The French Alps, France
Grenoble serves as a fine starting point for exploring many charming towns and cities. Discover picturesque locations within easy reach.
Annecy: (Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car or train) Known as the "Venice of the Alps," Annecy features a beautiful Old Town, canals, and a stunning lake. It earns fame for its crystal-clear water and charming ambiance.
Lyon: (Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes by train) France's gastronomic capital, Lyon is an UNESCO World Heritage site. It features impressive Roman ruins, a well-preserved Renaissance Old Town (Vieux Lyon) with unique "traboules" (secret passageways), and world-renowned cuisine.
Chambéry: (Approximately 45 minutes by train) This city is the historical capital of Savoy. It features a charming old town, the impressive Château des Ducs de Savoie (Castle of the Dukes of Savoy), and the iconic Elephant Fountain.
Valence: (Approximately 1 hour by train) A city on the Rhône River, Valence is known for its historic center and the lovely Parc Jouvet. It holds a pleasant mix of history and green spaces.
Regional parks around Grenoble give immediate access to stunning natural landscapes.
Located immediately west and south of Grenoble. Explore dramatic gorges, like the Gorges de la Bourne, vast high plateaus, and charming traditional villages. This park works well for hiking, cycling, and caving. Its unique geology makes it a rewarding area for nature lovers.
Immediately north of Grenoble. Home to the Grande Chartreuse monastery (exterior views permitted). Features stunning forests and extensive hiking trails. Visit the Chartreuse cellars in Voiron to learn about the famous liqueur.
Discover historical and cultural sites beyond Grenoble for a fuller picture of the region.
Visit the historic Château de Vizille, central to the French Revolution. It now houses the Museum of the French Revolution, surrounded by vast parkland.
St-Pierre-de-Chartreuse and Le Sappey-en-Chartreuse offer access to hiking trails and a glimpse into traditional Alpine life.
Travel to Voiron to visit the Caves de Chartreuse, where the famous liqueur ages. Tours conclude with a tasting.
The Château de Vizille holds significance in French history as the site of a pivotal event in the French Revolution, known as the Day of the Tiles.
The Caves de Chartreuse present an unique insight into the production of this distinctive regional spirit.
Expand your travel beyond Grenoble for more of the French Alps and nearby regions.
The iconic Route des Grandes Alpes traverses high mountain passes from Lake Geneva to Nice. Excellent for cyclists or drivers.
Explore Savoie and Haute-Savoie, with their beautiful lakes (Annecy, Bourget) and towns like Chambéry and Aix-les-Bains.
Head south from Grenoble to the sun-drenched region of Provence, known for its landscapes and culture.
Design a route through Chartreuse to Annecy, then Chambéry, exploring high peaks before returning or flying from Geneva.
Extend travel from Grenoble to major French cities like Lyon and Paris, or head south towards Provence for varied experiences.
From Grenoble, easy travel to Italy via Fréjus tunnel or Montgenèvre pass, exploring Turin or Aosta Valley.
