Independent travel and view of the city of Besançon! History of the city of Besanson Besançon is the administr...
Besançon is the administrative center of the Burgundy-Franche-Comté region, located in the bend of the Doubs River, almost on the border with Switzerland. Its natural surroundings – the hills and the bend of the river – have long given it strategic importance as a fortress and trading hub.
Before the Romans
Before the arrival of the Romans, the Celts, the Sequani tribe, lived here. Their fortified settlement was called Vesontio (or Visontio), from which the modern name of the city originated. Even then, the site was of strategic importance – trade routes between Galia, Germany and Italy passed through it.
Roman period
In 58 BC. Julius Caesar mentions Vesontio in his Notes on the Gallic War: here he stopped before the battle with the German Ariovistus. Later, the city became an important Roman administrative center of the province of Sequan Gaul (Gallia Sequania).
The Romans built:
amphitheatre, theatre and aqueduct,
term,
forums and roads (including the Via Agrippa section).
Archaeological finds (including the bronze head of Mars found in 1753) testify to a rich urban culture.
Middle Ages
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Besanson changed hands:
In the fifth century, under the Burgundians,
the Franks (included in the kingdom of Chlothar I),
In the ninth century it became part of the Middle Kingdom of Lothair, and then - part of the Holy Roman Empire.
From the X century Besançon became an archdiocese, and soon the archbishop received the status of prince-emperor, which makes the city a free imperial city. It enjoyed broad autonomy and was governed by a council of citizens under the patronage of the emperor.
In the Middle Ages, Besanson was famous:
their markets and fairs,
watchmakers and blacksmiths,
university and schools.
The Renaissance and French Accession
In the XVI century, Besançon remained part of Franche-Comte, which was under the rule of the Habsburgs (Spain). The city prospered, but suffered from religious conflicts: both Catholics and Protestants operated here.
During the Franco-Spanish Wars in the seventeenth century, Franche-Comté became an object of struggle between the two powers.
In 1668, Louis XIV first occupied Besançon, but returned it to the Treaty of Aachen.
In 1674, the French army again besieged and captured the city. After that, in the Treaty of Nimvegen (1678), Besançon finally passed to France.
After the annexation, Louis XIV ordered the construction of a majestic citadel designed by the famous engineer Vauban. This citadel is now included in the UNESCO World Heritage List (since 2008).
XVIII-XIX centuries: industry and culture
Besançon became the center of watchmaking - already in the XVIII century it was called the "capital of French watches". Manufactures and craft schools were founded here, and in the 1860s the National School of Watchmaking, which still exists today.
During the French Revolution, the city became part of the Doubs department. In the XIX century Besançon actively developed as an industrial and administrative center, received a railway connection and grew into a modern city.
Here was born the famous Victor Hugo (1802-1885) – writer, poet, public figure.
XX century and modernity
First and Second World Wars
In the First World War, Besanson was a rear center, many of its inhabitants went to the front.
In 1940, the city was occupied by Germany and liberated only in September 1944 by American troops.
Post-war period
After the war, Besançon again became the center of the watch industry, but in the 1970s, the crisis of this industry (competition with Japan and Switzerland) forced the city to diversify its economy.
Today, Besançon is a center of microtechnology, nanotechnology and biomedicine, as well as a university and cultural city.
Cultural heritage
Main attractions:
Vauban Citadel is one of the best fortifications of the XVII century;
Old Town with Roman Gate and Saint-Jean Cathedral;
Victor Hugo's house;
Museum of Fine Arts and Archaeology (one of the oldest in France)
The astronomical clock with 30,000 details is a symbol of the craftsmanship of Besanson watchmakers.
Hidden among the emerald hills and flowing bends of the Doux River, Besançon is one of France’s most charming cities, where history and nature intertwine in exquisite harmony. Here the ancient walls of Roman times coexist with the sophisticated facades of the XVIII century, and elegant bridges are reflected in the mirror surface of the water.
Atmosphere and character
Besançon is a city with a soul where there is no tourist bustle of Paris, but there is real French authenticity. It's cozy, intelligent and green.
more than 200 hectares of parks and gardens,
The picturesque embankments of the river Du,
And the pride of the city is the Vauban citadel, towering over the valley.
From the fortress walls opens one of the most impressive panoramas of France - a view of the city, hidden in a loop of the river, as if in a natural amphitheater.
Historical charm
Besançon is a city with more than two thousand years of history. From the Celts and Romans to Louis XIV, everyone left their mark. Walking through the old center, you can see:
Roman Gate (Porte Noire)
Saint-Jean Cathedral with a unique astronomical clock,
The house of Victor Hugo, where the great writer was born,
The Museum of Fine Arts and Archaeology is the oldest museum in France after the Louvre.
Vauban's Citadel
The main attraction of Besanson is the Citadel, designed by the legendary engineer Vauban. It is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and unites:
fortress with panoramic terraces,
historical museums
zoo and aquarium,
interactive displays.
This is a place where adults and children can spend the whole day without missing a minute.
Old town.
The heart of Besanson is a labyrinth of narrow streets paved with stone, surrounded by mansions of the XVIII century and cozy cafes. In the evening, it is especially beautiful: lighted lanterns are reflected in the water of Du, and the streets are filled with the smell of coffee, cheese and fresh pastries.
Clock Town
Besançon is the French capital of watchmaking. In the Museum of Time (Musée du Temps) you can see:
mechanisms created by the masters of the city,
The rarest astronomical clock,
Even a modern exhibition dedicated to high-precision manufacturing.
Gastronomy and atmosphere
Franche-Conte is famous for cheeses, smoked meats and wine, and Besançon is the perfect place to try it all.
Try it:
Comte cheese, aged in mountain caves,
Smoked sausage from Montbelard,
And drink it with a glass of Vin Jaune from Jura.
Small restaurants and bistros in the city center offer local cuisine with soul and warmth.
Nature and active recreation
Besançon is one of the greenest cities in Europe. Fans of outdoor activities will find many opportunities here:
Walking and hiking in the hills with views of the city,
Cycling routes along the river Du,
Water walks and kayaking,
In winter, easy access to the Jurassic Mountain ski slopes.
Culture and events
Besanson is not only history, but also modern life. This is where they go.
International Conductor Competition (one of the most prestigious in the world)
Festival of Film and Music (Festival Lumières d’Afrique)
Summer concerts and open-air exhibitions.
The city is young, lively and creatively active thanks to the university and students who give it energy and dynamism.
Budget segment (economy)
The simplest hotels are often two stars or even starless (or very basic classification).
Hostels, guest houses (bed & breakfast), budget chains (for example, B&B Hôtel) are a good choice if you want to save money.
Studio apartments, rented apartments (especially through Airbnb, local sites) can be very profitable, especially for long-term stays or groups.
Middle segment (comfort)
Three-star hotels: more comfortable rooms, perhaps a restaurant, good services, central location.
Business hotels, chains like Ibis, Logis - comfortable conditions, not "luxury", but clean and pleasant.
High segment/boutique hotels
Four-star and above: hotels with a design approach, spa, restaurants, possibly historic buildings.
Boutique hotels in the old city center, with character, good service.
Alternative options (neomotic)
Apartments (short-term rental) - studios, apartments for several people.
Guesthouses, B&B.
Possibly youth or student hostels (for students) – here you need to view local offers through agencies or housing sites in France.
1. The Citadel of Besançon (Citadelle de Besançon)
One of France’s most impressive fortresses, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Vauban. Inside are museums (ethnographic, Resistance Museum), a zoo and observation decks.
How to get there:
Walking: from the center 20-30 minutes on the uplifting streets or stairs (the way is steep, but picturesque).
Bus: The local line 27 bus runs close to the entrance (depending on the timetable).
By car: There is a small parking lot at the entrance, but it is often full.
2. The Old Town (La Boucle)
Historic quarter in the loop of the river Du. Narrow streets, chambers of the XVIII century, cozy squares, shops, cafes.
How to get there:
On foot: this is the main city center, it is easy to get here from Viotte station in 10-15 minutes.
Tram: Both lines (T1 and T2) run along the edge of the Old Town (Chamars stops, Révolution).
3. Cathedral of Saint-Jean (Cathédrale Saint-Jean)
A medieval cathedral with a unique clock of the Astronomical Master Liuиa. At the foot of the citadel.
How to get there:
Walking: from the center 5-10 minutes.
Tram: stop "Revolution", then 5 minutes walk.
4. Museum of Fine Arts and Archaeology (Musée des Beaux-Arts et d’Archéologie)
One of the oldest museums in France (founded in the XVIII century), collections of painting, archeology, sculpture.
How to get there:
Tram: Revolution stop is right next door.
Walking: from the old town 5-7 minutes.
5. House of Lumiers (Maison natale de Victor Hugo)
The house where Victor Hugo was born. A small museum dedicated to his life, French literature and humanism.
How to get there:
On foot: located in the center, on the street Granvelle.
Tram: "Revolution" - 3 minutes walk.
6. Granvel Palace and Park (Palais Granvelle & Parc Micaud)
Renaissance Palace of the XVI century, near the green park Miko overlooking the river Du.
How to get there:
Walking: 5-10 minutes from the center.
Tram: near the stop of Chamars, Mouillères.
7. Fort de Montfaucon / Fort de Chaudanne
Forts included in the defensive ring of Besanson. Excellent option for walks and panoramic views.
How to get there:
Only for those who like to walk in the mountains.
Car: The most convenient car.
Public transport goes only to the nearest areas, from where - climb on foot.
8. Quai Vauban (Promenade Granvelle)
Beautiful pedestrian area along the river, ideal for walking, jogging, photo shoots.
How to get there:
On foot: almost anywhere in the center.
Tram: Chamars/Battant stops.
spring
Carnival in Besanson
One of the brightest annual festivals is usually held in April.
Program: fair-village in Granvelle Square with attractions and tents, musical performances, parade, concerts.
On Sunday, the famous "course des garçons de café" - a race of waiter-bartenders with a tray.
The theme of the carnival may change: in 2025, the theme was “Besançon ouverte sur le monde”.
There are parallel carnivals in some areas of the city (for example, in the Battant quarter) with children's processions.
Livres dans la Boucle (Book Salon)
Literary festival: book fair, meetings with authors, readings, debates.
It usually takes place in the spring/early summer months (includes three days of activity in central squares).
Summer.
Instants Gourmands
The Gastronomic Festival is a very popular summer event.
In 2025, “Instants Gourmands” took place from 28 to 31 August.
Format: about 50 tents with local manufacturers, tastings, street food, master classes.
The program "Instants Sons" - concerts of jazz, folk, electro, group performances.
There's "Instants Brunch," a Sunday brunch at Granvelle Palace.
Tout Besançon Vole
A holiday dedicated to flight / aviation / paragliding.
In 2025, it took place on August 23-24 at Port Douvot.
Program: paraglider competitions, “march and takeoff”, fly simulators, master classes, demonstrations, evening “Night of Icarus”, VR flight simulations, mass flights.
For the public: free animations, paragliding battems, creating boomerangs, movies, stands, treats.
The Summer Organ Clock (Heures d'Orgue)
Although not a major festival - regular organ concerts in the summer, especially on Sundays, in the Cathedral of Saint-Jean. (References in summer leisure programs)
Late summer/early autumn
Besançon International Music Festival
One of the oldest classical festivals in France.
It takes place around mid/late September.
Feature: Concours international de jeunes chefs d’orchestre, international participants.
Venues: Concert halls such as Théâtre Ledoux, Kursaal, etc.
Holiday dates
July 14 – Bastille Day (Fête Nationale)
Very festive day in Besançon.
The program includes: military parade, "Village aux Armées", concert, picnic of citizens, fireworks.
In the evening, the Victor Hugo Orchestra concert at Revolution Square, followed by the rock band The Rock Machine.
Completion - fireworks (salute) with views of the city.
Spring (March-May)
In spring, the weather changes rapidly: from cool and humid in March to summer comfortable in the second half of May.
Average temperatures:
March: +6... +11 °C
April: +9...+15 °C
May: +13... +20 °C
Precipitation: moderate, possible rain.
Water temperature:- In the river Du swimming is not accepted; the temperature in the spring +10 ... +14 ° C, the water is very cold. The nearest lakes (for example, St. Point) are also cold, about +10 ... + 15 ° C by May.
Summer (June - August)
Climate Features: Warm, comfortable, not too hot. Besanson is located in a green valley, so high humidity and rare thunderstorms are possible.
Average temperatures:
June: +16...+24 °C
July: +18 ... +27 °C
August: +17... +26 °C
Maximums: sometimes up to +30... +33°C, but this is rare.
Water temperature:
River Du: +18... +22 °C, but bathing is officially limited and site dependent.
Lakes nearby: +20 ... +23 ° C in the height of summer - comfortable for rest.
Autumn (September-November)
Climate features: The beginning of autumn is the golden season: warm, sunny. The end is already cool and wet.
Average temperatures:
September: +14 ... +22 °C
October: +10... +16 °C
November: +5... +10 °C
Water temperature: Falls from +18 °C in early September to +10 °C in November.
Winter (December to February)
Climate features: Cold, wet, often foggy. Sometimes snow falls, especially in the surrounding hills.
Average temperatures:
December: +1...+6 °C
January: 0...+5 °C
February: +1 ... +7 °C
Minimums: possible -5 ... -10 ° C at night.
Water temperature:- Du: about +5...+7 °C.
Language of communication
The main language is French.
Although many locals, especially young people and tourism workers, understand English, in France, it is highly appreciated to try to speak French with just a few words:
Bonjour - hello
S'il vous plaît - please
Merci, thank you.
Pardon - sorry/sorry
Parlez-vous anglais? - Do you speak English?
“Vous” is the norm in dealing with strangers.
Cultural characteristics and traditions
Politeness
In shops, cafes and any establishments, it is always customary to say hello: Bonjour, Madame / Monsieur.
Leaving - Au revoir, Bonne journée.
Manners in public places
Speaking loudly is not acceptable.
Lines are strictly observed; overtaking without reason is considered rude.
When entering small shops or a bakery, be sure to say Bonjour to all workers, even if you just "look."
Behaviour in cafes and restaurants
Tipping is not necessary (usually the service is included), but leaving 5-10% or just rounding the amount is a good tone.
In a cafe, it is not customary to sit with a large backpack on a chair or table - it is better to put it next to or on the floor.
Features of the region
Besançon is the capital of the Franche-Comté region, famous for Comté cheese and watchmaking. Locals are proud of their culture and history – a respectful interest in local traditions is always welcome.
Laws and regulations that are important for travelers
Smoking
It is prohibited in all closed public places (cafes, railway stations, museums).
Cafes are allowed on the terraces, but there may be restrictions.
cars
Besanson is a green city with a developed cycling infrastructure:
Cyclists are required to comply with traffic rules.
Crossing the road is strictly on the crossing - fines for violation are possible.
Alcohol
Drinking alcohol in public is officially restricted, especially at night.
Driving is strictly: the permissible rate of alcohol is 0.5‰, for young drivers - 0.2‰.
Photo and security
In museums and historical buildings, the rules of shooting can vary - it is better to specify at the entrance.
The police and the military are not photographed.
Cleanliness
Penalties for garbage on the street are quite high.
Waste sorting is the norm, especially in residential areas.
1. Basic words and addresses
Bonjour - Bonjour - hello / good day
Bonsoir - Bonsoir - Good evening
Salut - salu - hello (unofficially)
Au revoir - oh revoir - goodbye
Merci - Merci - thank you
Merci beaucoup - Merci beaucoup - thank you very much
S'il vous plaît - sil wo ple - please (politely)
Excusez-moi - excuse-moi - sorry / sorry
Pardon - Pardon - Sorry (when you pass by)
Oui - yee - yes
Non - but no
2. Polite phrases
Je ne parle pas bien français - I don't speak French well.
Parlez-vous anglais? - Parlez-vous anglais? - Do you speak English?
Je suis touriste – I am a tourist
Pouvez-vous m'aider? - Can you help me?
3. At the airport or train station
Where is the train station? - Where is the train station?
À quelle heure part of le train? - What time does the train leave?
Billet aller simple - billier ale sample - one way ticket
Billet aller-retour - billier ale retour - a round trip ticket
Je voudrais un ticket - I need a ticket
4. At the hotel.
J'ai une réservation - Je Un Razervacion - I have reservation
Avez-vous une chambre libre? - Ave wo un shamber libre? - Is there a room available?
À partir de quelle heure est le check-in? - And parti de quellér e le cheque-in? - How long is the settlement?
Je voudrais une chambre pour une nuit - jo wudre un shamber pur un nui - I have a room for one night
Le petit-déjeuner est inclus? - Is breakfast included?
5. Cafe and restaurant
La carte, s'il vous plaît - la carte sil wo ple - menu please
"Je voudrais ..." I would like to ...
L'addition, s'il vous plaît - laddisien siel wo ple - bill, please
Une carafe d'eau - young karaf do - decanter of water
C'est délicieux! - se delisjo - very tasty!
6. In the store.
How much does it cost? - How much does it cost?
Je regarde seulement - I'm just watching
Avez-vous une taille plus grande? - Ave wo un tai plu gran? - Is there a size larger?
Je paie par carte - I pay with a card
C’est en promotion? – is it a discount?
7. On the street/city
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Le centre-ville - le sontre villa - city centre
Le musée - le muse - museum
La citadelle - la sitadel - citadel
Tournez à droite / à gauche - tourne a druat / a gosh - turn right / left
Is it far away? - Is it far away?
8. Emergency phrases
Aidez-moi! - Ede-moi! - Help!
J'ai besoin d'un médecin - Je bezuen den medsen
Appelez la police - aple la polis - call the police
Je me suis perdu(e) - I'm lost
Food and drink
1. Cheese
Comté is the region’s most famous cheese, hard, with a nutty flavor. Perfect for a gift: sold in vacuum packaging.
Mont d’Or is a soft cheese that is usually baked, sold in a wooden box. Seasonal, winter delicacy.
Morbier is a semi-hard cheese with a distinctive black stripe in the middle.
2. Delicious meats
Saucisse de Morteau - smoked sausage, a regional delicacy. It is well preserved and can be brought as a souvenir.
Jambon cru de Montbéliard is a smoked cheese ham.
3. Wine and drinks
Franche-Comté wines are less well known than Bordeaux or Burgundy, but quality white and red.
Marc de Bourgogne or Vin de Paille are sweet dessert wines.
Locally produced liqueurs, such as herbal tinctures from Jura.
4. Sweets.
Biscuit rose de Reims are pink biscuits (although native to Reims, often sold along the way).
Caramels au beurre salé – caramel with salt, often handmade.
Miel et confitures are locally produced – especially from the mountain flowers and honey herbs of the Jura region.
Medicinal and useful remedies
Herbal teas and tinctures are from local alpine herbs.
Ointments and creams based on honey or propolis are useful for the skin, often sold in pharmacies and Herboristerie stores.
Essential oils - lavender, thyme, rosemary - for aromatherapy.
Natural health products can be found in the pharmacy or specialized shops, often with a local brand.
Souvenirs and handicrafts
1. Clocks and crafts
Clocks and mechanical toys - Besançon is historically known as the city of watchmakers.
Mechanical models - table clocks, music boxes.
2. Ceramics and glass
Manual ceramics with patterns of the region.
Glass souvenirs, sometimes hand-painted.
3. Textiles
Scarves and scarves are wool and cotton, with local patterns.
Aprons and kitchen utensils are a souvenir with local flavor.
4. Book and cultural souvenirs
Books about the Besançon citadel and the history of Franche-Comte.
Postcards and posters with views of the city, watch workshops and the river Du.
1. City security
Besançon is a quiet city, relatively safe for tourists.
Main risks: pickpockets in tourist places (Citadel, city center, train stations), traffic accidents.
At night, it is better to avoid lighted deserted streets.
On public transport and at the station, keep an eye on bags and documents.
Tip: Always carry a copy of your passport and keep the original in the hotel safe.
2. Documents required
Passport - valid at least 3 months after the planned date of departure from the Schengen area.
Visa (if required) for non-EU nationals. For a short-term tourist stay, a Schengen type C visa is required.
Insurance policy is a mandatory requirement when obtaining a Schengen visa.
There and back tickets can be requested at the border.
Confirmation of hotel reservation - it is desirable to have on paper and electronic media.
Driving license is an international license if you plan to rent a car.
3. Health insurance
You must have travel insurance covering:
Emergency medical care, hospitalization
repatriation
treatment
Baggage insurance and travel cancellations (optional)
Average cost: from 5-10 euros per day, depending on the age and duration of the trip.
4. Emergency services in France
Police/gendarmerie: 17
Ambulance: 15
Fire service: 18
Uniform emergency number (Europe): 112 – working from anywhere in the country
Assistance to tourists (English/French): +33 1 45 61 64 00 (France Tourisme Info)
5. Mobile and Internet
All major French operators operate in Besançon:
Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, Free
It is convenient for tourists to buy a prepaid SIM card (“carte SIM prépayée”) with mobile Internet.
EU mobile fares: if you have SIM from the EU, calls and internet at standard European tariffs.
Wi-Fi is available in almost all cafes, restaurants, hotels and libraries.
6. Term of stay of the tourist
For citizens of Schengen countries: stay without a visa and registration up to 90 days.
For non-EU citizens (Schengen): Short-term C visa is a maximum of 90 days in a 180-day period.
Visa extension is only possible in exceptional cases and only in the prefecture of the city.
Create a query and local guides will offer you the best options
