Top reasons to visit Besancon
- Historic Citadelle: Explore the stunning Citadelle de Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers breathtaking views and rich history.
- Cultural Experiences: Enjoy vibrant theatre performances and music concerts, particularly during the International Festival.
- Scenic Strolls: Take a romantic walk along the Doubs River and discover charming pedestrian-friendly streets.
- Art and Heritage: Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts to appreciate fine art and local history.
- Outdoor Adventures: Engage in activities with Besançon Adventure for thrilling outdoor experiences.
Find great hotels in and around Besancon
Explore diverse accommodation options in Besançon, where you can find a range of hotels and guesthouses tailored to your needs. Whether you're travelling with pets, on a business trip, or enjoying a family vacation, Besançon's hotels offer excellent services and facilities to ensure a comfortable stay. Discover the best hotels in the area and make the most of your visit to this charming French city.
- ibis Styles Besançon: ibis Styles Besançon is a family-friendly 3-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.4, perfect for travellers seeking a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Located in the heart of Besançon, this property is designed with a playful and vibrant theme that appeals to both adults and children. Amenities include a shared playground for children and a complimentary breakfast tailored for younger guests. Pets are welcome, allowing for a truly family-inclusive vacation. With its modern decor and welcoming atmosphere, this hotel offers an ideal base for exploring the charming city and its surroundings.
- Premiere Classe Besancon - Ecole Valentin: Premiere Classe Besancon - Ecole Valentin is a budget-friendly lodging option just 4.8km from Besançon, making it a convenient choice for families and pet owners alike. This hotel prioritizes comfort and affordability, providing essential amenities like complimentary cribs for infants and highchairs for toddlers. Pets are permitted, ensuring that your furry companions can join in on the adventure. The straightforward design and no-frills service make it an excellent choice for travellers looking to maximize their experience while keeping costs low.
- ibis Besançon Centre La City: ibis Besançon Centre La City is a 3-star hotel boasting a guest rating of 8.2, appealing to eco-conscious travellers seeking a pet-friendly environment. This eco-certified hotel emphasizes sustainability while offering modern amenities and stylish accommodations in the heart of Besançon. Guests can enjoy the convenience of on-site dining and relaxed lounging areas, all while knowing they are supporting environmentally responsible practices. The welcoming pet policy allows for a stress-free stay for those travelling with animals, making this hotel a top choice for a green getaway.
Where to stay in and around Besancon
Besançon, nestled in the stunning Doubs region, offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and charming scenery. Explore the historic city centre, with its pedestrian-friendly zones and friendly atmosphere. Enjoy a romantic stroll along the Doubs River or discover quiet areas perfect for relaxation. With top hotels and budget-friendly options, Besançon is an ideal destination for families and business travellers alike, making it a memorable spot to unwind and soak in the local culture.
- Franche-Comté: Nestled about 11.3km from Besançon, Franche-Comté is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With its stunning landscapes, including national parks and serene lakes, this region offers year-round activities, although visitor numbers peak from July to September. Whether you're skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, Franche-Comté's natural beauty provides a perfect backdrop for exploration and relaxation.
- Besançon Old Town: Located in the heart of Besançon, the Old Town is a cultural gem that draws visitors year-round. Known for its rich history and charming architecture, it features notable landmarks like the cathedral and historic university. From music concerts to theatrical performances, there's a vibrant arts scene to enjoy. The best times to visit are from July to October when the area buzzes with activity and cultural events.
- Ecole-Valentin: Just 4.8km from Besançon, Ecole-Valentin exudes a romantic charm that attracts visitors seeking culture and outdoor experiences. The city showcases beautiful monuments and historic forts, making it an intriguing destination for history buffs. With events like music concerts and theatre productions, Ecole-Valentin welcomes guests throughout the year, peaking in February, July, and September, ensuring there's always something exciting happening.
Things to do in Besancon
Besançon, nestled in the Doubs region of France, offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and romantic scenery. Visitors can immerse themselves in vibrant cultural experiences such as theatre performances and music concerts. Notable activities include the International Festival, scenic walking tours, and thrilling escapades with Besançon Adventure. Whether you're exploring the charming streets or enjoying the natural beauty, Besançon promises a memorable getaway.
Shopping
In Besançon, you can shop at local markets like the Marché de Besançon for fresh produce and artisanal goods. If you're up for a drive, check out the Centre Commercial Châteaufarine, where you'll find a variety of stores from fashion to home decor.
Recreation
Les Bains de la Marne offers a tranquil spa experience with soothing treatments and thermal baths, ideal for relaxation. For outdoor rejuvenation, explore the stunning Citadel of Besançon, where you can enjoy picturesque views and peaceful walking paths amidst historical architecture and lush landscapes.
Adventure
Explore the Citadel of Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a mix of history and stunning views. For thrill-seekers, the Doubs River offers kayaking and canoeing adventures amidst beautiful landscapes. Don’t miss the scenic hiking trails in the nearby Jura Mountains for a perfect outdoor experience.
Nightlife
Experience Besançon's vibrant nightlife by starting your evening at Le Café des Arts for a relaxed drink. For a lively atmosphere, check out La Poudrière, where local music sets the mood. If you're in the mood for dancing, head to Les Bains Douches to enjoy the beats until late.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Besancon
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Besancon are February to March and December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Besancon is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Besancon is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organize your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Besançon with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Besancon
Besançon, located in the Doubs region of France, is perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways, offering stunning scenery and rich history. Explore its notable attractions such as the historic fort, the impressive cathedral, and various museums. Ideal for culture seekers and families alike, you can also discover local galleries and the iconic Citadelle of Besançon, making your visit a well-rounded experience in this charming city.
- Hotel de Ville: This historic civic government building is a stunning example of architectural beauty, showcasing the rich culture of Besançon. Its grand façade and intricate details reflect the city's vibrant history, making it a perfect spot for those interested in local heritage.
- Horloge Astronomique: Situated in the heart of Besançon, this astronomical clock is not only a functional timepiece but also a remarkable work of art. With its intricate mechanisms and stunning design, it provides a unique glimpse into the city's timekeeping history and offers a lively atmosphere.
- Besancon Cathedral: This magnificent cathedral stands as a symbol of faith and culture in Besançon. Its impressive architecture and serene interior make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the spiritual essence and historical significance of the region.
Best time to go to Besancon
The best time to visit Besancon is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Besancon
When planning your trip to Besançon, you have a few airport options. Geneva (GVA-Cointrin Intl.) is approximately 112.7km away, with excellent hotels like The Woodward and Mandarin Oriental, both 3.2km from the airport. Basel (BSL-EuroAirport) and Mulhouse (MLH-EuroAirport) are both about 120.7km away, offering nearby accommodations such as Mercure Bale Mulhouse Aeroport, 1.6km from Basel, and ibis Mulhouse Bale Aeroport, 3.2km from Mulhouse. These hotels provide convenient transportation services to their respective airports, ensuring easy access for your travels. Choose the airport that best fits your itinerary and enjoy your stay in Besançon.