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Gap

Gap, Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, France

Gap is a charming town located in the picturesque region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, France. Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Gap offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, ma…

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Gap.

Top Hotels in Gap

Top Flights to Gap

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Gap.

Tours

Visit the Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Arnoux Cathedral

Explore the historic cathedral located in the heart of Gap, known for its stunning architecture and rich history.

Shopping

Shopping at the Gap Market

Experience the local culture at the Gap Market, where you can find a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and more.

Outdoor

Hiking in the Écrins National Park

Enjoy a day in nature at the Écrins National Park, featuring various trails and stunning landscapes.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Gap.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Gap, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, France is 40,000.

Languages

French, French, Occitan

Average weather

Gap

Jan

6°-1°

Feb

8°0°

Mar

12°2°

Apr

16°5°

May

20°9°

Jun

24°13°

Jul

28°15°

Aug

27°14°

Sep

23°11°

Oct

17°7°

Nov

10°3°

Dec

7°0°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Gap.

What people love

Gap, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of France, offers a variety of attractions and activities for travelers to enjoy. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Gap:

Scenic Beauty: Gap is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the nearby Écrins National Park, which is known for its beautiful mountains, lakes, and hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing while taking in the breathtaking views.
Rich History: Gap has a long and fascinating history, with historical sites such as the Gap Cathedral and the Château de Charance providing insight into the region's past. History enthusiasts will appreciate exploring these landmarks and learning about the area's heritage.
Cultural Experiences: Gap is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with museums, galleries, and theaters showcasing local and international talent. Travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture by attending concerts, exhibitions, and performances.
Gastronomy: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is known for its delicious cuisine, and Gap is no exception. Visitors can sample regional specialties such as ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and lavender-infused dishes at the city's restaurants and markets.
Outdoor Activities: Gap offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure seekers, including rock climbing, paragliding, and white-water rafting. The region's diverse landscape provides ample opportunities for adrenaline-pumping experiences.

Overall, traveling to Gap provides a unique blend of natural beauty, history, culture, gastronomy, and outdoor activities, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking a memorable and enriching experience.

What to know

There are a few potential cons to consider when traveling to Gap, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of France:

Limited public transportation: Gap is a small city with limited public transportation options. This can make it challenging to get around the city and explore the surrounding areas without a car.
Limited tourist attractions: While Gap is a charming city with a rich history, it may not offer as many tourist attractions and activities as other popular destinations in France. Visitors looking for a bustling nightlife or a wide range of cultural sites may find Gap lacking in comparison to larger cities.
Language barrier: English may not be as widely spoken in Gap as it is in more touristy areas of France, so communication with locals could be a challenge for travelers who do not speak French.
Weather: Gap experiences cold winters and warm summers, which may not be ideal for travelers who prefer moderate temperatures year-round.
Limited dining options: While Gap does offer a variety of dining options, the selection may not be as diverse or extensive as in larger cities. Travelers with specific dietary preferences or restrictions may find it challenging to find suitable restaurants.

Overall, Gap may not offer the same level of convenience and variety as other popular tourist destinations in France, but it can still be a charming and tranquil place to visit for those looking to explore a lesser-known region of the country.

Gap, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of southeastern France, is the capital of the Hautes-Alpes department. It is a town with a rich history that stretches back to ancient times.

Ancient History

Gap was originally settled by the Celtic tribes of the Vocontii, who were the dominant people in the region before the Roman conquest. The Romans established the town as "Vapincum" in the 1st century BC. This settlement was strategically located along the Via Domitia, a Roman road connecting Italy to Spain, which facilitated trade and military movements.

Medieval Period

During the early medieval period, Gap was part of the Kingdom of Burgundy. In 1044, it came under the control of the Counts of Provence. The town began to grow in importance as a market center, and a cathedral was established, indicating its ecclesiastical significance.

Renaissance and Early Modern Period

In the late Middle Ages and into the Renaissance, Gap continued to develop economically and culturally. It was affected by the Wars of Religion in the 16th century, a period of conflict between Catholics and Protestants in France. Gap, like many towns, saw its share of turmoil during these tumultuous times.

18th and 19th Centuries

The 18th century brought significant changes as Gap became a part of France during the reorganization under the French monarchy. The French Revolution brought further administrative changes, and Gap became the capital of the newly formed Hautes-Alpes department in 1790.

In the 19th century, the town expanded with the arrival of the railway, which connected Gap more effectively with other parts of France. This period also saw the construction of several public buildings and the modernization of the town's infrastructure.

20th Century to Present

Gap, like much of France, was affected by both World Wars. During World War II, the town was occupied by Italian and later German forces but was liberated by Allied troops in 1944.

Today, Gap is known for its vibrant cultural life and its proximity to the Alps, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. The town hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Important Landmarks

Cathedral of Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Arnoux: This cathedral, which dates back to the 19th century, was built on the site of previous religious structures and is known for its Neo-Gothic architecture.
Maison du Patrimoine: This heritage house showcases local history and culture through exhibitions and events.
Parc de la Pépinière: A beautiful park in the heart of Gap, ideal for leisure and relaxation.

Notable Figures

Gaston Dominici: A farmer who gained national attention in France when he was controversially convicted for the murder of the Drummonds, a British family, in the 1950s.
Émile Gueymard: A 19th-century opera singer who was born in Gap and achieved fame in Paris.

Gap continues to be a charming town that blends its historical roots with modern vitality, serving as a gateway to the stunning natural beauty of the Alps.