Rainy day activities in Besançon

During your holidays in Doubs, why not take advantage of the good weather and wander the streets of Besançon? Or stroll through the region’s parks? But it’s raining and you’ve got no idea what to do in Besançon. Don’t let the weather spoil your holiday. Here is our guide to the best things to do on a rainy day in Besançon.

Cultural discovery of Besançon city

The city of Besançon has several museums and monuments that are well worth a visit when it’s raining. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Vauban Citadel in Besançon is worth a visit both inside and outside. Perfectly preserved and restored, it offers interesting events, including its exhibition rooms dedicated to Vauban and the 17th century, its aquarium, vivarium and insectarium, its Musée de la Résistance and its Musée Comtois.

You will also find a cultural haven at the Maison Natale de Victor Hugo, at Fort de Beauregard or in religious buildings such as the Cathedral of Saint-Jean or the Saint-Ferjeux Basilica.

Something for everyone in Besançon

Bad weather is not really a problem in Besançon, as the city has so many places to visit and enjoy. For lovers of beautiful books, the capital of Franche-Comté has several libraries. The Besançon municipal library was the first public library built in France, in 1808. And a network of 5 media libraries has been created around it: Pierre Bayle, Mandela, Coubertin, Aimé Césaire and Palente. Media libraries are no longer just places to read, you can also listen to music, read newspapers and magazines and play online games, and toddlers will enjoy Wednesday story time.

Holidays are also a great opportunity to watch (or rewatch) the latest blockbusters. With your partner, or with friends and family, there are a lot of cinemas to choose from in Besançon. The Megarama Beaux-Arts cinema shows the latest films, as well as shows for all audiences. The Plazza Victor Hugo is an arthouse cinema where you can broaden your horizons with arty and cult films.

Shopping, games and spa in Besançon

With the many shops the city has to offer, you’ll have no trouble finding somewhere to buy souvenirs or update your wardrobe. Whether you are looking for something modern or vintage, Besançon has everything you need. Don’t miss the Galerie Châteaufarine and its many fashion boutiques, or Les Passages Pasteur, which offers a children’s workshop one Saturday per month. The indoor market is also the perfect place to take a stroll and discover local produce without getting wet.

Besançon offers covered leisure activities for children of all ages, from the Fun Game based on the history of Besançon, great for the whole family, to Funky Parc for very little ones.

If you fancy chilling out in a spa, Besançon has several places where you can relax. Among them is the Nephtys steam room, which offers packages for individuals or couples.

Places to stay in Besançon

So the idea of rain hasn’t put you off booking a stay in Besançon, but what kind of accommodation are you going to go for? All Suites Appart Hôtel Besançon welcomes you 24 hours a day, in the heart of Parc Temis and not far from the city centre. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and family suites. Its free services, unlimited Wi-Fi, Canal+, gym, spa and secure parking are worthy of the best hotels, but at very attractive prices. The restaurant “Chez Elle et Lui” will also seduce you with its fresh produce and quality cuisine at very low prices. You are guaranteed a 3-star stay in the beautiful city of Besançon.

As you can see, even if the sun doesn’t come out to play, there is plenty to do in Besançon. And don’t worry too much about the weather. In Besançon, the average annual sunshine is only slightly below the national average!

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BESANÇON

• Besançon, the capital of time
• Spend a weekend in Besançon