Besançon, the historic capital of Franche-Comté, comes alive during the Christmas season with its enchanting Christmas market. This guided tour promises to immerse visitors in the festive ambiance, exploring over 100 wooden chalets bursting with handcrafted gifts, gourmet delights, and the irresistible aromas of mulled wine and carols. As you stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, you’ll admire the well-preserved Roman architecture and have the chance to indulge in traditional Franc-Comtois specialties. But the true magic of this experience lies in the opportunity to uncover the rich history and cherished traditions that make Besançon‘s Christmas market a must-visit destination.
Key Points
- Explore the enchanting Besançon Christmas market, featuring over 100 wooden chalets with handcrafted gifts and gourmet delights.
- Immerse in the festive traditions and charms of Franche-Comté’s capital, led by a live English-speaking guide.
- Discover Besançon’s rich Roman heritage, including the UNESCO-listed historic Old Town and the Porte Noire triumphal arch.
- Indulge in local culinary specialties like boeuf bourguignon, Comté cheese, and traditional Christmas treats.
- Experience the lively atmosphere of the market, with carolers, folk dancing, and the Santa Claus house.
Tour Overview
The Besan??on Christmas Market Tour offers a 1.5-hour experience led by a live English-speaking guide, providing visitors with a private group immersion into the festive traditions and charms of Besan??on’s renowned holiday market.
Explore the enchanting setting of Franche-Comt??’s capital, which has hosted this beloved event since 1993.
Stroll past over 100 wooden chalets brimming with handcrafted gifts, gourmet delights, and seasonal entertainment.
Savor the aromas of mulled wine, delight in carolers, and discover the magic of the Santa Claus house.
This private tour is the perfect way to experience the essence of Besan??on’s cherished Christmas market traditions.
Besan??on’s Rich History
Situated along the banks of the Doubs River, the historic city of Besan??on boasts a rich Roman heritage dating back to its origins as the ancient Vesontio, one of the most important settlements in Gaul.
Strategically located at the crossroads of major trade routes, Besan??on thrived as a center of commerce and culture under Roman rule. Its well-preserved Roman architecture, including the impressive Porte Noire triumphal arch, stands as a testament to the city’s illustrious past.
Today, Besan??on’s historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, enchants visitors with its winding cobblestone streets, picturesque plazas, and stunning Vauban-designed citadel that dominates the skyline.
This blend of ancient Roman and 17th-century French influences makes Besan??on a captivating destination for those exploring the Franche-Comt?? region.
Christmas Market Tradition
Besan??on’s cherished Christmas market tradition dates back to 1993, quickly becoming the most popular annual event in the capital of the Franche-Comt?? region.
Each December, over 100 enchanting wooden chalets fill the historic city center, offering an array of handcrafted goods, gourmet delights, and festive entertainment that draw visitors from near and far.
At the base of an illuminated tree, the Christmas Bistro (Le Bistrot de No??l) serves up warm mugs of mulled wine, while the Santa Claus house (Maison du P??re No??l) delights children with a toy showcase and donkey rides.
From the captivating carol singing to the lively folk dancing, the market’s charm is palpable throughout the enchanting evening strolls.
Market Experience Highlights
Wandering through the market, visitors can’t help but be captivated by the enchanting wooden chalets adorned with twinkling lights, each offering an array of unique handcrafted goods, gourmet delights, and festive entertainment.
At the base of an illuminated tree stands the Christmas Bistro (Le Bistrot de Noël), inviting guests to savor local mulled wine and traditional fare.
Nearby, the Santa Claus House (Maison du Père Noël) delights children with its toy showcase and donkey rides.
Throughout the market, the air is filled with the sounds of lively carol singing, folk dancing, and street performances, creating a truly magical atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Local Culinary Delights
One of the highlights of the Besançon Christmas Market is the opportunity to savor an array of local culinary delights, ranging from hearty stews and roasted meats to decadent pastries and sweet confections.
Visitors can indulge in traditional Franc-Comtois dishes like boeuf bourguignon, a rich and tender beef stew simmered in red wine, or sample the famous Comté cheese, a local specialty with a distinctive nutty flavor.
For those with a sweet tooth, the market offers an abundance of freshly baked gingerbread, Christmas log cakes, and creamy hot chocolate.
Whether sipping mulled wine or savoring a flaky, buttery croissant, the Besançon Christmas Market provides a delectable taste of the region’s culinary heritage.
Festive Entertainment
Visitors to the Besan??on Christmas Market are captivated by the vibrant array of festive entertainment that enlivens the event, from the soulful caroling of local choirs to the energetic folk dancing that fills the air with traditional melodies.
Strolling performers bring smiles to visitors’ faces as they showcase their talents, from fire-eaters to live music acts.
The highlight for many is the Santa Claus house, where children can delight in toy displays and take enchanting donkey rides.
Throughout the market, the sounds of laughter, applause, and cheerful holiday songs create a truly magical atmosphere that transports guests into the heart of a traditional French Christmas celebration.
Booking and Pricing
The Besan??on Christmas Market tour can be booked for $280.54 per group of up to 15 participants, allowing visitors to explore the enchanting market at their own pace with a live English-speaking guide.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with the added convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This flexible booking option makes it easy for groups to plan their holiday excursion, whether they’re seeking a festive adventure or a unique cultural experience.
With over 100 wooden chalets offering a variety of handicrafts, gift ideas, and gastronomic delights, the Besan??on Christmas Market is a must-visit destination that can be conveniently arranged through this comprehensive tour package.
Cancellation Policy
Travelers booking the Besançon Christmas Market tour can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance without any penalties.
This flexibility ensures that customers can comfortably plan their trip without worrying about unexpected changes. Whether it’s due to schedule conflicts, weather concerns, or any other reason, the free cancellation option provides peace of mind.
The tour operator understands that plans can sometimes shift, and they’ve designed their policy to accommodate these situations. Customers can reserve their spot with confidence, knowing they’ve the freedom to cancel if needed.
This customer-centric approach helps make the Besançon Christmas Market tour an appealing choice for travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour to My Group’s Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized to the group’s preferences. Guests can work with the tour provider to tailor the experience, such as adjusting the duration, focusing on specific attractions, or adding additional stops to suit their interests.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
While no specific discounts are mentioned, the tour offers a competitive flat rate for groups up to 15 participants. Customers may be able to inquire about any package deals or group pricing options when booking the tour.
Is the Tour Accessible for People With Disabilities?
The tour is accessible for people with disabilities. The route is wheelchair-friendly, and the guides are trained to accommodate the needs of guests with mobility challenges. Assistance is available upon request to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Can I Purchase Items at the Market and Have Them Shipped Home?
Yes, visitors can purchase items at the Besan??on Christmas Market and have them shipped home. Many vendors offer shipping options, allowing travelers to conveniently take home unique local crafts and gourmet treats from their visit.
Are There Any Safety or Security Concerns to Be Aware of During the Tour?
The tour organizers take precautions to ensure visitor safety. Market security is present, and participants should remain vigilant and keep belongings secure. With these measures in place, visitors can freely enjoy the festive atmosphere without major safety concerns.
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Recap
The Besançon Christmas market is a delightful way to take in the historic city’s festive charm.
Visitors can stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, browse the wooden chalets for handcrafted gifts and gourmet delights, and savor the aromas of mulled wine and carols.
With its well-preserved Roman architecture and traditional Franc-Comtois cuisine, this enchanting market offers a truly authentic and memorable Christmas experience.
