Things To Do
in Lons-le-Saunier

Lons-le-Saunier is a charming town located in the Jura department of France, known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. It is famous for its thermal springs and its picturesque old town, featuring stunning architecture and a vibrant atmosphere. The town is also renowned for producing the local cheese, Comté, making it a delightful destination for food lovers.

Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, Lons-le-Saunier offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and nature.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Lons-le-Saunier
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Maison de la Vache Qui Rit, where you can learn about the famous cheese and its origins. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Parc de la Liberté.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local bistro, then visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts to admire its impressive collection of art. Take a walk through the charming streets of the old town.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional restaurant specializing in Jura cuisine, followed by a relaxing evening at a local café or wine bar.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Jura mountains, taking in the scenic views and fresh air. Stop for a picnic breakfast amidst nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to sample some regional products, then explore the Église Saint-Désiré and its stunning architecture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that offers local specialties, followed by a night out at one of Lons-le-Saunier's lively pubs or bars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🥖Baguette$1.00
🍷Glass of Wine$5.00
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15.00
Coffee$2.50
🚇Public Transport Ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially cheese and wine
  • Beautiful natural surroundings with outdoor activities
  • Limited public transport options outside the town
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours
  • Language barrier for non-French speakers
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Lons-le-Saunier

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Liberté

A picturesque park with beautiful gardens and walking paths, perfect for nature photography.

Église Saint-Désiré

This stunning church features intricate architecture, making it a great spot for architectural photography.

Vue sur le Jura

The viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Jura mountains, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lons-le-Saunier

Lons-le-Saunier offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional Jura flavors with modern cuisine.

Lons-le-Saunier Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Comté Cheese

A renowned cheese from the Jura region, known for its nutty flavor and smooth texture.

Must-Try!

Poulet de Bresse

A local chicken dish that is celebrated for its rich flavor and tender meat.

Tarte aux Pruneaux

A delicious tart made with prunes, often enjoyed as a dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lons-le-Saunier Market

Held every Saturday, this market is a great place to find fresh produce, cheese, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lons-le-Saunier experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm with average highs around 25°C (77°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with summer being slightly wetter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet with 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you do, and keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows).

Respect for Quiet Hours

Be mindful of noise levels during the afternoon siesta hours and late at night.

Safety Guide

Safety

Lons-le-Saunier is generally a safe town, but standard precautions should be taken. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and hospitals are well-equipped for medical needs.

Tipping in Lons-le-Saunier

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the town.

Summer

Summer offers warm weather perfect for hiking and enjoying local festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall colors in the surrounding hills, a great time for scenic walks and wine tasting.

Winter

Winter can be cold, but the town’s charm remains, and nearby ski resorts offer winter sports opportunities.

Nightlife Guide

Lons-le-Saunier at Night

The nightlife in Lons-le-Saunier is vibrant yet relaxed, with a variety of bars, pubs, and restaurants offering live music and entertainment. The town hosts regular events and festivals, attracting locals and visitors alike. Popular spots include cozy wine bars and lively bistros, creating a friendly atmosphere for socializing and enjoying local wines and beers.

Hiking in Lons-le-Saunier

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Cascades

A scenic trail that leads to beautiful waterfalls, ideal for a day hike surrounded by nature.

Mont Poupet

A challenging hike that rewards with breathtaking views of the Jura landscape from the summit.

Airports

How to reach Lons-le-Saunier by plane.

Dole-Jura Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Lons-le-Saunier, this small airport offers domestic flights and serves as the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lons-le-Saunier is quite walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short distance from each other. The flat terrain and well-kept sidewalks make it easy to explore on foot. The town also has pedestrian-friendly zones, especially in the old town area, adding to the charm of walking around.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Young families comprise a significant demographic, attracted by the town's friendly atmosphere and good schools.

Retirees

Retirees are drawn to Lons-le-Saunier for its peaceful environment, cultural activities, and natural beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in the region, with local clubs and events attracting many fans.

Cycling

The Jura region is known for cycling, with numerous trails and routes for both competitive and leisure cyclists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Lons-le-Saunier is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation is available, with buses connecting various parts of the town and nearby areas, but services may be limited during evenings and weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lons-le-Saunier.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available in some restaurants, but it’s important to inform the staff about your needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Lons-le-Saunier is accessible, with a local hospital and several clinics available for both residents and visitors. Emergency services are prompt, and pharmacies are plentiful throughout the town. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide