Holiday apartments, homes and airbnb in Grenoble

Self proclaimed as the 'Capital of the Alps', Grenoble, nestled amongst the mountains in the south-east of France, has something for everyone. Breath-taking views in every direction, Grenoble is the perfect weekend break for someone looking to get away for a breath of fresh air or wanting to be near some of France's most famous ski resorts. With plenty of activities for all the family and for hikers in the surrounding natural environment, Grenoble is the perfect city for a family getaway and nature lovers. Browse our accommodation to find your next home away from home.

When to visit Grenoble

Grenoble has much to offer at every time of year: summers are hot and last until late October so if you are looking for a break from the dreary English weather September and October are a great time to visit as it is still very warm but not crowded at all. This time, as well as in Spring, is also a great time to visit for hikers who can make the most of the nearby mountains to go for long walks in pleasant but not ridiculously hot nor cold weather. For winter sport lovers, the season is from December until April so between these months is the best time to visit to make the most of the direct flights to Grenoble airport and the regular buses from the city to the nearby ski resorts.

How to travel to Grenoble?

Located in the south east of France amongst the Alps and not far from the Italian and Swiss borders, there are many ways to travel to Grenoble. Grenoble airport has limited flights from the UK for most of the year with things picking up around the ski season with more regular flights from London Stansted and Manchester, perfect if you're planning a ski holiday. Year round, there are regular flights from London Gatwick and other UK airports to Lyon airport with regular shuttle buses and coaches. Flying to Geneva in Switzerland is also a popular option as it is not far and trains and buses to the nearby Swiss city are very frequent. If you prefer to stick to rail travel, Grenoble train station is very well connected to the rest of France, and after taking the Eurostar to Paris Gare du Nord from St Pancras you can get on another train down to Grenoble from Paris Gare de Lyon. Why not make the most of your connection in the capital by staying in a quaint holiday apartment in Paris where you can explore the city's countless sights, before carrying on with your journey to Grenoble. Alternatively, you can visit Grenoble just for the day from a handful of major European cities nearby. Travel from your holiday apartment in Lyon in less than an hour and a half by the train, while you can travel from the neighbouring country of Switzerland in less than 2 hours from your accommodation in Geneva.

How to get around in Grenoble?

If you are planning a more active holiday and plan to do some touring of the nearby mountains and countryside, hire a car for easy access to the views offered by the Chartreuse mountains. For city breakers, the tram service, Metromobilité is great value for money, and tickets cover the whole city, all the way from the south in Echirolles to the old town centre.

Where to stay in Grenoble?

Historic City Centre

Booking a holiday apartment in the city centre places you right in the centre of everything – near all the museums and restaurants and just a short walk from the train station. The centre is also a lovely place to stroll around the many pedestrianised streets to roam through the little independent shops and restaurants.

Saint Martin d'Hères

This is where the University Campus is located, only ten minutes on the tram from the centre, this is a great option for those who want a holiday home in a quieter area with a bit more space, for example families with children might want a garden. This area also offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains with less apartment buildings that are present in the city centre.

Activities and things to do in Grenoble

The Bastille

Take Grenoble's iconic cable cars up to The Bastille, a series of ancient fortifications on the chartreuse mountainside, overlooking the city. As well as breath taking views all the way to Mont Blanc, you can learn about the fort's history, and dine exquisitely at the restaurants on the mountainside. Equally, take in a bit of culture at the Alpine Troops museum, with interactive exhibits showcasing the life of World War Two troops in the Alps. In the summer month, families on holiday can enjoy an aerial adventure obstacle course with the mountain view.

Extreme sports and skiing

Grenoble is a city packed with adventure. In the summer months, sky dive and paraglide from the mountain tops or enjoy a hike along the many trails in the nearby Chartreuse Massif like climbing its highest mountain, Chamechaude and around the Massif of Belledonne. From December to April, there are shuttle buses at several times a day from the city that can take you to some of the French Alps' most popular ski stations, Les Deux Alps, Chamrousse, Les Sept Laux and Alpe d'Huez to name a few.

Museums

Grenoble's prime location along both the Drac and Isère rivers sets it up for fascinating historical museums, such as the Archaeological Museum. See the mountain life from a different perspective and take a visit to the Old Bishops museum where an exhibit looks at life in the mountains of old, before advanced technology. Or for the artistic eye, the Museum of Grenoble boasts a fabulous permanent collection exploring art through the many past centuries of artistic movements alongside interesting and varied temporary exhibits. Le Musée Dauphinois is another museum worth a visit, located half way up the mountain to the bastille, it's a great stop on the way up to the bastille to discover the history of the local area and the importance Grenoble has had in the world of winter sports.