Visiting Chamonix, France

Ready to escape to a winter wonderland only a few hours away from Milan? Then, Chamonix, France may be the choice for your next weekend getaway. Of course, Chamonix is a popular destination during the winter due to its accessibility to winter sportslike skiing and snowboarding and its picturesque winter wonderland scene, but don’t doubt its allure in the warmer months. Hiking, biking, paragliding, climbing, rafting and more are popular summer activities that keep tourists coming back year after year. 

But with the colder months upon us and Chamonix boasting several options for the winter sports lovers and for visitors interested in deep relaxation, everyone’s desires are bound to be met in this postcard-perfect town.

How to Get from Milan to Chamonix

Whichever route you decide to take to get to Chamonix, the scenic views will be a good indicator of what beauty lies ahead. Book a bus or train ticket from Milano Centrale to Chamonix with options to choose from on Rome 2 Rio ,and you will be there in about four to five hours. If you decide to travel via bus or train, your roundtrip cost will be an estimated 60 to 160 euros, respectively. If you decide to drive, plan to spend a little under three hours in your vehicle depending on traffic conditions. In order to plan ahead for the toll cost through the Mont Blanc Tunnel.

Tip: If you can, plan ahead to exit the tunnel during daylight hours to revel in the majestic mountain views. 

Things to do and see 

^{Photo by Inspire Toud}

Ready to hit the powder? Book your spot on the slopes by viewing this list of ski areas and choosing the perfect fit for you. Don’t worry if you’re a novice on the slopes because ski and snowboard instructors are easy to find!

Not much of a winter sport lover? Then take in the magical views at one of the highest views in Chamonix on the infamous Aiguille du midi cable car. In operation for more than 60 years, this cable car is a hotspot for tourists, along with another popular scenic route on the Mer de Glace et train du Montenvers. This train takes you to the Ice Cave where you can get a close look at the glacier.

^{View from QC Terme Chamonix / Photo by Mary Catherine Holcomb}

Are your muscles sore after skiing or just in need of a relaxing day? Luckily, Chamonix boasts several spas such as the popular and affordable with open-air mountain views such as the popular and affordable QC Terme Spas.

Food and Drink

Wine and cheese? Yes, please! When visiting new places, it is always a great idea to sample (or indulge) in the local food and drink, and it is no different when visiting Chamonix. Try Vin de Savoie, an eastern France wine producer or cheeses such as Brezain and Reblochon are sure to make your mouth water and leave you wanting more. Head for a complete meal at one of the many delicious restaurants with a panoramic mountain view like Refuge du Montenvers or the popular seafood restaurant Le Caphorn with a nightlife scene downstairs. Looking for a livelier atmosphere while taking part in the popular apres ski? One of these spots is sure to have what you are looking for whether it is a drink or two before the crowds pour in or the beginning to a dancing-filled late night! 

Where to Stay

^{The town of Chamonix / Photo by Bo Zhang}

Since Chamonix attracts tourists year-round, there will not be a shortage of accommodations, but perhaps too many great places to choose from! Want to stay in a toasty chalet or looking for something special? There is something for everyone and every budget. If you want to step outside of your bubble, look into booking a spot in this bubble in the mountains or other unique accommodations like the transparent dome in Caillet. Also, a plethora of options such as ski-to-door apartments or apartments located only minutes away from the bustling areas of Chamonix’s center can be found on the accommodation website Booking.com.

Milan is known for its excellent proximity to travel destinations and Chamonix is one of those travel destinations that must not be missed. As with every picture-perfect town that has much to offer to all of its guests, Chamonix is not a town to only visit once but over and over again to dwell in all of its charm whether it be during the winter wonderland months or in the warmer seasons. 

Article by Mary Catherine Holcomb for Easy Milano
Featured Photo by Rowan Cumming