Grenoble isn’t just a city surrounded by mountains; it’s a hub for outdoor adventures and cultural experiences that truly showcase the region’s natural beauty and history. Whether you’re craving a thrilling canyoning trip in the Vercors or a relaxing stargazing session, there’s something to match every interest. We’re especially fond of the sports canyoning adventures, which let you explore Europe’s stunning Ecouges canyon with adrenaline and awe. And if you’re interested in a more laid-back, cultural outing, the immersive tour in 1860s Avignon offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.
Grenoble’s variety of tours ensures you’ll find something exciting, whether you want a high-energy outdoor activity or a gentle walk through local streets. To help you choose, we’ve ranked the top 12 experiences, balancing thrill, culture, and value.
Quick Overview
Our list includes outdoor adventures like Sports canyoning in the Vercors and Water hike in the Vercors, which are perfect for adventure seekers. For those interested in cultural and historical experiences, we recommend the 1860 Avignon tour or the 2-hour walking tour of Grenoble (link here). And for a touch of adventure combined with breathtaking views, paragliding is a great pick (link here). Now, let’s explore each tour in detail.
1. Sports canyoning in the Vercors near Grenoble
This adrenaline-pumping canyoning experience takes you into the Ecouges canyon in the Vercors, considered one of the most beautiful canyons in Europe. The trip lasts about 4 hours and guarantees plenty of thrills for all levels—from jumps and rappels to slides and swimming. The guide Marvin is highly praised, with a reviewer stating, “Definitely not for the faint-hearted, but the highlight of the trip for my son Ben, who went from scared to exhilarated.**”
What makes this tour stand out is its scenic setting in the Pre-Alpine massif, combined with the variety of high drops and waterfalls. The experience is perfect for families, couples, or friends who want a full day of adventure. It’s priced at $87.08 per person, which offers good value given the quality of the activity and the stunning environment. Keep in mind that this is physically demanding, so a basic level of fitness helps.
Bottom Line: If you’re craving a thrilling outdoor activity with spectacular scenery and are comfortable with heights, this canyoning trip is a top choice.
2. Ecouges canyon intermediate part
For those seeking a slightly less intense but equally scenic canyoning experience, the Ecouges canyon intermediate part hits the spot. Spanning about 3 hours, this tour explores the middle section of Ecouges, known for its remarkably sculpted rock formations, waterfalls, and basins perfect for jumps and slides. It features rappels up to 28 meters, making it ideal for those who want to test their skills or enjoy the scenery without the highest drops.
This tour has a perfect balance of adventure and accessibility, drawing praise from reviews for its beautiful environment. It costs around $89.01 per person, making it a competitive option for half-day canyoning. The guide’s expertise ensures safety and fun, even for those new to canyoning.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent option for adventurers seeking a mid-level challenge in a stunning canyon setting.
3. Canyoning sports day in the Furon en Vercors – Grenoble
If you’re ready for a full day of canyoning adventure, the Furon sports day offers just that. Over approximately 6 hours, you’ll explore both the lower and upper parts of Furon Canyon—with the morning dedicated to the easier lower section, building confidence for the exhilarating upper part. This tour features jumps, toboggans, rappels, and ziplines, making it ideal for thrill-seekers who want a comprehensive outdoor experience.
The tour is lauded for its playful, accessible approach and the ability to learn new skills in a safe environment. Costing $103.72 per person, it’s priced well for a full-day adventure that appeals to families and groups looking for a balanced mix of excitement and scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a full day of varied canyoning, with a mix of challenging and beginner-friendly sections.
4. Discovery of Ternéze Canyon
Just a few kilometers from Chambéry, the Ternèze canyon offers a three-hour canyoning experience in the Massif des Bauges. Known for its beautiful waterfalls, this tour is perfect for those who want a short but scenic adventure. It’s priced attractively at $59 per person, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.
The canyon features crystal-clear water, impressive waterfalls, and a relaxed pace that allows you to enjoy nature’s beauty without feeling rushed. Whether you’re an outdoor novice or a keen adventurer, the guided experience ensures safety and fun.
Reviewers highlight the spectacular waterfalls as a standout feature, and the tour’s duration makes it manageable for most schedules.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice if you’re short on time but want a memorable canyoning experience in a beautiful setting.
5. Discovery of The Upper Part Of Furon Canyon
For a more focused canyoning adventure, the upper part of Furon Canyon offers a three-hour descent full of waterfalls and basins. It’s perfect if you’ve already tried the lower section or want a more challenging experience. This tour costs the same as the lower part at $59 per person and provides a refreshing, scenic canyoning in the Vercors.
The tour is praised for its spectacular waterfalls and the fact that all obstacles are bypassable, making it suitable for beginners with some guidance. It’s a good pick for families or groups looking for an adventure close to Grenoble.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those wanting a shorter, intense canyoning experience with plenty of water features.
6. Avignon: Immersive Guided Tour of 1860
Travel back in time with the Immersive Tour of Avignon, which transports you to 1860s Avignon with a costumed guide portraying Madame Pernod. For around $23 per person, this 1.5-hour theatrical journey explores the city’s industrial boom and its transformation during that era.
This tour is praised for its entertaining storytelling and detailed anecdotes, giving you a personalized glimpse into local life in the 19th century. It’s perfect for history buffs or travelers who want a relaxing cultural experience that’s both informative and fun.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in history, culture, and stories of urban transformation—a perfect short activity to break up outdoor adventures.
7. Grenoble: Sensation paragliding experience
Feel the ultimate rush with the paragliding sensation experience. For about 35 minutes, your instructor will take you tandem over the Massif de Belledonne, Chartreuse, and Vercors, giving you breathtaking views and a true feeling of lightness. Price is approximately $153 per person, reflecting the exclusivity of the experience.
While reviews are awaited, this activity is perfect for adventure lovers who want a once-in-a-lifetime view of Grenoble’s dramatic mountain scenery. It’s suitable for those comfortable with heights and seeking a thrilling, scenic flight.
Bottom Line: Not for the faint-hearted, but highly recommended for thrill-seekers wanting a bird’s-eye view of the region.
8. Grenoble: Pleasure baptism
For a lighter introduction to paragliding, try the Pleasure Baptism. This 25-minute tandem flight costs about $108 and offers a gentler ride over Grenoble’s surrounding mountains. You’ll enjoy views of Belledonne, Chartreuse, and Vercors, with the chance to experience the sensation of flight safely.
This experience is great for first-timers and those short on time. The tour includes a stop at the paragliding landing site in Lumbin/Saint-Hilaire and provides insights into the region’s geography.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a brief, memorable flight that’s accessible to most.
9. Discovery of The Lower Part Of Furon Canyon
The lower part of Furon Canyon offers a 3-hour descent packed with waterfalls and refreshing swimming spots. It’s similar to the upper section but focuses on the lower, more accessible parts of the canyon. Priced at $59 per person, this tour is ideal for beginners and families.
Participants rave about the beautiful waterfalls and the scenic environment. The tour starts at Mairie de Sassenage, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby.
Bottom Line: A great option for a half-day adventure with plenty of water fun and scenic views.
10. Grenoble: 2-hour Best Intro Walking Tour with a Local
If you prefer a relaxed, cultural introduction to Grenoble, this 2-hour walking tour is perfect. It covers top sights, hidden corners, and includes a local tasting. For $151, you get a small-group experience with local insights on where to eat, drink, and explore.
The tour begins at Pl. Doyen Gosse and ends at Pl. de Verdun, guiding you through Grenoble’s highlights and sharing stories about its traditions and everyday life. It’s suited for travelers who want to get their bearings and enjoy authentic local flavors.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-time visitors who want a short, informative exploration with a taste of local culture.
11. Stroll among the stars: Stargazing and Astronomy Tour
Experience the cosmos firsthand with Stargazing and Astronomy Tour. Led by an astronomer, you’ll explore the night sky, learn about constellations, planets, and myths, and see amazing celestial objects. The tour lasts about 2 hours and costs $76.
Ideal for night owl adventurers or anyone curious about the universe’s stories, this tour offers a personalized view of the stars. It’s best during clear evenings and requires no special equipment, just curiosity.
Bottom Line: A memorable experience for families and astronomy enthusiasts alike, offering a different perspective on the region’s natural beauty.
12. Water hike in the Vercors – Family/children – Beginners
Perfect for families and beginners, this Water hike in the Vercors combines walking, swimming, slides, and jumps in the scenic Les Eaux Bleues. Suitable for kids from age 6 (minimum 20 kg), the activity encourages biodiversity discovery while having fun in nature.
The tour lasts about 3 hours and offers non-mandatory jumps of 1-3 meters. You’ll marvel at the natural pools and waterfalls, making it a fantastic outdoor activity for all ages.
Reviewers praise the fun atmosphere and the fact that all obstacles can be bypassed, making it accessible for beginners and families.
Bottom Line: Great for families wanting an active, nature-based outing that’s safe and fun.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Grenoble
Picking your perfect experience depends on your interests, fitness level, and time available. If you’re after adrenaline and outdoor fun, canyoning trips like Sports canyoning in the Vercors or Furon canyon full day are top contenders. For those wanting a cultural break, the 1860s Avignon tour offers insight into local history, while the walking tour in Grenoble is perfect for a quick city overview.
Adventure travelers should look at activities like paragliding or water hikes, which combine scenery with physical activity. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer shorter tours like the Ternèze canyon or the lower Furon canyon.
Pro tip: Book early for outdoor activities, especially during peak summer months, and consider weather conditions—clear nights are best for stargazing.
Final Thoughts
Grenoble offers a wide variety of tours suited to different tastes. For thrill-seekers, canyoning and paragliding promise unforgettable moments. For culture lovers and families, immersive city tours and water hikes provide fun and insight. If you’re short on time, the 2-hour walking tour or short canyoning sessions deliver quick, satisfying experiences.
No matter what you choose, trying something active or cultural will give you a richer appreciation of Grenoble’s natural beauty and history. Be sure to book early, especially for outdoor adventures, to secure your spot. And remember, every activity is an opportunity to see Grenoble from a fresh perspective—so go ahead and plan your perfect trip!