Tour Perret, Grenoble Travel Guide

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Grenoble's iconic Tour Perret: A pioneering concrete structure and symbol of innovation in Parc Paul Mistral, though currently closed to the public.

The Tour Perret, located in Grenoble's Parc Paul Mistral, is a 95-meter-tall concrete tower and a landmark of early 20th-century architecture. Built in 1925 for the International Exhibition of Hydropower and Tourism, it was the first reinforced concrete tower in Europe. Though currently closed to the public, it remains a striking symbol of the city and a testament to architectural innovation.

A brief summary to Tour Perret

Tour Perret, Parc Paul Mistral, Bd Jean Pain, Grenoble, 38000, FR
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tour Perret.

Explore Parc Paul Mistral, the large green space surrounding the Tour Perret, perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll.
Visit during the day, as the Parc Paul Mistral isn't well-lit at night.
Check local event listings; the tower is sometimes used as a backdrop for events and light shows.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Grenoble city center, take Tram A or Tram C to the 'Chavant' stop. From there, it's a short walk into Parc Paul Mistral, where the Tour Perret is located. A single tram ticket costs around €1.80.
Walking

From the Grenoble train station (Gare de Grenoble), walk south along Avenue Jean Perrot, then turn left onto Boulevard Jean Pain. Continue straight; you'll see the Tour Perret in Parc Paul Mistral on your right. The walk is approximately 20 minutes.

Discover more about Tour Perret

Rising from the heart of Grenoble's Parc Paul Mistral, the Tour Perret stands as a proud reminder of the city's innovative spirit. Constructed in 1925 for the International Exhibition of Hydropower and Tourism, the tower, originally named 'La tour pour regarder les montagnes' ('The tower for watching the mountains'), was designed by architect Auguste Perret as a symbol of the power and potential of reinforced concrete.At 95 meters tall, the Tour Perret was the first of its kind in Europe, showcasing the possibilities of this then-modern material. Its octagonal design and slender profile made it a striking addition to the Grenoble skyline. The tower served as an observation point during the exhibition, allowing visitors to admire the surrounding Alps and the city below. A floodlight was installed at the top to illuminate the buildings during the exhibition.While the International Exhibition of Hydropower and Tourism was a resounding success, drawing over a million visitors to Grenoble, the Tour Perret is its last vestige. In 1929, an antenna was installed to broadcast radio programmes. Unfortunately, the tower was closed to the public in 1960 due to degradation. Despite being declared a national heritage site in 1998, it remains closed, though the top is illuminated in winter and used for the 14th of July fireworks.Today, the Tour Perret is a celebrated historical landmark. Although visitors cannot ascend the tower, its architectural significance and presence within the pleasant Parc Paul Mistral make it a worthwhile stop. The park itself offers ample space for recreation and relaxation, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.