Discover Besançon’s rich history aboard the charming Petit Train. This scenic, narrated ride reveals the city’s most iconic sights and stories in just 45 minutes.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
45 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.
Wildlife
History
The Citadelle de Besançon was designed by Vauban in the 17th century as a strategic military fortress, still standing as a symbol of military ingenuity.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to preserve the Citadelle’s historic structures and natural habitats within the park, promoting sustainable tourism.
Bateau et petit train de Besançon
Discover Besançon’s rich history aboard the charming Petit Train. This scenic, narrated ride reveals the city’s most iconic sights and stories in just 45 minutes.
Bateau et petit train de Besançon operates river cruises and Petit Train tours in Besançon, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté. The company offers a range of experiences on the Doubs and through the city, including Croisières Repas (meal cruises), Croisière Promenade aboard the Vauban, the 45‑minute Visite en Petit Train, a combined ticket that pairs the Petit Train with a promenade cruise, and a Bon Cadeau Promenade gift option.
Croisières Repas provides dining aboard a boat with views of the illuminated Citadel and riverside cityscape, combining quality cuisine with a scenic river setting. The Croisière Promenade runs for approximately 75 minutes on the Vauban and follows the Doubs loop past UNESCO-listed fortifications and the city’s notable architecture, with audio commentary featuring historical figures such as Vauban and Victor Hugo. The Visite en Petit Train is a 45‑minute narrated journey through Besançon’s winding streets, narrated by voices representing Vauban, César and Victor Hugo, and offers the option to explore the Citadel independently. The Billet combiné pairs the Petit Train route with a scenic boat ride for a fuller overview of the city. The Bon Cadeau Promenade provides a gift voucher for river promenades. All experiences focus on presenting Besançon’s history and landscapes from river and street-level viewpoints. Tours highlight the city’s underground canal, riverbanks, bridges and panoramic viewpoints, and recorded narration provides historical context to Besançon’s fortifications, architecture and cultural landmarks easily for visitors of all ages throughout each route.
Boat Cruises
Croisières Repas
Dining cruises with river views
Petit Train
45 min
Narrated city circuit
Cruise Length
75 min
Vauban Doubs promenade
Location
Besançon
Bourgogne‑Franche‑Comté
Book Croisières Repas, Croisière Promenade, the Visite en Petit Train, combined tickets or a Bon Cadeau Promenade. Check schedules and availability now.
Arrive Early
Get to the station at least 15 minutes before departure to secure the best seats and enjoy the boarding process.
Bring a Camera
Capture scenic views of the citadel, rooftops, and cityscape during the ride.
Plan Your Visit to the Citadelle
After the tour, explore the famous Citadelle de Besançon on foot for a deeper history experience.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
There’s optional walking around the citadel, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the stunning views and historic landmarks during the ride.
Coffee or Water Bottle
Stay refreshed before or after the scenic tour.
Light Jacket
Comfortable layering for variable weather conditions during outdoor viewing.
spring|fall|winter
Hat or Sunglasses
Protect against sun during bright, sunny days.
summer