- Must visit
Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie
Fine arts and archaeology museum with paintings, ancient collections and a notable modernist interior. A strong introduction to Besançon’s cultural heritage.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Caen to Besançon
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 23 Sept
Cheapest price on 23 Sept
£70
Average ticket price on 23 Sept
£73
Fastest journey on 23 Sept
5 h 24 m
Average journey duration on 23 Sept
5 h 27 m
Trains on 23 Sept
3
Distance
519 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Caen to Besançon is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Caen to Besançon will cost around £73 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £70.
Fast trains
On Wed 23 Sept, we found 3 trains from Caen to Besançon, including 3 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 519 km distance in an average of 5 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 24 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 29 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
11:025h24Caen16:26Besançon£701One-way0 changes
6:235h29Caen11:52Besançon£711One-way0 changes- 14:585h27Caen20:25Besançon£771One-way0 changes
- 11:025h24Caen16:26Besançon£701One-way0 changes
- 14:585h27Caen20:25Besançon£771One-way0 changes
- 6:235h29Caen11:52Besançon£711One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Caen to Besançon
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Caen to Besançon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £70 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 10m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £70, while a flight costs an average of £870.
Distance: 519 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£109 Average Price | £870 Average Price | £70 Average Price Cheapest | £143 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 10m Average total duration Fastest 4h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 3m Average total duration 4h 3m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 12h 5m Average total duration 11h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Caen to Besançon is a coach with an average price of £70.
This is compared to other travel options from Caen to Besançon:
A coach is £39 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Caen to Besançon costing on average £109.
A coach is £800 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Caen to Besançon costing on average £870.
The fastest way to travel from Caen to Besançon is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 3m.
Other travel options to Besançon take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 40m.
Coach takes on average 11h 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Caen and Besançon including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 1h 40m faster (4h 40m by train vs 6h 20m by car) and roughly £34 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£109 vs £143). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Caen to Besançon train times
The table below shows live departures for Caen to Besançon trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 23 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:23 Caen | 5h29 | 11:52 Besançon | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:02 Caen | 5h24 | 16:26 Besançon | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:58 Caen | 5h27 | 20:25 Besançon | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Caen to Besançon by train or coach
Compare train and coach prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Wed
23 Sept
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24 Sept
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26 Sept
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Why should you book Caen to Besançon trains with Omio?
SNCF | TGV Lyria as well as SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, TER, SNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF NOMAD RÉSA | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 and more offer trains services from Caen to Besançon.
Omio is the only official third party seller for SNCF | TGV Lyria tickets.
Why book with Omio vs SNCF | TGV Lyria?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SNCF | TGV Lyria, but also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, TER, SNCF | TGV INOUI or SNCF NOMAD RÉSA | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 to find the best option for your trip from Caen to Besançon.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare SNCF | TGV Lyria with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Caen to Besançon.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Caen to Besançon
FranceFrance
Trains from Caen to Besançon run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £64 but you can travel from only £44 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:58, the last at 19:51. The fastest train covers the 519 km distance in 4h 18m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £44
Distance 519 km |
Average train duration 4h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price £64 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 18m |
First train 4:58 |
Last train 19:51 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £44
Train companies: SNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | TGV Lyria, SNCF NOMAD RÉSA | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, TER from Caen to Besançon trainsSNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | TGV Lyria, SNCF NOMAD RÉSA | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, TER trains will get you between Caen and Besançon from £44. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a \Bistro TGV INOUI\" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF | TGV INOUI Duration
4h 18m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV INOUI Price
£64
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187
About
SNCF TER (Transport Express Régional) is the regional train service operated by France's national railway company, SNCF. It provides low-cost travel within France's regions, connecting towns and areas not served by high-speed trains. Each French region independently manages its own TER network, offering various ticket types, including discount cards and special fares. TER trains are used by over 800,000 passengers daily and are a popular choice for both commuters and tourists exploring France's diverse landscapes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Duration
4h 26m
Cheapest SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Price
£72
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one suitcase included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at train ends
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar or food trolley service on some routes, vending machines available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for additional fee, included in some first-class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
SNCF | TGV Lyria
About
TGV Lyria is a high-speed train service connecting France and Switzerland, a joint venture between SNCF (French National Railway Company) and SBB (Swiss Federal Railways). These trains operate daily, offering up to 17 return journeys between the two countries. Key destinations include Paris, Dijon, Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich, and Basel, with seasonal services to Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon. TGV Lyria offers three travel classes: Standard, Première, and Première Signature, each with varying levels of comfort and services like Wi-Fi and catering options.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF | TGV Lyria Duration
4h 32m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price
£104
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, at-seat service in First Class, Café-bar for snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional, additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
SNCF NOMAD RÉSA | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF NOMAD RÉSA | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Duration
4h 26m
Cheapest SNCF NOMAD RÉSA | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Price
£94
SNCF NOMAD RÉSA | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 frequency
2 a day
TER
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TER Duration
5h 55m
Cheapest TER Price
£78
TER frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Besançon
Things to do in Besançon
Discover the best of Besançon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Besançon trip today.
- Recommended
Maison natale de Victor Hugo
Museum in Victor Hugo’s birthplace presenting the writer’s life and his commitments. Compact, thoughtful and easy to combine with a walk in the centre.
- Recommended
Musée du Temps
Museum devoted to timekeeping, watchmaking and local industry inside the citadel. It offers interactive displays and a distinctive regional story.
- Recommended
Place de la Révolution
Grand riverside square lined with handsome buildings and terraces, often used for events. It is a natural starting point for exploring central Besançon.
- Recommended
Grande Rue
Main shopping street through the old town with historic façades, arcades and everyday city life. Ideal for an easy stroll between major sights.
- Recommended
Esplanade des Glacis
Popular viewpoint above the city with broad panoramas over the Doubs loop, roofs and citadel. A rewarding stop for walkers and photographers.
- Gluten-free
Saucisse de Morteau
Smoked pork sausage from nearby Morteau, slowly cooked and often served with potatoes or lentils. It is a Franche-Comté staple with protected regional identity.
- Gluten-free
Saucisse de Montbéliard
Air-dried smoked sausage from the Haut-Doubs, traditionally eaten cooked with warm dishes or cold in charcuterie platters. A classic local mountain product.
- Vegetarian
Tarte au Comté
Rich cheese tart from Franche-Comté made with Comté, eggs and cream in pastry. It is a signature regional comfort dish often found in local brasseries.
Crêperie La Rozell
Popular casual spot for crêpes and galettes with a warm, informal atmosphere. Good for a lighter meal in the old town.
Le Poker d'As
Established restaurant serving refined French cuisine with regional produce in an elegant but relaxed setting close to the historic centre.
Brasserie du Commerce
Traditional brasserie near the centre known for regional Franche-Comté dishes, generous portions and a lively classic dining room.
Euro (€)
Moderate for France: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Paris, while local transport and everyday cafés stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €55+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is included in restaurant bills. Locals may round up or leave 5-10% for excellent service. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés if service was good.
Ginko Mobilités
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- > null
- Day pass
- > null
To the city centre
Besançon Viotte -> Centre-ville, Besançon
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Use Tram T2 or LIANES L3/L5 from Besançon Viotte for the centre-ville; Ginko states the trip takes about 5 min.
- Check live departures and disruption alerts in Ginko Mobilités before travel.
FAQs: Caen to Besançon train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Caen to Besançon by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Besançon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Caen to Besançon can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £64, while the average price tends to be around £109.
The train journey from Caen to Besançon covers a distance of 519 km and takes approximately 4h 18m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Caen to Besançon is 519 km.
The first train from Caen to Besançon leaves at 4:58.
The last train from Caen to Besançon departs at 19:51.
Trains from Caen to Besançon run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Caen to Besançon.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Caen to Besançon.
There is no night train service from Caen to Besançon.
The train station in Caen that goes to Besançon is Gare de Caen, and it arrives at Besançon Viotte.
The cheapest way to get from Caen to Besançon is by coach, costing approximately £44.
Booking trains from Caen to Besançon in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Caen to Besançon offers a scenic experience, passing through picturesque French countryside, charming villages, and lush landscapes, enhancing the travel experience with its natural beauty.
Yes, you can take the train from Caen to Besançon.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Caen and Besançon
Most Caen to Besançon trains use the Gare de Caen to Besançon Viotte station pair. Use this guide to compare Caen and Besançon train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Caen
Arrival train stations in Besançon
Which Caen station do trains to Besançon leave from?
Trains from Caen to Besançon leave from Gare de Caen. The station is 1 km from Caen city centre at 15 Place de la gare, 14000 Caen, France.
Gare de Caen15 Place de la gare, 14000 Caen, France+33 2 31 15 55 55
City-centre transport
Getting to Gare de Caen from Caen city centre
Gare de Caen is 1 km from Caen city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10, 12 · 7m · £2 · every ~7 min
101, 102, 103 · 18m · £3 · every ~3 min
TramT1, T3 · 5m · £2 · every ~15 min
Gare de Caen train station facilities and services
Gare de Caen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Le Bistrot de la Gare, La Ficelle
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gare de Caen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gare de Caen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gare de Caen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gare de Caen: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gare de Caen: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Bristol, Ibis Styles Caen Centre Gare, Hotel de la Paix.
Which Besançon station do trains from Caen arrive at?
Trains from Caen to Besançon arrive at Besançon Viotte. Besançon Viotte is from Besançon city centre.
Besançon Viotte2 Avenue de la Paix, 25000 Besançon, France+33 892353535
City-centre transport
Getting to Besançon Viotte from Besançon city centre
BusL5 · 3m · every ~6 min
Besançon Viotte train station facilities and services
Besançon Viotte has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Pain Soleil, Selecta
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free, unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi when you create a free account. ATMs are located in the front of the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 09:00 - 17:10, Sat - Sun: 10:00 - 17:10. Information desks are located at the south entrance to the underground level. .
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Besançon Viotte: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Besançon Viotte: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Besançon Viotte: The station is fully accessible, including wheelchair ramps, a magnetic induction loop for people with hearing loss and a guidance system for people with visual impairments. Staff can provide additional assistance, and wheelchairs are available.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include ibis budget Besançon Centre Gare, Victor Hugo Hotel and Spa, Le Viotte King Size.
Most popular train connections from Caen
More options for your journey from Caen to Besançon
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Besançon and Caen
Most popular train connections to Besançon
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