Find your perfect hire car from Grenoble St-Etienne Airport
The capital of the Isère department, Grenoble is often called the ‘Capital of the Alps’, because of its proximity to those in France. This science-minded university town is not just a stopover on the way to the ski slopes though. Rich history and even richer food make it an ideal destination to explore with your hire car from Grenoble St-Etienne Airport.Plan your journey from Grenoble St-Etienne Airport
Grenoble’s city centre is about two hour’s south on the A48 from the St-Etienne Airport by car.The capital of the Dauphine in the middle ages, a military base during the Renaissance, and a hotbed of resistance activity during World War II, Grenoble has a colourful past. Today it’s a buzzing university town known for its fantastic museums, nightlife and food scene.
Its position near the French Alps makes it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts on their way up to the mountain resorts. But there’s plenty here to keep visitors entertained beyond skiing.
The Bastille, a fortress perched over the town, is a major attraction. It’s reachable by a gondola and offers stunning views of the mountains. Culture enthusiasts will want to head straight to the Musée de Grenoble, which features art by the likes of Pierre Bonnard, Calder and Giacometti. The 13th century Bishops’ Palace houses the Musée de L’Ancien Évêché and the Musée Dauphinois is in a 17th century convent. Both are must-sees.
The city is also renowned for its contributions to French cuisine, including famous dishes like fondue, raclette, and tartiflette – all based off cheese produced in the region. The rich gratin dauphinois, sliced potatoes and cream, is also a decadent dish to look out for in restaurants. Expect another local product, walnuts, to appear in many dishes, especially desserts.
Grenoble St-Etienne Airport is the perfect place to begin your road trip around the Dauphine region. Pick up the keys to your Avis rental car and enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Beyond Grenoble St-Etienne Airport
The region around Grenoble is full of picturesque towns and experiences. With your rental car at the ready, you can discover them all.Pont-en-Royans
Drive 50 minutes on the A49 to reach the quaint little town of Pont-en-Royans. This was one of the first towns in France to have electricity, and it’s best known for its colourful hanging houses built into the cliffs over the Isère river. Wander medieval houses and small streets on your way down to the riverbank.
Chartreuse
About 45 minutes north on the D512, is the Grand Chartreuse. This is the head monastery of the famous Carthusian monks, hidden in the secluded Chartreuse mountains. Best known for their herbal liqueur, which they have brewed in the local town since 1737, the monks’ history and reclusive lifestyle is presented in a nearby museum.
Grottes de Choranche
The Grottes de Choranche are some of the best caves in France, featuring enormous stalactite collections hanging over the underground lake and rivers like grand chandeliers. A rare type of primordial blind salamander also lives in these grottos, one of only two locations where they are known to exist. This top attraction is around an hour’s drive on the A49 from Grenoble.
With your hire car from Grenoble St-Etienne Airport, the mountains and hills around Grenoble are yours to explore.