Besançon

Day Trips

Begin your day with a visit to the Citadel of Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers stunning views of the city. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and the aroma of French coffee. Stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the beautiful architecture and quaint shops.

After lunch, head to the Museum of Fine Arts and Archaeology, where you can discover a rich collection of art and artifacts. Spend some time walking along the Doubs River, taking in the picturesque scenery and perhaps doing a little people-watching. As the afternoon winds down, visit the local market to sample some regional specialties and fresh produce.

For dinner, indulge in traditional Franche-Comté cuisine at a cozy bistro, trying local delicacies like Comté cheese and saucisse de Montbéliard. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, where the city is beautifully illuminated at night. Cap off your evening with a nightcap at a local wine bar, enjoying a glass of regional wine as you reflect on your day.

Start your day at the Time Museum, dedicated to the history of horology, where you can marvel at intricate timepieces from different eras. Following your visit, enjoy a brunch at a nearby café, sampling crêpes and local cheeses. Take a moment to explore the nearby streets, filled with artisan shops showcasing handmade crafts.

In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Resistance and Deportation to learn about the region's history during World War II. The exhibits are both moving and educational, providing insight into the resilience of the local community. Afterward, unwind at a nearby park, soaking in the greenery and perhaps enjoying a book or a leisurely walk.

As the sun sets, head to a traditional French restaurant for a dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients. Experience the warmth of French hospitality as you engage in conversations with locals. After dinner, consider attending a performance at the Besançon Theatre, where you can enjoy everything from classical music to contemporary plays.

Begin your day with a nature walk in Parc de la Gare d'Eau, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the lush surroundings. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the river, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. After your meal, take some time to explore the various trails and discover the park's flora and fauna.

After your morning in the park, head to the nearby Botanical Garden, where you can marvel at diverse plant species and beautifully manicured landscapes. Take your time to wander through the garden, stopping to take photos of vibrant flowers and serene ponds. Enjoy a light lunch at the garden café, sampling fresh salads and local pastries.

In the evening, return to the city center and dine at a riverside restaurant, enjoying the local cuisine while watching the sunset over the Doubs. After dinner, take a scenic boat cruise along the river, offering a unique perspective of the city’s architecture illuminated at night. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk back to your accommodation, reflecting on the beauty you’ve experienced.

Embark on an early morning journey to the Jura Mountains, a stunning natural landscape perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. After arriving, enjoy a hearty breakfast in a charming mountain village café, fueling up for a day of adventure. Spend the morning hiking through scenic trails, surrounded by breathtaking views of rolling hills and lush forests.

After a morning of hiking, treat yourself to a picnic lunch with local cheeses and charcuterie while enjoying the picturesque mountain scenery. Continue your exploration by visiting the Cascades du Hérisson, a series of beautiful waterfalls that are a treat for the senses. Spend some time taking photographs and immersing yourself in the peaceful ambiance of nature.

Return to Besançon in the evening and unwind at a cozy restaurant, enjoying a hearty meal after your day of exploration. Sample regional specialties like fondue or raclette, perfect for warming up after a day outdoors. To end your day, take a leisurely stroll through the city, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere as the day comes to a close.

Start your day with a cooking class focused on traditional Franche-Comté cuisine, where you will learn to prepare local dishes using fresh ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delicious brunch featuring the recipes you’ve just created. Spend some time chatting with your fellow participants and exchanging culinary tips.

In the afternoon, visit a local vineyard for a guided wine tasting experience, where you can sample a variety of wines produced in the region. Learn about the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of the local terroir. Enjoy the stunning views of the vineyards as you sip on exquisite wines, savoring the flavors of Besançon.

For dinner, choose a gourmet restaurant known for its innovative take on traditional dishes, allowing you to indulge in a culinary journey. Pair your meal with recommendations from the sommelier, enhancing your dining experience. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city at night.

Begin your morning with a visit to the Fort of Bregille, which offers panoramic views of Besançon and the surrounding landscape. Take your time exploring the fort's historical significance and enjoying the vistas that make for stunning photographs. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, fueling up for your day of adventure.

After exploring the Fort of Bregille, venture to the Fort of Chaudanne, another historic site that reveals more about the city's military past. Wander through the fort's grounds, taking in the architecture and the views of the Doubs River. Make sure to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy, surrounded by the serene setting of the fort.

Return to Besançon for dinner at a restaurant that specializes in local dishes, allowing you to savor the flavors of the region once more. After your meal, visit a local bar for some live music, where you can experience the vibrant nightlife of the city. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the river, reflecting on the day's historical explorations.

Kick off your day with a visit to the Franche-Comté Museum of Fine Arts, where you can admire works from the Renaissance to contemporary art. Take your time to appreciate the various exhibitions and perhaps even join a guided tour to gain deeper insights. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, immersing yourself in the local art scene.

In the afternoon, explore the contemporary art gallery, La Cité des Arts, focusing on modern artistic expressions and innovative installations. Engage with the artists during any ongoing workshops or exhibitions, enhancing your understanding of the local art community. Following your visit, enjoy lunch at a trendy restaurant that embraces the culinary arts.

For dinner, choose a restaurant known for its artistic presentation of dishes, making your meal a feast for both the eyes and the palate. After dining, take in a cultural performance at a local venue, whether it’s a concert, theater, or dance performance. Allow the creativity of the evening to inspire you as you wind down your day in Besançon.

Treat yourself to a relaxing morning at a local spa, indulging in a rejuvenating massage and wellness treatments that incorporate local ingredients. Enjoy a healthy breakfast at the spa, focusing on fresh fruits and herbal teas to start your day on a refreshing note. Spend some time in the spa's tranquil surroundings, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.

After your spa experience, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby botanical gardens, immersing yourself in the beauty of nature and the scents of blooming flowers. Stop for a light lunch at a café with outdoor seating, enjoying the fresh air as you dine. Optionally, participate in a yoga session offered in the gardens, enhancing your relaxation experience.

In the evening, enjoy a calm dinner at a serene restaurant known for its tranquil atmosphere and healthy menu options. Opt for dishes that incorporate local seasonal ingredients, aligning with your wellness theme for the day. After dinner, reflect on your day of relaxation with a soothing walk along the riverbank, enjoying the peaceful sounds of the water.

Rent a bicycle in the morning and set off along the scenic paths that line the Doubs River, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery. Stop at various viewpoints to take photos and appreciate the landscape, making your way toward the nearby village of Rougemont. Grab a quick breakfast from a local bakery to fuel your ride.

Continue your cycling adventure in the afternoon, exploring the countryside and stopping at quaint villages along the way. Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch in a scenic spot, surrounded by the beauty of nature. As you ride, take the time to chat with locals and experience the rural charm of the region.

Return to Besançon in the evening and unwind at a riverside bar, celebrating your day of adventure with a refreshing drink. For dinner, choose a casual eatery that embraces the cycling culture, perhaps enjoying a hearty meal of pasta or a local specialty. End your day with a stroll through the charming streets, savoring the memories of your cycling journey.