Things to do in Jura
Discover the best attractions and experiences Jura has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Jura’s fortresses and cliffside abbeys that reveal centuries of regional history.
Fort de Joux
A formidable 12th‑century fortress near Pontarlier, offering panoramic views and a rich military history.
Abbaye de Baume-les-Messieurs
An iconic cliffside Benedictine abbey with Romanesque and Gothic elements set in a dramatic village.
Museums
Delve into Jura’s science, salt history and regional culture in its thoughtful museums.
Musée Pasteur (Dole)
Birthplace of Louis Pasteur, showcasing the scientist’s life and key breakthroughs.
Musée du Sel (Salins-les-Bains)
Salt mining heritage presented through exhibits and subterranean galleries.
Religious Monuments
Religious architecture that highlights Jura’s spiritual and cultural history.
Église Saint-Pierre de Dole
Historic church in Dole representing the town’s religious heritage.
Abbaye de Baume-les-Messieurs (religious site)
Abbey church and adjacent religious complex within the famous cliffside setting.
National & Theme Parks
Outdoor gems and protected landscapes in Jura for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Parc naturel régional du Haut-Jura
A protected mountain landscape ideal for hiking, wildlife watching and winter sports.
Lac de Vouglans
One of France’s largest man-made lakes, surrounded by scenic trails and viewpoints.
Neighborhoods
Historic cores and charming districts that give a sense of local life in Jura towns.
Vieille Ville de Dole
Old town district with timber-framed houses, market squares and riverside strolls.
Arbois Old Town
Quaint medieval streets, wine shops and a welcoming regional vibe.
Salins-les-Bains historic center
Atmospheric core with historic buildings and a gateway to salt heritage.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Jura’s natural beauty and historic streets without an entrance fee.
Cascades du Hérisson
A spectacular multi‑cascade hike through rugged Jura landscapes.
Lac de Vouglans – shore stroll
Relaxing lakeside paths and views along one of France’s large reservoirs.
Haut-Jura regional park trails
Accessible network of marked trails through forests and alpine meadows.
Gastronomy
Taste Jura’s signature products and seasonal specialties.
Vin Jaune tastings in Arbois
Sample the region’s distinctive Vin Jaune in local cellars and producers.
Comté cheese tastings
Experience Jura’s famous Comté at a dairy or fromagerie in the region.
Morlilles and regional dishes
Seasonal Morilles mushrooms and Poulet au vin jaune feature in many Jura menus.
Nightlife
Evenings in Jura offer cozy bars, wine-tasting rooms and relaxed venues.
Wine bars in Arbois
Casual venues to sip local wines and soak up village ambiance.
Cafés in Dole’s old town
Laid-back spots perfect for an after‑dinner drink and people watching.
Entertainment
Cultural experiences and local performances in Jura towns.
Theatre performances in Dole
Seasonal plays and concerts in small-town venues.
Cultural events in Saint-Claude
Local fairs and music events showcasing Jura’s culture.
Sports
Seasonal outdoor activities for all levels in the Jura mountains.
Skiing in Les Rousses
Popular ski resort with slopes for all abilities and scenic Jura scenery.
Hiking in Haut-Jura
Varied trails through forests, meadows and viewpoints across the massif.
Cross-country skiing in winter
Fabric of well-groomed Nordic trails across Jura’s snowy landscapes.
Off the Track
Unconventional ways to discover Jura beyond the usual sights.
Scenic drives through the Jura countryside
Quiet country lanes, hedgerows and tiny villages perfect for a car tour.
Seasonal foraging walks
Guided nature walks to spot mushrooms, berries and local flora (seasonal).