Besançon
Besançon, France
About
Besancon is the capital of the Franche-Comte region and acts as a great base for walking in the northern stretches of the Jura mountains. It was the Gallo-Romans who first put Besancon on the map recognising its strategic position as a gateway to Italy, the Alps and the Rhine. In the 18th century Besancon became known for its fine clock-making. However, today's industry seems to be centred largely around precision engineering. The town has many gems including its vast parks, wide boulevards and the Battant Quarter which was originally settled by wine-makers. You'll see some beautiful architecture here including 17th century facades fronted by wrought-iron balconies. The Citadel was built by the great military architect Vauban and offers superb views of the river Doubs.