Welcome to Grenoble
Known as the Capital of the Alps, Grenoble is located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alps region of southeastern France. Grenoble and its surroundings boast about 500 000 inhabitants. It’s a historic city dating back over 2,000 years; the city offers historic charm as well as contemporary culture and modern amenities. Ranked one of the best places to live and work, Grenoble is also a dynamic business center. In fact, Grenoble is one of Europe’s most important research, technology and innovation hubs. So it is no surprise that it is the location of our head office in France.
Economy
With cutting-edge industry focused on new technologies, and worldwide research centers, Grenoble is one of the most dynamic towns in France and offers career opportunities in numerous sectors such as healthcare, environmental and microelectronics. Grenoble is a virtuous circle which relies on creating synergy between training, research and industry.
Education
Grenoble offers a range of good schools for children including an American School and an International School. Due to the number of international companies based in Grenoble, many of the local schools welcome students from outside France. There is also the Université Grenoble Alpes, ranked number 6 of the most innovative French universities as well as a respected business school and campuses for architecture and engineering. Higher education is a major influence on the city, as one in five inhabitants is a student.
Healthcare
There are all the facilities that you would expect in an international city – Grenoble has several hospitals, including the University hospital, and a variety of clinics, general practitioners, specialists, and dentists. Many of the local healthcare providers can speak English and the English speaking organizations in Grenoble may be able to provide contact details.
Accommodation
There is plenty of accommodation and the opportunity to live centrally or in a more suburban environment, closer to the countryside and mountains. Although, no matter where you choose to live, you are no more than 30 minutes from the mountains. Welcome to Grenoble. Known as the Capital of the Alps, Grenoble is located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alps region of southeastern France. Grenoble and its surroundings boast about 500 000 inhabitants. It’s a historic city dating back over 2,000 years; the city offers historic charm as well as contemporary culture and modern amenities. Ranked one of the best places to live and work, Grenoble is also a dynamic business center. In fact, Grenoble is one of Europe’s most important research, technology and innovation hubs. So it is no surprise that it is the location of our head office in France.
Lifestyle
Grenoble manages to be relaxed yet vibrant, with the University injecting a youthful energy into the city. There is a wide range of cuisines and quality dining opportunities on offer, as well as bars, music, dance, art, theatre, cinema, markets and shops. It is a welcoming small city with an international community and progressive outlook. For expatriates, there are a number of English speaking organizations that share tips and advice on living in Grenoble. This advice includes information on local activities, networking, outings and help with learning French.
Outdoor pursuits
Built around the Isère River, Grenoble is surrounded by mountains, with many outdoor activities on the doorstep. There are lots of ski resorts within 30 minutes of the city, and in the summer the region is ideal for hiking, cycling and climbing. There are also lakes, providing opportunities for water sports.
Accessibility
Within the city itself, there is a good transport system with buses and trams. There are also a number of parking garages. Cycling is very popular, and the center of the city is easily explored on foot. France’s second largest city, Lyon is about an hour’s drive away, Geneva (with its international airport) is 1.5 hrs driving and Paris is only three hours away via the high-speed train. Other European countries are equally accessible. Similarly, the Mediterranean coast is about three hours’ drive.
