Pontarlier

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Pontarlier's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Pontarlier's History
morning
:

Visit the stunning Basilique Saint-Pierre to admire its architecture and serene atmosphere. Take a stroll through the charming streets to soak in the local culture.

afternoon
:

Explore the Musée de Pontarlier to learn about the area's rich heritage. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café, sampling local delicacies.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy restaurant offering traditional French cuisine. End the day with a peaceful walk along the banks of the Doubs River.

day 2
Nature Walks and Scenic Views
morning
:

Head to the nearby Parc naturel régional du Haut-Jura for a refreshing morning hike. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, taking in the scenic beauty. Afterward, visit a local farm to discover cheese-making traditions.

evening
:

Return to Pontarlier and enjoy a casual dinner at a local bistro. Wind down with a drink at a nearby bar, soaking in the evening ambiance.

day 3
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Visit local art galleries to appreciate the creativity of regional artists. Engage with exhibitions and perhaps meet some artists in person.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a lunch at a local café, then attend a workshop or class to try your hand at an art form. This is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

evening
:

End your artistic day by attending a cultural event or concert if available. Enjoy some light bites at a trendy spot post-event.

day 4
Gastronomic Adventure
morning
:

Start with a visit to a local market to explore fresh produce and regional specialties. Take pictures of the vibrant stalls and interact with friendly vendors.

afternoon
:

Join a culinary workshop to learn how to prepare traditional dishes. Enjoy the meal you created alongside your fellow participants.

evening
:

Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant to indulge in exquisite French cuisine. Savor each course and pair with local wines for a memorable experience.

day 5
Outdoor Fun and Leisure
morning
:

Rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside or lakesides. Enjoy the beautiful views as you pedal through the landscape.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a scenic spot and pack a small picnic. Afterwards, engage in some water activities like kayaking if available.

evening
:

Return to the town and grab dinner at a pizzeria to satisfy your cravings. Take a quiet evening walk under the stars to conclude the day.

day 6
Historical Sites Tour
morning
:

Set off to visit the historic Chateau de Joux, a short drive away. Explore the castle's fascinating history and stunning views from the battlements.

afternoon
:

Lunch at a nearby restaurant serving local dishes. Afterwards, head back to Pontarlier to visit the local historical sites.

evening
:

Experience a dinner at a historic inn to further immerse yourself in the ambiance. Reflect on the day’s adventures with a glass of local wine.

day 7
Shopping and Relaxation
morning
:

Spend your morning exploring local boutiques and shops for unique souvenirs. Engage with local artisans to learn about their crafts.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a café, enjoying people-watching from your seat. Then, indulge in some relaxation at a nearby spa or wellness center.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a lovely terrace view. Conclude your day with a walk through the town center, enjoying the lively atmosphere.

day 8
Scenic Drives and Vistas
morning
:

Kick off your day with a scenic drive through the Jura mountains. Stop at various viewpoints to capture the breathtaking landscapes.

afternoon
:

Find a picturesque spot for a picnic lunch amidst nature's beauty. Take some time to hike nearby trails and explore the surroundings.

evening
:

Return to Pontarlier and enjoy dinner at a mountain lodge restaurant. Relax with a glass of regional beer or wine as you share tales from the day.

day 9
Local Festivals and Events
morning
:

Check the local calendar for any ongoing festivals or events. Spend the morning attending market stalls or cultural exhibitions.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at one of the food stalls, tasting popular local dishes. Participate in workshops and live demonstrations happening at the event.

evening
:

As the festival continues, enjoy live music or performances. Grab a celebratory dinner at a nearby restaurant that offers festival specials.

day 10
Adventure Sports Day
morning
:

Begin your day with an adrenaline rush by trying out paragliding or zip-lining in the Jura region. Enjoy the thrill of soaring through the skies.

afternoon
:

Have a hearty lunch and share your experiences from the morning's adventure. Spend the afternoon engaging in other outdoor activities like rock climbing.

evening
:

End the day with a relaxed dinner at a pub, swapping stories with fellow adventurers. Take a scenic evening stroll to wind down.

Discover Pontarlier

Read more in our Pontarlier 2024 Travel Guide.

Pontarlier Travel Guide