Briançon Weekend Guide — 48 Hours in the Highest Town in Europe

A well-planned 48 hours in Briançon combines the UNESCO Vauban citadel, a full day on the mountain (skiing in winter or hiking and biking in summer), and a proper meal in the old town. Briançon is 95km from Grenoble, 160km from Lyon, and 110km from Turin — making it a viable weekend trip from any of these cities.

Day 1 — Morning — The Old Town and Citadel

Start in the Ville Haute before the ski day crowds arrive.

• Park in the lower town car park near the Porte de la Durance
• Walk up through the Porte de Pignerol into the old town — the main gate with the clock
• Explore the Rue du Temple and Place d'Armes — the central square
• Walk the ramparts — 45–60 minutes, outstanding views over the Durance valley
• Coffee and croissant at one of the old town cafes
• Allow 2 hours total

Day 1 — Afternoon — On the Mountain

Head up for skiing in winter or hiking in summer.

• Winter: take the Prorel gondola from the Briançon base, ski down to Chantemerle or Villeneuve, take the gondola back
• Summer: gondola up from Chantemerle to 2085m, trail network to Col de Bez (2551m), descent to Villeneuve
• Lunch at altitude — restaurants at the gondola top stations in both winter and summer
• Evening — aperitif in the old town before dinner

Day 2 — Full Day

Options for a second day depending on season and interests.

• Winter option: ski the full domain — link Chantemerle, Villeneuve, and Monêtier in a single day
• Summer option: day trip into the Écrins — drive to Ailefroide, short hike to the Glacier Blanc refuge
• Alternative: drive the Col du Lautaret (2058m) — open June to November, stunning alpine scenery
• Evening at the Grands Bains thermal spa in Monêtier (open from 15:00) — the perfect end to an active day

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Briançon for a weekend?

Briançon is 95km from Grenoble (1.5 hours by car), 160km from Lyon (2 hours), and 110km from Turin in Italy (1.5 hours). There is a train from Grenoble and Paris (requires change in Gap), but a car is strongly recommended once you arrive as the valley is 15km long.

Is Briançon worth visiting in winter without skiing?

Yes. The Vauban citadel, old town, restaurants, and the Grands Bains thermal spa in Monêtier are all worth the trip independently of skiing. The old town in snow is particularly atmospheric. Non-skiers can take gondola rides up the mountain to see the views.