My Favorite Places in Grenoble, France

I am now most of the way done with my semester studying abroad in Grenoble, France, which calls for a little reflection. Every day here has been a blessing and an adventure. I am constantly finding new places throughout town that I love! Just in case you ever happen to travel to Grenoble, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite places to visit!

If you feel like shopping…
By far my favorite shopping destination in Grenoble is la Caserne de Bonne. This shopping center has everything you could want. It hosts a party store for all your Halloween needs, many clothing shops, multiple cafes, and even a few restaurants. Outside you can find an extravagant playground, and many areas for sitting.

If you’re homesick for a frilly coffee drink…
… then “Coffee and Go” is the place to go! This coffee shop has a great location in the center of town, and they specialize in coffee drinks and hot chocolate complete with whipped cream and toppings. Go to the back room for some comfy chairs and a fireplace.

If you’re hungry for a sandwich, but tired of eating the same thing everyday…
There’s a great little store that’s fairly new located near the St. Clare des Halles stop on the B line called Bagel Stein. They specialize in sandwiches made out of bagels! It’s an American classic with a French twist, and the huge cookies near the checkout are impossible to pass up.

If you want to consume large amounts of cheese… 
Head for the best fondue restaurant in town- La Confesse! You enter through an old confessional, and the inside is decked out with other fun and spooky relics.

If you’re craving the perfect croque monsieur… 
Banette is a chain of bakeries in Grenoble. Although I don’t normally think of chains as having the best food, the Banette located right by the lion and snake statue in Grenoble has the perfect croque monsieur. Not too saucy, not too cheesy, and not too crispy- absolutely perfect!

If you are feeling anything…
Go to la Bastille! This fort located to the north of the city in the Chartreuse Mountains is my favorite place in all of Grenoble- I go at least once a week. It’s a half-hour trek up a hill, or a quick ride in the ‘boules.’ I go to the Bastille if I’m bored, or if I need exercise. I go for the view, to get away from the world, or because I have nothing better to do. It’s a great place, day or night. It is my one 'must see' place in Grenoble; it takes my breath away every time I go.



This is not, by any means, a comprehensive list. To really get to know all the best places in Grenoble, you’ll have to come spend some time wandering around this great city yourself!


Aimee Goffinet is the Fall 2013 CEA MOJO for Grenoble, France. She is currently a senior at the University of Kentucky.

Read more about our CEA CAPA Content Creators.