Best Things to do in Besancon | Must-see attractions 2025

Citadel of Besancon

9:30 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

99 rue des Fusillés de la Résistance

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Citadel of Besançon, a 17th-century fortress in France, features military architecture and multiple museums, offering panoramic city views.

Duration: 3 to 4 hours.

€8 for adults, €4 for children aged 6-16. Free entry for children under 6.

The birthplace of Victor Hugo

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

140 Grande Rue

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The birthplace of Victor Hugo, located in Besançon, France, offers insight into the early life of the renowned writer, showcasing exhibits related to his life and works.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Basilica of Saint-Ferjeux

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

24 rue de la Basilique

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Basilica of Saint-Ferjeux in Besançon, France, honors patron saints Ferreolus and Ferrutio. Explore its historical significance and unique architecture.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a ticket.

Parc Micaud

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

4 Avenue Edouard Droz

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Parc Micaud is a scenic park in Besançon, France, established in the 19th century along the Doubs River, ideal for strolling, cycling, and family picnics.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Frac Franche-Comte

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

2 passage des arts

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Frac Franche-Comte in Besançon, France is a contemporary art fund showcasing modern art in a building designed by Kengo Kuma, featuring diverse exhibitions and cultural events.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Parc de la Gare d'Eau

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

Boulevard Charles de Gaulle Avenue de la Gare d'Eau

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Parc de la Gare d'Eau in Besançon, France, is a picturesque park offering lush gardens, walking paths, and a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and leisure activities.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

Chapelle du Centre Diocesain

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

20 rue Megevand

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Chapelle du Centre Diocesain in Besançon features modern religious architecture and functions as a center for spiritual and cultural activities.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special projects.

Promenade Chamars

Open 24 hours

Park

avenue du 8 Mai 1945

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Promenade Chamars is a scenic riverside park in Besançon, France, featuring walking paths, lush greenery, and historical significance dating back to the 18th century.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission fees required.

Chateau-fort de Montfaucon

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Ruin

France

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Chateau-fort de Montfaucon, a historical castle in Besancon, features stunning architecture and offers panoramic views of the surrounding region.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may have an entry fee.

Time museum of Besancon

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

96 Grande rue Entrée dans la cour du Palais Granvelle

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Time Museum of Besançon focuses on the history of local watchmaking, housed in a former palace with scenic views of the city.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

€5 for adults, €3 for children aged 6-18. Free for children under 6.

Fontaine Saint-Quentin

Open 24 hours

Fountain

Place Victor Hugo

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Fontaine Saint-Quentin in Besançon, France, is a historical fountain constructed in 1778, known for its Neoclassical architecture and artistic sculptures.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Micropolis Conference Center

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

3 boulevard ouest

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Micropolis Conference Center in Besançon, France, hosts various events including congresses, exhibitions, and concerts, offering diverse configurations and quality services.

Duration: Typically 2-4 hours, depending on the event.

Varies by event; some events are free, while others may require a purchased ticket.

Museum of Fine Arts and Archeology of Besancon

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

1 Place de la Revolution

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Museum of Fine Arts and Archeology of Besancon is France's oldest public museum, established in 1694, featuring extensive art and archaeology collections.

Duration: Around 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Besancon Cathedral

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

10ter rue de la Convention

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Besançon Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church in Besançon, France, dedicated to Saint John and the seat of the Archbishop of Besançon.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

theater of Besancon

Tu,Th-Fr 09:00-13:00,15:00-18:00

Theater

49 rue Mégevand

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The Theater of Besancon, located in France, is renowned for its neo-classical architecture and rich historical background, attracting performance arts enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Tickets range from €10 to €40 depending on the show; discounts available for students and seniors.

Theatre de l'Espace

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Theater

3 place de l'Europe

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Theatre de l'Espace in Besancon is a cultural center showcasing various performances, cinema, and artistic events, fostering local art and community engagement.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Varies by event. Typically ranges from €10 to €30. Discounts available for students and seniors.

Saint-Hyppolite church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

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Saint-Hyppolite Church in Besançon, France, showcases remarkable architecture and a rich history since its founding. A must-visit for religious and cultural enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special events may incur charges.

Eglise Protestante Evangelique Baptiste de Besancon

2:00 PM–5:00 PM

Church

175 rue de Belfort

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Eglise Protestante Evangelique Baptiste de Besancon is a historic Baptist church in Besancon, France, known for its unique architecture and rich cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations accepted for church activities.

Eglise Saint Vincent d'Avanne

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

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Eglise Saint Vincent d'Avanne is a Catholic church located in Besançon, France, known for its historical significance and unique architecture.

Duration: About 30 minutes.

Free entry. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Chapelle Des Buis

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

25660 Fontain

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Chapelle Des Buis, located in Besançon, France, features remarkable architecture and serene gardens, offering a peaceful retreat and cultural insight.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Abbaye Saint-Paul de Besancon

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

France

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Abbaye Saint-Paul de Besancon is a historic abbey located in Doubs, France, known for its architectural beauty and significance in local history.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Centre Commercial Besancon Chalezeule

9:30 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

rue Des Flûttes Agasses

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Centre Commercial Besancon Chalezeule offers diverse shopping options, dining experiences, and entertainment facilities in Besancon, France.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Shopping and dining do not require a ticket, but pay-as-you-go applies in restaurants and entertainment venues.

Eglise de Miserey Salines

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Miserey-Salines

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Eglise de Miserey Salines is a historic church in Besancon, France, known for its unique architecture, serene atmosphere, and cultural significance.

Duration: Around 1 hour.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

birthhouse of Victor Hugo

Tu-Fr 10:00-12:30, 14:00-18:00, Sa-Su 10:00-18:00

Museum

140 Grande Rue

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The Birthhouse of Victor Hugo in Besançon is a dedicated museum celebrating the life and works of the famed author, featuring interactive displays and rich historical context.

Duration: More than 1.5 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Museum of the Resistance and Deportation

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

99 rue Fusilles de la Resistance La Citadelle

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The Museum of the Resistance and Deportation in Besançon, France, preserves and exhibits the history of World War II resistance and deportation efforts in the region.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may incur additional costs.