Car hire in Besançon gives you access to one of France’s most beautiful historic centres and the gateway to the Jura mountains. This capital of Franche-Comté, birthplace of Victor Hugo, wraps around a dramatic meander of the Doubs River. With your rental car, you can explore the surrounding wine routes, alpine lakes, and the famous Comté cheese region.
Getting Around Besançon by Car
Besançon’s old town is best explored on foot — the UNESCO-listed citadelle Vauban dominates the skyline and offers panoramic views. Park at Parking Chamars or Parking Granvelle near the centre, both charging around €1.50 per hour. The city has a one-way system that can be confusing, so use GPS.
The A36 motorway connects Besançon to the east (Mulhouse, Basel) and west (Dijon, Lyon). The A351 heads north towards the Vosges. Driving in the surrounding Jura hills is a pleasure — winding roads through forests and vineyards with minimal traffic.
Winter driving requires care — the Jura mountains see significant snowfall from November to March. Check whether your rental includes winter or all-season tyres. Snow chains are mandatory on certain mountain passes when conditions require.
Day Trips from Besançon
The Citadelle de Besançon deserves at least half a day. Vauban’s 17th-century masterpiece houses museums, a zoo, and offers views across the river bend. Drive up or walk — the path takes 20 minutes uphill.
Arbois, 40 minutes southwest, is the wine capital of the Jura. Famous for Vin Jaune and other distinctive wines, this charming town offers tastings at historic cellars. The Pasteur family home is now a museum. Drive the Route des Vins du Jura through villages like Pupillin and Montigny-lès-Arsure.
Sainte-Ursanne, 35 minutes northeast, is a medieval jewel. This tiny town on the Doubs river features a Roman bridge, collegiate church, and cliffside hermitage. It’s one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland (technically just across the border).
Loue Valley, 30 minutes south, offers spectacular scenery. The source of the Loue river emerges from a cliff face — a stunning sight. The valley road winds past caves, waterfalls, and traditional villages.
Driving Tips for France
Speed limits in eastern France follow national rules: 130km/h on autoroutes (110km/h in rain), 80km/h on country roads, 50km/h in built-up areas. The Jura roads have many hairpin bends — respect the speed limits and use passing places.
Wildlife crossings are common in the Jura forests. Deer and wild boar can appear suddenly, especially at dawn and dusk. Slow down on forest roads and use high beams when there’s no oncoming traffic.
Éco-taxe vignettes aren’t required in this region (unlike in Germany or Switzerland nearby). But if you’re driving towards Basel or crossing into Switzerland, check requirements for low-emission zones.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Besançon from Switzerland?
The Swiss border is about 30 minutes east. Basel, a major city straddling France, Switzerland, and Germany, is 50 minutes via A36. Park at a Swiss railway station and take the train if you want to avoid Swiss parking fees.
Can I drive to the Alps from Besançon?
Yes — the Jura mountains are the northernmost pre-Alps. Drive south towards Pontarlier and you’re already in alpine territory. The drive to Chamonix takes about 3 hours via A40.
When is the best time to visit Arbois wine region?
September and October during harvest season. The vines turn golden, wineries are buzzing, and you might see grape pickers in the fields. Spring is also lovely with flowering vines.