A city from the Roman era
The city of Besancon is highly recommended, there is also the citadel which is definitely worth a visit
Besançon is one of the most beautiful cities in France. Besançon has 140,000 inhabitants and is known for its citadel and arts and crafts. The Citadel of Besançon is part of the world heritage registration Fortifications of Vauban.
In addition to other beautiful buildings in this city, where the Roman era is still clearly visible, there is also the river Doubs. A boat trip on the Doubs gives fantastic views of the citadel and the city. The citadel offers a range of possibilities. There are several sights located in the citadel: including a zoo, insectuarium and aquarium. Attractions that will certainly fascinate young and old. The free bus takes everyone from Besançon to the entrance of the citadel.
The visit to Besançon continues with the discovery of the historic centre located at the foot of the citadel. The Saint-Jean Cathedral and its magnificent astronomical clock made up of 30,000 parts; the very lively Grande-Rue and the Place de la Révolution; the Granvelle Palace, a magnificent Renaissance building that now houses the Time Museum, dedicated to the watchmaking industry; the Vauban quay with its arcaded houses overlooking the Doubs river; the birthplace of the famous writer Victor Hugo or the beautiful mansions from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries are just as many places and monuments to discover while strolling.
What to see and do in Besançon
- Granvelle Palace and time museum.
- The Quai Vauban, during a walk along the banks of the Doubs.
- Museum of Art and Archeology: The oldest French public collection, the museum (founded in 1694) hides archaeological collections of the Egyptian, Greek and Gallo-Roman plus the Fine Arts collections from the Middle -Age today and 5000 drawing funds…
- The old town, Stone Forest Chailluz, including water reveals the contrast of the yellow and blue colors (rain or sunshine: you will enjoy so much Besançon!)
- The citadel, the main site of the city, accompanied by a Museum of Natural History, an Insectarium, the Museum of Comtois folklore and that of the resistance and the deportation.
- Boat trip: in the exceptional setting of the loop formed by the river, it is a discovery Besançon boat trip with passage of locks and crossing of the impressive underground canal 375 m dug under the mountain of the Citadel.
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