While I was living in Geneva as an expat, I had the chance to explore the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in neighboring France. In this travel guide, I´ll share a few destinations that I visited in the French Alps during my time there, from the charming towns of Annecy or Chamonix, to the elegant Evian or La Clusaz ski resort. Also, I’ll walk you through what and where to eat, where to stay and some day trip ideas. At the end of this post, I’ve also included a map so you can easily pinpoint all the locations mentioned here.

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Disclaimers:

• This recap post is based on visits to destinations in the French Alps between July 2017 and June 2019, while I was working in Geneva as an expat. It was updated in January 2025 to reflect the latest information available.
• Please note that this post includes some affiliate links. This means that, at no additional cost for you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. In case you have any question about the companies advertised here or my status as an affiliate, please do not hesitate to contact me.

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When exploring the French Alps, you´re welcome to use this France travel guidebook, as well as this other guide with France´s best road trips, both by Lonely Planet to plan your stay and make the most out of it. I hope you’ll find them helpful!

The French Alps, Europe’s most majestic mountain range

The French Alps, a breathtaking section of the larger Alps mountain range, offer an unrivaled experience for nature lovers, adventurers, and culture enthusiasts alike. Spanning approximately 1,200 kilometers, the Alps stretch from the Mediterranean all the way to Central Europe, touching Austria, France, Germany, Italy Liechtenstein and Switzerland.

While the broader Alps feature iconic destinations in each of these countries, the French Alps, concentrated in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, stand out for their dramatic landscapes and alpine culture. Anchored by the regional capital, Lyon, this southeastern corner of France boasts legendary glaciers, serene alpine lakes, and the imposing Mont Blanc, the tallest peak in Western Europe at 4,810 meters.

The area is divided into several départements, with Savoie and Haute-Savoie offering some of the region’s most iconic attractions, including world-class ski resorts like Chamonix, Méribel, or Val d´Isère. Even though this French territory has prospered since alpine holidays and skiing became popular in the 19th century, it remains very conscious of its traditional identity.

When to visit the French Alps

My short answer would be that it really depends on what you´re planning to do. Whether you’re chasing winter sports, embarking on magnificent alpine walks, or immersing yourself in the region’s unique identity, the French Alps promise a spectacular journey any time of the year.

As you can imagine, the temperatures and the weather in the French Alps will vary according to the season. However, it is advisable to always bring plenty of warm clothing regardless of the season because the weather can change suddenly.

• Winter: this is the peak season in the French Alps, transforming the region into a snow-lover’s paradise, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and cozy evenings in traditional mountain chalets. Throughout this winter wonderland, the ski season typically starts just before Christmas and runs until the end of April. There are virtually endless French alpine resorts to choose from, and many of them are interlinked! I personally went to La Clusaz once and I loved it.
• Spring and summer: during this period, the meadows of the French Alps are full of flowers, including orchids and lilies. The area´s lush green valleys become a paradise for hikers and there are many trails to explore such as GR5 or the Tour du Mont Blanc. Popular lakes like Lake Annecy and Lake Geneva also provide additional opportunities for water sports and relaxation. The summer alpine season usually begins at the end of June and lasts until the beginning of September.
• Fall: the best season to admire the colorful foliage while enjoying the crisp weather!

Browse my France destination page for more ideas!

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Itinerary throughout the French Alps

For an unforgettable trip to explore the French Alps, I suggest you consider a 5–7 day itinerary in the following destinations:

• Start in Lyon, exploring its culinary delights and historical Old Town.
• Head to Annecy for a lakeside stroll and charming canals.
• Spend time in Chamonix, where Mont Blanc offers endless adventure.
• Conclude in Évian-les-Bains, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Geneva.

What to see and do in the French Alps

In this section, I´ll walk you through four destinations in the French Alps, namely Annecy, Chamonix, Evian and La Clusaz. Under each of those, you will find further information on what to do, where to eat or stay and even day trip ideas.

Annecy, an alpine town by lake Annecy

Located in in southeastern France, where Lake Annecy feeds into the Thiou River, Annecy is a charming alpine town surrounded by snowcapped mountains and canals. The city is actually known as the Venice of the Alps!

📸 What to do in Annecy, France:

• 🏰 Château d’Annecy: this medieval castle overlooks the city. Once home to the Counts of Geneva, it was transformed into a museum and now displays regional artifacts such as Alpine furniture, religious art, and even a natural history exhibit. 
• 🚣 Lake Annecy (Lac d´Annecy): Annecy lies on the northern shore of the homonymous lake, which is known for its crystal waters. The lake is ideal for swimming or practicing any kind of water sports, especially during the warm summer months. Head to Quai de la Tournette next to the port to board on a boat and discover nearby destinations by lake Annecy.
• 🎨Palais de l’Île: built in the 12th century, this quadrangular fortified house was used as a prison in the middle of the Thiou canal. Nowadays it houses a museum.
• 🌳 Parks: Jardins de l´Europe, Le Pâquier, Parc Charles Bosson.
• 🌉 Pont des Amours: this romantic footbridge offers scenic views of the city of Annecy, its canals and the lake.
• 🏛️ Vieille Ville or Vieil Annecy: wander the cobbled streets, winding canals and pastel-colored houses in the medieval old town. It is really lovely!

🗓️ Key events in Annecy: les Noctibules (street art festival in mid-July), Fête du Lac (fireworks display by Lake Annecy at the beginning of August).

🍽️ Where to eat in Annecy: Chez Ingalls, Haven, Le Cabanon, Le Denti, Quai numéro 10 (crêperie), Slake Coffee.

🛏️ Where to stay in Annecy: Hôtel Central, ibis Styles Annecy Gare Centre, Impérial Palace, Le Bel Epoque.

🧳 Day trips from Annecy:

• Château de Duingt (castle dating from the 15th century right by lake Annecy),
• Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard (idyllic castle from the 13th-century perched above the lakeside village of Menthon-Saint-Bernard),
• Crêt de Châtillon (panoramic views over the Mont Blanc and the Alps),
• Saint-Jorioz (lakeside town with a popular beach),
• Talloires (small village housing prestigious hotels and restaurants).

Chamonix, home to the imposing Mont Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, usually shortened to Chamonix, is a resort area near the junction of France, Italy and Switzerland. It is the historic capital of alpine skiing and it was home of the 1924 Winter Olympics. Actually, it´s considered the capital of the French Alps too.

📸 What to do in Chamonix, France:

• Chamonix: this picturesque village features charming and rustic alpine architecture set against the dramatic backdrop of the mountains. When wandering the streets of Chamonix, you could also stop at the Alpine Museum or the Crystal Museum. A Catholic church (Paroisse Saint-Bernard) lies next to the Tourist Office.
• 🚣 Lac Blanc: this lake offers a different angle to admire the Mont Blanc and the surrounding Alps mountain range. You can either hike or take a chair lift to get there. You might even be able to photograph the snowcapped peaks reflecting on the water!
• 🧊 Mer de Glace (Sea of Ice): welcome to one of the largest glaciers of Europe! You can get here by riding the Montenvers train. Once you´ve reached the vast glacier, you can explore an ice cave and a small museum called the Glaciorium.
• 🏔 Mont Blanc: this imposing mountain is the main attraction in Chamonix. Mont Blanc (literally meaning White Mountain due to its snowy peaks) is the highest summit in the Alps, rising at 4810 meters, and across Europe. If you´re not afraid of heights and fancy panoramic views, take a cable car from Chamonix to Aiguille du Midi at 3842 meters. In case you´re brave enough, you can always step into the void, a room with a glass floor, walls, and ceiling overlooking the breathtaking landscape. From there, you can keep going to Pointe Helbronner (3462 meters), across vast glacier fields on the Italian border.

🍽️ Where to eat in Chamonix: Albert 1er, La Bergerie de Planpraz, Le Sérac (traditional restaurant where I dined a delicious raclette savoyarde), Le 3842 (restaurant with panoramic views perched on Aiguille du Midi), Maison des Artistes, Vieilles Luges.

🛏️ Where to stay in Chamonix: Auberge de Jeunesse HI Chamonix Mont-Blanc Alpes, Auberge du Manoir, Le Hameau Albert 1er, Refuge du Montenvers.

🧳 Day trips from Chamonix: Cascade de Bérard (waterfall), Gorges de la Diosaz, Lac de Passy, Parc de Merlet.

Évian-les-Bains, the source of the famous Evian water by lake Geneva

Lake Geneva (also known as Lac Léman in French) is the largest Swiss lake and one of the largest freshwater lakes in Europe. One of the fun facts about it is that it borders both France and Switzerland. Its mild climate helped create popular tourists resort along the lake Geneva shores such as Evian or Thonon.

Located on the French side of lake Geneva, Évian-les-Bains, or simply Évian, is a scenic spa town famous for its mineral water since the first bathing establishments were built here in 1893.

📸 What to do in Évian, France:

• 🎰 Casino d´Évian: after relaxing in the Evian waters, you may want to have some fun and gamble at the casino.
• 🌱 Les jardins de l´eau du Pré Curieux: water gardens surrounding a charming colonial-style house dating from 1870 overlooking lake Geneva.
• 🧖‍♀️ Les Thermes Évian: this wellness center renowned for its use of natural Evian mineral water offers a range of services, including massages, fitness programs, and medical thermal spa therapies.
• 🖼 Palais Lumière: this belle époque construction originally built as a thermal spa in the early 20th century, is a cultural and architectural gem that hosts prestigious art exhibitions, conferences, and cultural events throughout the year. Other buildings worth mentioning in Évian include Château de Fonbonne, Villa La Sapinière, Villa Lumière (now used as the City Hall).
• 🚰 Source Cachat: welcome to the historic mineral water spring that brought Évian international fame. This water has been renowned since 1807 for its health benefits, becoming a celebrated table water since the 1860s. Steps away, you will find a former refreshment bar (Buvette Cachat).

🍽️ Where to eat in Évian-les-Bains: La Fabrik, restaurants and bars at the Évian casino, Temps Libre.

🛏️ Where to stay in Évian: Hilton Evian-les-Bains, Hôtel La Verniaz, Hôtel Royal.

🧳 Day trips from Évian-les-Bains:

• Cruise lake Geneva on board a CGN boat and head to the opposite shore to explore the Swiss cities of Geneva or Lausanne, among others.
• Nernier: it shares a medieval village center and floral displays with the larger and better-known neighbouring village of Yvoire. Lay at the lake beach before hopping onboard a boat to the Swiss city of Nyon!
• Thonon-les-Bains: located halfway between Evian and Yvoire, this little lakeside resort is worth a visit if you´re interested in checking out its castle (Château de Ripaille).
• Yvoire: medieval walled fishing port protected by a 14th century castle. I visited both Nernier and Yvoire with a friend who came over while I was living in Geneva and we really enjoyed wandering the cobbled streets and cute boutiques of Yvoire before having a picnic by the lake to admire the views.

La Clusaz, a ski resort in the French Alps

When I was working in Geneva, I went on a ski day trip to La Clusaz in France. Think snowcapped mountains, towering peaks and idyllic wooden chalets in the middle of the Alps!

📸 What to do in La Clusaz, France:

• ⛄ Explore the village of La Clusaz: pay a visit to the Sainte Foy Church built in 1821, discover the various alpine chapels (Confins, Fernuy, Gotty, Parc, Ste Anne, Var), or learn about traditional mountain activities thanks to interactive exhibits at Le Hameau des Alpes.
• ⛷ Hit the slopes! From alpine or Nordic skiing to any other winter sport, the options in La Clusaz are endless. Check this trail map to decide which slopes look more appealing.
• 🧖‍♀️ Relax in La Clusaz: there´s nothing better than taking it easy after a good day of skiing. Recharge your batteries at any of these wellness centers.

🍽️ Where to eat in La Clusaz: Le Chalet du Lac, Le Grenier, Le Petit Montagnard, Restaurant La Ferme.

🛏️ Where to stay in La Clusaz: Beauregard, Chalet Acampadou, Chalet La Patna, Hôtel Au Coeur du Village, Le Chamois, Tavaillons 3, Youth Hostel La Clusaz.

🧳 Day trips from La Clusaz: here are a few additional ski resorts you will find in the French Alps, even though the list is virtually endless:

• Albertville: it hosted the 1992 Winter Olympic Games.
• Avoriaz: cars are not allowed here since it´s a 100% pedestrian resort!
• Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: welcome to the historic capital of alpine skiing and home of the1924 Winter Olympics.
• Les 3 Vallées: literally meaning three valleys, this vast ski complex is the largest in the world and encompasses resorts such as Courchevel, Méribel and Val Thorens / Les Ménuires, among others.
• Mégève: it features one of the best ski schools in Europe.
• Val d´Isère: the favourite among the rich and famous.

Browse my other ski getaways!

Ski day trip to Pennsylvania (USA)

Skiing in the French Pyrenees (France)

Winter in St Cergue (Switzerland)

These are the clothes I wear whenever I go on a ski trip. Shop the look by checking out my Decathlon affiliate profile!

What to eat in the French Alps

The cuisine of the French Alps is hearty and comforting, reflecting the region’s mountain heritage and chilly climate, especially in the winter. Rich in cheese, potatoes, and cured meats, it’s perfect for refueling after a day on the slopes. If you´re a cheese lover like me, you´ll be in heaven with Alps cheeses ranging from Emmental or Raclette, to Vacherin or Tomme! 🙂

Below you will find a few signature dishes from the French area of Savoy (cuisine savoyarde):

• 🥓 Diots: these local sausages are served with polenta or crozets (small Alpine pasta).
• 🍖 Falette auvergnate: this stuffed veal dish is a specialty of Auvergne and can be served hot with cabbage or cold with salad.
• 🫕Fondue savoyarde: a communal pot of melted cheese with bread for dipping.
• 🐷 Petit salé aux lentilles à l’auvergnate: salted pork with green lentils from Puy.
• 🧀 Raclette: melted cheese served over potatoes and charcuterie.
• 🥔Tartiflette: a baked dish of potatoes, Reblochon cheese, onions, and bacon.
• 🍰 Gâteau de Savoie: for dessert, there´s nothing like this light and airy sponge cake!

To try these delicious specialties throughout the French Alps, you can refer to the section about ´where to eat´ under each destination mentioned above. Bon appétit!

Where to stay in the French Alps: from the perfect chalet to mountain refuges and much more

The French Alps offer a diverse range of accommodation options, catering to all budgets and preferences. That being said, if you want to experience an authentic alpine experience, make sure to book a chalet. These cozy wooden cabins are the quintessential accommodation in the French Alps, be it summer or winter time.

From luxury chalets in renowned ski resorts like Chamonix, Courchevel and Megève to charming alpine lodges and family-friendly apartments, there’s something for everyone. Many visitors opt for ski-in/ski-out hotels for convenience, while others enjoy the rustic charm of traditional mountain refuges. For a unique experience, try staying in eco-friendly lodges or boutique hotels with stunning views of natural attractions such as the Mont Blanc or Lake Annecy.

Looking where to stay in the French Alps? Browse Airbnb, Booking or Hostelworld in addition to all the accommodations suggested above under every destination.

How to get around the French Alps

Getting around the French Alps has its own charm, although it might not be an easy task during the harsh winter months. Browse the various ways of transportation to get around the French Alps below:

• 🚴‍♂️ By bike: cycling is a popular way to experience the breathtaking scenery of the Alps, especially in warmer months.
• 🚍 By bus: while functional, bus services can be slower and less comfortable compared to other means of transportation. I booked a bus transfer from Geneva to Chamonix with Cham Express shortly after moving to the Swiss city.
• 🚗 By car: once in the French Alps, having a car is ideal for exploring off the beaten path, which is what I did when I went skiing to La Clusaz. Note that winter driving requires extra caution due to snow and ice though. Also, make sure to plan accordingly, as some high-altitude mountain passes may close from November to June due to snow.
• 🥾 By foot: the Alpine breathtaking mountains attract visitors for their magnificent hiking opportunities and all kinds of outdoor activities.
• 🛫 By plane: Geneva and Lyon–Saint Exupéry are the most convenient international airports for accessing the Alps in France.
• 🚊 By train: the region of the French Alps is well-connected to major cities like Paris via the TGV high-speed train to hubs like Lyon or Geneva in Switzerland.

Feeling adventurous? Check out these outdoor activities with Manawa across the Alps in France.

First paragliding experience in Le Grand-Bornand

Freeride skiing and snowboarding in La Clusaz

Hot-air balloon flight over the Alps near La Clusaz

Pedal boat rental on Lake Annecy from Veyrier-du-Lac

Rafting on the Arve river in Chamonix

Ski Touring Excursion at Sunset in Le Grand-Bornand, Aravis mountains

Day trips from the French Alps

In addition to all the day trips suggested above for every destination, here are a few more ideas.

• France 🇫🇷: Lyon is just a 2h-2h30 drive depending on where you´re coming from in the French Alps. It´s not only the capital and the largest city in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, but also a foodie heaven.
• Italy 🇮🇹: Milan, the second largest city in the country and known as Milano in Italian, can be reached in three to four hours by car from the French Alps. It is famous for being the global capital of fashion, design and a financial hub too.
• Switzerland 🇨🇭: when visiting the French Alps, chances are you´ll be a stone´s throw away from the land of cheese, chocolate and endless alpine lakes. Both located by lake Geneva, the Swiss cities of Geneva and Lausanne are worth a visit.

Map to get around the French Alps

For your ease of reference, below you will find a map with all the spots mentioned throughout this blog post, including the destinations I visited in the French Alps as well as suggested day trips, hotels and restaurants in the area. Use it to plan your next trip!

How did you like this post about the French Alps? Have you visited Annecy, Chamonix, Evian or La Clusaz? Feel free to leave your questions and comments below.

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In the meantime, safe travels around the world!

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