Things to do in Besancon

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Besancon travel guide

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What to do in Besancon

Popular places to visit

Besancon Citadel

Learn about the local history of Besancon when you spend time at Besancon Citadel. Stroll along the area's riverfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.

University of Franche-Comte

Explore the campus of University of Franche-Comte during your travels in Besancon. Stroll along the area's riverfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Besancon Cathedral

After visiting Besancon Cathedral, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Besancon. Stroll along the area's riverfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Micropolis Conference Center

You can get tickets for a performance at Micropolis Conference Center during your trip to Besancon. Discover the countryside while you're in the area.

Jean Minjoz Hospital

If Jean Minjoz Hospital is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Saint-François d'Assise.

Citadel of Besancon

You can find out about the history of Besancon with a stop at Citadel of Besancon. Stroll along the area's riverfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Palais Granvelle

You can learn about the history of Besancon with a trip to Palais Granvelle. Stroll along the area's riverfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie during your travels in Besancon. Stroll along the area's riverfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Hotel de Ville

After visiting Hotel de Ville, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Besancon. Stroll along the area's riverfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Areas of Besancon

Besancon Old Town

4.5/5(6 area reviews)

Unique features of Besancon Old Town include the river views and restaurants. Make a stop by Palais Granvelle or Besancon Citadel while you're exploring the area.

Frequently asked questions

Is Besancon worth visiting?

Whether you want to enjoy the cultural highlights and local charm or try unique foods and go on outdoor adventures, there are many things to do in Besancon.

How do I spend a day in Besancon?

Start your day with a visit to Musée d'Histoire Naturelle and Musée Comtois. Then, check out different parts of Besancon for local dining and some souvenir shopping.

What is the top tourist attraction in Besancon?

You can't leave without visiting Micropolis Conference Centre, rated the top tourist attraction in Besancon.

Is three days enough to stay in Besancon?

Three days will be enough time to tick off the leading city sights, including Micropolis Conference Centre, Museum of Fine Arts and Archaeology of Besancon and Cathédrale St-Jean. The average stay in Besancon is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your holiday, Arbois isn't far away.

Is Besancon a walkable city?

It depends on what you want to do and see in Besancon. Several attractions, such as Micropolis Conference Centre and Museum of Fine Arts and Archaeology of Besancon, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Besancon's best neighbourhoods, Besancon Old Town is 0.16 kilometres away from downtown, while Saint-Jean-Baptiste is 5 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Besancon with kids?

Planning what to do in Besancon with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or little ones, there are lots of family-friendly attractions to keep everyone busy here.

Tour guide in Besançon - Visit Besançon with your official guide

What to do in Besancon for adults?

Citadel of Besancon and Hotel de Ville are just a couple of the things to do in Besancon. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.

Are there free things to do in Besancon?

From enjoying parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Besancon. If you're in need of ideas, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Cathédrale St-Jean is a top spot for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing activities.