Top reasons to visit Besancon
- Historic Citadel: Visit the impressive Citadelle de Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering stunning views and rich history.
- Scenic Pedestrian Streets: Explore charming pedestrian streets filled with local boutiques and cafes, perfect for leisurely strolls.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a variety of engaging activities suitable for families, from cultural events to outdoor adventures.
- Rich Cultural Scene: Experience vibrant theater performances and music concerts that showcase local talent.
- Beautiful Surroundings: Immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes of the Franche-Comté region, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Find great hotels in and around Besancon
Discover the charm of Besançon with a variety of lodging options tailored to your needs. Whether you're looking for pet-friendly accommodations, a family-friendly atmosphere, or facilities suited for business travel, Besançon hotels offer something for everyone. From cozy guesthouses to well-appointed hotels, you'll find the perfect base to explore this historic city and its stunning landscapes.
- Premiere Classe Besancon - Ecole Valentin: A perfect choice for families and pet lovers, Premiere Classe Besancon - Ecole Valentin is designed for a comfortable and convenient stay. Located a short distance from Besancon, this hotel offers a family-friendly atmosphere with amenities like highchairs and free cribs. Guests appreciate the pet-friendly policy, which allows certain pets on the premises, making it an ideal spot for those traveling with furry companions. The hotel’s simplicity and focus on family needs make it an attractive option for a stress-free vacation.
- ibis Styles Besançon: This stylish 3-star hotel is situated in the heart of Besancon and caters to families, business travelers, and pet owners. With a playful design and inviting atmosphere, ibis Styles Besançon features a shared playground for children, ensuring young guests have a great time. The hotel also welcomes pets, making it a suitable choice for those who want to travel with their four-legged friends. Its blend of modern amenities and family-oriented services creates a vibrant, accommodating environment for all types of travelers.
- ibis Besançon Centre La City: Nestled in the center of Besancon, ibis Besançon Centre La City is a fantastic option for pet-friendly travelers. With its modern accommodations and welcoming atmosphere, this 3-star hotel provides a comfortable base for exploring the city. The pet policy allows certain pets to stay, ensuring that guests can enjoy their vacation without leaving their furry friends behind. Its central location makes it easy to access local attractions, dining, and shopping, making it a practical choice for a memorable stay.
Where to stay in and around Besancon
Besançon offers an unforgettable vacation experience with its stunning outdoor scenery and family-friendly atmosphere. The city center boasts charming pedestrian streets (rues piétonnes) where you can explore local boutiques and cafes. Enjoy breathtaking city views and the warm hospitality of friendly locals. With a blend of business and leisure vibes, Besançon is perfect for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation in this beautiful region of France.
- Franche-Comte: Located 11.3km from Besancon, Franche-Comte is a picturesque region perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Known for its stunning natural scenery, it offers opportunities for skiing and recreational activities. Visitors flock here primarily during the summer months from July to September, but the region’s charm is timeless. Explore its beautiful lakes and national parks, which are ideal for hiking and enjoying the breathtaking landscapes. Franche-Comte is a wonderful escape for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
- Ornans: Situated 17.7km away from Besancon, Ornans is a charming city that captivates visitors with its romantic ambiance and scenic beauty. The city is popular year-round, with peak visits from June to August. Ornans offers a variety of outdoor activities, and its proximity to national parks and lakes makes it an excellent choice for nature lovers. Local attractions include a fascinating history museum and ski resorts, making it an appealing destination for both adventure and culture.
- Besancon Old Town: Nestled in the heart of Besancon, the Old Town is a vibrant neighborhood that attracts families and city explorers alike. With its peak tourist season from July to September, the area is alive with entertainment options, including theaters and music concerts. Visitors can indulge in shopping at local centers and enjoy the historical charm of the piazza square and urban parks. Besancon Old Town offers a delightful blend of culture, history, and modern-day attractions, making it a must-visit destination.
Things to do in and around Besancon
Besançon is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking picturesque scenery and engaging activities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including vibrant theater performances, music concerts, and educational experiences. This charming city offers a delightful blend of cultural and recreational opportunities, making it a perfect destination for a memorable vacation.
Shopping
In Besançon, enjoy shopping at local boutiques and markets for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit La Cave se Rebiffe, located 20.9km away, offering a charming selection of gifts and regional products that capture the essence of France.
Recreation
At Besançon Golf, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by picturesque landscapes, just 11.3km from the city. For family fun, Ludolac Aquatic Centre, located 211.3km away, features thrilling water activities. Additionally, Château de Bournel Golf, 41.8km from Besançon, offers a serene outdoor golfing experience.
Adventure
Explore the Besançon Loop Trail, a scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Immerse yourself in nature as you navigate the trail, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and breathtaking scenery.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant nightlife in Besançon at the Micropolis Conference Center for a blend of romance and culture. For family fun, venture to Sport Bowling Vesoul and enjoy arcade games, or catch a movie at Cinéma Majestic Vesoul, perfect for entertainment and romantic evenings.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Besancon
To save money during your trip to Besançon, consider visiting in February or from November to December, as these months offer lower prices compared to the peak season in June to July and September. Sundays are the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodations by filtering for eco-certified hotels and sorting prices from lowest to highest. Look for package deals that combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings, and take advantage of free activities to enjoy the city without overspending.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Besancon are February and November to 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 Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Besancon is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Besançon with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Besancon
Besançon is perfect for outdoor and family vacations, boasting attractions like the historic citadel, stunning cathedral, and renowned university. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while exploring the scenic surroundings. Notable points of interest include the Citadelle de Besançon and the beautiful landscapes of the Franche-Comté region. With its rich history and family-friendly activities, Besançon offers a delightful experience for all travelers.
- Besancon Citadel: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic fort offers breathtaking views of the city and the Doubs River. Explore its impressive architecture and enjoy the rich history that dates back to the 17th century, with museums and gardens to enhance your visit.
- University of Franche-Comte: This historic university, founded in the 15th century, boasts stunning architecture and vibrant student life. Wander through its beautiful campus, which showcases a blend of history and modern education, embodying the rich cultural heritage of Besancon.
- Besancon Cathedral: A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, this cathedral features intricate stained glass and a magnificent organ. Step inside to admire its serene ambiance and remarkable artistic details that reflect centuries of devotion and craftsmanship.
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
Traveling to Besançon, France, is convenient when flying into Dole (DLE-Franche-Comté Regional), located 49.9km away. Nearby hotel options include the Campanile Dole, a 3-star hotel situated 9.7km from the airport, the Hôtel de La Cloche, also a 3-star hotel just 8.0km away, and the Hôtel ibis Dole Sud Choisey, which is a 3-star hotel only 3.2km from the airport. These hotels offer comfortable accommodations and easy access to transportation services, making your journey to Besançon seamless and enjoyable.