These towns in the French Alps are the perfect destinations to visit and base yourself on for the unparalleled beauty and outdoor opportunities in the region.
Nestled among the towering peaks and rolling valleys, numerous picturesque towns and cities offer you a gateway to this natural wonderland.
Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast seeking the thrill of the slopes or a nature lover in search of breathtaking landscapes, the towns in the French Alps have something for everyone.
Towns In The French Alps
From the world-renowned resort town of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc to the historic charm of Annecy, these alpine communities beckon with their unique character and access to the stunning landscapes of this iconic region.
Annecy
Often referred to as the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy is known for its picturesque canals and beautiful lake, making it a popular tourist destination year-round.
It is the capital of the Haute-Savoie department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and one of the best towns in the French Alps to visit.
The city is situated on the shores of Lake Annecy, one of the cleanest and most beautiful lakes in Europe. You can enjoy swimming, boating, and water sports on the lake.
Annecy’s old town is characterized by its narrow, winding streets, medieval architecture, and colourful buildings. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, shopping, and dining in cosy restaurants.
Palais de l’Isle is an iconic building, shaped like a small castle, and located in the middle of a canal in the old town. It has served various purposes throughout history, including a prison and a courthouse.
Château d’Annecy is a historic castle that overlooks the town and offers panoramic views of the city and the lake. It now houses a museum with exhibits on regional history and art.
Stroll along the picturesque canals that wind through the old town. The canals are lined with colourful flowers, cafes, and restaurants.
Annecy is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding area offers hiking, cycling, paragliding, and winter sports in the nearby French Alps.
Sample the local Savoyard cuisine, which includes dishes like raclette, fondue, and tartiflette, often featuring local cheeses and potatoes.
Book accommodation in Annecy here.
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, often simply referred to as Chamonix, is a famous resort town located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France.
It is situated at the foot of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps and Western Europe. Chamonix is well-known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly in the winter and summer months.
The town is at the base of Mont Blanc, which is a popular destination for mountaineers and climbers. The Aiguille du Midi cable car takes visitors to high-altitude viewing platforms for breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
Chamonix is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The Chamonix-Mont-Blanc ski area offers a variety of slopes suitable for all levels, and it’s part of the larger Mont Blanc Unlimited ski pass network.
In the summer, Chamonix is a paradise for hikers and mountaineers. There are numerous trails that offer stunning alpine landscapes, and it’s a common starting point for expeditions to Mont Blanc.
Aiguille du Midi is an iconic mountain that offers panoramic views of the Mont Blanc Massif. The Aiguille du Midi cable car takes visitors to an altitude of over 12,000 feet, where they can experience breathtaking vistas.
The Mer de Glace is one of the largest glaciers in the Alps, accessible via a cogwheel train and cable car. Visitors can explore ice caves and tunnels within the glacier.
Montenvers Railway is a historic cogwheel train that takes visitors from Chamonix to the Mer de Glace glacier and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The town itself has a charming Alpine atmosphere with numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a great place to relax after outdoor adventures.
Chamonix offers a wide range of adventure sports such as paragliding, rock climbing, and white-water rafting.
Its spectacular scenery, outdoor activities, and proximity to Mont Blanc make it a must-visit location for those looking to experience the beauty of the French Alps.
This is easily one of the best towns in the French Alps to visit.
Book accommodation in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc here.
Aix-les-Bains
Aix-les-Bains is a charming spa town located in the Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
It is renowned for its thermal spas, picturesque setting on the shores of Lake Bourget, and its rich history as a spa and wellness destination.
Aix-les-Bains has a long history as a spa town, and its thermal springs have attracted visitors for centuries. Visitors can enjoy the healing properties of the thermal waters in modern spa facilities.
The town is situated on the shores of Lake Bourget, the largest natural lake in France. This pristine lake offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and watersports. The picturesque promenade along the lake is a great place for a leisurely stroll.
Aix-les-Bains boasts beautiful parks and Parc de Verdure is a serene green space perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, or just relaxing in the shade of trees.
Château de la Roche du Roi is a medieval castle that sits atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the town and Lake Bourget. It’s a great spot for history enthusiasts and hikers.
Abbaye d’Hautecombe is located on the shores of Lake Bourget, and this Cistercian abbey is a beautiful and tranquil place to visit. It is the final resting place of several members of the House of Savoy.
The lake provides opportunities for swimming, sailing, paddleboarding, and fishing. The surrounding hills and mountains offer hiking and cycling trails.
The Thermal Park is a well-maintained park that is home to the town’s thermal spas and a lovely place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Out of all these towns in the French Alps, Aix-les-Bains is a delightful destination for those seeking the therapeutic benefits of its thermal springs.
Book accommodation in Aix-les-Bains here.
Albertville
Albertville is a town located in the Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It is situated in the Tarentaise Valley and is known for hosting the 1992 Winter Olympics.
Albertville is a gateway to the region, making it one of the best towns in the French Alps, and serves as a hub for various outdoor activities, including winter sports and hiking.
Albertville gained international recognition when it hosted the 1992 Winter Olympics. You can explore the Olympic Park and learn about the history and legacy of the games.
Conflans is a picturesque medieval village perched on a hill above Albertville. It’s a charming place to visit with its historic architecture, narrow streets, and panoramic views of the valley.
The surrounding area is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in nearby ski resorts, while summer offers hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding.
Fort de Tamie is a historic fort, located in the nearby Beaufortain mountains, and is open to the public during the summer months.
The Savoie region is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes like raclette, fondue, and tartiflette. Local cheeses and Savoyard specialities can be enjoyed in restaurants in Albertville.
Albertville is an ideal destination for those interested in winter sports, outdoor adventures, and exploring the natural beauty of the French Alps.
Book accommodation in Albertville here.
Grenoble
Grenoble is located in southeastern France, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It is often referred to as the “Capital of the Alps” due to its proximity to the French Alps and its status as a major urban centre in the region.
Technically it’s a city but it has a very charming old town and its location is perfect for the region, which is why it’s added to this list as one of the “best towns to visit in the French Alps” for the old town.
Grenoble is surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the French Alps. This picturesque location makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities like hiking, skiing, and mountaineering.
The Bastille is a historic fortification located on a hill overlooking the city. Visitors can reach it by taking the “Bubbles” (Les Bulles), a cable car system that offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the Alps.
Grenoble is home to several museums, including the Musée de Grenoble, which houses an extensive art collection featuring works by famous artists such as Picasso, Kandinsky, and Delaunay.
The historic old town centre of Grenoble is characterized by charming, narrow streets, squares, and well-preserved historical architecture. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll and exploration.
The region around Grenoble offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and cycling. In the summer, you can explore the nearby Vercors Regional Natural Park, a stunning area of limestone plateaus, caves, and forests.
Book accommodation in Grenoble here.
Bourg-Saint-Maurice
Bourg-Saint-Maurice is a charming town located in the Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It serves as a gateway to the French Alps, particularly the Tarentaise Valley, and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and winter sports enthusiasts.
Bourg-Saint-Maurice is a hub for several renowned ski resorts, including Les Arcs, La Plagne, and Paradiski. These resorts offer world-class skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and a range of outdoor activities in the summer, such as hiking and mountain biking.
The Tarentaise Valley offers a wide array of outdoor activities beyond skiing, including hiking, mountaineering, paragliding, and white-water rafting. The area’s alpine landscapes provide numerous opportunities for adventure.
The town itself features historical architecture and sites, including the Church of Saint Maurice, with its Baroque façade, and the Château de Charbonnières, a 19th-century mansion.
The Isère River, which flows through the Tarentaise Valley, provides opportunities for white-water sports like kayaking and canoeing.
Vanoise National Park: Bourg-Saint-Maurice is close to the Vanoise National Park, the first national park established in France. The park is known for its diverse wildlife and hiking trails.
The town hosts weekly markets where you can sample local products and find fresh, seasonal ingredients for traditional Savoie dishes.
The region features scenic drives that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, including the Col de l’Iseran, one of the highest paved mountain passes in the Alps.
Book accommodation in Bourg-Saint-Maurice here.
Chambéry
Chambery is known for its historical significance, picturesque old town, and its proximity to the French Alps. Chambéry is a delightful destination for those interested in history, culture, and exploring the Alpine region.
Chambéry’s historic old town is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and charming squares. The Place Saint-Léger, in particular, is a hub of activity with cafes and shops.
Château de Chambéry was the residence of the Dukes of Savoy. It features beautiful architecture, a museum, and stunning views of the city.
The Elephant Fountain is a unique and iconic landmark in Chambéry. It features four life-size elephant sculptures, which were added to the city’s fountain in the early 19th century.
The Cathedral of Saint Francis de Sales is an impressive example of Baroque architecture. It is dedicated to the city’s patron saint, Francis de Sales.
Chambéry is located near Lake Bourget, the largest natural lake in France. The lake offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and water sports, and its shores are lined with charming towns and beaches.
The region surrounding Chambéry offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and skiing in the nearby Alpine resorts during the winter. It’s one of the best towns in the French Alps to visit.
Book accommodation in Chambéry here.
Briançon
Briançon is a historic town located in the Hautes-Alpes department and is often regarded as the highest town in France, and one of the best towns in the French Alps.
Briançon is known for its rich history, well-preserved architecture, and its location as a gateway to numerous outdoor activities in the surrounding mountains.
The heart of Briançon is its historic old town, which is known for its well-preserved medieval and Vauban fortifications. These fortifications have earned Briançon recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The town is famous for the fortifications designed by the military engineer Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban. The Fort des Têtes and other fortresses surrounding the town are impressive examples of military architecture.
The Place d’Armes is the central square in Briançon and is surrounded by colourful buildings, cafes, and shops. It’s a great place to relax, people-watch, and soak up the atmosphere of the town.
The Briançon Citadel is a historical military structure that provides an interesting glimpse into the town’s history and the role it played in military defence during past centuries.
Briançon is part of the Serre Chevalier ski resort, one of the largest in the French Alps. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in this beautiful mountain setting.
Book accommodation in Briançon here.
Megève
Megève is a charming and upscale ski resort town located in the Haute-Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
It is renowned for its picturesque alpine scenery, top-tier skiing, and a well-preserved traditional village atmosphere. Megève is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking a luxurious mountain retreat.
Megève is part of the Evasion Mont-Blanc ski area, which includes over 400 kilometres of ski slopes, making it one of the largest ski areas in the French Alps. You can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and other winter sports during the ski season.
The town of Megève is characterized by its beautifully preserved traditional architecture, cobblestone streets, and wooden chalet-style buildings. The central square, Place de l’église, is a hub for dining, shopping, and après-ski relaxation.
The Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste, with its stunning spire and Baroque interior, is a significant historical and architectural site in the town.
Megève hosts various winter events and festivals, including ice skating shows, holiday markets, and torchlight descents.
Megève is known for its excellent culinary scene, with numerous restaurants, bistros, and cafes offering both traditional Savoyard cuisine (such as fondue and raclette) and gourmet French cuisine.
The town boasts several upscale spas and wellness centres where visitors can relax and rejuvenate after a day on the slopes.
In addition to winter sports, Megève offers hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding in the surrounding mountains during the warmer months.
Megève is a year-round destination, but it truly comes to life in the winter with its world-class skiing and festive atmosphere. It’s one of the best towns in the French Alps to visit.
Book accommodation in Megève here.
Beaufort
Beaufort is a small and picturesque village located in the Savoie department, like many other places on this list. The village is known for its scenic beauty, traditional Alpine architecture, and its association with Beaufort cheese, a famous French cheese known for its delicious flavor.
Beaufort is renowned for its eponymous cheese, Beaufort cheese. The cheese is a staple of Savoie cuisine and is produced in the region. You can visit local dairy farms and cheese factories to learn about the cheese-making process and, of course, taste fresh Beaufort cheese.
Beaufort is surrounded by stunning alpine landscapes, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The village offers beautiful views of the mountains, including the nearby Beaufortain Massif.
The region is a paradise for outdoor activities, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and mountaineering in the summer, as well as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the winter.
Beaufort, like many villages in the region, hosts regular local markets where you can find regional products, artisan crafts, and, of course, Beaufort cheese.
Beaufort has several historical chapels and churches, including the Chapel of Sainte-Geneviève, that add to the village’s charm and history.
The area surrounding Beaufort has several mountain huts where hikers can rest, enjoy local dishes, and take in the alpine scenery. These huts are often used as base camps for mountaineers.
In addition to Beaufort cheese, the Savoie region offers a range of delicious cuisine, including traditional dishes like tartiflette, raclette, and diots (sausages). Local restaurants serve these dishes and more.
Beaufort is an excellent destination for those seeking an authentic alpine experience. Although not a town it’s one of the best villages in the French Alps to visit.
Book accommodation in Beaufort here.
The French Alps
These are just a few of the many towns in the French Alps. Each of these places has its own unique charm and attractions, making the region a popular destination for tourists throughout the year.
For more on France take a look at the 20 most famous landmarks in France.
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