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5 Available Tour Excursions in Besancon
Welcome to Besancon, a town famed for art and history, built on a loop of the River Doubs. It is well-known as the watch capital of France. Discover the birthplace of a famous writer - Victor Hugo. Admire the Saint-Jean cathedral and its elegant astronomical clock made of 30,000 pieces. The grand mansions of the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries are some of the many places of interest to be explored on a walk around the town.
Price: $304.74
Duration: 1 hours
Experience a unique and magical tour of the Christmas market Play on the day and time of your choice In an exceptional setting in the heart of Christmas markets Photos and videos are saved directly to your smartphone A friendly moment with family, colleagues or friends!
Price: $46.73
Duration: 2 hours
UP, UP, and AWAY! Experience the fun of flying PRIVATELY in a small aeroplane. Discover the stunning Doubs region from above with a local private pilot who shares his passion for aviation and area with you. Plan the flight route with your pilot while adhering to local safety guidelines, meeting directly at Aérodrome de Besançon - La Vèze. Your pilot is key to this adventure, sharing the flights' direct cost, not making a profit. After booking, we will match you with a pilot, and send you all flight details when confirmed. Experience time capped at 4 hours for flexibility, with flights scheduled at any hour in your chosen morning or afternoon slot. Safety is our top priority! To ensure a smooth booking process, we request essential security details. Missing one detail could delay matching you with a pilot, so stay connected with us once you’ve booked.
Price: $226.47
Duration: 1-4 hours
Visit Besançon and its countryside with your private tour guide ! Your official tour guide will pick you up anywhere in Besançon to start your exploration. Your guide will be at your disposal during 4 or 8 hours. All the duration can be fully customized on your request.
Price: $269.61
Duration: 4-8 hours
Discover Besançon, a little-known city but rich in history and culture. With its Roman ruins, varied museums and iconic citadel, this city is ideal for exploring on foot. Start with the Lumière brothers’ birthplace, then visit the Palais Granvelle and the Museum of Fine Arts. Don’t miss Saint John Cathedral and the beautiful Vauban quay, while enjoying the surrounding nature. A 5.3 km route awaits you for a total immersion in this city of art and history that reveals itself at every corner. - 5.3 km itinerary to walk in 2h10 - 25 cultural and historical attractions to discover Recommended Check-out Point: Place Granvelle - Ideal for lovers of history and nature, solo or group.
Price: $5.66
Duration: 2 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: EUR
- Languages: French
- Climate: Oceanic
- Timezone: Europe/Paris
- Population: Approximately 118,000 inhabitants
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is from May to September for pleasant weather.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from the European Union, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and several other countries can enter France visa-free for short stays up to 90 days. Schengen visa applies for stays beyond 90 days or for nationals from countries requiring a visa. Visa on arrival is generally not available. E-visa options are not common for France; travelers should apply for a visa in advance if required. Passport validity of at least three months beyond the planned departure date is recommended.
About Besancon
Besancon is a charming city in eastern France, renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and scenic location along the Doubs River. It is distinguished by its well-preserved old town, featuring narrow cobblestone streets, Renaissance buildings, and the impressive Citadel designed by Vauban, a masterpiece of military architecture. The city blends cultural heritage with natural beauty, offering visitors a unique experience of French provincial life. Besancon is also known for its watchmaking tradition, reflected in its museums and artisan shops. The city’s vibrant cultural scene includes theaters, galleries, and festivals that celebrate music, art, and history. Visitors are drawn to Besancon for its relaxed atmosphere, historic charm, and the opportunity to explore both urban and natural landscapes. Its location near the Jura mountains also makes it an excellent base for outdoor activities. Whether interested in history, culture, or nature, Besancon offers a compelling destination with a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.
Besancon Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of France
- Duration Range: 2 to 10 hours
- Group Size: Private or shared tours
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is from May to September for pleasant weather. Pack comfortable walking shoes and layers for variable conditions. Respect local customs such as greeting with a polite “Bonjour” and dining etiquette. The city is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Credit cards are widely accepted, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or markets.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $39
Highest Price Tour: $200
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Citadel of Besancon – A UNESCO World Heritage site offering panoramic views, museums, and historic fortifications. 2. Besancon Cathedral (Saint-Jean Cathedral) – A stunning Gothic and Romanesque cathedral with beautiful stained glass and architecture. 3. Museum of Time – Showcasing the city’s watchmaking heritage with fascinating exhibits on clocks and timekeeping. 4. Granvelle Palace – A Renaissance palace housing the Museum of Fine Arts and Archaeology. 5. The Doubs River Quays – Scenic riverside walks and boat tours that highlight the city’s picturesque setting.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the Citadel, explore museums dedicated to art and history, and stroll through the historic old town. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike or bike along trails in the nearby Jura mountains or take boat cruises on the Doubs River. Cultural experiences include attending local festivals, theater performances, and sampling regional crafts. The city also offers lively markets, perfect for discovering local produce and artisan goods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Besancon’s cuisine reflects traditional Franche-Comté flavors, featuring dishes like coq au vin jaune (chicken with yellow wine), comté cheese, and saucisse de Morteau (smoked sausage). Local specialties include hearty stews and freshwater fish from the Doubs River. Dining customs emphasize fresh, seasonal ingredients and regional wines. Noteworthy restaurants include those offering traditional French bistro fare and modern takes on local dishes, providing a rich culinary experience.
Getting Around
Besancon is accessible by train from major French cities such as Paris and Lyon, with the Besancon-Viotte station serving as the main hub. Local transportation includes buses and taxis, with the city center easily navigable on foot or by bike. Car travel is convenient for exploring surrounding areas. Public transport costs are moderate, and many attractions are within walking distance.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is from May to September for pleasant weather. Pack comfortable walking shoes and layers for variable conditions. Respect local customs such as greeting with a polite “Bonjour” and dining etiquette. The city is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Credit cards are widely accepted, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or markets.
Culture & Customs
Besancon’s culture is rooted in French traditions with a strong regional identity. Social customs include formal greetings and polite conversation. Important events include the annual International Music Festival and local markets celebrating regional products. Visitors should be mindful of quiet hours and respectful of historic sites. The city values its heritage and welcomes cultural exchange.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..