Chamonix, France

Perched at the base of Mont Blanc, the tallest mountain in western Europe, Chamonix, France, is a four-season adventure capital attracting thrill-seekers across the globe. This popular destination in the French Alps serves adrenaline in style, blending world-class skiing, rich alpine history, and a devoted mountain culture. Whether you're craving glacier slopes, wildflower-filled valleys, or just crisp air, this iconic town will push your limits while staying effortlessly cool.

Check out our travel guide for fun things to do in Chamonix.

Population: Approximately 12,202 in the entire agglomeration of valley villages

Elevation: About 3,380 feet

Average annual snowfall and sunshine: Around 13 feet of snowfall and 2,460 sunlight hours annually

Nearest Airports:

• Geneva International Airport (GVA): About 61 miles from Chamonix (one to one and a half hours' drive)
• Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS): About 135 miles from Chamonix (two to three-hour drive)

Best time to visit:

• Winter: Crosscountry skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, ice climbing, dog sledding
• Spring: Hiking, paragliding for a bird's-eye view of the Alps
• Summer: Hiking, whitewater rafting, rock climbing (routes for beginners and experts), cycling, canyoning, mountain biking
• Fall: Paragliding, hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.

Several companies offer buses and private shuttles from Geneva Airport throughout the day. You can book tickets online or purchase them at the airport.

Trains offer slower, scenic journeys along the French Alps. The ride from Geneva takes about two and a half to three hours, typically transferring at Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, France.

Driving from Geneva takes one to one and a half hours on the Autoroute Blanche (A40) motorway, offering the freedom to explore the surrounding area on the way. Expect tolls and remember to choose a vehicle with snow tires or chains in the winter.

• Skiing: Chamonix is famous for deep powder and backcountry terrain. Fewer lifts run in summer, but you can still access scenic viewpoints and alpine meadows.
• Hiking: Exploring forested trails and waterfalls is the most popular thing to do in Chamonix in summer, but there are limitations, and the activity requires professional guides in winter.
• Climbing: Winter draws ice climbers to glacial walls, while summer offers bolted climbing routes like those at the popular Les Gaillands.
• Biking: Snow limits winter biking, but summer brings lift-accessed downhill trails and scenic forest paths.
• Camping: Only experienced mountaineers should camp in winter, but summer offers many lush valleys and high alpine sites.

Insiders recommend sampling Savoyard cuisine — the traditional food of the Savoy region in the French Alps. Specialties include raclette (a semi-firm cheese that’s melted and served with bread, potatoes, pickled vegetables, and dried meats), diot (spiced pork sausages), and croziflette (a pasta gratin). Sample French Savoyard fare at Restaurant Le Fer à Cheval.

In the mood for a burger? MOÖ bar cuisine, owned by two Scandinavian buddies, serves up the sandwich along with bubbly brews. La Brasserie du Mont Blanc is also a must-visit haunt for a wide beer selection.

Not a beer fan? Scout out other local watering holes for shots of genépi liqueur. Mulled red wine with spices is a winter staple.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Shoukâ, an excellent spot to grab sweet snacks, hot chocolate, coffee, and tea before or after hitting the slopes.

• Stop by Snell Sports and Ravanel for high-quality gear, rentals, and expert advice from locals.
• Take the six-day Tour du Mont Blanc, a summer experience for the most adventurous.
• Ride the Aiguille du Midi, the highest cable car in France, to the peak of the Aiguille du Midi mountain range in the summer to view glaciers and walk on the Step into the Void glass skywalk.
• Hop on the Montenvers Train for a scenic summer ride up to the Mer de Glace glacier, explore the ice cave and the visitor center.
• Take to the sunny slopes of Brévent & Flégère for intermediate and advanced skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
• Practice skiing and snowboarding at Balme Ski Resort — perfect for beginners.
• Bring a local guide for Vallée Blanche, a 13-mile, off-piste glacier descent starting from the Aiguille du Midi. Ski over glaciers surrounded by towering peaks.

Stay in central Chamonix for town walkability or Les Houches for a quieter home base.

• Camping Les Marmottes is an affordable campsite that offers the opportunity to sleep at the bottom of a glacier.
• La Folie Douce Hotel is a mid-priced hotel perfect for social travelers who enjoy live music, nightlife, and a youthful atmosphere.
• Hôtel Mont-Blanc is a high-end establishment for individuals who prefer a luxe hotel stay.
• Hameau Albert 1er is a five-star hotel ideal for luxury travelers who want ski lift access, spas, and a Michelin-starred restaurant on site.
• Chamonix All Year offers vacation rentals perfect for families and friend groups who need more space and want to experience a diverse range of activities.
• Les Arolles is a centrally located riverside campground ideal for budget travelers who want to stay close to summer hiking and biking trails.

• Packing: Weather shifts quickly year-round, so pack layers, waterproof outerwear, and sunglasses to protect against both snow glare and high-altitude sun.
• Mountain Safety: Stick to designated trails and check avalanche warnings in winter.
• Our Global Jacket will shield you from alpine wind, rain, and snow.
• The durable Dirt Pants are perfect for year-round hiking on uneven terrain.
• Our Men’s Vista Lightweight Fleece Vest will keep you warm when layered with other Topo Designs shirts.
• The unique Apex Rover Pack is specially designed for active alpine travel and variable weather conditions.

Pack your Topo Designs gear to enjoy nature-inspired experiences in the French Alps.