Grenoble Things To Do

La Bastille
The most popular attraction in Grenoble, La Bastille is a series of elegant ancient ramparts and fortifications nestling high in the mountains overlooking the city. Dating back to the middle ages, it features well preserved medieval architecture and affords stunning panoramas of the city rooftops and mountains. A visit is a must simply for the vertigo inducing ride by cable car to its summit.

Winter Sports
Temptingly close to numerous ski resorts, Grenoble short breaks can enjoy thrilling downhill skiing and snowboarding just minutes away from the bustle of city life. Enjoy a day of snow sports in charming Chamrousse or tobogganing in the spectacular Vercours countryside. There is even adventurous heli-skiing or ice skating in lively Alpes d'Huez.

Art Museums
For its size Grenoble has a surprisingly rich art heritage and offers a wealth of local and international exhibits at numerous elegant museums and galleries. La Magasin is one of the foremost modern art centres in France and Musee de Grenoble should not miss the chance to view the impressionist collections from the likes of Gaugin and Monet. Musee Dauphinois is a charming former palace displaying a wealth of regional art and furnishings from the 17th century and is well worth a visit.

Outdoor Pursuits
Adventurous adrenaline seekers will find heaven in the rolling countryside around Grenoble where all manner of thrilling pursuits are possible. Potholing, canyoning and paragliding are popular during summers in nearby Vercours or make waves on the Isere River with a day of wet and wild white water rafting or kayaking.

Food Markets
Shopping has never been so much fun in the chaotic farmers' markets in Grenoble city centre which offer up delightful gourmet produce and elegant local gifts. Head to St Clair les Halles for heavenly cheeses and cooked meats which is open daily from early morning. There is a busy fruit and vegetable market that also features quaint cafes and street vendors serving traditional Alpine snacks and savouries such as the legendary tartiflette.

Les Ecrins National Park
Explore the vast natural wilderness of Les Ecrins, a haven for botany and bird lovers, just a short drive from the city. Its undulating mountainous terrain is home to over 2000 species of plants and dozens of rare birds. Visit the picture postcard village of Ailefroid with its Bronze Age settlements and fairytale alpine architecture. Enjoy a day in complete solitude and witness nature at its most radiant.