The city of Grenoble is the gateway to the alps. Despite this, it is France’s flattest city. That means you get all round vistas of the magnificent mountains, whilst still being able to enjoy easy strolls around town. Over half a million residents live in the metropolitan area, with 10% of these being students.
Apartments in Grenoble are relatively easy to find. Though furnished apartments in Grenoble France are harder to come by at the start of the University year. Grenoble apartments for rent aren’t cheap, but they compare well to the rest of France. Expect to pay a minimum of €400 for a small studio apartment.
Types of Accommodations in Grenoble
Grenoble Apartments by District
When most people are looking to move to a new city the quality of life on offer is important. Grenoble doesn’t disappoint. It’s hot summer climate, historical sights, and easy access to Mont Blanc, Italy, and Switzerland make it feel like a small slice of paradise. There’s a wide variety of attractions in Grenoble, ranging from museums and art galleries, to the Café de la Table Ronde: France’s second oldest coffee house. It’s one of the best too!
Moving to Grenoble should be simple, though it isn’t as straightforward as your average European city. Grenoble Isere Airport is located 40 km from the city and is accessed via coach transfer. Unfortunately, transfers only run operate times a day. Another issue is that the airport is tiny, so few destinations are served. Lyon Airport is just one hour away via a regular TGV train service and has direct links with almost every major city in Europe, however. This makes it a more viable option for most movers coming into Grenoble.
Attractive Areas for Grenoble Apartments
Ile Verte Apartments
L’Ile Verte is a residential area to the east of the city centre. It is the most populated area in Grenoble. One of the most noticeable sights in the area is the famous three towers. The three towering apartment blocks are visible from any part of the city and offer living space for hundreds of residents. Restaurants in Ile Verte Grenoble are numerous with most establishments offering high-quality food at reasonable prices. Two of the best are Aroma Pizza, and the local-friendly Bar and Restaurant L’Absolu.
Amenities in the area include the Pharmacie Ile Verte à Grenoble, located right in the centre of the district. Supermarkets and local shops are plentiful too, so getting the weekly shop shouldn’t be a hassle. Rent costs in Ile Verte are relatively cheap, making it a great area for students and families alike.
Parc Mistral Apartments
Centred around the Parc Paul Mistral in Grenoble, the district with the same name is located towards the southeast corner of the city centre. It is one of the greenest areas of the city. Not only is there the park itself, the Jardin des Plantes, the Place Jean Moulin, and the Parc des Berges de L'Isère are all within walking distance. Activities in Parc Mistral Grenoble aren’t extensive though it is a perfect place to unwind with a picnic in the summer months.
Also in the area is the Bar Parc Mistral Grenoble, also known as La Bobine. It’s maybe the trendiest bar in the whole of the city. With regular DJ sets, live gigs, and cheap drinks, it’s the perfect place to hang out and soak up some culture. Particularly if you’re a student - this bar is where a lot of young people congregate in the evenings and weekends.
Polygone Scientifique Apartments
The Polygone Scientifique is a district in Grenoble that, as you might be able to tell from its name, is home to many scientific research centres. The district houses mainly academics and research students. Finding an apartment in Polygone Scientifique in Grenoble should be relatively stress free. Though costs vary depending on the size of property you need. Prices start at around €450 for a small studio apartment and range up to €800 for a three bedroom flat.
Polygone Scientifique is 3.5 km away from the city centre, though unfortunately there aren’t any direct bus services. The B Line tram on the other hand connects the area with the city, as well as the city’s universities.
Student Accommodation in Grenoble
Grenoble is a city that is most definitely catered towards students. Not only is it a fun place to live, but living costs are relatively low. Particularly for France. The main university in the city is the Grenoble Alpes University. It is the third biggest institute in France, and regularly ranks amongst the best universities in Europe.
The University has a distinctly cosmopolitan feel, with many Erasmus and International students choosing to study under the peaks of the alps. Several universities situated in the US have links with Grenoble Alpes, so English speakers won’t feel uncomfortable in this city. Though it’s always better to learn the local lingo!
The two main campuses of Grenoble Alpes University are closely situated towards the east of the city centre, at Saint-Martin-d'Hères. The majority of students choose to rent student housing in Grenoble in the centre ville itself, though the Parc Mistral district is also a popular choice for student residence in Grenoble. With a wide range of bars, restaurants, and cafes, combined with low rents, it’s not difficult to understand why.
Transportation in Grenoble
The majority of public transportation in Grenoble is via tram and bus. The tram service in particular is exceptional. With its eco-friendly system and five regular lines taking in hundreds of stops, it is one of the most efficient systems in Europe. France does seem to know how to make a good tram service, that’s for sure!
Also running through Grenoble is the high-speed TGV railway service. Just 3 hours away from Paris, and 2 hours from Geneva, you can find yourself in either major city for relatively little money - Making Grenoble a great hub for travelling around Europe.