Things to do in French Alps
Discover the best attractions and experiences French Alps has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore iconic fortresses, palaces and ancient sites that tell the Savoyard story across Chambéry, Annecy and surrounding towns.
Château des Ducs de Savoie (Chambéry)
A medieval fortress overlooking Chambéry, home to exhibits on Savoy history and the city’s royal past.
Palais de l'Isle (Annecy)
A triangular island fortress on the Thiou river, symbol of Annecy and a window into medieval life.
Cathédrale Saint-François-de-Sales (Chambéry)
19th-century cathedral in Chambéry marking the diocese with architectural significance.
Museums
Rich collections reveal Savoy's history, Alpine life and art from Grenoble to Chambéry.
Musée Savoisien (Chambéry)
Regional history museum focusing on Savoy and the Alpine region.
Maison des Charmettes (Chambéry)
Rousseau’s home turned museum, offering insight into Enlightenment-era life.
Musée de Grenoble (Grenoble)
Large fine arts museum displaying works from classical to modern times.
Musée Dauphinois (Grenoble)
History and archaeology museum exploring the Dauphiné region.
Religious Monuments
Religious landmarks invite you to step inside centuries of devotion and architectural beauty.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Grenoble
Gothic cathedral in Grenoble with a long religious and civic history.
Église Saint-Maurice d'Annecy
Historic church in Annecy’s old town featuring beautiful interiors.
Cathédrale Saint-François-de-Sales (Chambéry)
Chambéry's cathedral marking the diocese with Baroque influences.
National & Theme Parks
The Alps are crowned by national and regional parks with dramatic peaks, glaciers and pine forests.
Parc national de la Vanoise
France’s first national park with glacier-topped peaks, wildlife and alpine trails.
Parc national des Écrins
Majestic peaks and glaciers spanning Hautes-Alpes and Isère.
Parc naturel régional du Massif des Bauges
Green valleys and ridges offering tranquil hiking close to Savoy towns.
Neighborhoods
Sense of place in historic lanes, markets and viewpoints that define alpine city life.
Vieille Ville d'Annecy
Annecy’s historic Old Town with canals, cobbled streets and bridges.
Centre historique de Chambéry
Chambéry’s historic core, full of arcades, towers and pastel façades.
La Bastille (Grenoble)
Hilltop district and fortress area offering panoramic views of Grenoble.
Free Things to Do
Many superb Alpine views and towns can be enjoyed without an entrance fee.
Promenade autour du lac d'Annecy
Stroll along the lakefront with crystal-clear water and mountains backdrop.
Balade autour du Lac du Bourget (Aix-les-Bains)
Casual lakeside walk with scenic views and gardens.
Randonnée dans le Massif des Bauges
Hiking through pine forests and ridges with sweeping valley views.
Marchés locaux à Chambéry ou Aix-les-Bains
Browse fresh produce, cheeses and regional crafts in a lively setting.
Gastronomy
Savoy cuisine is famous for cheese, fondue, raclette and hearty mountain dishes.
Fondue savoyarde
Creamy cheese fondue served with crusty bread for a shared alpine meal.
Raclette
Melted cheese scraped onto potatoes, pickles and cured meats.
Tartiflette
Baked potato casserole with reblochon cheese and smoky bacon.
Beaufort cheese tasting
Sample a signature Alpine cheese with a nutty, grassy flavor.
Nightlife
Evenings glow in alpine towns with bars, clubs and après-ski rhythms.
Après-ski à Val Thorens
Vibrant après-ski scene in Europe’s highest ski resort.
La Belle Électrique (Grenoble)
Popular concert venue with live music and events.
Le Summum (Grenoble)
Large indoor venue hosting concerts and shows.
Entertainment
Live performances and venues across Grenoble and Aix-les-Bains.
Opéra de Grenoble
Historic opera house offering ballet, orchestral and vocal performances.
Casino Grand Cercle (Aix-les-Bains)
Elegant casino with gaming, shows and events.
Le Magasin – Centre d'art contemporain (Grenoble)
Leading contemporary art center with rotating exhibitions and events.
Sports
The mountains invite you to ski, hike, paraglide and cycle year-round.
Skiing in Les 3 Vallées
World‑class ski area spanning Val Thorens, Méribel and Courchevel.
Parapente au-dessus du Lac d'Annecy
Paragliding flight over the lake for breathtaking views.
Randonnée dans le Parc national de la Vanoise
Explore glaciers and high alpine trails amid iconic scenery.
Off the Track
Go beyond the beaten path with spectacular caves, scenic routes and unique local experiences.
Mer de Glace Glacier Walk (Chamonix)
Guided walk along the famous glacier with views of Mont Blanc.
Grotte de Choranche (Isère)
Spectacular cave with stalactites and underground rivers.
Route des Grandes Alpes
Scenic alpine route linking high passes and dramatic scenery.