Things To Do
in 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.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Citadel of Besançon. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and explore the museums within the fort.
Stroll through the picturesque streets of the old town, stopping at local boutiques and cafes. Don't miss the beautiful Palais Granvelle and its gardens.
Dine at a local bistro and savor traditional Burgundian cuisine. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the Doubs River.
Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie to see an impressive collection of artwork. Engage with the various exhibits showcasing regional history and art.
Spend your afternoon at the Musée Comtois, which focuses on the culture of the Franche-Comté region. Enjoy its charming displays and learn about local traditions.
Attend a concert or local performance at the Théâtre de Besançon. Delight in the vibrant arts scene and mingle with locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and beautiful architecture, including the Citadel of Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Vibrant cultural scene with numerous museums, theaters, and music festivals.
- Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities available in the surrounding Jura mountains.
- Good quality of life with a relatively low cost of living compared to larger French cities.
- University city with a strong student presence, contributing to a lively atmosphere.
- Limited job opportunities in some sectors, particularly for non-French speakers.
- Public transport options may not be as extensive as in bigger cities.
- Weather can be quite variable, with cold winters and occasional rain.
- Language barrier may pose challenges for expatriates or tourists.
- Smaller city size may lead to fewer entertainment and nightlife options compared to larger urban areas.
Best Activities in Besançon
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the picturesque natural beauty and diverse landscapes of the Jura mountain range near Besançon.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the banks of the Doubs River, with multiple cycling routes to choose from.
Experience the tranquil waters of the Doubs River by embarking on a canoeing or kayaking adventure.
Relax in this waterfront park, perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, and outdoor recreation.
Places to Visit in Besançon
Visit one of these nice places.
The Citadel offers panoramic views of Besançon and the surrounding area, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Rocher de la Vierge is a beautiful vantage point offering stunning views of Besançon, especially at sunset.
Mount Saint-Etienne provides a picturesque setting with great views over Besançon, making it an ideal location for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Besançon
Besançon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
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!
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.
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
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers a tantalizing array of fresh produce, cheeses, wines, and local delicacies. Perfect for sampling and purchasing authentic regional ingredients.
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.
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.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people with a handshake and use formal titles such as 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' when meeting someone for the first time.
In Besançon, it is customary to keep your hands on the table during meals and to wait until the host initiates the start of the meal or says 'Bon appétit' before eating.
It is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close when having a conversation. It is also customary to maintain eye contact when communicating.
Safety
Tipping in Besançon
Ensure a smooth experience
In Besançon, France, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants and hotels. However, it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small amount of change as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
Payment in Besançon, France is primarily done using cash or credit/debit cards. Most establishments accept major credit cards, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets. Contactless payment methods are also gaining popularity in the region.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for mild weather and blooming flowers.
Ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
Great for fall foliage and wine tasting.
Charming for holiday markets and cozy indoor experiences.
Besançon at Night
Hiking in Besançon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking area known for its stunning views, diverse landscapes, and various trails suitable for all skill levels.
This trail offers breathtaking views of the Doubs Valley and is perfect for those looking to experience a combination of nature and geology.
A scenic hiking route that provides opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the region, including forests and rivers.
A lush forest area with several trails that are ideal for both hiking and biking, offering tranquility and natural beauty.
This path follows historical routes and provides a unique opportunity to explore the cultural heritage alongside nature.
Aiports
How to reach Besançon by plane.
Located approximately 130 kilometers from Besançon, this international airport serves the tri-national region of France, Germany, and Switzerland.
Located around 220 kilometers from Besançon, it is one of the major international airports in Switzerland, serving a wide range of international flights.
Situated approximately 200 kilometers from Besançon, this airport serves both domestic and international destinations and is one of the largest airports in France.
Located about 50 kilometers from Besançon, this smaller airport offers limited international and domestic flights.
Approximately 130 kilometers from Besançon, this airport serves the Alsace region and offers flights to a variety of destinations across Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, comprising individuals who were born in France or have obtained French citizenship.
Individuals from other countries who have settled in Besançon, including those from North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Eastern Europe.
A significant demographic group due to the presence of universities and educational institutions, attracting students from various regions.
Older adults (65 years and above) who represent a growing segment of the population as life expectancy increases.
Individuals under the age of 18, comprising a substantial portion of the population, particularly in families.
Groups such as the Gitans (the Romani people) and other minority ethnic communities that contribute to the cultural diversity of Besançon.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Besançon, with several local teams and a strong following among the community.
Basketball has gained popularity in Besançon, with clubs and recreational leagues attracting both youth and adults.
Handball is a well-loved sport in the region, with active clubs competing at various levels and a supportive fanbase.
Cycling is a favored activity in and around Besançon, known for its beautiful landscapes and cycling trails.
Rugby has a dedicated following in Besançon, with local clubs participating in regional competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Besançon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several eateries in Besançon cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences, offering creative dishes utilizing fresh local produce and innovative meat alternatives. Le Locavore and Les Gourmandises de M provide delightful plant-based options.
Visitors with gluten intolerances can indulge in the culinary delights of Besançon at establishments like Le Parc, which offer a range of delectable gluten-free dishes crafted with care.