Explore the Majestic Besançon Citadel
Discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Besançon Citadel, a historical fortress with breathtaking views, museums, and a zoo, perfect for all ages.
The Besançon Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers stunning views, rich history, and captivating exhibits. Discover its fortifications, museums, and beautiful surroundings.
A brief summary to Besançon Citadel
- 99 Rue des Fusillés de la Résistance, Besançon, 25000, FR
- +33381878333
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9 am-7 pm
- Friday 9 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the views in peace.
- Don’t forget your camera; the panoramic views from the top are stunning!
- Check the schedule for special exhibitions or events happening during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking involved.
- Plan to spend a few hours here to fully explore all the attractions.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, first set your GPS to '99 Rue des Fusillés de la Résistance, 25000 Besançon'. From major cities in Franche-Comté, such as Dijon or Belfort, take the A36 motorway which connects to the N57. Once you reach Besançon, follow signs for 'Citadelle de Besançon'. There is parking available near the citadel, but be aware that there might be a parking fee of around €2 per hour.
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Train
For train travelers, head to the nearest train station in your area and take a train to Besançon Viotte station. The train schedule can be found on the SNCF website or app. Once you arrive at the Besançon Viotte station, you can take tram line 1 towards 'Grette' and get off at 'Citadelle'. The tram ride costs approximately €1.40.
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Bus
If you're coming from nearby towns, check the local bus services that connect to Besançon. The bus station in Besançon is near the city center. After arriving, you can either walk to the citadel or take tram line 1 as mentioned above. Bus fares generally range from €1 to €2 depending on the distance.
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Walking
If you find yourself in the city center of Besançon, the citadel is within walking distance. Head towards 'Rue des Fusillés de la Résistance'. The walk is approximately 20-30 minutes from the city center, renowned for its scenic views and historical architecture. Be prepared for some uphill walking as the citadel is situated on a hill.
Discover more about Besançon Citadel
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bregille Bastion
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Bregille Fort
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Beauregard Fort
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Statue du Marquis Jouffroy d'Abbans
1.2 km
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Avenue Edgar Faure Ravelin
1.7 km
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Collégiale Notre-Dame de Dole
43.5 km
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Château d'Oricourt
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La Maison du Comté
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Le Sentier des Statues
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Iron and Railway Museum
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Saut du Day
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Vallorbe Caves
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Château d'Arlay
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Gorges de l'Areuse
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Grottes et Préhisto-Parc
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Unmissable attractions to see
Astronomical clock
0.2 km
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Cathédrale Saint-Jean de Besançon
0.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cathédrale Saint-Jean de Besançon, a Gothic masterpiece filled with rich history and stunning architecture.
Tunnel fluvial de la Citadelle
0.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical significance of the Tunnel Fluvial de la Citadelle in Besançon, a true gem for every traveler.
Square Castan
0.3 km
Discover the charm of Square Castan in Besançon, a historical site where beauty meets history in a serene urban oasis.
Rivotte Bastion
0.4 km
Explore Rivotte Bastion, a stunning historical landmark in Besançon, and immerse yourself in the rich architectural heritage of France.
Victor Hugo Birthplace
0.4 km
Explore the birthplace of Victor Hugo in Besançon – a captivating museum celebrating the legacy of France's literary giant.
Museum of the Resistance and Deportation
0.4 km
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Fontaine du Doubs
0.4 km
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Frac Franche-Comté
0.5 km
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Museum Of Times
0.6 km
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The Little Train of Besançon
0.9 km
Experience Besançon from a unique perspective aboard the Little Train, a scenic journey through the city's historical gems and breathtaking landscapes.
Chamars Bastion
1.0 km
Discover the historic Chamars Bastion in Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning architecture and breathtaking views.
Museum of Fine Arts and Archeology of Besançon
1.1 km
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Cordeliers Tower
1.2 km
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Pont Battant
1.2 km
Experience the enchanting beauty and historical significance of Pont Battant, a must-visit bridge in the heart of Besançon, France.
Essential places to dine
Le Chalet du Cervin
0.2 km
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Le Manège
0.2 km
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Jura Smokehouse
0.2 km
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La Clocherade
0.2 km
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Restaurant Le Sauvage
0.3 km
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l'Unalôme
0.4 km
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Le 1802
0.5 km
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Le Cercle
0.5 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Cercle in Besançon - a culinary gem offering exquisite dishes and warm hospitality.
Le 76...
0.6 km
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Les Tables d'antan
0.7 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Les Tables d'antan in Besançon – where tradition meets culinary excellence.
L'Insolite
0.7 km
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Le Chaland
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Le Poker d'As
0.9 km
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LÔ Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at LÔ Restaurant in Besançon—where exquisite flavors meet a charming atmosphere.
Restaurant Épicéa
1.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Manufacture UTINAM Besançon - La Boutique
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CURIOSA BOUTIQUE
0.6 km
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Style
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LA SERVIETTE A POIS
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Dix de Coeur Boutique
0.7 km
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Lulubel
0.7 km
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Eve Boutique Lingerie
0.8 km
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Le petit Souk Besançon
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Spirale
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L'ENDROIT (EURL A L'ENDROIT)
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Les Passages Pasteur
1.1 km
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Bidiboule
1.1 km
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Au coin des rues : cours et ateliers créatifs à Besançon - Broderie, Macramé, Art Floral, Punch Needle
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Les Jeux de la Comté
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DELSEY
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le Bar Jurassien
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Bar de l'U
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Don Pablo
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Gotham 25
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Héritage
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Iguane Café
0.9 km
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Le Kraft
0.9 km
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Madigan's
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The Green Man
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Les Berthom
1.1 km
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Pub Kilarney
1.1 km
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La Besace
1.2 km
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L'Éphéméride
1.2 km
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The Titty Twister Bar
1.2 km
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La Buvette du Conservatoire
1.2 km
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