Besançon Center Car Hire

Besançon center offers car rentals in the heart of one of France's most beautiful cities, with 4 rental companies available in the city center. The city is surrounded by the Doubs River and crowned by Vauban's famous Citadelle, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. From here, the Swiss border is approximately 80 km east and Burgundy approximately 90 km west.

Besançon is the capital of Franche-Comté and the birthplace of Victor Hugo, with a rich cultural heritage and vibrant student life. The Citadelle dominates the cityscape and is reached by a 10-minute walk from the center. The Doubs Valley with its scenic gorges and waterfalls begins just 20 km south at Ornans.

Park your car at the edge of the city and use the tram to get into the center – parking spaces are limited in the narrow old town. Drive to Ornans (20 km south) to see Courbet's birthplace and the dramatic Doubs Gorges. Book your car well in advance during Besançon's International Music Festival in September.

How far is it from Besançon center to Switzerland? The Swiss border at Pontarlier is approximately 80 km south, about 1 hour's drive via N57 through the Jura Mountains. What car rental companies are in Besançon center?

Among the 4 rental companies are Europcar and Hertz, as well as local operators – most are located near Besançon Viotte train station. Can I drive to Dijon from Besançon? Dijon is approximately 90 km west, about 1 hour via A36 – an easy motorway drive through Burgundy.

We compare prices from all major providers at Besançon Center so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.