Lyon to Besançon: A Complete Road Trip Guide

The drive from Lyon to Besançon covers approximately 220 kilometers along the A40 and A39 highways, taking about 3 to 3.5 hours without stops. This route traverses the historic Burgundy-Franche-Comté region, where the Saône River meets the Jura foothills.

A notable local driving quirk: on the A39 near Lons-le-Saunier, you will encounter a unique toll station that accepts only electronic payment or credit cards—no cash. This is a prime example of how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, as detailed in this guide.

Leaving Lyon, the landscape shifts from urban sprawl to the rolling hills of the Beaujolais wine region. The A40 hugs the Saône River, offering glimpses of vineyards and medieval villages.

• Stop at the village of Pérouges (official site) for its cobblestone streets and the famous Galette Pérougienne—a local flatbread with garlic and herbs.
• Natural attractions: The Revermont Plateau near Bourg-en-Bresse provides panoramic views of the Alps on clear days.

Further east on the A39, the landscape becomes more rugged as you approach the Jura mountains. The Lons-le-Saunier area is known for its salt marshes and the famous Comté cheese.

• Local commerce: Visit a Comté dairy farm like Fruitière du Val d'Amour for a tasting and purchase.
• UNESCO site: While not on the direct route, the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans (a UNESCO World Heritage site) is a 30-minute detour from Lons-le-Saunier. The 18th-century salt production architecture is a must-see.

Climate conditions vary: Lyon has a temperate climate, while the Jura brings cooler temperatures and possible rain. Summer months (June-August) are ideal with long daylight hours, while autumn offers vibrant foliage.

• Route aesthetics: The section between Bourg and Lons features rolling hills and sunflower fields in summer. Winter driving may encounter snow near the Jura foothills, so check forecasts.

The primary route, A40 then A39, is well maintained with modern road surfaces and clear signage. Average speeds are 130 km/h on highways, but be prepared for reduced limits in construction zones.

• Fuel stations: Regular intervals of 30-40 km, with major ones at Bourg-en-Bresse (exit 7) and Lons-le-Saunier (exit 9). Prices are slightly higher than city stations.
• Tolls: Total cost around €15-18 for a standard car. Only toll booths on A39 between Bourg and Lons require card payment.
• Rest areas: Aire de la Saône (A40) and Aire du Jura (A39) offer clean restrooms, picnic tables, and vending machines.

For electric vehicle owners, charging stations are available at most rest areas, including Tesla Superchargers at Bourg-en-Bresse. However, the Jura section has limited coverage, so charge in Lyon or Bourg.

• EV charging points: Bourg-en-Bresse (2x 50kW), Lons-le-Saunier (1x 22kW), Besançon (multiple).
• Parking in Besançon: Use Parkings Q-Park or Indigo near the city center. Rates average €2/hour.

Road safety is high, with well-lit highways and emergency phones every 2 km. The A39 has automated speed radars. For families, the best stops include:

• Parc de la Tête d'Or in Lyon (at start) – a large urban park with a zoo and lakeside playgrounds.
• Aire de la Saône (rest area) – has a children's play area and clean nursing rooms.
• Lons-le-Saunier – the Parc des Bains offers a thermal spa and a children's pool, perfect for a one-hour break.

For pet owners, most rest areas allow dogs on leashes, and some hotels near the route are pet-friendly. The Jura region is particularly dog-friendly with many forest walks.

• Pet-friendly stops: Aire du Jura has a designated pet exercise area.
• Veterinary clinics: Emergency clinics in Bourg-en-Bresse (Clinique Vétérinaire de la Saône) and Besançon.

Fatigue management: Plan to stop every 2 hours. The ideal stops are Bourg-en-Bresse (historic city with a coffee break at Place du Théâtre) and Lons-le-Saunier (visit the Romanesque church and enjoy a local pastry). Hidden off-route spots include the medieval village of Château-Chalon (15 minutes from Lons) known for its yellow wine.

• Hidden gem: The Cascades du Hérisson (waterfalls) are a 40-minute detour from Lons-le-Saunier, offering stunning hiking trails.

Ultimately, the best stops Lyon to Besançon combine culture, nature, and comfort. The drive is well worth it for the changing landscapes, from vineyards to mountains. How long to drive Lyon to Besançon? With stops, plan 4-5 hours; without, 3.5 hours. Is it worth driving Lyon to Besançon? Absolutely, for the scenic diversity and rich culinary traditions.