourself in the engaging exhibitions at the Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie. Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at Café Leffe, known for its diverse menu and delightful ambiance. Visit the charming Esplanade des Droits de l'Homme for a relaxed afternoon stroll.

evening:Savor a memorable night-out at La Gare d’Eau, featuring a lively ambiance and a fantastic selection of bars and music venues for an exhilarating evening.

Besançon Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Poulet à la Comtoise

A savory chicken dish cooked in Vin Jaune and served with morel mushrooms, a specialty of the Franche-Comté region. It can be enjoyed at Le Café Leffe, a cozy bistro known for its authentic local cuisine.

Must-Try!

Truite au Bleu

Trout marinated in a vibrant blue-hued broth, an emblematic dish of the Doubs River Valley. Les Battieux, an esteemed riverside restaurant, is renowned for its delectable rendition of this dish.

Cancoillotte

A creamy, melted cheese fondue typically flavored with garlic or wine, a beloved specialty often paired with regional charcuterie. Enjoy authentic Cancoillotte at La Petite Cave, a charming offering of the traditional cheese paired with a glass of local wine.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Marché des Beaux-Arts

This vibrant market offers a tantalizing array of fresh produce, cheeses, wines, and local delicacies. Perfect for sampling and purchasing authentic regional ingredients.

Comté Cheese Stands

Stroll through the streets of Besançon and you'll encounter numerous stalls dedicated to the famed Comté cheese, where you can savor samples and purchase this renowned local delicacy.

Creperies and Gastronomic Stands

Exploring the charming streets will lead you to delightful creperies and food stands offering delectable treats such as Galette Comtoise and Tarte au Sucre, providing an authentic taste of the region's street food scene.

Pet sitters in Besançon

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

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