We all hope for bluebird skies and perfect snow when heading to Chamonix — and our team still does the occasional snow dance in winter and sun dance in summer just in case! But even in the Alps, the weather can sometimes have other ideas.
If the clouds roll in or the lifts close for a day, don’t worry — your holiday is far from ruined. Chamonix sits at the crossroads of France, Switzerland and Italy, meaning there’s a whole world of easy day trips and alternative activities right on your doorstep.
From scenic spa escapes and mountain museums to foodie discoveries and cross-border adventures, there’s plenty to enjoy while waiting for the sun to shine again.
Ski Three Countries with the Mont Blanc Unlimited Pass
If you’re the kind of skier who refuses to waste a day, Chamonix has you covered. With the Mont Blanc Unlimited (MBU) ski pass, you can ski in three countries — France, Italy and Switzerland — all on one pass. When clouds settle over the Chamonix valley, there’s often sunshine waiting just a short drive away.
Courmayeur, Italy
Just 30 minutes through the Mont Blanc Tunnel, Courmayeur offers wide, sunny slopes and an unbeatable Italian atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for a change of scene — with delicious mountain food, long lunches in the sun and the same incredible Mont Blanc backdrop.
MBU holders (passes of 2 days or more) can ski Courmayeur at no extra cost. Don’t miss a Bombardino — the classic Italian mix of eggnog and brandy, topped with whipped cream — to warm up after your runs.
Megève & Saint-Gervais, France
Also included in your Mont Blanc Unlimited pass are the elegant resorts of Megève and Saint-Gervais, just 30 minutes from Chamonix. Set in a neighbouring valley, they often enjoy better visibility when Chamonix is clouded in.
Megève’s lower altitude (all pistes below 2,353 m) means more tree-lined runs — perfect for flat-light days. You’ll find beautifully groomed slopes, rustic mountain restaurants and even a touch of glamour, as this is one of France’s most refined ski resorts.
The Megève–Saint-Gervais ski area also features La Folie Douce Mont Blanc, a lively on-piste après-ski venue where you can swap ski boots for dancing shoes. Both resorts are included for free with your MBU pass, giving you unlimited access to explore.
Verbier, Switzerland
A little further afield but absolutely worth the trip, Verbier is famous for its world-class freeride terrain and vibrant ski scene. Head up to the top of Mont Fort (3,300 m) for views stretching from Mont Blanc to the Matterhorn.
Holders of a 6-day or longer MBU pass receive 50% off a Verbier day pass — a great excuse to tick off another iconic alpine resort during your stay.
Tip: Before you set off, make sure to validate your lift pass at the ticket office in each partner resort.
Indulge yourself in Italy
If the weather gives you a good excuse to rest your legs for a day, head over the border to Italy for a well-deserved dose of relaxation. Just 40 minutes from Chamonix, you’ll find the QC Terme Pré Saint Didier — one of the most beautiful alpine spas in Europe.
People have been bathing in these natural thermal waters since Roman times, and today the spa blends that history with pure luxury. You can soak in outdoor thermal pools surrounded by snow, unwind in panoramic saunas, and float in salt-water baths with views of the Mont Blanc massif rising above you.
Inside, you’ll find steam rooms, relaxation areas, and even a quiet reading lounge — all designed for total switch-off. A light buffet and drinks are included in your entry, and extra treatments like massages or facials can be booked on-site.
City day trips from Chamonix
If a few days in the mountains have you craving a taste of city life, you’re in luck — Chamonix’s location at the crossroads of France, Switzerland and Italy means several beautiful cities are just a short drive away. Each offers a completely different atmosphere, perfect for a bad-weather escape or a cultural break from the slopes.
Annecy, France – The Venice of the Alps
Often called the Venice of the Alps, Annecy is a must-see. Its cobbled streets, pastel-coloured buildings and winding canals make it one of the most picturesque towns in France. Enjoy lunch by the water in the Old Town, then stroll along the lakefront to admire the snow-capped peaks reflected in crystal-clear glacial water.
If the sun’s out, you can even rent a small boat or pedal-boat to explore Lake Annecy — one of Europe’s cleanest lakes. The drive from Chamonix takes around 1 hour 15 minutes, making it an easy and rewarding day trip.
Geneva, Switzerland – Lakeside Culture and Style
Just 1 hour 20 minutes from Chamonix, Geneva is another easy city to visit for the day. It sits on the shores of Lake Geneva, famous for its towering Jet d’Eau fountain — one of the tallest in the world.
Wander through Geneva’s elegant parks, explore the Old Town, or visit one of its world-class museums, such as the Patek Philippe Museum or the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire. It’s also a great spot for shopping or simply enjoying a lakeside coffee with views of Mont Blanc in the distance.
Milan, Italy – Architecture and Aperitivo
For a full-day adventure, cross the border into Italy to discover Milan, about 3 hours’ drive from Chamonix. Known for its striking architecture, high-fashion streets and vibrant food scene, Milan combines culture and style in true Italian fashion.
Marvel at the gothic Duomo di Milano, wander through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and don’t miss the Navigli district — home to the city’s lesser-known but charming network of canals, lined with cafés and aperitivo bars.
Tips for Chamonix Day Trips
A few quick travel tips before you set off on your Chamonix day trip adventures:
Bring your passport. Whether you’re heading through the Mont Blanc Tunnel into Italy or across the border to Switzerland, you’ll need valid ID for all travellers.
Check the currency. Italy uses the euro (€), but Switzerland still uses the Swiss franc (CHF) — so it’s handy to carry a small amount of cash if you plan to stop for lunch or coffee.
Allow for tolls and tunnel fees. If driving to Courmayeur or beyond, note that the Mont Blanc Tunnel is a toll route — you can buy single or return tickets at the booths or online in advance.
Plan around the weather. Conditions can vary dramatically between valleys, so check local forecasts before you travel — sometimes a short drive is all it takes to find sunshine.
With these quick checks done, you’ll be ready to make the most of your Chamonix day trips — whether that’s soaking in Italian spas, exploring lakeside cities, or chasing fresh snow across the border.
