What activities to do in Grenoble? Our best suggestions

1. Take the cable car to the Bastille

If you’re in Grenoble and you’ve never taken the cable car bubbles, it’s like going to Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower. This thing is an institution! In just a few minutes, you fly over the Isère River and arrive at the top of the Bastille, with an absolutely stunning view.

An XXL panorama of the Vercors, Chartreuse mountains, and even a little glimpse of Mont Blanc if you’re lucky. Once at the top, you can explore 19th-century fortifications, visit underground passages, enjoy hanging gardens, or even go climbing.

If you’re more of a history buff, check out the Mountain Troops Museum, which retraces the exploits of alpine soldiers. And if you still have energy, hike back down to enjoy the view even longer.

2. Get lost in the old town (and discover hidden gems!)

Grenoble is a city that moves, a perfect mix of history, urban vibes, and modernity. Its historic center is packed with great spots, including tourist sites, stylish cafés, buzzing bars, designer boutiques, and restaurants you’ll want to return to.

If you’re into culture and heritage, head straight to the Dauphiné Parliament Palace and Notre-Dame Cathedral, stunning architectural gems that plunge you into the city’s history. And for an extra dose of culture, visit the Grenoble Museum (more on that below).

But the real charm lies in the student atmosphere. Packed terraces, non-stop parties, and endless events—there’s always something fun to do or a cool place to check out.

3. Play detective in an escape game

If you love challenges and your brain thrives under pressure, Grenoble’s escape games are for you. Locked in a room with other participants, you must solve puzzles to escape before the timer runs out. An experience no one will forget!

Bank heist à la Casa de Papel (another season would be great), supernatural investigation, spy mission… the scenarios are ultra-immersive, and some are inspired by local history. For an even more dynamic experience, try an outdoor escape game—where the entire city becomes your playground!

It’s a fantastic activity for birthdays, a fun outing with friends, or even a family adventure. You’ll leave with unforgettable memories.

Experience another reality with VR

Ever dreamed of fighting off a horde of zombies, strolling through a spaceship, or pulling off a high-stakes heist like in an action movie? In Grenoble, VR arcades immerse you in totally wild universes.

Put on a headset, and in a second, you’re somewhere else. Some games put you in VR escape rooms with tricky puzzles, others pit you against terrifying creatures, and there are even simulations where you must climb virtual cliffs (beware of vertigo!).

The immersion is so realistic that you completely forget you’re in Grenoble! Plus, it’s an activity for all ages—kids and adults alike will have a blast.

5. Discover the Grenoble Museum

Okay, maybe art isn’t your thing, but the Grenoble Museum is worth the visit. It’s one of the best museums in France, featuring works by Picasso, Chagall, Matisse, and many other great artists.

What’s great here is that the temporary exhibitions are super modern, so you’ll definitely find something that grabs your interest! And after your visit, relax in the sculpture garden, a perfect spot to chill, read, or just take a breather.

If you’re feeling creative, the museum also offers workshops on certain days, where you can try out artistic techniques, play with paint, and leave with your own masterpiece.

6. Get an adrenaline rush with paragliding

If you’re craving adrenaline, fresh air, and maximum thrills, paragliding in Saint-Hilaire-du-Touvet is the experience for you. This spot is one of the best for literally taking to the skies and enjoying an incredible panorama of the Alpine massifs.

Even if you’re a beginner, no worries! Flights are done in tandem with an instructor. A few steps down the slope, and boom—you’re soaring into the sky for a unique experience between the clouds and mountains. It’s absolutely unforgettable.

Between the total silence, the floating sensation, and the breathtaking view over the Isère, every second is pure joy and emotion. Whether it’s for a first flight, a gift idea, or just checking off a bucket list dream, paragliding in Saint-Hilaire-du-Touvet is a must!

7. Visit the Saint-Laurent Footbridge and the Lion Fountain

If you’re looking for a stunning walk, head to the Saint-Laurent Footbridge. This ultra-stylish metal bridge connects the Saint-Laurent district to the historic center and offers an incredible view of Grenoble, the city’s rooftops, and the surrounding mountains.

Depending on the time of day, the reflections on the Isère transform the landscape, giving you breathtaking photo opportunities. Just after crossing, don’t miss the Lion Fountain, an iconic monument representing the battle between the Drac and the Isère.

The lion crushing a snake is a true symbol of the city and a perfect spot for a stylish photo break. Whether you’re here for a stroll or just to soak in the atmosphere of this historic area, this stop is a must.

8. Explore Grenoble’s gardens and green spaces

If you need a break outdoors, Grenoble is a truly green city with plenty of options to relax. Head to Paul Mistral Park, the city’s largest park, with 21 hectares of green spaces, shaded walkways, and perfect picnic spots.

It’s also the best place for sports activities. Football fields, bike paths, a skatepark—there’s always something happening! Right in the middle, the Perret Tower adds a touch of class to the landscape and offers a great view of the city.

If you prefer cozier spots, the Jardin de Ville in the city center is a true gem. With flowers, shaded benches, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to unwind between visits.

9. Try canyoning in the Furon Gorges

If you want a full-on nature adventure, canyoning in the Furon Gorges is for you. It’s one of the best spots in Isère for jumping into pools, sliding down natural slides, and rappelling down rock walls.

The water is crystal clear, the landscapes are stunning, and every section of the route delivers a new adrenaline rush. Whether you’re a beginner or a true adventurer, there are routes for all skill levels. If it’s your first time, no worries—professional guides are there to help.

For thrill-seekers, some parts of the course include big jumps and technical descents, turning up the excitement to the max!

10. Watch a hockey match with the Brûleurs de Loups

If you love electrifying atmospheres, a Brûleurs de Loups hockey match is an experience you can’t miss. This ice hockey team is one of the best in the Magnus League, and the second you step into the Pôle Sud arena, you can feel the energy.

Players speed across the ice, pucks fly, the hits are intense, and the fans create an insane atmosphere. With last-minute goals, jaw-dropping saves, and lightning-fast counterattacks, every game is a pure spectacle.

And it’s not just about hockey! Between-period animations, fan games, and mascots putting on a show make sure you’re entertained from start to finish. If you want an exciting night out, this is THE place to be.

Your future home in Grenoble

Moving to the Alps’ capital for studies and looking for the perfect place to fully enjoy the city? Our student residence in Grenoble is here for you!

UXCO Student residence Time, in Saint-Martin-le-Vinoux, is the ideal spot to settle in. Just minutes from the city center by tram, you have everything at your fingertips: universities, restaurants, bars, gyms… and even nature for a breath of fresh air between classes.

Here, you’re not just a tenant—you join a real community, with regular indoor events to meet new people and experience Grenoble to the fullest.

We’re waiting for you!