Make time for the arts

Make time for the arts Grenoble has a rich artistic heritage which caters for most tastes. The Musée de Grenoble houses one of the most prestigious and diverse collections in France with 13th century masters to works by Matisse, Picasso and Gauguin. And as an acknowledgment of its vibrant and youthful soul, the city also embraces street art, with 86 recognised works on the walls of the newer districts. Discover these for yourself with the help of a map from the tourist office or visit during the Street Art Fest which takes place throughout June and includes workshops and exhibitions. is a good place to buy the gourmand and there are plenty of open air bars and restaurants that fill the central Place St André with its grand fountain and stunning Renaissance style parliamentary buildings. Recommendations for places to eat include The Café de la Table Ronde (the second oldest café in France) and L’Epicurien in the Place aux Herbes. Unwind in the historic city centre Of course, you have to find time to meander the streets of the historic centre and explore the markets. The Marché Place aux Herbes

Photo: Diane Francis Cook Follow the Romans to Vienne An hour’s drive from Grenoble Vienne sits on the banks of the Rhône Just south of Lyon. The tourist office even organises cookery workshops during which you’ll shop for local ingredients with your chef in the market and then prepare a meal. It was an important Roman settlement which means 16th and 17th century half timbered houses jockey for position with Roman walls and remains. Narrow cobbled streets reminiscent of Lyon give way to a startingly beautiful Roman Temple surrounded by bars and cafés. Photo: Patrick Ageneau, Vienne Tourism The town is home to an impressive tourist office next to the Rhône. They offer a range of tours which include a €7 tram ride up to Mont Pipet which has views over the town and the Roman amphitheatre. Amongst other options, you can also opt for a “circuit gourmand” which is a tour and tasting of local products or a sunset tour on a wooden barge with a glass of wine.