Are you looking for a destination where urban planning and nature blend perfectly? Grenoble is the perfect place for you! Nestled at the foot of the Alps, this city and metropolis offers a dynamic living environment and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Grenoble is not only a city of modernity and wild nature: it also boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, while being a sustainable city committed to environmental protection. Learn more about its green initiatives and must-see attractions by following our green travel guide!
Must-See Attractions in the City Center
Your visit to Grenoble must begin with the iconic cable car connecting the city center to the Bastille fort. Through its famous “bubbles,” you can enjoy stunning views of the city and the Isère River. Once at the fort, stroll along the 19th-century walls and take in the breathtaking panorama of the surrounding Alps.
Then, descend by on foot, via a path that takes about 30 minutes. Head to the historic center to admire one of Grenoble’s most famous squares: Place Saint-André, located next to the Palais du Parlement du Dauphiné. This elegant square is just steps away from another iconic site of the city, Place Grenette, with its famous dolphin fountain.
To relax in nature, visit the Jardin de Ville. This magnificent urban park, created in 1620, is home to hundreds of trees and a rose garden. Another must-see attraction just five minutes from the park is the Notre-Dame Cathedral of Grenoble. Its simple and elegant architecture is the result of a blend of Romanesque and Gothic influences.
Grenoble, with its many museums, is also the ideal city for art and culture lovers. Among the most famous are the Musée de Grenoble, a prestigious museum with an extensive art collection, and the Musée de l’Ancien Évêché, which immerses you in the history of Grenoble and the Isère region through archaeological remains and exhibitions.
Grenoble’s Sustainable Initiatives
Grenoble, already named the European Green Capital in 2022, is making every effort to become more sustainable. Its environmental initiatives are numerous and span various sectors.
Firstly, Grenoble promotes eco-mobility by offering decarbonized transportation services such as five tram lines and bike rentals. To encourage cycling, the city also boasts over 40 km of Chronovélo lanes, providing safe and direct routes for cyclists.
In 2005, Grenoble became the first French metropolis to adopt the Climate, Air, and Energy Plan, aiming to reduce energy emissions and combat global warming. But that’s not all! The city is also a model in waste management, promoting recycling and running awareness campaigns on eco-citizenship.
Since 2014, the city has also embarked on a tree-planting program to preserve biodiversity, without using any chemicals for their maintenance. This ensures sustainable management of its natural environment.
The Best Hikes Around Grenoble
Surrounded by mountains and greenery, Grenoble is an ideal starting point for spectacular hikes. We suggest three routes based on your preferences and physical fitness level.
For an easy hike in nature, we recommend the route connecting the Jean-Jacques Rousseau wilderness to the Froussard farm. This 5 km trail takes you through woods and meadows overlooking Grenoble, offering numerous panoramic views of the city.
If you’re looking for a moderately difficult hike, explore Saint-Nizier de Moucherotte. The Belvédère will be your starting point for a 9 km route through enchanting landscapes, eventually reaching the Moucherotte summit, at 1,901 meters above sea level.
For the more athletic, we recommend the trail leading up to Mont Rachais. This is a very challenging loop starting from the Bastille plateau and stretching almost 17 km, reaching the summit at 1,050 meters in altitude. Although physically demanding, this route is simply spectacular, offering breathtaking views of the wilderness surrounding Grenoble.
Ideas for a Day Trip
If you’re staying in Grenoble for a few days and wish to explore the surrounding area, there are numerous options for a quick getaway in the region.
For example, water sports enthusiasts can enjoy the vast variety of lakes and rivers around Grenoble. From canyoning to rafting, canoeing to diving: the activities are truly varied and fun.
Grenoble is also close to other magnificent cities and villages, perfect for a day trip. For instance, in less than an hour and a half by train, you can reach the fabulous Alpine village of Chambéry or the metropolis of Lyon, to experience the charm of the Capital of the Gauls.
To conclude, the sustainable city of Grenoble is a true gem of the Alps. Its strategic location, magnificent attractions, and ecological initiatives make it simply unique. Don’t wait any longer to book a stay in Grenoble on Ecobnb and set off to explore this wonderful destination!
Cover image: photo via Canva PRO
