Lons-le-Saunier

Visit Lons-le-Saunier, Franche-Comte

Lons-le-Saunier is to the east of the Franche-Comté region, near Chateau-Chalon and Baume-les-Messieurs in the countryside south of Dole.

Dating from at least Roman times, and with evidence of a neolithic settlement before that, the town has a long history. Unfortunately much of Lons-le-Saunier was destroyed by fire in the 17th century, so most of the buildings you see in the centre date from the following decades. An exploration of the town is recommended if you are passing.

Explore Lons-le-Saunier

Lons-le-Saunier is based around the central Place de la Liberte, a large open square with fountains and statues.

The streets that radiate from the square and are lined with 17th century town houses are the highlight - especially the Rue des Arcades. Note the clocktower on the same street, and also the birthplace of Rouget de Lisle (composer of the French National Anthem, the Marseillaise - there is also a statue of Rouget de lisle in the place de la Liberte).

There are more townhouses to admire - see the 18th century properties in La Place Bichat, and the pastel-tinted colours of the less grand houses in La Place de la Comedie.

The crypt in the Church Saint-Eglise at Lons-le-Saunier deserves a visit as does (which is not always the case in small French towns) the museum exploring the history of the region.

There is also a spa if you need some rest and relaxation (the town has apparently been a spa town for the last 2000 years), and a good sprinkling of fountains around the town to remind you of its importance.

The archaeology museum in Lons-le-Saunier features a dinosaur from 210 million years ago, so the oldest in France.

Attractions nearby

Within just a few kilometres of Lons-le-Saunier you can visit two of the most beautiful villages in the Franche-Comté region at Chateau-Chalon and Baume-les-Messieurs. Both are in very scenic locations and visits are highly recommended!

See Franche-Comte for more travel ideas...

Tourist classifications for Lons-le-Saunier: Village in bloom (ville fleurie) 3*;

Photos of Lons-le-Saunier

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Suggested places to visit near Lons-le-Saunier, France

Distances shown are direct, driving distances will be greater.

More suggestions: Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans 44km; Dole 47km;

Lons-le-Saunier tourist information: sights and attractions nearby

Jardin des jeux du château d'Arlay - remarkable garden (9km) : Haut-Jura - regional natural parc (40km) : Lac de Lamoura - site of natural beauty (45km) : Jardin à la Faulx - remarkable garden (47km) : Col de la Faucille - site of natural beauty (49km) :

See more places and a map at places near Lons-le-Saunier