Key Facts about Chamonix, France

Location

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a famous resort town in the French Alps, near the borders of Switzerland and Italy, at the foot of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe.

Known for

Its role as the world capital of alpine skiing and mountaineering, breathtaking alpine scenery, and being the host of the first Winter Olympics in 1924.

Best Time to Visit

• Winter (December–March): For skiing, snowboarding, and snow sports.

• Summer (June–September): For hiking, climbing, and enjoying alpine meadows.

• Autumn (September–October): Quieter, with crisp mountain air and colorful landscapes.

Local Language

French, though English is widely spoken due to international tourism.

Currency

Euro (€).

Getting There

• By air: Geneva International Airport (90 km) is the closest major airport.

• By train: Direct trains connect Chamonix with Geneva, Annecy, and Lyon.

• By car: About 1 hour from Geneva and 2.5 hours from Lyon.

Top Attractions

• Aiguille du Midi Cable Car – Soar up to 3,842m for panoramic views of Mont Blanc.

• Montenvers Railway & Mer de Glace – Scenic train to France’s largest glacier.

• Mont Blanc – Europe’s highest peak, a magnet for climbers and adventurers.

• Alpine Museum – Exhibiting mountaineering history and alpine culture.

• Hiking & Ski Trails – Miles of routes for every level, from leisure walkers to experts.

Local Specialties

• Fondue Savoyarde – Melted cheese with bread cubes.

• Raclette – Melted cheese scraped onto potatoes, charcuterie, and pickles.

• Tartiflette – Potatoes baked with Reblochon cheese, cream, and bacon.

• Blueberry tart – A sweet alpine classic.

Notable Events

• Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (August) – One of the world’s most famous trail-running races.

• Fête des Guides (August) – Celebrating the history of alpine guiding.

• Christmas and Winter Markets (December) – Festive charm in the snowy streets.

• Chamonix Adventure Festival (spring) – Showcasing outdoor films and expeditions.