Well known as one of the best places in the world to ski, come summer when the temperature has risen and the snow melted, Chamonix offers breathtaking scenery and activities to suit all, not just the adrenaline junkie, adventurous types. Whether that’s hiking, indulging in French cuisine, or taking in the scenery from the comfort of an alpine train, we’ve outlined a few of the top things to see and do whilst in Chamonix that will appeal to everyone.
The summer season in Chamonix starts towards the end of May and ends in September. The latter is our favourite time to visit when it gets a little quieter and the temperature remains warm. However, some ski lifts and attractions begin to close late September.
You may also be interested in our other guides – ‘How to spend a day in Yvoire‘ and ‘The 5 best things to do in Annecy‘ – both towns make for great day trips to take from Chamonix.
Summary of the best things to do:
- Explore the charming town of Chamonix
- Visit the top of the Alps at the Aguille du Midi for spectacular views across France, Switzerland and Italy
- Hike the Grand Balcon Nord for incredible views of the Chamonix valley
- Stroll around Parc de Merlet for an up close encounter with local wildlife and exceptional views of Mont Blanc
- Take the Montenvers alpine train to see the Mer de Glace
- Experience the highest railway line in France on the Tramway du Mont Blanc
Chamonix town
Situated below the Mont Blanc massif, this charming town is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon shopping, trying the local food delicacies, or taking in the views from a sunny terrace bar. Visiting the town is also a great option for a rainy day.
There are many excellent restaurants located around Chamonix to get your French food fix:
- Bizes, located alongside the river that runs through the centre of Chamonix offers French classics.
- Cool Cats, a hot dog restaurant for a more casual experience.
- La Caleche, for alpine dishes such as fondue and raclette.
- Panier des 4 Saisons, for fine dining and classic French food.
For croissants and other baked goods head to:
For a sunny terrace bar or café, try:
Aiguille du Midi
At 3842 meters, the Aiguille du Midi offers everyone access to the dizzying heights of the Alps’ peaks. Visitors are greeted with a spectacular panorama overlooking France, Switzerland and Italy, as well as a close-up of Mont Blanc.
There are several viewing decks, a restaurant, café, and souvenir shop. You can also get your photo taken in the Step into the Void glass room – it doesn’t cost any extra, but you may have to wait in line. If the views from here aren’t enough you can take the Panoramic Mont Blanc cable car over to Italy.
- The Aiguille du Midi cable car leaves the centre of Chamonix.
- There are two cable cars to reach the top.
- Tickets can be purchased online or at the cable car station and cost €67 for an adult return. Children and concessions have reduced prices, as well as if you book in advance.
- Go early (by 9am) to avoid crowds.
Grand Balcon Nord Hike
There are lots of hikes to choose from around Chamonix, but this particular one is great for beginners up to experienced hikers. The route traverses high above Chamonix with incredible views across the valley, the peaks above, and the Mer de Glace. The path winds its way from Plan de l’Aiguille to the Montenvers train through trees and flowers, and you may spot the odd marmot.
The hike takes around 3-4 hours. Bring a packed lunch and stop halfway to take in the scenery. Good walking boots are needed as there are loose rocks and a basic level of fitness required as although much of the route is fairly flat, the last section has a short, steep climb followed by a further steady incline.
- From Chamonix take the Aiguille du Midi cable car to the mid station (Plan de l’Aiguille) and begin the hike from here.
- Follow the signposts to Mer de Glace or the Montenvers Railway Station – both lead to the same place.
- When the route forks at about 3km, take the path to the right signposted to ‘Signal Forbes’ and then make your way to the Mer de Glace.
- From the Mer de Glace viewpoint, it’s downhill to the Montenvers train back to Chamonix. The last train leaves at 4pm.
- Both the cable car and train tickets can be purchased in advance or on the day online (https://www.montblancnaturalresort.com/en/montenvers-mer-de-glace, https://www.montblancnaturalresort.com/en/aiguille-du-midi) or at the cable car or Montenvers train stations.
- Chamonix to Plan de l’Aiguille cable car costs €18.50 for an adult single ticket.
- Montenvers to Chamonix train costs €29.50 for an adult single ticket.
Alternatively, if you plan on going to the top of the Aiguille du Midi before the hike, we recommend buying a one day Mont Blanc Multipass which will give you access to both cable cars going to the Aiguille du Midi and the Montenvers train.
Parc de Merlet
A hidden gem in the Chamonix valley (in our opinion). This animal park is not just for children, but for anyone who wants incredible views, a leisurely walk, and to see local wildlife up close.
Take one of the trails around the park stopping to relax in a well-placed bench with spectacular views of Mont Blanc while Chamois, Ibex and Marmots roam happily past you.
The park costs €8.50 for adults, €5.50 for children. There is a restaurant on site with a sunny terrace overlooking the mountains. If you bring your own food, note that there is a dedicated picnic area just outside of the park grounds as food can’t be consumed in the grounds.
Montenvers train
This little red, alpine train takes you from Chamonix up to the Montenvers station close to the Mer de Glace. As it winds its way through the trees, you’ll get fantastic views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Once you reach the Montenvers station you can view the Mer de Glace (at least what’s left of it), go inside the glacier at the Ice Cave or have a bite to eat at one of the restaurants.
Tickets cost €35.00 for an adult return. The Ice Cave is included in this price.
Tramway du Mont Blanc
The highest railway line in France, the Tramway du Mont Blanc makes its way up the mountains to an altitude of 2372m. The train passes meadows, pastures and mountain lakes so it is definitely worth going just for the scenery.
Board the train from Le Fayet or Saint-Gervais tramway stops (5-10 minutes outside of Chamonix), where you can purchase tickets. There are several stops along the track that passengers can choose to get off at either on the way up or down:
- Col de Voza (1653m): from here there are many walking trails above the village of Les Houches.
- Bellevue (1794m): Further walking trails.
- Nid d’Aigle (2372m): End of the line. From here the Bionassay glacier and beyond that, Mont Blanc, is accessible to hikers via a high-mountain footpath. Passengers who are here for the ride and views have a long enough stop to admire the scenery.
