Discover Besançon from the water with Croisières Repas—where scenic river cruises meet gourmet dining. Perfect for a romantic outing or family adventure, this experience offers breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical activity required, suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
Wildlife
History
Besançon has a long history as a fortress city, with its citadel built in the 17th century by Vauban, now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Conservation
Croisières Repas emphasizes eco-friendly practices by minimizing waste and promoting sustainable tourism, helping preserve the Doubs River’s natural beauty.
Bateau et petit train de Besançon
Discover Besançon from the water with Croisières Repas—where scenic river cruises meet gourmet dining. Perfect for a romantic outing or family adventure, this experience offers breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine.
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 for seating
Getting there 15-30 minutes before the departure ensures a good seat and a relaxed start.
Dress accordingly
Bring layers if dining at sunset or during cooler months for added comfort.
Check the weather forecast
A clear night enhances the experience, but be prepared for rain or wind in cooler seasons.
Book in advance
Seats fill up quickly during peak times, so reserve your spot ahead of time.
Light jacket or sweater
Keeps you comfortable if the evening gets chilly.
spring,winter
Camera or smartphone
Capture scenic views and memorable moments from the deck.
Sunscreen or hat
Protects you from sun exposure during daytime cruises.
summer
Bug spray
Prevents insect bites, especially during evening hours.
summer