Hôtel Victor Hugo & Spa

Besançon's central location and the secured parking, for an extra fee, were good points. Our room wasn't fancy, though it did have a bathtub. The older facilities were less appealing, and the price felt steep: about 150 a night for two adults and a child. Even at that rate, using the pool and wellness area costs extra, something we only learned once we arrived. The wellness area also closes at 9 and opens fairly late, so a short stopover leaves little chance to use it. Breakfast costs 18 EUR per person and isn't included. There's no complimentary coffee or water either, just powdered coffee in the room, with water for purchase. I had wanted a regular double room since our child is small, but reception required us to book a more expensive three-bed room. Its third bed is a convertible sofa, and it wasn't very comfortable. The extra charges for so much would have been easier to accept if the stay weren't so expensive.

The location is convenient and access is easy, and the pool is genuinely good for swimming. The room was spacious, with a good mattress, but the decor felt dated and worn. Service was mixed: not terrible at check-in, then fantastic in the morning. Parking costs 10€, and there’s a charger at a reasonable 33ct. At 90€ this would be great value; 120€ is too much.

The rooms were bright and roomy, and the staff were so friendly, answering all my questions with a smile. Breakfast was a large buffet with plenty to choose from. You can also eat outside in a tucked-away backyard garden.

The staff were very friendly, and the breakfast was good, though a little expensive. I didn't get a chance to try the spa, but I heard good things about it. It's a very nice hotel, right across from the station in Besançon.