Passerelle des Bains
A modern cantilevered footbridge offering stunning views of Besançon's old town and the Doubs River.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Passerelle des Bains
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern cantilevered footbridge offering stunning views of Besançon's old town and the Doubs River.
"Magnificent pedestrian area which offers a beautiful view of Besançon crossed by the Doubs."
📸 Capture the Views
The Passerelle offers stunning photo opportunities of Besançon's old town. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Enjoy a Stroll
Perfect for a leisurely walk, especially as the planted trees grow and offer more shade. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Doubs River Views
The footbridge itself
Enjoy panoramic vistas of the old town and Quai Vauban across the Doubs River.

Pedestrian Promenade
Quai Veil Picard
A beautifully designed pedestrian area offering a tranquil walk along the river.

Modern Architecture
The footbridge
Appreciate the cantilevered design that seamlessly blends with the urban landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Understanding the Design
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Views
The Passerelle offers stunning photo opportunities of Besançon's old town. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Enjoy a Stroll
Perfect for a leisurely walk, especially as the planted trees grow and offer more shade. :athletic_shoe:
🤔 Appreciate the Design
Note the unique cantilevered structure and its integration with the tram line. :construction_worker:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Views
The Passerelle offers stunning photo opportunities of Besançon's old town. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Enjoy a Stroll
Perfect for a leisurely walk, especially as the planted trees grow and offer more shade. :athletic_shoe:
🤔 Appreciate the Design
Note the unique cantilevered structure and its integration with the tram line. :construction_worker:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Passerelle des Bains is appreciated for its beautiful pedestrian area and magnificent views of Besançon's old town and the Doubs River. While its design is seen as a positive enhancement to the Quai Veil Picard, some visitors have expressed critiques regarding the landscaping and handrail aesthetics. Overall, it's a well-regarded spot for a leisurely walk and enjoying the city's riverside charm.
"Very nice pedestrian area which will be shaded with the growth of recently planted young trees. This cantilevered footbridge was created thanks to the tram line, it is tastefully designed and fitted out, a big plus for the Veil Picard quay in Besançon."
Robert SENNERICH
"Unfortunately, the historic, shaded quayside has been destroyed by trees shaped like TV antennas and an amateur construction whose handrail is a random up-and-down pattern. In the age of lasers and modern alignment tools, this is pitiful."
L P
"Built during the creation of the tram line, this cantilevered footbridge made it possible to widen the Quai Veil Picard and provide a pedestrian path above the Doubs with a magnificent view of the old town and the Quai Vauban."
Jean-Guy SIMONET
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Passerelle des Bains is located on Quai Veil Picard in Besançon. It's easily accessible by foot from the city center and is integrated with the tram line, making it convenient to reach via public transport.
While direct parking at the Passerelle is limited, several public parking garages are available within a short walking distance in the city center. Consider parking at 'Parking de la Gare' or 'Parking Saint-Paul'.
Yes, the Passerelle des Bains was built in conjunction with the tram line. You can take the tram and alight at a nearby stop, such as 'République' or 'Chamars', and walk a short distance to the footbridge.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Passerelle des Bains is a public pedestrian area and is completely free to access. You can enjoy the views and walk across it at any time.
As an outdoor public space, the Passerelle des Bains is open 24/7. However, it is best enjoyed during daylight hours for optimal views and safety.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Weekday mornings offer a peaceful experience with fewer people. Late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour light for photography.
You'll get magnificent views of Besançon's old town, the Doubs River, and the Quai Vauban. It's a great spot for appreciating the city's architecture.
Absolutely! It's designed as a pedestrian promenade, perfect for a relaxed stroll along the river. The recently planted trees are expected to provide more shade as they grow.
Being in the city center, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops along Quai Veil Picard and in the surrounding areas.
It's a modern cantilevered footbridge, designed to enhance the Quai Veil Picard and provide a pedestrian path above the Doubs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone. The proximity to the city center means you can easily combine a walk on the Passerelle with a visit to nearby parks or cafes. As the trees grow, it will become an even more comfortable spot for families to enjoy.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Take advantage of the early mornings or late afternoons to experience the Passerelle at its most serene. The architectural design itself is also an interesting point of discussion, offering a blend of modern engineering and urban planning. It's a great addition to any itinerary for those seeking scenic beauty and a touch of local charm.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance and Design
Despite differing opinions on its finer details, the Passerelle des Bains successfully provides a vital link for pedestrians and cyclists, offering a safe and scenic route above the water. The strategic placement of the bridge allows for unobstructed views of the old town and Quai Vauban, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a moment of tranquility or a picturesque backdrop. The ongoing growth of the recently planted trees promises to further enhance its appeal by providing natural shade in the future.
Experiencing the Views and Atmosphere
The atmosphere on the Passerelle is generally described as pleasant and peaceful, particularly during quieter times of the day. It serves as a lovely promenade, inviting visitors to take a leisurely stroll and soak in the ambiance of the riverside. As the young trees mature, the Passerelle is expected to become an even more inviting space, offering a shaded retreat from the sun.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit