Citadel of Besançon – Citadel of Besançon loop from Beure

Road cycling routes

France

Bourgogne-Franche-Comté

Besançon

Beure

Citadel of Besançon – Citadel of Besançon loop from Beure

Easy

4.4

(7)

199

riders

Citadel of Besançon – Citadel of Besançon loop from Beure

01:07

25.1km

180m

Road cycling

Easy road ride. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: October 9, 2026

Tips

The surface along some of this route may not be suitable

Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.

After 6.60 km for 53 m

After 18.8 km for 53 m

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

2.66 km

Citadel of Besançon

Highlight • Castle

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.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

3.01 km

Les remparts de la citadelle de Besançon

Highlight • Other

4.01 km

Citadel Tunnel

Highlight • Structure

The Besançon canal tunnel, opened in 1882, allows the Rhône-Rhine canal to pass under the citadel and the old town. The old towpath has been converted into a cycle path.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

4.13 km

Citadel of Besançon

Highlight • Viewpoint

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, 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.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

4.59 km

Mouillère footbridge

Highlight • Other

pedestrian crossing above the canal

Translated by Google •

Tip by

4.60 km

Cycle path on the old railway bridge

Highlight • Bridge

This former railway bridge now serves as a cycle and pedestrian path. It offers two superb views of the Doubs as well as the Citadel.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

4.68 km

Citadel View

Highlight • Other

From the blue bridge, you are in a good position to admire the slender profile of the Citadel of Vauban.

All you have to do is cross the bridge, take the small pedestrian tunnel, turn right, pass the Porte de Rivotte and climb the steps to reach the top. The effort is beautiful, the view is even more so.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

21.6 km

Citadel Canal Tunnel

Highlight (Segment) • Bridge

The tunnel is part of the complex system of waterways that cross the city and is designed to allow ships to pass through the city without having to pass through the city center. It provides an underground passage for boats, bicycles and pedestrians. There is a parallel tunnel for car traffic.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

25.1 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types