Attractions and Places To See around Fontain - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Fontain include historical sites and viewpoints. The region is characterized by its significant architectural heritage, particularly fortifications and ancient Roman structures. Fontain offers opportunities to explore historical landmarks and enjoy panoramic views. The area provides a blend of cultural exploration and scenic observation points.
Best attractions and places to see around Fontain
- The most popular attractions is View of the Besançon citadel from the greenway, a viewpoint that offers a superb view of the UNESCO World Heritage Site citadel. This masterpiece by Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban is located along the Doubs river.
- Another must-see spot is Vauban Citadel, a historical site and castle. This masterpiece by Vauban is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of France's most notable fortresses, offering access to museums and views of Besançon.
- Visitors also love Porte Noire (Black Gate), a man-made monument. This Roman triumphal arch, built around 175 AD, is one of the best-preserved Roman triumphal arches in France and features rich sculpture.
- Fontain is known for its historical sites, viewpoints, and man-made monuments. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient Roman architecture to 17th-century military fortresses.
- The attractions around Fontain are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 550 upvotes and 44 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Citadel of Besançon
Highlight • Viewpoint
Construction of the Citadelle began in 1668 under the direction of the French military engineer Vauban, known for his defense works. The fortress served as an important military stronghold and played a crucial role in the defense of France's eastern borders.
The Citadelle is a masterpiece of military architecture, with bastions, ramparts, underground tunnels and other defenses. The design reflects Vauban's innovative approaches at the time.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Citadelle de Besançon is part of the "Fortifications of Vauban", recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2008. This group of fortifications spread across France testifies to Vauban's military designs.
Within the Citadelle there are several museums and attractions, including the Museum of French Resistance and Deportation, the Comtois Museum which highlights regional history, and the Besançon Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in France.
The Citadelle offers breathtaking views over the city of Besançon and the surrounding valley. It is a popular destination for tourists due to its historical importance, architectural splendor and panoramic views.
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Citadel Canal Tunnel
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View of the Besançon citadel from the greenway
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Citadel of Besançon
Highlight • Castle
Construction of the Citadelle began in 1668 under the direction of the French military engineer Vauban, who is known for his fortifications. The fortress served as an important military stronghold and played a crucial role in the defense of France's eastern borders.
The Citadelle is a masterpiece of military architecture, with bastions, ramparts, underground tunnels and other defenses. Its design reflects Vauban's innovative approaches at the time.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Citadelle de Besançon is part of the "Fortifications of Vauban", which were recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2008. This group of fortifications spread across France bears witness to Vauban's military designs. Within the Citadelle are several museums and attractions, including the Museum of French Resistance and Deportation, the Comtois Museum which highlights regional history, and the Besançon Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in France.
The Citadelle offers breathtaking views of the city of Besançon and the surrounding valley. It is a popular tourist destination for its historical importance, architectural splendor, and panoramic views.
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Thoraise Tunnel
Highlight • Historical Site
On the upstream side, pay attention to the curtain of water covering the entrance to the tunnel.
On the downstream side, at the exit you will find a lock which will allow you to join the main Rhine-Rhône canal.
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Tips from the Community
Imposing complex which is worth a visit.
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UNESCO World Cultural Heritage
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UNESCO World Heritage, what more can be said except that the Doubs Valley and the splendid ruins of old medieval castles from the top of wild cliffs have watched over the valley for centuries?
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I have cycled this cycle path several times (different years) and each time I have passed these horrible looking factory ruins on the opposite bank - a very poor reception from Besançon - a real shame.
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A ship tunnel (1810) that can be walked through from the side as a shortcut for the Le Doubs river canal. On the other side of the canal there is a lock about 3-4 m high. There is a water curtain at both portals and the interior is beautifully and decoratively lit. Worth seeing.
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Cycling through the ship tunnel, don't forget to take off your sunglasses 😎
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The Citadelle de Besançon is an impressive fortress located on Mont Saint-Étienne, high above the city of Besançon. Construction of the Citadelle began in 1668 under the direction of the French military engineer Vauban, who is known for his fortifications. The fortress served as an important military stronghold and played a crucial role in the defense of France's eastern borders. The Citadelle is a masterpiece of military architecture, with bastions, ramparts, underground tunnels and other defenses. Its design reflects Vauban's innovative approaches at the time. UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Citadelle de Besançon is part of the "Fortifications of Vauban", which were recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2008. This group of fortifications spread across France bears witness to Vauban's military designs. Within the Citadelle are several museums and attractions, including the Museum of French Resistance and Deportation, the Comtois Museum which highlights regional history, and the Besançon Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in France. The Citadelle offers breathtaking views of the city of Besançon and the surrounding valley. It is a popular tourist destination for its historical importance, architectural splendor, and panoramic views.
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It is also possible to walk through the tunnel.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Fontain?
Fontain is rich in historical sites. You can explore the magnificent Citadel of Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of military architecture by Vauban. Another significant historical landmark is the Porte Noire (Black Gate), a well-preserved Roman triumphal arch dating back to 175 AD.
Are there good viewpoints to see the area's landmarks?
Yes, Fontain offers several excellent viewpoints. The View of the Besançon citadel from the greenway provides a superb perspective of the UNESCO World Heritage site. Additionally, the Citadel of Besançon itself offers breathtaking panoramic views over the city and the surrounding valley.
What activities are available for families visiting Fontain?
Families will find several engaging options. Both the Citadel of Besançon and the Vauban Citadel are listed as family-friendly attractions. The Citadel of Besançon houses museums, including the Comtois Museum, and even a zoo, making it a diverse destination for all ages.
Can I go hiking near Fontain's attractions?
Absolutely! The area around Fontain offers various hiking opportunities. You can find moderate trails like 'The Cascade du Bout du Monde — loop from Beure' or 'Larnod Discovery Trail'. For more options, explore the hiking routes around Fontain.
Are there options for running trails around Fontain?
Yes, there are several running trails available. You can choose from moderate routes such as 'Bout du Monde Waterfall – La Montée des Vanches loop from Fontain' or 'Bois de Chalotte loop from Fontain'. For more detailed information, check out the running trails guide for Fontain.
What kind of cycling opportunities are there near Fontain?
Gravel biking is a popular activity near Fontain, with routes like 'Just Doubs it' and 'Saône who can!'. These routes vary in difficulty from moderate to difficult. You can discover more options in the gravel biking guide for Fontain.
What is the Vauban Citadel, and what can I expect to see there?
The Vauban Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of France's most notable fortresses. It offers access to several museums, including the Museum of French Resistance and Deportation, and the Comtois Museum, along with stunning views of Besançon. You can also find a small zoo within its grounds.
What is the Porte Noire?
The Porte Noire (Black Gate) is a Roman triumphal arch built around 175 AD. It is considered one of the best-preserved Roman triumphal arches in France, characterized by its rich sculpture depicting plant motifs, mythological scenes, and battle scenes.
How can I get the best view of the Besançon Citadel?
For a superb view of the Besançon Citadel, take a stroll along the greenway that runs along the Doubs river. This path offers an excellent vantage point, as highlighted by the View of the Besançon citadel from the greenway.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Fontain?
Visitors frequently praise the historical significance and architectural splendor of the sites, especially the UNESCO-listed Citadel. The panoramic views over Besançon and the Doubs river from various viewpoints are also highly appreciated, as is the opportunity to explore museums and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Are there any unique historical engineering marvels to see?
Yes, the Thoraise Tunnel is a unique historical engineering marvel. It's a canal that saves 4km of navigation on the Doubs river, featuring a distinctive water curtain at its upstream entrance. You can even walk through it on a special footbridge.
Is there an entrance fee for the Vauban Citadel?
Access to the first gate and a beautiful green esplanade within the Vauban Citadel is free, allowing you to appreciate its exterior and views. To explore further and access the various museums inside, you will need to purchase a ticket.
What kind of architecture can I expect to see in Fontain?
Fontain showcases a blend of significant architectural heritage. You'll encounter ancient Roman architecture, exemplified by the Porte Noire, and impressive 17th-century military fortresses, most notably the Citadel of Besançon, a masterpiece by Vauban.
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