Reasons to Visit Briançon and How to Get There

Jan 13
10:04

2016

Lisa Jeeves

Lisa Jeeves

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Briançon is a wonderful place to visit, even if you don’t ski. We offer some options for getting to this magical destination with the least hassle.

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Briançon is a hidden gem among the towns of the French Alps. Situated in its breath-taking position on the French-Italian border since the age of the Western Roman Empire,Reasons to Visit Briançon and How to Get There Articles this charming town is full of characteristic architecture and a rich and interesting history. Its main attractions are its lasting fortifications, built by Sebastian Le Prestre de Vauban.

The Defensive Fortifications

The Salettes, the Three Heads and the Randouillet forts are the most famous in Briançon and all make a fascinating visit for anyone with an avid interest in military history. The gates to the town and the moat, all of which are visible from the forts, are also worth a look.

Other Attractions

As with most French towns, Briançon has a beautiful church, the Abbey Church of Notre Dame and Saint Nicholas. Famous for its twin domes and spectacular sundial, the church is one of a kind. There are plenty more churches in town, as well as some quaint town squares and elegant fountains too. The newer part of town is great to visit for the bars and restaurants.

Getting to Briançon: By Plane

Briançon feels like a million miles away from the bustle of London and yet a flight will have you in Briançon’s nearest airport, Geneva International, in 90 minutes. Flights arrive daily from most major European cities, with flights leaving the UK from Liverpool and Manchester as well as London. On arrival, you can then take one of the companies offering Geneva airport transfers on either a shared or private basis, right up to Briançon. Aside from the practicalities these Geneva airport transfers provide an opportunity to sit back and enjoy the journey at the start and end of your trip while your driver deals with the mountain roads, motorway tolls and Swiss-French border.

Getting to Briançon: By Train

Trains offer a completely different travel experience. No Geneva airport transfers are required and arriving at Briançon station gets you almost to the door of your final destination. It does take a few hours to travel from London, but you only have to change once in Paris.

Getting to Briançon: By Car

You may choose to hire a car at the airport and be in charge of your own Geneva airport transfer at the start and end of your stay, and in which case there are many excellent car hire companies to choose from. Remember though to rent your car from the French side of the airport and return it to the same side.

If you are planning to take a road trip from the UK, you need to plan for a 12-hour journey from London. This of course will be longer if you decide to stop along the way or take a detour or two, perhaps enjoying the sights of Paris, Dijon or Lyon. Before you leave on your trip you must be aware of what you are required to carry in your car under French law. A warning triangle, a breathalyser, and a reflective jacket are a must. You should also have snow chains that you are familiar with using, just in case you encounter slippery roads on the final stretch to Briançon.

Many people visit Briançon in the winter to ski, but as you can see there is more to this town than just the slopes. If you want to arrive in the quickest and most hassle free way, take a flight and book one of the excellent companies that provide seamless Geneva airport transfers.