Things to do in Chamonix

Why go to Chamonix

• Aiguille du Midi Cable Car

  Soar to 12,605 feet for jaw-dropping views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding glaciers on one of the world's most dramatic cable car rides.

• Mer de Glace Glacier

  France's largest glacier is a mesmerizing river of ancient ice reached by the historic Mont Blanc Express rack railway from Chamonix centre.

• Les Grands Montets Ski Area

  One of the most challenging and rewarding ski domains in the Alps, offering legendary off-piste terrain and sweeping high-altitude runs.

• Montenvers Railway & Ice Cave

  A charming vintage cog railway climbs to a stunning panoramic terrace above the Mer de Glace, with an ice cave you can walk through.

• Chamonix Valley Hiking Trails

  Over 300 km of marked trails wind through pine forests, past waterfalls, and up to alpine meadows with Mont Blanc as your constant backdrop.

Good to know in Chamonix

• The Chamonix Bus (Mont-Blanc Express valley bus) is free with most lift passes and connects all villages in the valley, otherwise a single ride is about $2.50.
• Tipping is not mandatory in France; rounding up the bill or leaving €1-2 on the table for good service is appreciated but never expected.
• Tap water in Chamonix is mountain-source quality and perfectly safe to drink, always carry a refillable bottle to skip expensive café purchases.
• The Chamonix Alpine Museum offers free entry on the first Sunday of each month, and some lift companies offer discounted late-afternoon 'après-midi' passes after 1pm.

Trip essentials