Things To Do
in Pontarlier
Pontarlier is a historic market town in the Jura region near the Swiss border, renowned for its regional cheese traditions and strong local character. It sits close to Lac Saint-Point and the foothills of the Jura mountains, making it a convenient gateway to outdoor adventures. The town blends Franche-Comté heritage with a touch of alpine influence visible in its architecture, cuisine, and relaxed pace.
Visitors come to enjoy easy access to nature, a charming town center, and authentic regional gastronomy in a laid-back atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the local bakery, where the aroma of freshly baked baguettes fills the air. After breakfast, take a stroll through the quaint streets of Pontarlier, taking in the stunning architecture and charming shops. Don’t forget to visit the Église Saint-Bénigne, a beautiful church showcasing intricate stained glass windows.
In the afternoon, head over to the Musée 1914-1918, dedicated to the history of World War I, offering a poignant insight into the past. Following your visit, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café in the town square, sampling regional specialties such as tartiflette. Afterward, partake in a guided hiking tour through the nearby Jura mountains, where breathtaking views await.
As the sun sets, settle into a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can savor a traditional French meal paired with local wines. After dining, take a peaceful walk along the Doubs River, capturing the enchanting twilight around you. End your night at a local bar, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps indulging in a traditional aperitif.
Visit Lake St. Point, just a short drive from Pontarlier, where you can enjoy the serene morning on the water. Rent a kayak for an adventurous start to your day or simply walk along the lakeside to soak in the stunning natural beauty. Enjoy a picnic breakfast on one of the benches, surrounded by lush greenery.
In the afternoon, take part in a variety of water sports or relax by the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. Afterward, explore the nearby hiking trails, where you’ll be captivated by the picturesque landscape and wildlife. For lunch, try a lakeside café that offers fresh fish dishes and local favorites.
As dusk falls, find a spot with a view of the lake to witness the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors. Dine at a nearby restaurant specializing in regional cuisine and fresh produce from the area. Finish your evening with a leisurely waterfront stroll, the gentle lapping of water creating a calming ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-120 |
| 🚆Local transit ticket | $1.50-2.50 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a restaurant | $5-9 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming Jura town with easy access to nature
- Strong cheese and wine culture, delicious regional cuisine
- Proximity to Switzerland for day trips and add-on experiences
- Relaxed pace and welcoming, small-town atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and bustling entertainment options
- Some venues may be seasonal or rustic in setup
- Winter travel can be challenging with snow in the hills
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "Je voudrais …" - I would like …
- "L’addition, s’il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un plat local ?" - Can you recommend a local dish?
- "Je suis allergique à …" - I am allergic to …
Places to Visit in Pontarlier
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive fortress perched on a hill with dramatic stone walls and panoramic valley views—great for wide-angle and sunset shots.
Long, serene lake with soft reflections, especially photogenic at sunrise and during calm weather.
Historic square with arcades and traditional façades, ideal for street photography and capturing local life.
Elevated viewpoints over the Jura landscape, perfect for sweeping landscape photography and autumn colors.
Food in Pontarlier
Pontarlier Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chicken braised in vin jaune with fresh morel mushrooms, typically served with polenta or potatoes. A Jura classic available in many traditional bistros.
Must-Try!
Morels cooked in a creamy sauce, often featuring regional cream and herbs; best enjoyed in spring and early summer at reliable local spots.
A cheese fondue using Comté, served with bread and boiled potatoes—popular in colder months and in cozy alpine-style restaurants.
Aged Comté cheese served on a cheese board or melted into dishes; a staple with wine tastings and regional charcuterie.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Covered market with local produce, cheeses, meats, bread, and seasonal specialties; great for tasting and picking up picnic ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings are important; say bonjour when entering shops or starting conversations, and merci when leaving.
French is spoken; attempt basic phrases. Swiss neighbors may use German or Italian in some spots, but French is predominant in Pontarlier.
Keep a calm, polite demeanor in public spaces; public displays of frustration are frowned upon.
Safety
Tipping in Pontarlier
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service compris is often included. A small extra tip (5-10%) for good service is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common for casual places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with possible afternoon showers; ideal for Lac Saint-Point walks, outdoor markets, and long daylight hours.
Colorful foliage in the Jura hills, crisp air, and excellent hiking scenery; perfect for scenic drives and harvest-time cuisine.
Cold and often snowy, with winter sports in the surrounding hills; cozy cafés and cheese-focused meals are popular.
Mild temperatures with blooming meadows and mushrooms starting to appear; great for quiet hikes and market visits.
Pontarlier at Night
Hiking in Pontarlier
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several well-marked hikes with forested paths and panoramic views across the Jura mountains.
A scenic lakeside route with relatively flat sections and gentle elevation changes, great for easy day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Pontarlier by plane.
Major international gateway about 1.5–2 hours by car from Pontarlier; convenient for international connections and Swiss cross-border travelers.
Regional airport with limited flights, roughly 1.5–2 hours by car; useful for domestic and some European connections.
Tri-city airport complex offering international flights; about 2 hours by car depending on route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly French residents with families rooted in the Franche-Comté region.
A notable portion of people commute from Switzerland and nearby towns for work and commerce.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Winter sports in the Jura mountains nearby; accessible day trips from Pontarlier.
Year-round activity in the foothills of the Jura, with a variety of short and long routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pontarlier.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist, but the cuisine leans heavily on cheese and meat. Look for vegetable-forward dishes or request cheese-free versions; many places will accommodate if asked in advance.