Chamonix is a very interesting town that you won’t want to miss on your next trip. As a picturesque place, it’s perfect for anyone to experience.
If you want some of the most unique landscapes that Europe has to offer, you can’t miss a trip to Chamonix. Whether you go on a hiking trail or view the fantastic waterfalls from Mont Blanc, you’re guaranteed to have a great experience.
Let’s find out everything that you can do in Chamonix. Rest assured that each second there will make your money worth it.
Interesting Facts About Chamonix
Did you know that Chamonix is home to one of the oldest ski resorts in France? If you’re a skiing fan, you’ll be happy to know that this town is one of the best places to do it.
In 1924, Chamonix hosted the first Winter Olympics. That’s not a small feat! There’s no doubt that so many tourists want to discover what it offers.
Not Just a Ski Resort
Let’s learn more about Mont Blanc. It’s located on the border of Italy and France.
Interestingly enough, it’s the highest mountain in the Alps and Western Europe at 15,774 feet in height. You can already imagine the view you’ll get when riding a cable car to view Mont Blanc.
This town is famous because of its ski resort, but that’s not everything you can do there. Whether you want to take a quick trip to a spa, go shopping, or hike, rest assured there are plenty of adventures waiting for you.
What Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Famous for?
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is mostly famous in the world of alpine hiking in winter sports. However, we can’t forget about its great mountain trails, glacier viewpoints, and unique museums.
Who wouldn’t want to visit the place where the first Winter Olympics were held? Since then, the tourism industry has expanded, offering people many other options to have fun and create unique memories.
As a world-renowned ski resort, Chamonix has a lot to offer. We’ll cover everything on this page.
How Much Time Do You Need in Chamonix?
It depends on what you want to do. Most tourists spend from four to seven days in Chamonix.
If you’re in a hurry, a couple of days will be enough to explore some of the best ski areas, such as Grands Montets, Le Brevent & Flerege. You’ll want to spend a few more days if you also want to explore the restaurants, hiking trails, and other unique places from Chamonix.
Regardless of which option you pick, remember to take your time and plan the trip according to your budget and the places you want to visit the most.
Chamonix Activities in Summer
We’ve reached the fun part of the page! Here are a few activities that you won’t want to miss on your next trip to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc in the summer:
Take in the Views from Aiguille du Midi
It’s one of the best things you can do. If you’re not too afraid of heights, take a cable car to the mountain peak of the Mont Blanc massif. It will take you to Aiguille du Midi.
Once you’re there, you will get some of the most fantastic views you’ve ever seen. It’s also possible to learn more about mountaineering in Mont Blanc. If you want the best experience possible, we suggest you visit during the day.
Hike Along the Grand Balcon Nord
The Grand Balcon Nord hike will give you a scenic route that you won’t ever forget. It connects the Plan de l’Aiguille with Montenvers. You’ll get some unique views of Mer de Glace, Mont Blanc, and the valley right below it.
If you’re not too tired after visiting Aiguille du Midi, you can add the hike to Grand Balcon Nord to your plan.
Go on a Mountain Biking Adventure
Not many things beat a fun biking challenge with friends or family. If you have some experience riding bikes, there are plenty of safe trails you can take during summer.
Remember to wear safety gear just in case, and have fun.
Have a Beach Day at Lac de Passy
Lac de Passy is one of the loveliest spots for swimming you can go to in Chamonix. Not only will you have a great time, but you’ll also get a gorgeous view of the mountains.
If you want to have a relaxing time with warm water, this will be the perfect place to stay.
Try Out a Via Ferrata
A “Via Ferrata” is a climbing route you can find in many alpine locations. If you want to experience the thrill of climbing, you should definitely give this a try.
Don’t worry, you’ll get enough protection for the trip. Once you get the hang of the movement, you’ll have the time of your life.
Grand Balcon Nord, a Scenic Alpine Walk in Chamonix
Grand Balcon Nord will never be a bad plan, whether you do it before or after your visit to Aiguille du Midi. Once you’re done with the alpine walk, you’ll be greeted with such amazing views that you can snap pictures of.
Add more fun to your trip by visiting the Mer de Glace right after.
Horse Riding in Chamonix
Find some unique spots to go horseback riding, and have a great experience with friends or family. Even if you’re on your own, Chamonix is an excellent place to play around for a bit and spend some time with these amazing animals.
Spas and Massages in Chamonix
Not everything should be about adventure. Take some time to relax and stay in harmony with your body. Visit a local spa, and get the massage and treatment that you’ve always wanted. The QC terme is famous with its outdoor spa overlooking the mountain range.
Watersports in Chamonix
Are you a fan of kayaking, tubing, or swimming? Find a local pool and have some fun! There are plenty of options to consider in Chamonix, so find the best one according to your needs. A favourite hidden gem is the Grande Cascade de Barberine – plunge into the glacier water to relax after a tough day hiking.
Rent a Bike
Take things slowly, and rent a bike to explore the city. It can be a fun time, and it won’t take too much money out of your pocket. Chamonix has created many bike paths throughout the village of Chamonix so you can enjoy exploring the different villages as far as Argentiere, Les Praz, Les Houches and Les Bosson.
Chamonix Activities in Winter
What if you want to go to Chamonix in winter? This is one of the most attractive moments of the year to visit, so get your gear ready, and let’s have some fun!
It’s the largest glacier in France, so why wouldn’t you want to visit it? You can access this via the cog rail train of the Montenvers along the mountain side to reach to glacier. When you arrive at the top, you can use the gondola lift to descent into the ice caves created within the glacier.
If you want the fastest route, make sure to take the gondola lift.
Mont Blanc
Do you want to explore more about Mont Blanc? Take the “Tramway du Mont Blanc.” It’s the highest cogwheel train in France. Originally created for the dream of reaching Mont Blanc however it was not able to be completed as such with the vase terrain. However you can access this from the Les Houches Ski area at the Bellevue gondola. From here you can ride into Le Fayet & then consider accessing the St Gervias & Megeve ski area using local transport.
The view from the tram way is something remarkable and even if its just for sightseeing on the tramway – its a real must.
Lac Blanc
Lac Blanc is one of the best experiences when it comes to hiking in Chamonix. It starts high in the mountains, and it will show you some of the best views that Mont Blanc offers however during the winter months its snowbound for those adventurers you can explore the off piste to reach this beautiful lac.
Chamonix Village
Explore the village for a while to discover everything you can do. This is probably the first thing you should do upon arriving.
It may not seem like it, but Chamonix Village has so much stuff to discover. You can spend a whole day on it and not even notice! Make sure you enjoy a Vin Chaud to warm up in the winter time. The village of Chamonix is filled beautiful decorations and lights that make every day feel like Christmas here.
Spa Retreats
Nothing beats the comfort that comes from a spa retreat. Take some time off, and forget about the stress from everyday life with the right spa session. There are plenty of choices of spas and there is nothing better then relaxing after a ski day. We would recommend QC Terme, Spa Deep Nature – Le Refuge des Aiglons and La Folie Douce sports club and spa.
Winter Sports
Chamonix is the perfect place to try out different winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snow curling, off piste alpine skiing, and more. Alpine Fleet is partnership with Ski Set to give you 50% off your ski rental, so make sure you check out your eticket for you unique link to receive your booking.
Snowshoeing
Go on an adventure in the snow and get snowshoes. This is always a great way to spend with the family on the mountain. Les Houches has great snow shoe trails to explore as you start to learn. Then if you feeling more adventurous you can explore some of the fantastic trails available in the valley such as Cascade du Dard or Lac Vert. You can get a map from the Tourist office or even consider a SnowShoe guide to make the most of your adventure day.
There are many destinations you can get started on that will go easy on you.
Holiday Lights and Decorations
This is the perfect time to enjoy the holidays. Look at unique lights and decorations that suit the theme. Maybe, you could take some inspiration for your home too!
Holiday Shopping
Do you need something to take back home for the holidays? This is the perfect chance! Many shops will have just what you need to make your home perfect for such a beautiful date. Check out the chamonix Crystal shops, you could even take home some quartz that may have been found on Mont Blanc. This way you always have a part of Mont Blanc with you wherever you are in the world.
Snow Tubing
We love snow tubing, and we know you’ll do too. You’ll go to the top of a snowy hill and ride an inflatable tube downhill. It sounds simple enough, but it’s so fun that you’ll want to do it over and over again! Our favrouite spot is Chosalets ski area in Argentière.
How to Get to Chamonix?
There are three methods to get to Chamonix safely:
By Plane - Geneva to Chamonix
Geneva Airport is the nearest option you have to get to Chamonix, and it’s 88km away.
By Train
Trains are a popular option to get to Chamonix. It’s the most scenic route, although it’s the one that takes the longest. If you don’t mind waiting a bit longer, this could work.
By Plane
You can also fly from Lyon, although the airport is located 220km away.
By Car
Are you driving from France? You can get to Chamonix through Autoroute Blanche A40. It’ll take a while, but it won’t be too much of a hassle.
Those who come from Italy can take the Mont-Blanc Tunnel. Finally, if you come from Switzerland, you can follow the motorway to Martigny, Col de la Forclaz, and Col des Montets. If you arrive from Siwterland, make sure you check if the Col is open as this can be closed at times due to heavy snowfall.
If you’re interested in a more convenient and safer Geneva to Chamonix transfer, consider Alpine Fleet. We specialize in private and shared transfers that make the experience much more premium, allowing you to start your vacation on the right foot.
Bottom Line
There are no limits when it comes to fun activities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. With a bit of planning, you’re guaranteed a lot of fun.
The key is to budget properly, get your plan ready in time, and all that’s left is to enjoy yourself.
We hope we helped you decide which activities suit your budget and plan the most. Have a great time on your trip!
