Grenoble: an exceptional quality of life in an outstanding location
A few hours by train from Paris to the north and the Mediterranean to the south, and a stone’s throw from Lyon, lies Grenoble. Nestled at the foot of the French Alps, with Italy and Switzerland just over the mountains, the Grenoble area offers up arts and culture and sports and outdoor activities and is also home to an impressive sci-tech community. Grenoble also offers plenty of choice when it comes to higher education, as well as career opportunities in a diverse range of industries, whether it is within French and international corporations or innovative small and mid-sized companies.
Live in Grenoble and enjoy the best of both worlds—all the benefits of city life, combined with easy access to the outdoors. With stunning mountain landscapes all around, nature is an intrinsic part of the city’s identity. The city of Grenoble has demonstrated a strong commitment to the environment and sustainable development. In fact, the European Commission has crowned Grenoble European Green Capital for 2022 in recognition of its work towards a more sustainable future.
The prosperous Grenoble region is a rich tapestry of people and places, making it particularly attractive both nationally and internationally. Its long-standing commitment to collaborative projects makes it a great place to live and work and contributes to the strong community spirit and sense of belonging felt by those who call Grenoble home.
Spotlight on Grenoble’s Presqu’île neighborhood: a great place to work, study, and live
The GIANT campus is situated in the Presqu’île neighborhood, named for its peninsula-like location at the confluence of the Isère and Drac rivers. Historically home to scientific research institutes, an ambitious urban development program is rapidly making the area a thriving place to live, with more than 12,000 residents expected to move in by 2025.
As part of the sweeping transformation, new shops and businesses are opening all the time, helping to boost the area’s flourishing economy. As one of Grenoble’s eco-neighborhoods, Presqu’île is also involved in the region’s ambitious environmental policy, which focuses on sustainable transportation and the energy transition.
Thinking about moving in Grenoble?
Start by talking with your employer or university, as some businesses and institutions provide resources and, in some cases, personalized relocation assistance.
The following websites may also be useful.
Find properties for sale or for rent on FNAIM 38, which features listings from various real estate agents.
For property listings from individuals and agencies, try ParuVendu, le dauphiné, Abonim Immobilier, Se Loger, and Particulier à Particulier.
For a room to rent in a shared house, try leboncoin, Appartager, e-colocation, Recherche Colocation, Annonce étudiant, and easyColoc.
Coming to Grenoble for a short stay?
For short trips to Grenoble, there’s plenty of choice both downtown and further afield, including one- to four-star hotels, vacation or short-term rentals, and stately manor houses. Find out more from our partners, Grenoble Convention Bureau.
Grenoble: history, culture, and entertainment
Grenoble’s cultural heritage is vast and its many museums are well worth a visit.
With a range of performance venues, from the most intimate to the grandest of spaces, Grenoble has a diverse culture and arts scene. Experience the city’s buzzing cultural life in its theaters and cinemas, or take advantage of the many other indoor or outdoor activities on offer.
Explore one of the city’s 14 public libraries, such as the public international library located on the GIANT campus, which has electronic and print resources in seven different languages.
Of course, no trip to Grenoble would be complete without sampling the local food and drink! The city’s many cafés, restaurants, and bars serve up a variety of cuisines and cater to a range of tastes and budgets.
Every week, the Petit Bulletin publishes a calendar of cultural events in the area, including movies, concerts, shows, and exhibits.
Why not visit Grenoble with a local? They’ll show you the city’s hidden gems and their favorite spots.