Weekly Wednesday Market in Gap
Come and meet the local producers in Gap who will introduce you to the authentic and fresh products of the region.
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Gap
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City
ℹ️Practical info — Gap
▾
🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Gap enjoys 300 days of sunshine, but its 750m altitude means evenings drop in temperature, so pack layers.
- Take advantage of the 'Lignes Linéa' bus network, which is entirely free for everyone in the city.
- The market on Place de la République every Wednesday and Saturday morning is a must for Alpine produce.
- Traffic in the town center can be dense; park outside the historic core and walk.
🍽 Food
🍽
Tourtons du Champsaur
Deep-fried cushions of pastry stuffed with cheese, potato, or sweet fillings, sold at the local markets.
🍽
Ravioles du Valgaudemar
Little potato and tomme cheese dumplings found in Alpine specialty restaurants.
🍽
Tomme du Champsaur
A regional cow's milk cheese excellent for a picnic, available in center fromagaries.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Rue de France
The main pedestrian street filled with boutique shops and local craft stores.
🛍
Local Honey and Genépi
Look for specialty grocery stores selling Alpine mountain honey and the herbal liqueur Genépi.
🧘
Domaine de Charance
A memorable estate above the city with a botanical conservatory, castle grounds, and great valley views.
🧘
Parc de la Pépinière
A large, tree-lined park right near the center, first-rate for a shaded rest.
Water temperature…
Highlights of 2026
8
Volant des Alpes Badminton Tournament
A high-level tournament featuring singles, mixed, and doubles matches throughout the weekend in Gap.
Suds - Jazz Piano with Baptiste Bailly
Experience a jazz composer's solo journey on the piano, part of the Festival de Chaillol programming.
Tour de France 2026 in Gap
The world-famous Tour de France cycling race visits Gap for the 28th time in 2026. A major event for sports enthusiasts!
Great Escape in Buëch-Dévoluy
Unique village tours and artistic performances organized by the Compagnie du Pas de l'oiseau in partnership with Manteyer.
Nights of the Stars in Gap
The first stargazing evening will be preceded by a festive celebration, while the second features an open-air film screening.
Gap is the capital of the Hautes-Alpes department, remarkably situated at an altitude of 750 meters. This makes it the highest prefecture in France, a distinction that defines its character and climate. Known for its exceptional air quality and over 300 sunny days per year, Gap is a haven for health seekers and mountaineers alike. Historically, the city flourished as a trade crossroad on the road between the Rhone valley and Italy. It gained immortal fame in 1815 when Napoleon Bonaparte stayed here during his legendary return from exile on Elba, following what is now known as the Route Napoléon. The town's architecture features colorful facades and characterful squares that reflect its proximity to Provence. Geographically, Gap sits in a natural basin surrounded by high peaks, providing easy access to the Écrins National Park and the turquoise waters of the Lac de Serre-Ponçon. Economically, it serves as the administrative and commercial heart of the Southern Alps. The city's passion for sport is evident in its frequent role as a stage for the Tour de France and its hosting of the Monte Carlo Rally's service park.
- Location: Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
- Top sights: Saint-Arnoux Cathedral · Hautes-Alpes Departmental Museum · Domaine de Charance
- Nearby: Lac de Serre-Ponçon (20 km)
- Population: ~42.567
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -3 | -2 | 1 | 5 | 9 | 14 | 17 | 17 | 12 | 8 | 2 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 47 | 43 | 52 | 57 | 74 | 54 | 39 | 43 | 53 | 74 | 90 | 62 |
Live webcam – Gap
See what it looks like near Gap right now.
Fontaine-les-Bassets: Gap-Départ des pistes · 5.9 km · Open webcam on Windy · Webcams provided by Windy.com
Geography
Facts
- Elevation of 750 meters makes it France's highest prefecture.
- Boasts more than 300 days of sunshine annually.
- The cathedral was built in a neo-Gothic style in the late 19th century.
- Napoleon stayed at the Auberge Marchand on March 5, 1815.
- Voted 'Frenchest Sportiest City' in 2013.
- The municipality covers a large area of 110.43 square kilometers.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
A day in the city
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→16:431.4 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 26–35 €Entries 30€ · Transport 0€
Morning: We begin in the historical heart of Gap at the City Hall and the vibrant Place Jean Marcellin. Midday: The focus shifts to the towering Saint-Arnoux Cathedral and a stroll down the ancient Rue Colonel Roux. Afternoon: We delve into local mountain history at the Hautes-Alpes Departmental Museum. Evening: The day concludes with a relaxing evening walk in the beautiful Parc de la Pépinière.
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📍
09:10 · 45'
City Hall (Hôtel de Ville)
Admire the classical facade of the Hôtel de Ville, the administrative heart of Gap, and remember to check the local notices on the front boards for evening events.
🚶 4'0.05 km
📍
09:59 · 45'
Place Jean Marcellin
Relax by the fountain in this welcoming pastel-colored square, but try to arrive early on market days to secure a comfortable seat at one of the sunny café terraces.
🚶 7'0.2 km
⛪
10:51 · 50'
Saint-Arnoux Cathedral
Explore the memorable Neo-Gothic architecture and polychrome stones of this majestic cathedral, and look closely at the exquisite stained glass when the sun is highest.
🚶 5'0.08 km
🏛️
11:46 · 80'
Rue Colonel Roux
Stroll down one of the oldest medieval streets in Gap to admire traditional alpine facades, while wearing comfortable walking shoes for the uneven historical paving.
🚶 21'0.92 km
🎨
13:27 · 100'
Hautes-Alpes Departmental Museum
Discover the rich history of the high mountains through fascinating local artifacts, and save time for the remarkable mausoleum of the Duke of Lesdiguières inside.
🚶 6'0.17 km
📍
15:13 · 60'
Parc de la Pépinière
Unwind in this lush green oasis in the city center featuring beautiful shaded walkways, and bring a small picnic to enjoy on the grass near the bandstand at sunset.
09:00→16:431.4 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 26–35 €Entries 30€ · Transport 0€
Morning sees the city hall facade glisten in the rain; use the nearby archways for cover. At noon, the cathedral provides a grand, dry sanctuary to admire its neo-gothic interior. Afternoon is best spent inside the museum, staying warm and dry while exploring local history. Evening ends with a misty stroll in the park; the air is fresh, but waterproof shoes and a umbrella are essential.
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📍
09:10 · 45'
City Hall (Hôtel de Ville)
Admire the elegant architecture from the shelter of the opposite portals; the wet cobblestones in front of the entrance can be very slippery in the rain.
🚶 4'0.05 km
📍
09:59 · 45'
Place Jean Marcellin
Use the awnings of the surrounding cafes for a quick break; the colorful facades look particularly contrasted and photogenic in the gray rainy light.
🚶 7'0.2 km
⛪
10:51 · 50'
Saint-Arnoux Cathedral
Enjoy the silence and dryness inside the monumental church; the stained glass windows glow in deep colors even under a cloudy sky in the dim light.
🚶 5'0.08 km
🏛️
11:46 · 80'
Rue Colonel Roux
Walk close to the walls to avoid the direct rain; the narrow street drains water like a small channel during a heavy downpour, so watch your step carefully.
🚶 21'0.92 km
🎨
13:27 · 100'
Hautes-Alpes Departmental Museum
Stay longer among the archaeological finds while it rains outside; use the cloakroom to leave your wet gear and browse the exhibits comfortably.
🚶 6'0.17 km
📍
15:13 · 60'
Parc de la Pépinière
The dense tree canopies offer partial protection from light rain; avoid the unpaved paths, as they quickly become muddy and slippery in the wet.
09:00→16:431.4 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 26–35 €Entries 30€ · Transport 0€
A crisp winter morning in Gap starts at the city hall; the mountain air is biting, so layer up. At noon, the cathedral offers a quiet retreat, though the stone interior remains chilly. Afternoon is the perfect time to warm up inside the museum while exploring regional history. Since sunset is around 5 PM, reach the park early to catch the fading light over the snowy peaks.
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📍
09:10 · 45'
City Hall (Hôtel de Ville)
Watch out for morning frost on the steps; the massive stone building looks particularly imposing and sharp-edged in the clear winter light of the square.
🚶 4'0.05 km
📍
09:59 · 45'
Place Jean Marcellin
Enjoy the winter atmosphere with a hot drink in one of the cafes; the low morning sun illuminates the colorful facades of the square perfectly.
🚶 7'0.2 km
⛪
10:51 · 50'
Saint-Arnoux Cathedral
Admire the architecture but keep your coat on, as the high vaults retain the cold; the acoustics often feel particularly clear during the winter months.
🚶 5'0.08 km
🏛️
11:46 · 80'
Rue Colonel Roux
In this narrow street, the sun barely reaches the ground, making it much cooler; look for small craft shops in the warm interiors for a bit of browsing.
🚶 21'0.92 km
🎨
13:27 · 100'
Hautes-Alpes Departmental Museum
Use the museum visit as a warm-up break; the exhibits on Alpine culture are particularly relevant in winter, when the surrounding mountains are snow-capped.
🚶 6'0.17 km
📍
15:13 · 60'
Parc de la Pépinière
Enjoy the view of the snow-capped peaks through the bare branches; hurry, as it becomes noticeably darker and colder in the park after 4:30 PM.
09:00→15:467.8 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€
Morning: Kick off your cycling tour at the pastel-colored Place Jean Marcellin before heading to the magnificent Saint-Arnoux Cathedral. Midday: Pedal over to Theatre La passerelle to admire its modern cultural footprint, then ride out to Le Quattro. Afternoon: Return towards the city center for a peaceful break amidst the greenery of Parc de la Pépinière. Evening: Finish your ride with a scenic and slightly demanding trip up to the grand Domaine de Charance.
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📍
09:10 · 45'
Place Jean Marcellin
Relax by the fountain in this characterful pastel-colored square, but try to arrive early on market days to secure a comfortable seat at one of the sunny café terraces.
🚲 4'0.2 km
⛪
09:59 · 50'
Saint-Arnoux Cathedral
Explore the remarkable Neo-Gothic architecture and polychrome stones of this majestic cathedral, and look closely at the exquisite stained glass when the sun is highest.
🚲 5'0.35 km
📍
10:54 · 45'
Theatre La passerelle
Experience the contemporary cultural scene at this prominent theater venue, but make sure to check the box office early in the day for last-minute evening tickets.
🚲 16'2.23 km
📍
11:55 · 45'
Le Quattro
Marvel at the modern architectural lines of this huge multipurpose performance hall, and utilize the large free parking lot if you are arriving by car for a big event.
🚲 9'0.94 km
📍
12:49 · 60'
Parc de la Pépinière
Unwind in this lush green oasis in the city center featuring beautiful shaded walkways, and bring a small picnic to enjoy on the grass near the bandstand at sunset.
🚲 27'4.05 km
📍
14:16 · 60'
Domaine de Charance
Wander through magnificent terraced gardens and scenic woods surrounding a beautiful chateau, and carry a water bottle since the uphill walking trails can be quite demanding.
09:00→15:467.8 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€
Cycling in the rain requires caution on the city center cobblestones. At noon, the cathedral offers a long, dry break for your muscles. Afternoon routes lead to Le Quattro, where modern overhangs provide shelter. The tour ends at Domaine de Charance, where mist over the lake creates a unique mood; good rain gear and mudguards are essential for the climb.
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📍
09:10 · 45'
Place Jean Marcellin
Brake early on the wet cobblestones; park your bike under an overhang to keep the saddle dry for the next leg of your journey.
🚲 4'0.2 km
⛪
09:59 · 50'
Saint-Arnoux Cathedral
Use the thick walls as wind and rain protection when parking; inside, you can warm up and adjust your wet gear in peace and quiet.
🚲 5'0.35 km
📍
10:54 · 45'
Theatre La passerelle
The modern architecture gives many covered areas for cyclists; check the program at the entrance while it rains outside and take a short break.
🚲 16'2.23 km
📍
11:55 · 45'
Le Quattro
A good turning point with generous covered spaces; watch out for road markings nearby, as they can be extremely slippery under your tires.
🚲 9'0.94 km
📍
12:49 · 60'
Parc de la Pépinière
Ride only on the main paved paths to avoid mud; the trees block the wind, making your transit through the rain much more pleasant.
🚲 27'4.05 km
📍
14:16 · 60'
Domaine de Charance
The climb can be demanding in the rain; enjoy the view of the cloud-wrapped mountains, and pay close attention to your brakes on the wet descent.
09:00→15:467.8 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€
Winter cycling in Gap requires thermal layers to combat the freezing wind chill. At noon, the cathedral stands as an imposing stop in the pale winter light. Afternoon rides should be brisk towards Le Quattro before temperatures drop. Since sunset is around 5 PM, start the climb to Domaine de Charance early to witness the snowy Alpine scenery in daylight.
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📍
09:10 · 45'
Place Jean Marcellin
Watch out for frozen patches in the shaded areas of the square; wear warm gloves to ensure you can safely operate the brakes in the cold.
🚲 4'0.2 km
⛪
09:59 · 50'
Saint-Arnoux Cathedral
A majestic sight in winter; park your bike securely and use the interior visit as a short wind-sheltered rest during your cycling tour.
🚲 5'0.35 km
📍
10:54 · 45'
Theatre La passerelle
The glass facade reflects the clear winter light; stop only briefly to avoid getting cold, and keep moving to maintain your body heat.
🚲 16'2.23 km
📍
11:55 · 45'
Le Quattro
The modern complex is easily accessible even in winter; use the flat paths here to warm up before the strenuous climb towards Charance.
🚲 9'0.94 km
📍
12:49 · 60'
Parc de la Pépinière
Watch out for ice patches on the paths; the low sun can dazzle you, so wear sunglasses for a safe ride through the park's wintry avenues.
🚲 27'4.05 km
📍
14:16 · 60'
Domaine de Charance
Reward yourself with the panoramic view of the snowy Alps; start your descent in good time before dark, as the road can freeze into slippery ice.
09:00→16:3211.1 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 27–37 €Entries 30€ · Transport 2€
Morning: Your drive starts right at the architectural marvel of Saint-Arnoux Cathedral, moving quickly to the artifacts of the Departmental Museum. Midday: Drive to the outskirts to see the striking design of the Le Quattro performance hall. Afternoon: Head up into the hills to explore the vast grounds of the Domaine de Charance and the nearby Alpine Botanical Conservatory. Evening: Wind down with some family fun and relaxation at the Bassin plongeoirs aquatic center.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Arnoux Cathedral
Explore the impressive Neo-Gothic architecture and polychrome stones of this majestic cathedral, and look closely at the exquisite stained glass when the sun is highest.
🚗 6'0.96 km
🎨
10:06 · 100'
Hautes-Alpes Departmental Museum
Discover the rich history of the high mountains through fascinating local artifacts, and save time for the remarkable mausoleum of the Duke of Lesdiguières inside.
🚗 7'1.11 km
📍
11:53 · 45'
Le Quattro
Marvel at the modern architectural lines of this huge multipurpose performance hall, and utilize the large free parking lot if you are arriving by car for a big event.
🚗 19'4.83 km
📍
12:57 · 60'
Domaine de Charance
Wander through magnificent terraced gardens and scenic woods surrounding a beautiful chateau, and carry a water bottle since the uphill walking trails can be quite demanding.
🚗 4'0.23 km
📍
14:01 · 60'
National Alpine Botanical Conservatory
Study rare and endangered alpine flora meticulously preserved in these sprawling gardens, and grab a free map at the entrance to ensure you do not miss the medicinal plants.
🚗 16'3.98 km
📍
15:17 · 45'
Bassin plongeoirs
Enjoy a refreshing dip or try out the thrilling diving boards in this excellent aquatic complex, though bring your own padlock to safely secure your belongings in the lockers.
09:00→16:3211.1 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 27–37 €Entries 30€ · Transport 2€
By car, Gap can be comfortably explored even during heavy rain. In the morning, the museum offers an exciting escape into the dry. At noon, the modern Le Quattro is easily accessible with convenient parking. The drive up to Charance rewards you with dramatic cloud formations over the Alpine peaks; park close to entrances and enjoy the views from the warm interior.
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⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Arnoux Cathedral
Park in the nearby underground lot to reach the cathedral dry; the illuminated facade looks particularly atmospheric during a rain shower in the center.
🚗 6'0.96 km
🎨
10:06 · 100'
Hautes-Alpes Departmental Museum
Use the parking lot right next to the museum for quick access; it is the excellent spot for a longer stay during a heavy downpour in the afternoon.
🚗 7'1.11 km
📍
11:53 · 45'
Le Quattro
Thanks to excellent car accessibility, this is a convenient stop; admire the glass architecture while the rain drums against the massive window panes.
🚗 19'4.83 km
📍
12:57 · 60'
Domaine de Charance
The drive up features great views of rainy Gap; park by the lake and enjoy the mystical sight of the mountain peaks shrouded in heavy gray clouds.
🚗 4'0.23 km
📍
14:01 · 60'
National Alpine Botanical Conservatory
Visit the herbarium or the indoor sections if it is pouring outside; the garden paths can be slightly muddy and unstable during heavy rain.
🚗 16'3.98 km
📍
15:17 · 45'
Bassin plongeoirs
A quick photo stop is enough in the rain; watch the raindrops dancing on the water surface from the comfort of your car before heading back.
09:00→16:3211.1 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 27–37 €Entries 30€ · Transport 2€
The winter car tour takes you through the clear air of the Hautes-Alpes. In the morning, the cathedral is an impressive sight in the wintry cityscape. At noon, the museum provides a pleasant warmth. The panoramic drive to Charance is the highlight, offering spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks. Since it gets dark around 5 PM, finish your day early with a hot drink downtown.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Arnoux Cathedral
Watch out for potential icy patches on the forecourt; the cathedral looks particularly majestic and sublime in the clear, low winter sunlight.
🚗 6'0.96 km
🎨
10:06 · 100'
Hautes-Alpes Departmental Museum
The excellent spot to warm up after the freezing outdoor temperatures; the exhibits provide a deep understanding of Alpine life during the winter months.
🚗 7'1.11 km
📍
11:53 · 45'
Le Quattro
Check the winter events in this modern center in advance; the architecture looks very contemporary and chic set against the snowy surrounding landscape.
🚗 19'4.83 km
📍
12:57 · 60'
Domaine de Charance
The access road is cleared of snow, but winter tires are mandatory; enjoy the spectacular panorama over the snow-covered Gap basin and the peaks.
🚗 4'0.23 km
📍
14:01 · 60'
National Alpine Botanical Conservatory
The Alpine flora rests under the snow; focus on the architectural details of the gardens and the unique tranquility of the winter landscape here.
🚗 16'3.98 km
📍
15:17 · 45'
Bassin plongeoirs
The water looks icy and crystal clear in winter; enjoy the view of the surrounding white mountains before returning to the warmth of your car.
Sights in the town Gap (13)
Frequently asked questions
What is the Route Napoléon?
It is the historic route taken by Napoleon in 1815 after his return from Elba. Gap was a key stop on this journey to Paris.
Is Gap near ski resorts?
Yes, Gap is the gateway to the Southern Alps. Resorts like Orcières-Merlette or Ancelle are reachable in 30 to 45 minutes by car.
What should you try eating in Gap?
Tourtons de Gap are a must-try: small fried pastries filled with potatoes, cheese, or sweet jam versions.
Is there a large park for families?
The Parc de la Pépinière in the city center features large green spaces, playgrounds, and is good for a picnic or a relaxed walk.
When is the best time to visit?
Summer (June to September) is well-suited for hiking, while winter (December to March) is great for winter sports enthusiasts in the area.
Gap: where is it located?
Gap is located in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France.
Gap: what is there to see?
Highlights include Saint-Arnoux Cathedral, Hautes-Alpes Departmental Museum, Domaine de Charance.
Gap: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Gap: why is it worth visiting?
Gap is the capital of the Hautes-Alpes department, remarkably situated at an altitude of 750 meters.
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