Besancon (Franche-Comte) Pop: 120,000

Located in exceptionally beautiful environs, Besancon is encircled by the Doubs River.

First-class outdoor sports activities abound in a city of art, history, micro-technology, and clock and watch making.

Besancon has won the title of France's "greenest city" and offers a fine university and many types of festivals.

Julius Caesar was an early visitor here and evidence of its more than 2000 year existence is notable throughout.

Besancon is the birthplace of Victor Hugo.Besancon has won title of France's "greenest city" and offers a fine university and many types of festivals.

Attractions in Besancon

International Music Festival-annually in September offering varied musical genres

Horloge Astronomique-fascinating clock displaying times in many world cities, days of the week, months of the year, and more

Cathedral St Jean-11-13th centuries containing valuable artwork