Briançon awaits you with a packed program. This town, perched at an altitude of 1,326 meters, effortlessly combines sports and culture. You can ski in the Serre Chevalier ski area in winter. In summer, hiking and climbing take over in the Alps.
If you love history, there is plenty to keep you busy for several days. Vauban's fortifications have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008. Explore the citadel and the forts of Les Salettes and Les Trois Têtes. The Notre-Dame collegiate church is also worth a visit.
There is no shortage of sporting activities around Briançon. Try canyoning in the Fournel Valley or via ferrata for a thrill. The Schappe Park offers a moment of relaxation after your efforts. The Clarée Valley awaits you 40 minutes away, where you can discover unspoiled landscapes.
This mountain town can be visited all year round. Each season brings its own adventures between the ski resorts and high-altitude trails. You won't be bored. Here are all our recommendations for activities in Briançon.
Top 3 original activities to do in Briançon
Here are three original activities not to be missed to make the most of your stay in this historic mountaineering town.
1/ Visit the fortifications of Vauban
A must-see in Briançon: its fortifications, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are not to be missed. Stroll through the forts of Trois Têtes, Randouillet, and Château to discover part of the town's history, while enjoying breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains. These historic sites will take you on a journey into the region's military past.
2/ Hiking in the Clarée Valley
Just a few kilometers from Briançon, the Clarée Valley offers wild and unspoiled landscapes. It's the ideal place for a beautiful hike or bike ride in the heart of the Alps. With its high-altitude lakes, forests, and small traditional villages, it's a true paradise for mountain lovers.
3/ Rock climbing in the Verdon
For those seeking thrills, the Gorges du Verdon, near Briançon, are perfect for rock climbing. These imposing cliffs, in the heart of one of the most beautiful canyons in Europe, offer climbing routes suitable for all levels. The natural setting, with breathtaking views of the valley, adds a spectacular dimension to this activity.
Things to do in Briançon
Where to walk to enjoy the atmosphere?
Old Briançon
Strolling through Old Briançon is a great way to soak up the town's authentic atmosphere. The cobbled streets, old stone houses, and picturesque squares immerse you in a calm and charming setting. The Place d'Armes is an ideal place to sit down and enjoy a coffee on the terrace.
Parc de la Schappe
Just a stone's throw from the town center, this green park is perfect for a stroll or a picnic break. With its river, shaded paths, and open spaces, it is a popular place for locals and visitors alike to relax.
What sports activities are available?
Skiing in Serre Chevalier
In winter, the Serre Chevalier resort becomes an ideal playground for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The Serre Chevalier ski area is one of the largest in France and offers slopes suitable for all levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skier, you will find spots to suit your taste.
Via ferrata and canyoning
For a more adventurous experience, via ferrata and canyoning in the Clarée Gorges or around Mont Prorel are must-do activities. These activities combine sport with the discovery of the region's spectacular landscapes.
What to visit to discover the heritage and culture?
The Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Nicolas
In the heart of the old town, the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Nicolas is a fine example of Baroque architecture. Its richly decorated interior and imposing frescoes bear witness to the religious history of Briançon and are well worth a visit.
The Mining Museum
This museum is an excellent way to understand the industrial history of the region. It immerses you in Briançon's mining past and introduces you to ore extraction techniques, while showcasing the unique geology of the valley.
What to do in Briançon when it rains?
Rain won't spoil your vacation in Briançon. Head to the indoor ice rink at the sports park for a family outing. The Serre Chevalier bowling alley awaits you for a fun day out with friends. Les Grands Bains du Monêtier offers a moment of well-being with its spa, natural hot water pools, sauna, and hammam. You can also visit the Mining Museum or the contemporary art center to discover the local heritage indoors.
What events are there in Briançon?
Briançon's cultural program runs throughout the year. The Altitude Jazz Festival sets the town alight at the end of January with around a hundred concerts in bars and on the slopes. In summer, the Briançon sous les Étoiles festival brings the Cité Vauban to life with musicals and street performances. You'll also come across the Arty Colors Festival and the Climbing World Cup, which attracts 10,000 spectators.
The medieval festival in early July immerses the town in a period atmosphere with battles and entertainment. Local markets are held on Wednesday and Sunday mornings, where you can discover local products. The Cité Vauban market opens its stalls every Tuesday during the season. The local community organizes exhibitions at the contemporary art center and the Maison du Parc.
What local experiences are there to enjoy?
During your stay in Briançon, be sure to sample the local specialties. Farçou, a tasty meat and vegetable pancake, and blueberry tart, sweet and fruity, are must-try dishes. These typical delicacies can be enjoyed in traditional restaurants or at local markets, where the warm and friendly atmosphere will allow you to fully savor the flavors of the region.
How to get to Briançon?
By car: Briançon is 1 hour from Gap and 1.5 hours from Turin in Italy. The N94 and D1006 are the main roads leading to the city.
By train: The Briançon train station is well served by trains from Grenoble and Paris. A train journey from Paris to Briançon takes about 5.5 hours.
By bus: Zou! bus lines connect Briançon to Gap, Grenoble, and other towns in the region.
By plane: Turin-Caselle Airport, about 1.5 hours from Briançon, is the closest airport for travelers arriving by plane.
Villages and nature in the surrounding area
Mont-Dauphin: Just 10 minutes from Briançon, Mont-Dauphin is a fortified village listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers a magnificent view of the valley and is a great stop for history and hiking enthusiasts.
The Gorges du Verdon: Located about 2 hours from Briançon, the Gorges du Verdon are ideal for rafting, hiking, or swimming. It's the perfect place for an adventure-filled getaway.
Écrins National Park: Close to Briançon, the Écrins National Park is a true paradise for hikers. Trails of all levels allow you to discover breathtaking alpine landscapes.