Occupying what was once the Roman town of Ariolica, the modern-day town of Pontarlier is located 60 kilometers southeast of Besancon in the Franche-Comte region of eastern France close to the Swiss border. As a stop on the historically significant trade routes between Switzerland, Italy and France, the town is home to several interesting monuments and is definitely worth a stop on any car trip through the region.

The most popular attraction in Pontarlier is arguably the Triomphal Arch of the Porte Saint-Pierre, which dates to the 18th century and offers a magnificent welcome to the town proper. The Municipal Museum is located at the Place d’Arcon and offers visitors a thorough history of the town, including its role in absinthe production. Also of interest, the 12th century Joux castle rises above and overlooks the town, featuring an ancient armament museum, while the Church of Saint-Benigne boasts breathtaking stained glass windows.