Belfort - Discovering France

What to see, events, costs and every info for the perfect holiday
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Travelling to Belfort

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Belfort, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Belfort and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Belfort, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Belfort for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Belfort

Belfort is a city located in eastern France, near the Swiss and German borders. It is known for its fortified old town, which still has sections of its ancient walls intact, and for its iconic Lion of Belfort statue, which is a symbol of French resistance during the Franco-Prussian War. Belfort is also home to a large university campus and several museums, including the Musée d'Art Moderne and the Musée d'Histoire. The city is easily accessible by train and has a small airport.

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Travelling to Belfort and around: discovering France

What to visit in Belfort

Sure, here are a few popular tourist attractions in Belfort, France, and some brief information about each one of them: 1. Belfort Citadel: This is the main attraction of the city and a UNESCO world heritage site. Built between 1687 and 1691 by renowned French architect Vauban, the citadel is surrounded by a moat and has three gates, a powder house, a chapel, and a watchtower. 2. Lion of Belfort: This iconic sculpture depicts a lion carved from sandstone, which stands at the entrance of the citadel. It was created by the French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, who was also responsible for the Statue of Liberty in New York. 3. Museum of Fine Arts: Housed in a former military barracks, this museum is home to an impressive collection of European art from the 15th to the 20th century, including works by Courbet, Monet, and Rodin. 4. St. Christopher's Cathedral: This Roman Catholic cathedral dates back to the 18th century and has a beautiful neoclassical facade. Its interior is decorated with frescoes and sculptures by local artists. 5. Le Ballon d'Alsace: While not technically in Belfort, this scenic mountain peak is just a short drive away and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is a popular spot for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. 6. Maison de la Nature: This is a nature center that provides information on the local flora and fauna and offers guided tours of the surrounding countryside. 7. Cite de l'Automobile: This automobile museum has an extensive collection of vintage cars and motorcycles, including some of the rarest and most valuable vehicles in the world. Overall, Belfort is a charming city with plenty to see and do for tourists of all interests.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Belfort.

When to go on holiday to Belfort

The best time to visit Belfort is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is at its warmest, and most tourist attractions are open. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time, and prices may be higher. If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, you might consider visiting in the shoulder season, which includes the months of April, May, September, and October. During this time, the weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists, which means lower prices and shorter queues at attractions.
If you don't mind the cold, you might also want to visit Belfort during the winter months (December to February), when you can enjoy the city's Christmas markets and winter sports activities in the nearby mountains.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Belfort

Here are some ways to get to Belfort, France: 1. By Train: Belfort is well-connected by train with major cities in France. The Belfort-Montbéliard TGV station is served by high-speed trains from Paris, Strasbourg, Lyon, and other major cities in France. You can check schedules and book tickets on the official website of the French National Railway Company (SNCF).
2. By Car: Belfort is located on the A36 motorway, which connects it to Strasbourg, Mulhouse, and Lyon. The journey from Paris to Belfort takes around 4 hours by car.
3. By Plane: The closest international airports are EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (about 60 km away) and Geneva Airport (about 150 km away). From there, you can take a train or rent a car to get to Belfort.
4. By Bus: There are bus services from major cities in France such as Paris, Lyon, and Strasbourg to Belfort. Companies like Flixbus, Ouibus, and Eurolines operate these services. You can check schedules and book tickets on their respective websites.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Belfort, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Belfort

Some of the typical foods of Belfort, France include: 1. Tarte aux brimbelles: This is a pie made with "brimbelles," which are a type of blueberry that are found in the mountains of the Vosges. The pie is usually sweet and tart.
2. Escargot de Bourgogne: This dish consists of snails that are cooked in a garlic and butter sauce. It is a classic French cuisine and is popular in the region of Belfort.
3. Coq au vin jaune: This is a variation of the classic coq au vin dish. The chicken is simmered in a sauce made with yellow wine, mushrooms, and onions.
4. Potée comtoise: This is a hearty stew that is typically made with smoked sausages, ham hocks, potatoes, and cabbage. It is a very filling dish that is perfect for cold winter nights.
5. Croûte aux morilles: This is a bread pudding that is made with morel mushrooms, cream, and eggs. The dish is typically served as an appetizer or as a main course.
6. Quiche Lorraine: This is a classic French dish that originated in the Lorraine region. The quiche is made with eggs, cream, bacon, and cheese and is typically served as a main course.
7. Fromage de Comté: This is a type of cheese that is produced in the region of Franche-Comté. It is a hard cheese with a nutty flavor, and it is often used in fondue dishes.
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Belfort an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in France, Belfort may not be considered as an expensive destination for tourists. However, the cost of your trip will depend on several factors such as the time of year you plan to visit, your choice of accommodation, transportation, food, and activities. Generally speaking, prices in Belfort are similar to those found in other mid-sized French cities. Some key expenses you may incur during your trip to Belfort include: - Accommodation: Depending on your budget and preference, you can find a range of accommodation options in Belfort, from budget hostels to mid-range hotels and high-end luxury properties. Prices start at around 50 EUR per night for a basic room.
- Transportation: Belfort has a good public transportation system, including buses and trains. A one-way ticket on local transit will cost around 1.50 EUR. Taxi services are also available, but they can be quite expensive.
- Food and drinks: As with any travel destination, the cost of food and drinks will depend on where and what you choose to eat. You can expect to pay around 15-20 EUR for a mid-range meal at a local restaurant, and around 3-5 EUR for a pint of beer.
- Activities: Belfort has a lot of interesting attractions and things to do, such as visiting the famous Lion of Belfort monument, exploring the historic citadel, or taking a boat ride on the canal. Admission fees for attractions may vary, but many are free to enter or have low entry fees.
Overall, the cost of your trip to Belfort will depend on your travel style and preferences. With some careful planning and budgeting, you can enjoy a wonderful trip to this charming French city without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Belfort

There are several areas in Belfort where you can find accommodation depending on your preferences. 1. The historic city center: This is the heart of the city and offers easy access to many of Belfort's main attractions, including the Lion of Belfort monument and the Belfort Citadel.
2. The Quays district: This area is located along the banks of the Savoureuse River and is a great place to stay if you want to be close to the water and enjoy scenic views.
3. The railway station district: This area is convenient if you're arriving by train and want to be close to public transportation. It's also a good spot for budget accommodation options.
4. The Montbéliard district: This area is located just outside of Belfort, but still provides easy access to the city center. It's a quiet area that's ideal for those who prefer a more residential setting.
Ultimately, the best area to stay in depends on your personal preferences and what you plan to see and do during your trip.
You can check hotel prices at Belfort here:
Booking.com


Is Belfort a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Belfort is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The crime rate in Belfort is relatively low compared to other cities in France. However, as with any destination, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in more secluded areas. It is also a good practice to keep your valuables in a safe place and never leave them unattended. Overall, as long as you take basic precautions, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip to Belfort.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Belfort.

What type of travelers will enjoy Belfort the most?

Belfort, France is a great destination for a variety of travelers! Couples might enjoy the scenic beauty of the city and its charming historical architecture, as well as the romantic atmosphere of the city's many cafes and restaurants.
Young people looking for fun might enjoy the city's lively nightlife scene, which includes bars and clubs.
Families might appreciate the city's many parks and green spaces, as well as its numerous museums and cultural attractions, which offer informative and engaging exhibits for all ages.
Overall, Belfort has something for everyone, and any traveler would be able to find an enjoyable activity or attraction in the city.

How to get around Belfort

The most common ways to move around Belfort in France are by bus and train. Buses are operated by the Optymo network and cover most of the city and its outskirts. Trains are operated by the SNCF and connect Belfort to other major cities in France and neighboring European countries. Additionally, taxis, rental cars, and bicycles are also available for use.

What to see around Belfort

Sure, here are some places you could visit in a day trip from Belfort: 1. Colmar - A gorgeous town with beautiful timber-framed houses, canals and excellent wines.
2. Mulhouse - Known for its museums, Mulhouse offers various exhibitions showcasing art, history and automobiles.
3. Besançon - A fortified city with a UNESCO World Heritage Site Citadelle overlooking the town. 4. Strasbourg - The capital city of the Alsace region located in a unique location on the Germany-France border, Strasbourg offers numerous historical landmarks and museums.
5. Épinal - Known for its splendid views and famous for the images that depict everyday life.
6. Montbéliard - Its stunning landscapes, artistic museums and traditional markets are worth exploring. 7. Luxeuil-les-Bains - A charming spa town with Roman origins, offering thermal waters and magnificent architecture.
8. Belfort Old Town - Why not explore the Old Town of Belfort whose most famous landmark is the Lion of Belfort Monument? These are just a few ideas for a day trip from Belfort. Of course, there are many others, but it depends on what interests you the most.
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