- Must visit
Musée de l'Absinthe
Specialized museum on absinthe production and culture, explaining the drink’s role in Pontarlier’s identity through objects and displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Besançon to Pontarlier
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€27
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€27
Fastest journey on Sep 20
2 h 9 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
2 h 21 m
Trains on Sep 20
2
Distance
46 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Besançon to Pontarlier is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Besançon to Pontarlier will cost around €27 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €27.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Besançon to Pontarlier without transferring at least once.
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10:04 AM2h33Besançon12:37 PMPontarlier€271One-way1 transfer- 5:26 PM2h09Besançon7:35 PMPontarlier€271One-way1 transfer
- 5:26 PM2h09Besançon7:35 PMPontarlier€271One-way1 transfer
- 10:04 AM2h33Besançon12:37 PMPontarlier€271One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Besançon to Pontarlier
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Besançon to Pontarlier among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €32 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 58m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €32, while a train costs an average of €32.
Distance: 28 miles (46 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
€32 Average price Cheapest | €10 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 58m Average total duration Fastest 1h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Besançon to Pontarlier is a train with an average price of €32.
The fastest way to travel from Besançon to Pontarlier is by train with an average journey time of 1h 28m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Besançon and Pontarlier including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Besançon to Pontarlier among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €32 compared to roughly €10 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-22.30. The journey takes 1h 28m versus 57m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Besançon to Pontarlier train times
The table below shows live departures for Besançon to Pontarlier trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 8:51 AM Besançon | 1h46 | 10:37 AM Pontarlier | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Besançon to Pontarlier by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Besançon to Pontarlier
FranceFrance
Trains from Besançon to Pontarlier run on average 4 times per day, taking around 1h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €19 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:57, the last at 19:16. The fastest train covers the 28 miles (46 km) distance in 1h 17m.
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
Distance 28 miles (46 km) |
Average train duration 1h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price €19 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 1h 17m |
First train 5:57 AM |
Last train 7:16 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Train companies: SNCF | TGV Lyria, TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 from Besançon to Pontarlier trainsSNCF | TGV Lyria, TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 trains will get you between Besançon and Pontarlier from €19. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
1h 17m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price
€32
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
3 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
TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Duration
1h 19m
Cheapest TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Price
€19
TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Pontarlier
Things to do in Pontarlier
Discover the best of Pontarlier — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Pontarlier trip today.
- Recommended
Musée Municipal de Pontarlier
Main local museum presenting Pontarlier history, archaeology, art, and absinthe heritage in a practical central location.
- Recommended
Musée du Fort de Joux
Museum inside the famous fort with prison, military, and resistance history; combines strong storytelling with a dramatic setting.
- Must visit
Belvédère du Larmont
Wooded mountain lookout reached from nearby roads and trails, valued for expansive panoramas and fresh-air hiking close to Pontarlier.
- Recommended
Place d'Arçon
Central square lined with historic buildings and shops, ideal for orienting yourself and seeing everyday life in Pontarlier.
- Recommended
Rue de la République
Main commercial street through the old center, good for a walk between monuments, local stores, and classic town architecture.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Absinthe De Pontarlier
Anise-flavoured spirit historically linked to Pontarlier, once France’s absinthe capital. It is the town’s signature drink and a key part of local heritage.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Pontarlier-Anis
A strong anise aperitif from the Pontarlier distillery tradition. It reflects the region’s long history of herbal spirits in the Jura mountains.
- Gluten-free
Boîte Chaude Au Mont D’Or
Cooked Mont d’Or cheese baked in its spruce box until molten, then served with potatoes and charcuterie. A winter classic in nearby Haut-Doubs.
La Bella Vita
Established restaurant serving refined French cuisine with regional products in a more polished, classic dining setting.
Brasserie Le France
Traditional brasserie in central Pontarlier known for regional plates, hearty portions and a relaxed local atmosphere.
Restaurant Le Lac
Casual venue appreciated for generous Franco-Italian dishes and an easy-going atmosphere suited to families and groups.
Euro (€)
Moderate for France. Hotels and meals are usually cheaper than Paris; local transit is limited, and cross-border demand can raise prices on busy weekends.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €45-80 per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.20-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is included in restaurant bills in France. Locals may round up or leave €1-5 for good service. Taxis are often rounded up; cafes may get small change.
SNCF Connect
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.20
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Pontarlier station -> Place d'Arçon, Pontarlier
- Distance
- 600 m
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Buy tickets before boarding when possible; local urban buses may not support contactless bank card payment onboard.
- Pontarlier city center is walkable from the railway station, so walking is often the fastest option for central destinations.
FAQs: Trains from Besançon to Pontarlier
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Besançon to Pontarlier 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 Pontarlier, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Besançon to Pontarlier can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €19, while the average price is around €32.
The train from Besançon to Pontarlier takes 1h 17m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Besançon to Pontarlier leaves at 5:57 AM.
The distance by train from Besançon to Pontarlier is 28 miles (46 km).
The last train from Besançon to Pontarlier leaves at 7:16 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Besançon to Pontarlier.
There is no direct train service currently available from Besançon to Pontarlier.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Besançon to Pontarlier.
The train station in Besançon that goes to Pontarlier is Besançon Viotte, which connects to Pontarlier station.
The cheapest way to get from Besançon to Pontarlier is by train, with a cost of around €19.
Yes, the train journey from Besançon to Pontarlier is considered scenic, as it travels through the picturesque Jura Mountains, offering views of lush forests, rolling hills, and charming French countryside.
Yes, a day trip from Besançon to Pontarlier is feasible as the journey takes 1h 17m and trains run 4 times per day, covering a distance of 28 miles (46 km).
Two to three days are sufficient to explore Pontarlier, allowing time to visit key attractions such as Château de Joux, the Absinthe Distillery, and enjoy the scenic natural surroundings.
Yes, you can take the train from Besançon to Pontarlier.
Since both Besançon and Pontarlier are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Pontarlier include Neuchâtel, Dijon, Lausanne, Dole, Lons-le-Saunier.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Besançon to Pontarlier among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Pontarlier, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and inflated prices in tourist-focused shops. Staying vigilant with personal belongings and confirming fares in advance can help ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Besançon to Pontarlier
Most Besançon to Pontarlier trains use the Besançon Viotte to Pontarlier station pair. Use this guide to compare Besançon and Pontarlier train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Besançon
Arrival train stations in Pontarlier
Which Besançon station do trains to Pontarlier leave from?
Trains from Besançon to Pontarlier leave from Besançon Viotte. The station is from Besançon city centre at 2 Avenue de la Paix, 25000 Besançon, France.
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.
Which Pontarlier station do trains from Besançon arrive at?
Trains from Besançon to Pontarlier most often arrive at Pontarlier. Some services arrive at Sainte-Colombe Septveilles, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Pontarlier arrival station.
PontarlierPlace de la Gare, 25300 Pontarlier, France+33 3 81 46 51 51
City-centre transport
Getting to Pontarlier from Pontarlier city centre
BusSeveral local lines available
Taxi services available
Pontarlier train station facilities and services
Pontarlier has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Le Grill Comtois, La Table de Gustave
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Pontarlier. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Pontarlier. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Pontarlier: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Pontarlier: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Pontarlier.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hôtel Saint-Pierre, Campanile Pontarlier, Ibis Pontarlier.
Most popular train connections from Besançon
More options for your journey from Besançon to Pontarlier
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Pontarlier and Besançon
Most popular train connections to Pontarlier
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