Things To Do
in Gap
Gap is a charming city located in the French Alps, known for its picturesque mountain scenery and outdoor recreational activities. The city is home to historical landmarks such as the Notre-Dame et Saint-Arnoux Cathedral, dating back to the 19th century. Gap offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and music festivals.
Visitors can also enjoy shopping in the city's quaint boutiques and savoring delicious French cuisine in local restaurants.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Jardin de la Ville, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll among beautiful flora. Take in the fresh air and perhaps grab a pastry from a nearby café.
Visit the famous Palais des EvĂȘques, a historic site that showcases the regionâs rich past. Explore its interesting exhibitions and take some memorable photos.
Dine at a local restaurant serving traditional French cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely meal while soaking in the charming atmosphere of Gap.
Head out early for a hike in the surrounding Alps, which offer thrilling trails and breathtaking views. Be sure to pack some snacks and plenty of water.
Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking a stunning mountain vista. Afterward, explore the charming village of Ceillac, known for its rustic beauty.
Return to Gap for dinner at a cozy bistro. Toast your adventurous day with a glass of local wine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the French Alps, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with charming architecture and sites.
- Pleasant Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters.
- Vibrant local markets and gastronomy, featuring regional specialties.
- A range of recreational activities available throughout the year, appealing to both tourists and locals.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields, which may lead to economic challenges for residents.
- Public transportation options can be sparse compared to larger cities in France.
- Tourism peaks may lead to overcrowding during peak seasons, affecting the local experience.
- Higher cost of living in certain areas due to its popularity as a tourist destination.
- Potential isolation for those wanting more urban amenities, as Gap is smaller than major cities.
Best Activities in Gap
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning mountain landscapes and diverse flora and fauna of the Ăcrins National Park through various hiking trails.
Enjoy scenic cycling routes along the historic Route Napoleon, which offers beautiful countryside views and charming villages.
Experience world-class rock climbing in the beautiful cliffs of CĂ©ĂŒse, known for its challenging routes and breathtaking views.
Get an adrenaline rush by participating in river rafting adventures on the Durance River, which offers thrilling rapids and stunning landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Gap with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Gap
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, popular spot for cycling and photography
Provides a picturesque vantage point overlooking the town of Gap and the beautiful landscapes of the region
Features breathtaking views of the lake, surrounded by mountains and offering plenty of photo opportunities
Food in Gap
Gap Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory tart filled with local cheese, potatoes, and lardons, typically found at traditional bakeries and patisseries.
Must-Try!
These crispy, deep-fried dumplings are typically filled with mashed potatoes, cheese, and ham, and are commonly available at local markets and in family-run eateries.
A specialty dish featuring roasted vegetables, such as peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes, stuffed with a mix of meat, breadcrumbs, and herbs, widely served at local restaurants and bistros.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Gap better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Gap Market, held on Saturdays, is a great place to sample regional specialties, diverse cheeses, artisanal charcuterie, and freshly harvested fruits and vegetables. It's also an excellent spot for discovering local street food offerings like socca, a chickpea flatbread.
Visitors can explore a variety of street food vendors along Rue Jean Eymar, offering treats such as crepes, roasted chestnuts, and traditional pastries like oreillettes, a type of sweet fried dough often dusted with sugar.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
1. Greeting etiquette: In Gap, France, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, kiss on the cheek, or a simple 'Bonjour' (good morning) or 'Bonsoir' (good evening) depending on the time of day. It's important to maintain eye contact and show politeness during greetings. 2. Dining etiquette: When dining in Gap, it's customary to keep your hands on the table, rather than on your lap. Additionally, it is polite to wait until the host or hostess begins eating before you start, and it's considered respectful to finish everything on your plate. 3. Dress code: In Gap, France, the dress code tends to be more formal than in some other countries. It's important to dress neatly and conservatively, particularly when visiting religious sites or formal events. Wearing appropriate attire shows respect for the local culture and customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Gap with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Gap
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory in France, including Gap. However, it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small amount of change as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
In Gap, as in the rest of France, cash is widely accepted for smaller purchases, while credit and debit cards are commonly used for larger transactions. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Gap.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Gap, as the weather is mild and the surrounding countryside comes to life with blooming flowers and lush greenery. It's also a good time for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
Summer is another popular time to visit Gap, with warm temperatures and plenty of outdoor festivals and events. It's ideal for enjoying the beautiful lakes and mountains while engaging in water sports and other outdoor adventures.
In autumn, Gap experiences a stunning display of fall foliage, making it an ideal time for nature enthusiasts. The weather is still pleasant, and the region's vineyards and local markets offer a charming ambiance.
Winter brings snow to the mountains surrounding Gap, making it a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The city itself takes on a festive atmosphere with holiday markets and seasonal events.
Gap at Night
Hiking in Gap
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park offering diverse hikes from easy trails to challenging mountain routes, set in the heart of the French Alps.
A majestic peak that provides several hiking options with breathtaking panoramas and the chance to see glaciers.
A scenic mountain pass with various trails suited for hikers of different skill levels, all featuring magnificent views.
A historical hiking trail that traces the route taken by the Resistance during WWII, offering both nature and history.
A beautiful lake surrounded by hiking trails that allow for leisurely walks with views of the water and the mountains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Gap through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Gap by plane.
Located approximately 140 kilometers southeast of Gap, this is the third-busiest airport in France and serves as a major hub for international flights.
Situated about 185 kilometers south of Gap, this airport serves as a significant gateway for domestic and international travel.
Located around 140 kilometers northwest of Gap, this airport primarily serves seasonal flights and some low-cost airlines.
Approximately 160 kilometers northeast of Gap, this airport serves the Italian region of Piedmont and offers various international flights.
Located around 220 kilometers northeast of Gap, this major international airport serves Switzerland and offers extensive global connectivity.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This demographic represents a significant portion of the population in Gap, reflecting the town's appeal as a retirement destination due to its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
This group encompasses a large segment of the workforce, contributing to the local economy through various sectors such as tourism, services, and commerce.
A smaller but vibrant demographic, this group includes students and young professionals who are often engaged in education and part-time work.
This demographic includes families with young children and reflects the community's support for education and activities aimed at younger populations.
While less prominent compared to native residents, this group contributes to the cultural diversity of Gap, with various ethnic backgrounds represented.
The Soul of Gap
Discover the essence of Gap through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Gap is located near several ski resorts, making skiing a popular winter sport among locals and tourists.
With its mountainous terrain, Gap offers excellent trails for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Hiking is a favored activity in the natural parks and mountains surrounding Gap, attracting outdoor lovers.
The scenic trails around Gap make it a great location for trail running, especially in the warmer months.
Football is widely played in Gap, with local clubs and community teams engaging in competitions.
Basketball is also popular in Gap, with facilities and leagues for various age groups.
The surrounding cliffs and mountains provide numerous opportunities for climbing and bouldering.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gap.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many establishments in Gap offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with fresh salads, vegetable tarts, and plant-based entrees being quite prevalent on menus.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find a range of gluten-free options in Gap, from dedicated gluten-free bakeries to restaurants offering marked gluten-free choices, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for all.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Gap with these cultural adventures.
