Quartet at the Cinema
An original musical experience blending chamber music with the world of cinema in Lons-le-Saunier.
Plizio Visual Lab
Buy some aged Comté at a local fromagerie in the town center.
Try the famous yellow wine of the Jura region at a specialized wine cellar.
A classic Jura dish featuring chicken in a creamy morel mushroom sauce, available in traditional brasseries.
Look for local wine shops offering Macvin and Vin Jaune.
Visit the indoor market for fresh regional produce and cured meats.
A lovely, extensive park surrounding the thermal baths, great for a peaceful stroll.
A wooded area above the town offering quiet paths and great views.
Water temperature…
An original musical experience blending chamber music with the world of cinema in Lons-le-Saunier.
A convivial festival celebrating the creative work and artistry of the local Colombier workshops.
Combine a scenic hike with a convivial paella meal in the beautiful nature of the Jura region.
An entertaining evening featuring dinner and the world-famous Chippendales show in Lons-le-Saunier.
A legendary cycling event for amateurs and pros through the challenging mountain routes of the Jura.
Enjoy an atmospheric musical evening featuring the songs of Claud Michaud.
A traveling music festival bringing unique sounds to various locations across the region.
Discover local products and traditions during these friendly Thursday community gatherings.
Celebrate the summer solstice with traditional bonfires, music, and community dancing.
Test your musical knowledge in a friendly atmosphere during this fun guessing game.
Lons-le-Saunier is the historic capital of the Jura department, set at the base of the Jura Mountains in eastern France. The town's destiny has been shaped by its natural salt springs since Roman times, a heritage reflected in its name ('Saunier' referring to salt production). While the industrial salt works have closed, the town reinvented itself as a premier spa destination in the 19th century, with the Thermes Lédonia still offering mineral-rich treatments today. It is perhaps most famous internationally as the birthplace of Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle, who composed the French national anthem, the Marseillaise. The town's architecture is notable for its appealing 17th-century arcaded streets, particularly the Rue des Arcades, which houses shops and cafes. Lons-le-Saunier is also a significant center for the food industry; it is the original home of the world-famous 'La Vache qui rit' (The Laughing Cow) brand. Surrounded by the renowned vineyards of the Jura and within reach of magnificent lakes and waterfalls, the city serves as a well-suited hub for exploring the cultural and natural riches of the region.
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 1 | 5 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 104 | 81 | 96 | 85 | 112 | 99 | 92 | 98 | 79 | 109 | 112 | 120 |
Notable places around
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Start your morning exploring the ancient Romanesque crypt of Saint-Désiré Church, absorbing the deep spiritual history of Lons-le-Saunier. Midday leads you towards the historic water sources and the majestic Thermes Lédonia, highlighting the town's spa heritage. Spend your afternoon wandering the shady pathways of the Spa Park for ultimate relaxation. Conclude your walking tour at the intriguing Fosse aux lions, enjoying the serene late afternoon atmosphere before dusk settles in.
Start the day in the protective atmosphere of the church. At noon, the thermal baths offer an ideal escape from the rain. In the afternoon, stroll through the park with an umbrella, where nature scents are particularly intense. In the evening, the wet streets of the city glisten under the streetlights, creating a beautifully melancholic mood as you find a dry spot to end your day.
The winter morning starts freshly at the church. At noon, warm up in the thermal baths while the cold air stands still outside. The afternoon walk in the park is short, as the sun sets around 17:00 and the cold intensifies. Spend the evening in the illuminated streets, where the winter silence of Lons-le-Saunier radiates a very special and cozy charm.
Kick off your cycling journey at Saint-Désiré Church before gliding over to the expansive green space of the Spa Park in the crisp morning air. As midday approaches, pedal through the local streets past Ecole Rollet and Ripley, taking in the everyday architectural charm. The afternoon ride features a comfortable stop at Edgar Faure square, providing excellent viewpoints of the city center. Wind down your trip by pedaling out to Solvan, a peaceful green area perfect for an evening rest.
Cycling in the rain requires caution on the cobblestones. Start in the morning at the church and then cycle to the park. At noon, the school buildings and Ripley offer small shelters. In the afternoon, watch out for slippery curves towards Edgar Faure. Finish the tour in the early evening before visibility decreases too much due to rain and dusk.
Layer up warmly for this winter cycling tour. It is often foggy at the church in the morning. At noon you reach the park where the movement keeps you warm. In the afternoon, cycle briskly through the residential areas. As it gets dark around 17:00, ensure your bike lights are working perfectly before finishing the day.
Your driving day begins centrally with a visit to the historic Saint-Désiré Church before heading north to explore the peaceful neighborhood of Solvan. Midday takes you past the symbolic 425 Offenbourg monument, blending local life with European history. In the afternoon, park near the grand Spa Park for a refreshing stroll among its historic trees and statues. Finally, take a short drive to the large Lons-le-Saunier Thermal Baths for a thoroughly relaxing evening soak.
In the car, the rain is no obstacle. Start dry at the church. The drive through the city offers protection from the showers. At noon, the thermal baths are the perfect destination to escape the grey weather. Even the park can be visited in the rain as you can park close by. The day ends relaxed at the spa while the rain patters against the windows.
The winter car tour starts at the church. The heating ensures a pleasant ride between stops. At noon, Solvan offers a nice insight into the city. The afternoon park visit is refreshing, but the car's warmth soon beckons you back. End the day at the thermal baths where you can warm up before heading home through the winter dark.
For families with children, the Edgar Faure playground in Lons Le Saunier, France, is an attractive destination. It features a great outdoor area that has plenty of space for playful activities. Children can spend a joyful time here while parents enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere.
