Dole Travel Guide

By Peter12 mins read

Dole – a perfect portrait in miniature of France at its finest.

Staying off the beaten track, the city preserved unique medieval charm; captivating your imagination and making you fall in love with the Franche-Comte region for good.

Imagine: Medieval narrow streets, neo-classical stone buildings, fine white wines, and local cuisine are just a few reasons why Dole should be on your travel radar!

Curious History Facts About Dole

Hometown of remarkable Louis Pasteur.

Did you know that Pasteur discovered the pasteurization process while he was trying to prevent Jura white wines from spoiling?

Originally, pasteurization was used to wine and beer and only later applied to milk.

The origins of the city date back to Roman times.

You can see remaining of the Roman and Celtic presence even today – Ancient source Goux and Basin Roman villa Goux.

By the 6th century, Dole became the capital of Amaous Canton, ruled by the Burgundy.

The city remained under Burgundy control till the late 16th century. By the 17th century, Dole became part of the Hapsburgs legacy. During this period, the city was significantly modified, gaining new appearance in Gothic style.

Today, Dole is the capital city of Jura department in Franche-Comte with a population of around 24 000 and hardly any tourists around.

Things to Do in Dole

Dole is an excellent one-day trip destination if you are interested in catching the true French vibe.

Exploring a place so unknown would reward you with this awesome sense of discovery that we all seek in our travels.

Rarely you hear a word of English here or find an English menu.

Navigating around Dole is extremely simple. Watch your step and follow the Cat Trail guiding you around the most amazing attractions.

Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame

Cutting into the city’s skyline, the church is a curious example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture traditions blending up together in a single building.

The bell tower rises for 73 m making it the highest sight in Franche-Comte.

Both entrances (The West door and Main entrance) carry peculiar carving of white stone from Sampas closely resembling marble. Made in the late 16th century by Hugh Rupt.

That’s just the beginning as you haven’t yet seen inner décor and stunning stained windows.

Believe me, Notre-Dame de Dole is as gorgeous as Notre-Dame de Paris, yet there are no crowds around.

Not to miss free organ concerts in the summertime, performed on an 18th century German Organ. One of a three in it’s kind.

Situated at Place Nationale – the oldest square in the city and visible from any point of the city.

>>Must-See Cathedrals In France

Take a walk along Grand Rue and Old City Center

Grand Rue is the main city street with loads of cute shops, boulangeries, and patisseries. Grab some macarons which are among the most delicious I’ve tried in France or anything else from the list of the best French pastries.

Wander around extremely narrow streets with amazing medieval houses (16-17th century) of pale pink and grey stone.

My favorite street is Rue Mont-Roland – a photographer’s dream indeed.

Go Down to City Canals and Gorgeous Hotel Dieu

A stunning medieval mansion with a beautiful patio inside and a lovely garden in the backyard. Once a hospital for the pour, today turned into the local Mediatheque where you can spend a while flipping Taschen Photography Books or surfing free Wi-Fi in a cozy chair.

The book collection is huge, and that’s the place where you can find English books too!

Don’t Skip the Local Museums

La Maison Natale de Pasteur – a tall house next to the city canal at 43 Rue Pasteur. There’s a collection of private things owned by Pasteur and his family and most data of his research and scientific works.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 20am to 6pm and Sunday 2 to 6pm. From November to March, open Tuesday to Sunday 2 to 6pm.

Fine Arts Museum – hosts a modest yet marvelous collection of murals and paintings dating back to the 13th century by Burgundy artists and some gorgeous works of Gustave Courbet.
Opening hours: from Tuesday till Sunday (except Sunday morning) from 10:00 to 12:00 and from 14:00 to 18:00. Open on Wednesday till 20:00, second, and third Wednesday of the month.

Discover Grande Fontaine

A bathhouse and underground spring is hidden under the last arch of Raynaud-III Bridge, crossing River Doubs.

Marvel the beauty of Jura from the top.

If your budget affords, take a spectacular balloon ride with Montgolfieres to glance at twisting river Doubs and virgin forest and sloppy hills surrounding Dole.

Where to Eat In Dole

Le Grévy – a lovely bistro with pleasant decor and fast service. The prices are rather affordable, and you can have an amazing meal for two for 35 euro.
Address: 2 av. Eisenhower

Romanée – the atmosphere is charming and relaxing. Deserts here are fantastic, and you will definitely enjoy the menu.
Address: 13 r. des Vieilles-Boucheries

La Chaumiere – traditional fine French food with a few new twists. A nice selection of local wines and cheeses. Just come and see it yourself
Address: 346, av. du Mal Juin

Grab your lunch at Marche de Dole – the main market where local manufactures bring their finest products on Tue, Thu, and Sat mornings. The freshest and tastiest french food ever!