Published: 12.06.2025
The impressive structure of La Citadelle rises on the rock above the bend of the Doubs, which was our next destination. On the way there, my Chinese companion said goodbye, as the climb to the Citadelle was a bit steep, even though we were on the motorway.
La Citadelle is now owned by the city of Besançon and hosts various exhibitions. A single day is far from enough to see everything. Thus, we focused on the complex, the fortified walls, and the fantastic view of the city and the valley of the Doubs. We visited one or two exhibitions, the aquarium, and the Monument du Témoin.
On the way back, we made a stop at the Cathédrale Saint-Jean de Besançon and wandered through the streets of the Old Town. The streets were impressive, with buildings made of limestone, which has a unique property, appearing in bright yellow and then in blue, giving the streets a characteristic appearance, not only in Besançon but also in most older city centers of surrounding places.
A large part of the Old Town is now a pedestrian zone, and especially in the evenings, all generations gather here. The street cafes are well visited.
We visit a bar afterwards, then it's back to Gustav, dinner will be at home today.
