3 day itinerary
Besançon
Itinerary
Besançon is a charming city in eastern France with a rich history and beautiful architecture. Here's an ideal itinerary for your 3-day visit:
Day 1: Explore the Old Town
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café and then head to the historic Old Town. Visit the iconic , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. Explore the charming cobbled streets, visit the , and wander around the quaint shops and boutiques.
For lunch, try some local specialties like Comté cheese or saucisse de Montbéliard at a traditional French bistro. In the afternoon, visit the to learn about the history of timekeeping and admire the impressive collection of clocks and watches.
In the evening, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a cozy restaurant in the Old Town and soak in the atmosphere of this picturesque city.
Day 2: Nature and Culture
Start your day with a visit to the , a beautiful botanical garden located near the Citadel. Take a leisurely stroll among the exotic plants and flowers and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Afterwards, head to the to admire its impressive collection of art and artifacts, including works by famous artists like Courbet and Rodin.
For lunch, have a picnic by the or enjoy a meal at a local restaurant overlooking the water. In the afternoon, take a boat cruise along the river to see Besançon from a different perspective.
In the evening, attend a performance at the or catch a concert at one of the city's music venues.
Day 3: Day Trip to Saline Royale
On your final day, take a day trip to the nearby , a stunning 18th-century saltworks complex designed by architect Claude-Nicolas Ledoux. Explore the impressive buildings, gardens, and exhibitions that showcase the history of salt production in the region.
After your visit, have lunch at a local restaurant in Arc-et-Senans before heading back to Besançon. In the afternoon, visit the to learn about the culture and traditions of the Franche-Comté region.
In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a gourmet restaurant in Besançon and toast to a wonderful stay in this charming city.
I hope this itinerary gives you a taste of the best that Besançon has to offer! Enjoy your trip!