Top reasons to visit Besancon
- Historic Citadelle: Explore the impressive Citadelle of Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing stunning architecture and panoramic views.
- Cultural Richness: Enjoy a vibrant cultural scene with theatre performances, music concerts, and various galleries throughout the city.
- Scenic Beauty: Discover Besançon's breathtaking landscapes, perfect for outdoor adventures and romantic strolls.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Visit nearby towns radiating a welcoming vibe, ideal for family outings and budget-friendly experiences.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of lodging options, from pet-friendly hotels to comfortable guesthouses, ensuring a pleasant stay.
Find great hotels in and around Besancon
Discover the charming city of Besançon with a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly hotel, a comfortable guesthouse for a family holiday, or a business-friendly establishment, Besançon offers a range of choices. From the modern Ibis Styles Besançon to other welcoming lodgings, you'll find the perfect base to explore this historic region.
- ibis Styles Besançon: This charming 3-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10 and is ideal for families and business travellers alike. Located in Besançon, the ibis Styles Besançon offers a playful and vibrant atmosphere, with its design reflecting a modern, stylish flair. Families can enjoy amenities such as a shared playground for children, while pet owners will appreciate the welcoming pet policy. The hotel provides essential services for children, making it a comfortable choice for those travelling with little ones.
- Premiere Classe Besançon - Ecole Valentin: Situated 5km from Besançon, this budget-friendly accommodation is tailored for families seeking a practical stay without sacrificing comfort. The Premiere Classe Besançon emphasizes simplicity and convenience, featuring child-friendly amenities like highchairs and complimentary cribs, ensuring a hassle-free experience for parents. The pet-friendly policy allows for a worry-free stay for guests travelling with their furry companions, making it an accessible option for all types of travellers.
- ibis Besançon Centre La City: A 3-star hotel with a commendable rating of 8.2 out of 10, ibis Besançon Centre La City stands out for its eco-certification, catering to environmentally conscious travellers. Located in the heart of Besançon, this hotel combines contemporary comfort with sustainable practices. Guests will find the property accommodating for pets, alongside amenities that promote a greener lifestyle. The modern design and central location ensure a pleasant stay, whether exploring the city or relaxing in the comfort of the hotel.
Where to stay near Besancon
Besançon, a charming city in France, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, perfect for romantic getaways. Explore the vibrant city centre, where friendly locals welcome you to discover its rich history and culture. Venture beyond to nearby towns, each radiating a family-friendly atmosphere and budget-friendly options. Experience the unique vibes of Besançon and its surroundings, making unforgettable memories in this picturesque region.
- Miserey-Salines: Located 6km from Besançon, Miserey-Salines offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and entertainment. With its visitor numbers peaking in February, June, and September, this charming city provides a welcoming atmosphere year-round. Families and adventure seekers will find plenty to enjoy, including access to scenic trails, local music concerts, and engaging theatre performances. Nearby attractions such as a theme park, museum, and captivating caves make it an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in both culture and nature.
- Franche-Comté: Situated 11km from Besançon, Franche-Comté is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. The region sees its highest influx of visitors from July to September, drawn by its stunning scenery and vast opportunities for exploration. With ski resorts and fields readily accessible, it’s perfect for those who enjoy winter sports. Additionally, the area boasts beautiful lakes and national parks, offering a picturesque backdrop for hiking and nature walks, making Franche-Comté a must-visit for anyone keen on outdoor experiences.
- Beure: Just 3km from Besançon, Beure is a quaint city that attracts visitors seeking outdoor adventures and breathtaking landscapes. The peak seasons occur in April to May and August, appealing to nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. With its proximity to national parks and nature reserves, Beure is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and simply enjoying the tranquillity of the great outdoors. The area's lush greenery and scenic views provide a serene escape, making it a delightful addition to your itinerary.
Things to do in Besancon
Shopping
In the heart of Besançon, you can explore charming boutiques and local shops for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, head to the Centre Commercial Châteaufarine, offering a range of popular brands, or visit the Grand Besançon, where you can find both fashion and home goods.
Recreation
Les Bains de Saône offers a tranquil atmosphere with thermal waters and rejuvenating treatments, perfect for unwinding. For a blend of relaxation and nature, visit Parc Micaud, where you can stroll along picturesque pathways and enjoy the serene environment by the river.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of rock climbing at the stunning cliffs of La Maline, offering routes for various skill levels. For a rush of adrenaline, try paragliding over the picturesque Doubs Valley, allowing you to take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes from above.
Nightlife
In Besançon, enjoy vibrant nightlife at Le 28, a lively bar known for its creative cocktails. For a more laid-back vibe, visit La Pinte, where you can savour local brews. Dance the night away at La Rodia, a popular venue for live music and energetic performances.
*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 visit to Besançon, consider travelling in February or November to December, when accommodation prices are lower. Sundays are the most affordable days to stay, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to filter options by budget and preferred amenities, and take advantage of package deals by booking flights and activities together. Additionally, explore free activities such as walking tours in the city, and utilise the efficient public transport system for economical travel around Besançon.
- 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: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy some savings by combining your hotel reservation in Besançon with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Besancon
Besançon, renowned for its scenic beauty and romantic atmosphere, offers a delightful blend of history and culture for travellers. Key attractions include the impressive Citadelle of Besançon, the stunning Besançon Cathedral, and various galleries throughout the city. Whether you're interested in exploring historic sites or enjoying family-friendly experiences, Besançon provides a perfect setting for an enriching vacation.
- Besancon Cathedral: This stunning cathedral, located in the heart of Besancon, is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture. Its intricate stained glass windows and towering spires create a serene atmosphere, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- Besancon Citadel: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Besancon Citadel is an impressive fortress that dominates the skyline. Explore its well-preserved ramparts, museums, and panoramic views of the city, immersing yourself in the history and culture that surround this historic fort.
- Citadel of Besancon: This historic site provides insight into the military past of the region. Visitors can wander through its extensive grounds, discovering exhibitions that highlight the citadel's significance and enjoy breathtaking views of Besancon and the Doubs Valley.
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
Getting to Besançon can be easily accomplished by flying into nearby major airports. Geneva (GVA-Cointrin Intl.) is approximately 113km away, with excellent hotels such as the InterContinental Genève, located 2km from the airport. Mulhouse (MLH-EuroAirport) and Basel (BSL-EuroAirport) are both situated 121km from Besançon, offering options like the Mercure Bale Mulhouse Aeroport and ibis Mulhouse Bale Aeroport, respectively, both within 3km of their respective airports. Transportation services such as airport shuttles are often available from these hotels, ensuring a convenient journey to your destination.