Chamonix is a beautiful destination with a wide range of activities to offer. Check out these 13 awesome things to do in Chamonix and make the most of your trip.
From heart-pounding outdoor activities to serene moments of connection with nature, Chamonix offers a trove of unforgettable experiences. So, sit back, relax, and allow us to curate all the essential information you need before embarking on your journey to this alpine paradise.
Why Visit Chamonix
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, more commonly known as Chamonix, is a picturesque paradise that beckons adventurers and nature lovers alike. With its towering peaks, cascading glaciers, and charming alpine villages, the region offers an unparalleled playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Home to the iconic Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe, Chamonix is a haven for skiing, snowboarding, mountaineering, and hiking enthusiasts, boasting an array of trails that cater to all skill levels. Beyond the exhilarating activities, the town exudes a cozy charm, with cobblestone streets, cozy cafes, and traditional chalets creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
How Many Days Do You Need to Spend in Chamonix?
Exploring Chamonix is a fantastic experience, and with the right amount of time, you can visit all the most remarkable sights.
Four days is enough to make the most out of your trip, seeing all the highlights and attractions. However, if you have the opportunity, a week in Chamonix will allow you to take in its stunning beauty, go on fantastic day treks, try the delicious alpine cuisine, and have plenty of time to relax.
Winter visitors who come for a ski trip should consider staying for at least a week to explore all the ski areas and experience the best that the place has to offer. No matter how long you stay, you’ll definitely have a lot of things to do in Chamonix.
Awesome Things to Do in Chamonix
1. Visit Chamonix Village for a Stroll
Taking a leisurely stroll through Chamonix Village is one of the best things to do in the area. As you explore the streets of this beautiful mountain village, you will be taken aback by the picturesque Alpine architecture and the many shops, restaurants, and luxury hotels that line its streets.
There are plenty of cafes and gourmet eateries to take a break at during your stroll, making it an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
2. Take the Montenvers Train to Mer De Glace
The Montenvers Railway, running from the heart of Chamonix, has been transporting passengers since the early 1900s. Taking a ride on the vintage train is a must-do activity when visiting the area.
Ascending up the slopes of the Aiguilles du Chamonix, the little red train will take you up to an elevation of 1,900 meters, offering stunning views of the valley and nearby peaks. At the end of the journey lies the Mer de Glace, one of the biggest glaciers in Europe.
It is recommended to take advantage of the experience early, as the train gets very crowded come midday. Overall, this is an excellent activity for families and those wanting to explore the beauty of the region.
3. Explore the Ice Grotto/Cave
Enjoy a unique experience in the Ice Grotto/Cave as you take a ride on the Montenvers Railway through the glaciers of Chamonix, France. With a small cable car ride, you’ll find yourself right on the Mer de Glace glacier, right next to the man-made ice cave.
Prepare to be amazed as you explore the ice sculptures, the Gallery of Crystals, and the caves that are dug out each year due to the 70-meter annual shift in the ice! Don’t forget to bring your warmest clothing, as you’ll be surrounded by nothing but ice with no heating available.
4. Dine in Le Panoramic Restaurant
For an unforgettable experience, visit The Panoramic Restaurant in the Montenvers area. Located on the Mer de Glace glacier, this restaurant offers stunning views and delectable cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a day out with friends, this destination is sure to impress.
With bookings beginning months in advance, don’t miss out on your chance to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience. Make sure to reserve your spot at The Panoramic Restaurant for a truly remarkable time in Chamonix, France!
5. Visit the Merlet Animal Park (Parc De Merlet)
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting thing to do in Chamonix, why not visit the Merlet Animal Park? This outdoor area is home to many incredible species from all around the world, including mouflon, deer, ibex, llamas, and chamois.
You’ll be able to get up close and personal with these animals and witness them in their natural habitat. It’s a great activity for people of all ages, especially for kids, and it’s sure to be an enjoyable and educational experience.
6. Ride the Cable Car to Aiguille du Midi
If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience in Chamonix, you can’t miss the Aiguille du Midi. Take the cable car to the top of this mountain, reaching a height of 12,605 feet (3,842 m), and you’ll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views in all of Europe.
At the summit, you’ll be able to explore the multiple viewing platforms, get a close-up look of Mont Blanc, as well as enjoy snacks at the snack bars, restaurants, and cafés on the top. You can also take a gondola ride over the mountain to the Pointe Helbronner peak on the Italian side from June to September.
It is recommended to visit Aiguille du Midi early in the day before clouds form around the top of Mont Blanc. A visit typically takes 2 to 3 hours or longer if you add on the Panoramic Mont-Blanc experience.
7. Step Into the Void for a Thrill of a Lifetime
Aiguille du Midi in Chamonix, France, is home to one of the most thrilling and unique experiences, the Step Into the Void. This one-of-a-kind activity is sure to get the heart racing and the adrenaline pumping! But if you are sensitive to heights or don’t find such activities enjoyable, this one may be better skipped.
The Step Into the Void is a room made entirely of glass that protrudes off of the mountain peaks of the Mont Blanc range. Visitors will feel as if they are floating through the sky as they look down at the lower mountain peaks.
While the experience is included in the cost of visiting Aiguille du Midi, expect to wait in long lines and prepare for the cold. The Mont Blanc peaks at an impressive 15,777 feet, and snow is present year-round. So if you are brave enough to take part in stepping into the void, be sure to dress warm.
8. Experience the Panoramic Mont-Blanc Cable Car
Enjoy a breathtaking two to three hour journey over the Alps – the Panoramic Mont-Blanc Cable Car. This 5-km cable car ride will take approximately 50 minutes and takes you from Aiguille du Midi, France, to Pointe Helbronner, Italy.
Three small gondolas travel together, each holding a maximum of four people, offering an incredible view of Mont Blanc from several angles. You will get to experience glaciers, crevasses, seracs, and amazing views of the Alps.
This experience is available from late May to late September and comes with a big ticket price, but it is worth every penny. This is an experience you will never forget.
9. Eat Fondue and Raclette
When visiting the Alps, make sure to try the delicious local cheeses in the form of fondue and raclette. Fondue is a communal dish of melted cheese served with bread and potatoes, while raclette is a semi-hard wheel of cheese that is melted and served with bread, potatoes, charcuterie, and more. Both are great options for a cozy night in the chilly Alps.
10. Go Paragliding
There is no doubt that paragliding is one of the most thrilling things to do in Chamonix. Imagine being in the sky and taking in the majestic views of Mont Blanc from above. On any given day, you can hear the screams of joy from people paragliding in the area.
With the help of paragliding companies in Chamonix, you can even take a tandem paragliding flight and even learn to paraglide solo.
11. Visit Glacier Des Bossons
Journey to Glacier des Bossons for an exciting escape into nature. Take a chairlift or hike 400 meters to reach the glacier, crossing over Alpine meadows along the way. Once there, you can enjoy a cup of coffee at the cafe and take a hiking trail to the Chalet des Pyramides for even more stunning views.
12. Ride the Alpine Coaster
Located at the Chamonix Amusement Park in the Planards area, the Alpine Coaster is 1300 meters of pure fun and adventure, complete with twists, turns, and drops that will keep you coming back for more. With great discounts for multiple rides, the Alpine Coaster is a must-do for visitors looking for a fun and unique experience in Chamonix.
13. Hiking
Hiking in Chamonix is truly an unforgettable experience. With epic views of sky-blue sky, lush pastures, rolling hills, and gorgeous snow-capped mountains, it is no wonder why it is one of the most popular things to do in Chamonix.
Whether you’re looking for a light stroll or an all-day adventure, there are plenty of trails to choose from, such as the Grand Balcon Sud and Grand Balcon Nord trails. Each of these trails offers stunning views of the valley and mountains and is family-friendly, depending on the experience level of everyone in the group.
Save Money with a Multipass
If you’re visiting Chamonix, the Mont Blanc Multipass is a great way to save money while experiencing the wonders of the area. This pass includes access to popular attractions such as Aiguille Du Midi, Montenvers, and many more. The more days you purchase, the more you save on the cost of admission. So, don’t miss out on this great opportunity to enjoy all the gondolas, cable cars, and cogways in the valley!
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