Besançon to Saarbrücken Road Trip Guide

This route from Besançon to Saarbrücken spans roughly 300 km, mostly via the A36 and A5 autoroutes, passing through the Vosges foothills and the Saarland region. A little-known fact: the stretch near the Col de Bussang crosses the historic Roman road connecting the Rhine to the Rhône. The drive typically takes 3 to 3.5 hours without stops, but the real allure lies in the hidden medieval villages and lush forests along the way.

The route from Besançon to Saarbrücken is well-served by toll roads except for a short stretch near the German border. Toll costs for a standard car are approximately €12-16 depending on the exact exit. Fuel stations are abundant along major highways, with about one every 20-30 km.

• Fuel economy: The hilly terrain around the Vosges can increase consumption by 10-15%. Consider filling up in France where diesel is often cheaper.
• Rest areas: There are numerous aires along the A36 and A5, many with picnic tables and toilets. Notable ones include Aire de la Vallée de la Doller and Aire de la Sauer.
• Toll payment: Most toll plazas accept credit cards; keep cash handy for smaller stations.

Electric vehicle charging points are increasingly common at service areas, with fast chargers at major stops like the Aire de Saint-Louis and Aire de Marlenheim. For an extended detour, the how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities guide offers tips on planning refueling breaks around scenic spots.

The journey begins in the rolling Jura hills, then climbs into the Vosges Mountains with dense forests and valleys. The Ballon d'Alsace (1,247 m) is a notable peak accessible via a short detour, offering panoramic views of the Alps on clear days. As you cross into Germany, the landscape flattens into the Saarland's wooded lowlands.

• UNESCO sites: The route passes near the Strasbourg UNESCO World Heritage site (Grande Île) – a 20-minute detour from the A5. Also, the Vauban fortifications of Besançon are a UNESCO site at the start.
• Local crafts: In the Vosges, stop at a farm shop for Munster cheese or mirabelle plum liqueur. Near Saarbrücken, buy hand-painted ceramics from Villeroy & Boch outlet.
• Markets: The weekly markets in Colmar (Wednesdays and Saturdays) and Saarbrücken (St. Johanner Markt) sell regional produce and souvenirs.

Hidden off-route spots include the village of Riquewihr, a perfectly preserved medieval town with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. Another gem is the abandoned railway viaduct of Nideck, just 5 minutes from the A4 near Oberhaslach. These offbeat detours are exactly what the how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities article recommends.

Road quality on the A36/A5 is excellent, with smooth asphalt and clear signage. Night illumination is present on most stretches but limited in rural sections. Watch for wildlife (deer, wild boar) crossing near forested areas, especially at dawn and dusk.

• Pet-friendly stops: The Aire de la Broque has a designated dog walking area. In Saarbrücken, the ‘Deutsch-Französischer Garten’ has extensive pet-friendly trails.
• Children: The Cité de l'Automobile in Mulhouse (near the route) showcases vintage cars. The Saarbrücken Zoo, just off the A1, is a hit with kids.
• Fatigue management: The Aire de la Route des Vins offers a quiet resting spot with shaded parking. For a short nap, use the rest area near the Col de Bussang (coordinates: 47.8856, 6.8742).

Climatic conditions: In autumn, fog can form in the Vosges valleys, reducing visibility. Summer sunsets over the vineyards near Colmar are spectacular, best viewed from the Route des Vins d'Alsace outlook point. Winter driving may require snow tires from November to March. Use the rest areas to defrost windows and rest your eyes.