A resplendent area near the junction of France, Switzerland, and Italy, Chamonix is known for the high peaks of the Alps Mountain Ranges that surround it. Located at the foot of Mont Blanc, it’s a resort area full of leisure surprises for both kids and kids at heart. From adventure sports to rejuvenating activities, this place is sure to leave every traveler refreshed and exhilarated. If you’re planning a trip to Chamonix, make sure to have a bucket-list ready to experience the best of this ecstatic French destination. For some inspiration, we have a list of 10 best things to do in Chamonix, France, that is sure to tempt you to change your plans into actions.
1. Go hiking around Mount Blanc
If you’re in Chamonix, you have to go hiking around Mont Blanc. It’s the highest summit in the Alps and is definitely worth the exploration. The first on every traveller’s bucket-list, this trek will give you a life-lasting memory. The panoramic view at the top is enough to sweep you off your feet! So if you’re in Chamonix, or are planning to visit soon, a hike around the sky-scraping Mont Blanc is something you shouldn’t miss.
Mount Blanc
Address: Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, France
Opening Hours: All Day
Entry Fee: 50 USD for hiring a guide
Website: Mount Blanc
2. Explore the Chamonix Village
Europe and its majestic beauty are beyond description, and France is one among the most picturesque sites for travelers. Set amidst the great Alps Mountains and glaciers, there’s something about the Alpine town of Chamonix, that makes it a must-visit place if you’re on a European getaway. A day tour of the Chamonix Village is worth all the admiration. The busy and sporty village of Chamonix is popular among the day-trippers for the immense spirit of French culture which can be felt at its peak here. Explore the little streets of Chamonix Village that are full of charm and cherish the vibrant stores and boutiques that sell local cheese, fresh honey and meats to have a taste of the rich Alpine culture.
Chamonix Village
Address: Chamonix, Haute-Savoie, Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, France
Entry Fee: 110 USD, for a full-day guided trip with lunch
Website: Chamonix Village
3. Go skiing at the Brévent-Flégère Ski Resort
Brévent-Flégère Ski Resort - The south-facing ski area that is sure to leave every skier with an exhilarating experience. It is open for all; children, adults and seniors. Located on the edge of a natural reserve, this place will give you an unmatched panoramic view of the surrounding Alpine summits. With superb gullies, this place is a must-visit for people who love adventure.
Brévent-Flégère Ski Resort
Address: Accessible from the middle of Chamonix & Chamonix Les Praz
Opening Hours: 8:50 am to 5 pm
Entry Fee: 50 USD for 4 hours
Website: Brévent-Flégère Ski Resort
4. Indulge in a game of golf at Golf Club de Chamonix
Enjoy a game of golf at the beautiful and lush course of the famous Golf Club de Chamonix. No matter if you’re a pro or a beginner, they have varied options for all. The golf course sits well with the international standards of the royal game of golf and you are sure to have a great playtime here.
Golf Club de Chamonix
Address: 35 Route du Golf, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France
Opening Hours: 8 am to 8 pm
Entry Fee: 50 USD
Website: Golf de Chamonix (in French)
5. Participate in the World Climbing Festival
A speed and technical climbing festival is hosted every year in early June to mid of July at the Alpine town of Chamonix. If you are an experienced hiker, this could be your big break!
World Climbing Festival
Address: Place du Mont Blanc, Chamonix Main Town
Opening Hours: According to the schedule
Entry Fee: Membership or guest charges apply
Website: Climbing World Cup
6. Visit the Musée des Cristaux
A visit to the famous crystal museum, Musée des Cristaux, is something that you shouldn’t miss while you’re in Chamonix. A beautiful amalgamation of the Chamonix Mineralogy Club, the Alps and the Chamonix city gave rise to this magnificent museum that houses some of the world’s most antique smoky quartz and pink fluorine.
Musée des Cristaux
Address: 615 Allée Recteur Payot, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France
Opening Hours: 2 pm to 6 pm
Entry Fee: 7 USD approx
Website: Musée des Cristaux
7. Absorb the scenic beauty of Mer de Glace
In the French Alps lies a beautiful glacier valley - Mer de Glace. It is 7 km (4.3 mi) long and about 200 m (656 feet) deep, which makes it the largest glacier in France and a treasured tourist attraction. Board a train to Montenvers from Chamonix town center to reach Mer de Glace - the Sea of Ice, and absorb its divine scenic beauty.
Mer de Glace
Address: Northern slopes of the Mont Blanc massif
Opening Hours: Always Open
Entry Fee: Free
Website: Mer de Glace
8. Visit the Merlet Animal Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you’re in Chamonix on a family holiday, your kids are absolutely going to love a visit to the Merlet Animal Park, which is perched above Les Houches Village. You too will have a great time soaking in the greenery of this natural reserve, with forests and meadows all around. For a price of approx. 10 USD, you can enjoy a walk among the animals and experience mountain wildlife at its best in this forest reserve.
Merlet Animal Park
Address: 2495 Chemin de Merlet, 74310 Les Houches, France
Opening Hours: 10 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee: 10 USD approx
Website: Merlet Animal Park
9. Tramway du Mont Blanc
Using the Tramway du Mont Blanc is the best way to travel across the major Alpine tourist spots. Not just that, the spectacular views of Mont Blanc from the tram are breathtaking and are a clear example of France’s majestic beauty. The track connects various jumping off points for many trails that make it a hot favorite among mountaineers and hikers too.
Tramway du Mont Blanc
Address: 571 Rue du Mont Lachat, 74170 Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, France
Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee: 35 USD approx
Website: Tramway du Mont Blanc
10. Aiguille du Midi
A cable car from Chamonix will take you directly to this 3842 m (12,605 ft) peak in the Mont Blanc massif in the French Alps. Aiguille du Midi is a popular spot among experienced mountaineers as it is a great starting or finishing point for a hike in the Mont Blanc massif.
Aiguille du Midi
Address: Mont Blanc massif, Chamonix, France
Opening Hours: 6:30 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee: 100 USD approx
Website: Aiguille du Midi
Still thinking?
Chamonix offers stunning panoramic views of the Alpine ranges and immense options for an adventurous vacation, which make it a great tourist destination. If you’re planning to visit this exquisite French town, make sure you follow the above-mentioned best things to do in Chamonix, France and you will surely have a pleasant and exciting stay.
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