What to see in Grenoble ?

Grenoble defines itself first through its geography: three massifs encircle it, and this physical constraint has forged a dense city, oriented towards the mountains without ever being captive to them. Europe's Alpine capital, it carries a scientific and student identity that gives it a rhythm different from conventional tourist cities. The Bastille, a fortress perched above and accessible by transparent cable-car bubbles, sums up this relationship between city and landscape.

The best period extends from May to October, before snow on mountain roads complicates excursions in the surrounding area. Two days suffice to walk the centre, visit the Grenoble museum and its environs, though count three if you plan an outing towards the Vercors or Chartreuse. The tram efficiently covers the city from the station. Avoid confusing Grenoble with a mere ski resort base: the resorts are at least forty-five minutes away, and the city deserves to be explored for its own sake.