Best of Grenoble

I have officially been in my new home of Grenoble for a month and I could not be happier. Studying abroad in Grenoble has blown away every expectation and desire I’ve had of studying abroad. The city, people, views, and overall experience here has surpassed my mind and I have to pinch myself every once in a while to remind myself that this is reality. With a month of exploring and experiences under my belt, I have found places around town that I love to go to. The best part is that there is so much to do and see everyday; I genuinely think it would take a lifetime to exhaust every opportunity Grenoble has for you ranging from hiking, going to parks, eating all sorts of cuisines, etc. I have realized that I will never have a boring day as long as I stay motivated to go and explore the unknown and make it known.

Best Park: Caserne de Bonne

A very modern, elegant, and eclectic styled park (conveniently located 5 minute walk from where I live), with retail stores, grocery stores, and restaurants packed around the park. There are two big fountains that you can run through and a windy river that traverses through the paths around the park. It is open and green, like most parks in Grenoble, but the modern architectural design makes it a very friendly and welcoming environment to go hang out with friends on any occasion. The park is conjoined with multiple brand stores like H&M, Monoprix, and Decathalon. I would highly recommend Caserne de Bonne for shopping and having a relaxing day on the town.

Paul's is a French bakery located in the heart of the park.

View between two halves of the park.

Alongside this pathway runs a small river.

Best Café: French Coffee Shop

You can find me here in the afternoons working, after class, before class, between class, you name it. This café has some delicious drinks and free WiFi. If you come to France, be prepared for the longest and most complicated WiFi passwords you will ever see. Thankfully, French Coffee Shop, is not password protected. This café is my favorite because of the friendly atmosphere. There is always an open table because of the plethora of seats and tables they’ve have scattered around the café. The baristas speak some English, but you can also come here to practice your french with a friend. There are two floors, and most often, the top floor is the busiest. They have traditional pastries such as croissants, muffins, and cookies, but also sell more heavy lunch meals like hot dogs or ravioli. I consider the equivalent of a Starbucks in the heart of Grenoble and would highly recommend going to work on your homework or hang with friends on the weekends.

Outside the French Coffee Shop.

Best Restaurant: La Ferme à Dédé (Dede's Farm)

One of the most French restaurants in Grenoble. All the people dress in French attire and the interior of the restaurant captivates any eye that enters. My favorite meal is called St. Marcellin Raviol, which are small raviolis drenched in a cheese called St. Marcellin. C'est déliciceux! The atmosphere of the French-styled waiters and Western-designed interior adds to the lovely atmosphere of the restaurant. The plat du jour starts at 8 euros, 90, and usually consists of a meat, potatoes, and vegetables. I would highly recommend this restaurant for someone who wants to fully immerse themselves in a French cuisine

Plat du jour: chicken, potatoes, and vegetables.

St. Marcellin raviols (left), salad (middle), plat du jour: pork, potatoes, vegetables (right).