Events & activities in Doubs

The Doubs region is home to must-see sites such as the Citadel of Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Château de Joux. Besançon is the capital of the Doubs region. The Doubs region is also known for its local products such as Comté cheese and Morteau sausage, which are appreciated by gourmets around the world.

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Top 10 Must-Do Activities and Visits in Doubs

The Citadel of Besançon

Located in the heart of Besançon, the Citadel of Besançon is an unmissable architectural masterpiece. Perched atop Mont Saint-Étienne, this fortress offers breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Ideal for a sunny day, the Citadel also houses several museums and a zoo. Admission is €11 for adults, €7.50 for students, and €6 for children. Allow approximately 3 to 4 hours to fully enjoy this visit.

2. Discover the Museum of Time in Besançon

Nestled in the Palais Granvelle in Besançon, the Musée du Temps is a fascinating dive into the history of watchmaking. Perfect for an indoor day out, this museum offers a unique collection of antique watches and clocks. Admission is €8 for adults, €5 for students, and free for children under 18. Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours for this visit.

3. Hike to the Saut du Doubs

The Saut du Doubs, located on the French-Swiss border, is a spectacular waterfall where the Doubs River flows into a deep gorge. Ideal for a sunny day, this natural site offers hiking trails for all levels. Access is free, but a boat cruise to admire the waterfall costs around €15 per person. Plan a half-day for this excursion.

4. Visit to the Château de Joux

Perched on a rocky outcrop in La Cluse-et-Mijoux, Château de Joux is a historic site rich in anecdotes and breathtaking panoramas. Perfect for a sunny day, this medieval castle offers fascinating guided tours. Tickets are €9 for adults, €6.50 for students, and €5 for children. Allow approximately two hours for this visit.

5. Exploration of the Osselle Caves

Located in Osselle, these caves are a unique geological treasure in France. Perfect for an overcast day, the Osselle Caves offer a guided tour through fascinating underground galleries. Tickets are €10 for adults, €7 for students, and €5 for children. Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours for this visit.

6. Discovery of the Peugeot Adventure Museum in Sochaux

For car enthusiasts, the Peugeot Adventure Museum in Sochaux is a must-see. Perfect for a day out, this museum traces the history of the Peugeot brand through an impressive collection of vintage and modern vehicles. Tickets are €12 for adults, €8 for students, and €6 for children. Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours for this visit.

7. Walk in Pontarlier

Pontarlier, located near the Swiss border, is a charming town with a rich architectural heritage. Perfect for a sunny day, a stroll through the streets of Pontarlier will allow you to discover its churches, fountains, and picturesque squares. Admission is free, but budget for cafes and restaurants. Allow half a day for this visit.

8. Visit the Courbet Museum in Ornans

Located in Ornans, the Courbet Museum is dedicated to the work of the famous painter Gustave Courbet. Perfect for a day out, this museum offers a rich and varied collection of his works. Admission is €8 for adults, €5 for students, and free for children under 18. Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours for this visit.

9. Exploration of the Source of the Lison

Located in Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne, the Source du Lison is an exceptional natural site where the Lison River springs from a cave. Perfect for a sunny day, this site offers hiking trails and spectacular viewpoints. Access is free, but budget for nearby activities and restaurants. Allow half a day for this excursion.

10. Discovery of the Polar Park in Chaux-Neuve

Located in Chaux-Neuve, Parc Polaire is a unique animal park where you can observe polar animals in a natural environment. Perfect for a sunny day, this park offers guided tours and educational activities. Tickets are €12 for adults, €8 for students, and €6 for children. Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours for this visit.

What to do in Doubs on weekends

Hiking in Mont d'Or

For nature and hiking enthusiasts, Mont d'Or is a prime destination. Located in the Haut-Doubs region, this peak offers breathtaking views of the Alps and Jura Mountains. The well-marked trails allow you to fully enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Ideal for a sunny day, this hike is perfect for recharging your batteries and disconnecting from everyday life.

Visit to the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans is an architectural gem not to be missed. This historic site, designed by Claude-Nicolas Ledoux, offers a fascinating insight into the history of salt mining. Perfect for a cultural day out, the Royal Saltworks offers guided tours, exhibitions, and magnificent gardens to explore.

Boat trip on Lake Saint-Point

Saint-Point Lake, located in the Haut-Doubs department, is a true haven of peace. Ideal for a relaxing day, this lake offers the opportunity to go boating, fishing, or simply relaxing on its beaches. The surrounding landscapes, with their forests and mountains, add a touch of serenity to this nautical getaway.

Exploration of the Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park

For nature lovers, the Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park is a must-see destination. This park offers a multitude of hiking trails, mountain biking trails, and spectacular viewpoints. Ideal for a day outdoors, this park allows you to discover the local flora and fauna while enjoying the fresh mountain air.

Discovery of the Arbois Vineyards

Located on the border of the Jura and Doubs regions, the Arbois vineyards are an ideal destination for wine lovers. Perfect for a gourmet day out, this wine region offers local wine tastings, cellar tours, and vineyard walks. The rolling landscapes and picturesque villages add a touch of charm to this wine-tasting getaway.

04 April 2025

FAQ

Everything you need to know about Aix-en-Provence

**What are the must-see cultural events in Aix-en-Provence?** Aix-en-Provence is renowned for its many cultural events throughout the year. The Festival d'Art Lyrique, held every summer, is a real highlight for opera lovers. In July, the International Chamber Music Festival attracts renowned musicians. For dance enthusiasts, the Biennale Dance Festival is another event not to be missed. These festivals offer a unique experience, blending art and heritage in iconic locations throughout the city. **What are the best places to taste local specialties in Aix-en-Provence?** To savor local delicacies, the Provençal Market is a must-see. Here, you'll find fresh, local produce, from fruits and vegetables to regional culinary specialties. Calissons, sweets made from almond paste and candied fruit, are a true institution in Aix-en-Provence. You can enjoy them in the city's many confectioneries, such as Confiserie Léonard Parli. For a complete gastronomic experience, the city center's restaurants offer varied menus highlighting Provençal flavors. **How can we improve the reception of tourists in Aix-en-Provence?** To improve the tourist experience, several initiatives could be implemented. First, strengthen signage in the city to facilitate travel and access to tourist sites. Next, offering themed guided tours, such as historical or gastronomic tours, would help better showcase the city's treasures. Finally, developing mobile apps dedicated to tourism, offering practical information, itineraries, and recommendations, would be an additional asset for an optimal tourist experience. These questions and answers will help you make the most of your stay in Aix-en-Provence, whether you're a visitor or a resident. Enjoy!