Things To Do
in Saint-Martin-d’Hères
Saint-Martin-d’Hères is a lively university town just east of Grenoble, embedded in the Grenoble metropolitan area. It benefits from easy access to the Alps, offering a gateway to mountains, trails, and winter sports. The town is known for its student population, green spaces, and convenient links to Grenoble’s cultural sites.
With a mix of modern campuses and historic charm in the surrounding area, it’s a convenient base for exploring both city life and outdoor adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Saint-Martin-d’Hères and check into your cozy accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the town to get your bearings and appreciate the picturesque surroundings. Stop by a local café for a fresh pastry and a coffee to kickstart your day.
Visit the Parc Paul Mistral, a beautiful green space perfect for a relaxed picnic. Explore the various walking paths and enjoy the art installations scattered throughout the park. Don’t forget to take some photos of the stunning views of the nearby mountains.
Dine at a traditional French bistro, savoring local cuisine paired with a fine glass of wine. After dinner, take a walk through the charming streets and soak in the ambiance of the town at night. End your day at a cozy bar, enjoying a nightcap and mingling with locals.
Venture to nearby Grenoble, accessible via a short tram ride from Saint-Martin-d’Hères. Begin your morning at the breathtaking Bastille mountain, where you can ride a cable car and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Explore the historical fortifications and take in the rich history that surrounds you.
After descending, visit the Musée de Grenoble, renowned for its extensive collection of modern art. Spend a few hours wandering through its halls and admiring works from famous artists. Grab lunch at a trendy café nearby and try some regional specialties.
Head back to Saint-Martin-d’Hères and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local pizzeria. Engage in conversations with locals and fellow travelers to hear their recommendations for hidden spots around the area. Spend the evening planning your upcoming adventures, perhaps with a glass of locally brewed beer.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧀Grocery staples | $4-9 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $90-150 |
| ☕Coffee shop drink | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to the Alps and outdoor recreation
- Student-city with affordable dining and a lively cultural scene
- Limited late-night options in some neighborhoods
- Can feel crowded during university terms and tourist seasons
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est…?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "L’addition, s’il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Je suis allergique à…" - I am allergic to…
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un plat végétarien?" - Can you recommend a vegetarian dish?
- "J’ai besoin d’un médecin" - I need a doctor
Places to Visit in Saint-Martin-d’Hères
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic overlook of Grenoble and the surrounding Alps, reached by a short cable car ride from the city center.
Historic square with colorful façades, arcades, and a lively urban atmosphere for street photography.
Urban green space with lakes, lawns, and sculptures—great for golden-hour shots and reflections.
A mix of modern glass architecture and open spaces ideal for contemporary, architectural photography.
Food in Saint-Martin-d’Hères
Saint-Martin-d’Hères Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Delicate dumplings filled with meat and herbs, typically served in a light sauce or gratin; a Dauphiné staple found in many bistros.
Must-Try!
Creamy potato gratin baked with garlic and cheese; a ubiquitous side or main in local eateries.
A traditional pork-and-herb preparation rolled into a savory patty; a regional specialty served in rustic bistros.
Blue cheese from the nearby Vercors plateau, excellent on cheese boards or melted into dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Large market areas near Grenoble where you can taste fresh local produce, cheese, charcuterie, and baked goods.
Casual spots offering crepes, sandwiches, and regional quick bites—great for a casual lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' when entering stores; say 'Merci' on leaving.
Be punctual and patient in lines; avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Keep hands on the table, use polite language, and wait for everyone to be served before starting.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Martin-d’Hères
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included in restaurant bills; if not, a tip of 5-10% for good service is appropriate.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still useful for small vendors; contactless payments are common in shops and transit.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long evenings; occasional mountain thunderstorms. Great for outdoor markets, terrace dining, and day trips into the Alps.
Mild days with cooler evenings and colorful foliage; harvest markets and cheese aging make for delicious seasonal experiences.
Cold with possible snow in the mountains; perfect for skiing nearby and cozy cafes in Grenoble and Saint-Martin-d’Hères.
Rising temperatures, blossoming trees, and frequent showers; ideal for city walks and early-season hikes.
Saint-Martin-d’Hères at Night
Hiking in Saint-Martin-d’Hères
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular alpine day hike near Chamrousse with valley views; moderate difficulty.
Scenic high-mass valley route from Col de Porte to a mountain lake; easy to moderate.
Longer hiking route through the Chartreuse mountains with panoramic views; moderate to challenging.
Rugged ridge hikes with sweeping vistas of Grenoble and the surrounding peaks; challenging but rewarding.
Airports
How to reach Saint-Martin-d’Hères by plane.
Closest airport, about 40-60 minutes by road; serves domestic and some international routes; access by taxi, bus, or rental car.
Major hub about 1.5-2 hours away by road/train; many international and domestic options.
International airport about 1h45-2h by drive/train; easy access to the broader Alps region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large student population from Université Grenoble Alpes and nearby institutes; youthful energy and nightlife around campus.
Residential areas with parks, schools, and family amenities.
Diverse community with many international students and expatriates.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular due to proximity to the Alps; resorts within a short drive in winter months.
Popular at local clubs and in schools; matches sometimes observed in parks and stadiums.
Road cycling and mountain biking around the surrounding hills and valleys.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Martin-d’Hères.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in local bistros; look for dishes like ravioles du Dauphiné, vegetable gratins, salads, and cheese-based plates. You can request vegetarian versions of popular dishes and ask for egg or dairy substitutions if needed.