Grenoble

The Musée archéologique Saint-Laurent is located on the right bank of the Isère, in a former church. Beneath it lies a necropolis, in use since the 4th century. On display are the foundations of early Christian and medieval church buildings, sarcophagi and tombs, as well as the 6th to 7th-century Crypt Saint-Oyand, one of the few surviving structures of this period in France. The layers tell the story of the site from Late Antiquity to the 19th-century church.Our Tip: Take your time in the crypt. It's usually quiet shortly after opening; the museum is closed on Tuesdays.

The **Téléphérique Grenoble - Bastille**, affectionately known as “Les Bulles,” is an iconic cable car and a historical landmark of Grenoble. Opened in 1934, it is among the world's first urban cable cars. Its distinctive spherical cabins, in use since 1976, offer you a unique perspective. During the short ride, you'll enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the city, the Isère River, and the majestic Vercors, Chartreuse, and Belledonne mountain ranges. At the top, you reach the *Bastille Fortress*, a well-preserved 19th-century military installation. Here, you can explore the historic walls, stroll through the passages, and discover additional impressive viewpoints. For the clearest views and to avoid the largest crowds, a morning visit is recommended. Alternatively, late afternoon offers an atmospheric experience with the sunset over the city.

The Basilique du Sacré-Cœur stands in the district between the train station and the old town. Construction began towards the end of the First World War, and the church was only completed decades later; it was recently renovated. Particularly noteworthy are the approximately 6.50-meter-high stained-glass windows designed by the artist Arcabas. The basilica is an active church and open daily with free admission.Our tip: During the week in the morning, it's quiet here, which is when the window colors are best showcased.

The **Bastille Fortress**, an imposing structure high above Grenoble, offers not only breathtaking views but also deep insight into 19th-century military architecture. Its origins date back to the Middle Ages, but the current, extensive fortification system was primarily built between 1824 and 1848 under the direction of General Haxo to protect the city and the strategically important Isère Valley. You can easily reach the fortress with the iconic cable car, the *'Bulles de Grenoble'*, whose glass cabins already offer spectacular views on the way up. Alternatively, several well-signposted hiking trails lead to the top.Once at the summit, you can explore the expansive grounds, including the well-preserved casemates and mighty walls. From the various viewpoints, you'll enjoy a 360-degree panorama over Grenoble, the Isère river, and the surrounding Alpine massifs such as Vercors, Chartreuse, and Belledonne. *Our tip:* For the best light and to avoid the largest crowds, a visit in the early morning or late afternoon is recommended. The view at sunset is particularly striking when the city lights begin to twinkle. The fortress also hosts a small museum on the site's history and occasional art exhibitions.

The Musée dauphinois in Grenoble is housed in a former 17th-century monastery, the Couvent Sainte-Marie-d'en-Haut, offering you a deep insight into the history and culture of the Dauphiné region. Here you will find extensive collections on the ethnography, archaeology, and art history of the Alpine region. The exhibitions highlight traditional life, the development of skiing, the industrial past, and the region's religious art. Particularly impressive is the architecture of the monastery itself, which sits atop a hill overlooking the city and offers a picturesque backdrop.The permanent exhibitions guide you through the lifestyle of mountain dwellers, their crafts, and the social changes that have shaped the Dauphiné. You can discover exhibits ranging from prehistoric finds to 20th-century objects, reflecting the diversity of the regional identity.Our tip: Plan your visit for a weekday morning to enjoy the tranquility of the site and the exhibitions undisturbed. From the museum's terraces, you also have an excellent view over Grenoble and the surrounding mountains, which is particularly suitable for panoramic photos. The ascent to the museum is a bit steep, but the view and the exhibits are well worth it.