Things to do in Besancon

Activities, attractions and tours

View of embankment in Besancon with tram on a bridge - France; Shutterstock ID 273809897
View of embankment in Besancon with tram on a bridge - France; Shutterstock ID 273809897
A view of the river Le Doubs from Fort de Bregille, with the edge of Park La Gare d'Eau on the right. #Besancon #travel #travelphotography
Chapelle Notre-Dame du Refuge in Besancon, France. #travel #travelphotography
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What to do in Besancon

Popular places to visit

View of Besancon city - France, Doubs, Shutterstock ID 273809924, SF SSA Case with Manager Approval: Case 07151371, Job: Prepay credit, Client/Licensee: , Other:

Besancon Citadel

5/5(4 reviews)

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.

Besancon Citadel

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.

University of Franche-Comte

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.

Jean Minjoz Hospital

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.

Micropolis Conference Center

Besancon Cathedral

4/5(3 reviews)

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.

Besancon Cathedral

Citadel of Besancon

5/5(4 reviews)

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.

Citadel of Besancon

Parc Micaud

Learn about the local history of Besancon when you take a trip to Parc Micaud. Discover the area's countryside and monuments.

Parc Micaud

Place du 8 Septembre

4/5(5 reviews)

Learn about the local history of Besancon when you spend time at Place du 8 Septembre. Take in the museums and countryside in the area.

Place du 8 Septembre

Palais Granvelle

4/5(1 review)

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.

Palais Granvelle

Areas of Besancon

View of Besancon city - France, Doubs, Shutterstock ID 273809924, SF SSA Case with Manager Approval: Case 07151371, Job: Prepay credit, Client/Licensee: , Other:

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.

Besancon Old Town

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.

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.

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