Hôtel Vauban

First, the walk from the train station through Rue Battant may make you question your choice of destination as it runs through a poor, but safe, neighborhood. The surroundings are more favorable with fewer deserted storefronts when you cross Pont Battant. The hotel street, however, just across the river, appears from the outside to be a bit rundown. The hotel itself foes not run the whole block as it may appear in pictures; it is only 1 doorway. Once you gain access to the hotel by ringing the doorbell, you will be buzzed into the "lobby," a dark area with a large desk where you will eventually meet the proprietor, a hard-working man who serves as manager of the hotel, sets up the limited breakfast buffet (it is not worth the 13 euros charged per person for cold cereal, pan au chocolate circled by flies from the open windows, juice, packaged yogurt, & a coffee-dispensing machine), & serves as waiter at the rear-facing restaurant downstairs. The man wanders in and out clearing breakfast dishes from previous breakfast guests, & one day, he offered us eggs to be made in the connected restaurant. He is, in fact, very nice and helpful, but the whole affair is very casual. The hotel is spread over 4 floors of 4 tiny rooms each, some of which have a lovely river view and some of which have a view of the busier square behind the hotel where cafes abound. Our room was adequate, and we didn't bump into each other much. There was a small wall-mounted TV (all French channels), mini fridge, & private bathroom with shower. After a day, we relaxed and got used to our accommodations. For the price (under 100 euros per night for the 2 of us), it was fine. At that price, you don't expect luxury, and we did not see any luxurious hotels on our walks around town. Town was charming.

Traveling solo, I stayed in one of the cozy single rooms on the top floor. Just fine for a traveler traveling light. The bathroom was a very nice surprise. There is an elevator. The room had a nice view of the river. The breakfast was very convenient with sufficient choices. This was a special trip for me and the Hotel Vauban was the perfect place to stay.

The view from our room was stunning. You'll be right over the river in a lovely old building, and in the most central location in Besançon with several tram lines running below. The friendly and helpful staff will make you feel welcome. It's a wonderful, old-fashioned hotel. We are planning to return.

We had a one night stay and found the room very comfortable and clean. Great location for wandering around Besancon and close to plenty of restaurants. Parking is a few minutes walk away in the shopping centre underground car park as recommended by the hotel.

Perfectly located to experience the beautiful city with our adult sons! The streets outside the hotel in the old part of the city were so pretty, and we easily hiked from the hotel to the citadel and all sights in-between. Restaurants were within steps, shopping was within steps. We had breakfast at the hotel one day then went to a French cafe the next. It’s also a walkable distance to/from the train station. Since we were there to explore the historical sites, we appreciated the history of the building we stayed in, too! The staff member who helped us was incredibly friendly and helpful. We were right above the square and, although a bit noisy in the late afternoon/evening, I personally enjoyed the energy of people having a good time. Again-authentic experience! We would definitely stay here again.

Whether you are visiting Besancon for business or as a tourist, the Hotel Vauban is a great place to stay. Located in the old town and overlooking either the Place de la Revolution or the Doub RIver, history, great shops and restaurants are within minutes on foot, reasonably priced public parking is easily accessible just after crossing the river. The hotel itself is friendly and personable, old yet modern, and reasonably priced.