11 Free (& Cheap!) Things to Do in Chamonix
It’s no secret that the little mountain town of Chamonix is packed full of things to do,
But, it might be more of a secret that there are actually some free and cheap things that you can do in Chamonix. The French Alps, and the Alps as a whole, are renowned for being an expensive destination to visit, so you’ll be pleased to find there are many things that you can do for free (or cheaply) in Chamonix.
Thanks to the town’s gorgeous natural setting among the French Alps, the town and the surrounding areas lend themselves to long walks or hikes in nature.
The town is mainly known as one of the best ski resorts in France. However, there are tons of things to do in Chamonix that aren’t skiing, and a surprising number of them are free.
We visited in January 2025, so peak winter season in Chamonix, and we absolutely loved it, and surprisingly didn’t spend too much! We’re suckers for a mountain town, especially when it’s surrounded by incredible mountain peaks and white snow. We’re here to share with you, exactly how you can visit
If you’re wondering how to get to Chamonix, we’ve put all of the information that you need in this post, or if you’re travelling directly from Geneva, discover the best routes here.
Let’s dive into the top 11 free and cheap things to do in Chamonix.
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The top free & cheap things to do in Chamonix, France
1. Explore Parc de Merlet (cheap)
One of the best things to do in Chamonix for free is hike, and Parc de Merlet is one of the best spots, especially in the summer. Located high above the Chamonix Valley, it offers breathtaking views and tons of wildlife.
The park is only open during certain times of the year and requires a reservation, which costs €9.00 and €6.00 for a child.
2025’s opening times are as follows:
The park will be open from Thursday, 1st May 2025, to Tuesday, 30th September 2025, and reservations are required.
- May, June, and September: Open daily (except Mondays) from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Special holiday openings: - Thursday, 1st May (Labour Day)
- Thursday, 8th May (Victory Day)
- Thursday, 9th May (Ascension Day)
- Monday, 20th May (Whit Monday)
- July and August: Open every day from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
You can book your entry tickets here.
2. Take a walk in Bois du Bouchet (free)
Just a short stroll from Chamonix town is Bois du Bouchet. This gorgeous spot weaves along the river, perfect for an afternoon stroll, especially in the winter—it’s like a true winter wonderland.
Perfect for all ages and fitness levels, you can walk for as long (or as short) as you like. There’s also an epic little spot where you can go sledging.
3. Explore Chamonix town (free)
One of the best things to do in Chamonix (in our opinion) is to explore the little town of Chamonix.
The alpine town is full of independent shops, restaurants, coffee shops, and bars, and it’s perfect for strolling around. Surrounded by the mountains, it’s really gorgeous. We recommend spending at least half a day here just walking around the town and soaking up the alpine atmosphere.
Don’t miss the Arve River running through the centre of town. The water runs down from the glaciers of Mont Blanc, and on a sunny day, backed by mountains, the views are INCREDIBLE!
4. Hike the Lac des Gaillands Trail (free)
Just a short walk from the centre of Chamonix is the Lac des Gaillands trail. The circular route will take you through beautiful woodlands and around a peaceful lake with beautiful views of Mont Blanc along the way.
If you’re visiting Chamonix in the summer (or winter if you’re feeling brave), pack a picnic and spend the day taking in the fresh mountain air and views.
5. Discover Les Houches Village (cheap)
The cute alpine town of Les Houches Village is just a short 30-minute train journey (costing €1.50), or a quick 12-minute drive if you have hired a car.
The town is undeniably quieter than Chamonix, but it is no less beautiful. Spend your time here hiking and wandering around Les Houches Village.
6. Visit the Chamonix Alpine Museum (Free on the First Sunday of the month)
Unfortunately, the Chamonix Alpine Museum is currently closed for renovation. It is due to be open again this year (2025).
The Chamonix Alpine Museum offers a fascinating insight into the region’s history, from its early mountaineering expeditions to the development of winter sports and tourism. Housed in a 19th-century palace, the museum showcases antique equipment, vintage posters, and artefacts that tell the story of life in the Alps.
The usual entrance fee is:
- Standard ticket: €6 for adults
- Reduced ticket: €4.70 for reduced admission
- Free admission: For visitors under 18
The Chamonix Alpine Museum is open year-round between 10 am and 12 pm and from 2 pm to 6 pm.
7. Walk Along the Arve River (free)
Whether you visit Chamonix in summer or winter, walking along the Arve River is always a good idea. It’s an easy walk that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the town of Chamonix. The trail follows the river, passing through wooded areas and scenic bridges. It’s an easy walk, making it perfect for everyone.
In the summer, the trees and nature will be lush and green, whilst the mountains will be covered in snow in the winter, turning it into a winter wonderland. Best of all, it’s free!
8. Grab an Après-ski (cheap)
You don’t have to ski to be able to have an Apres Ski. In case you’re wondering, ‘What is an Après Ski?’ An Après Ski is a drink that is had after skiing. Typically, people gather after a day on the slopes to have a drink or two (or more…) at one of the many bars in town or along the way down the mountain.
Luckily, Chamonix is packed with fantastic spots to enjoy a few drinks (or some cheese, like we did). We visited the beautiful Rose du Pont for some cheese and wine, which is as beautiful inside as it is out.
9. Treat yourself to a Galette (cheap)
Chamonix is a town found in the French Alps, and what’s more French than a Galette or a crepe? A galette is a type of flat, round buckwheat French pancake. There are plenty of cafes and creperies dotted around Chamonix, so you’ll be spoilt for choice.
We enjoyed a lovely mushroom and Raclette Galette and a goat’s cheese, honey and vegetable one both from Restaurant la Ferme.
Both were *chef’s kiss*.
10. Check out the Saturday morning market in Chamonix town (free)
The market runs every Saturday morning from 8 am until 12 pm all year round. The market sells a mixture of food and other items, including clothes, traditional crafts, flowers and household goods. The food vendors offer everything from fruit and vegetables to cheese, bread, honey, fish and cured meats.
11. Ride the Chamonix Luge Alpine Coaster (cheap)
This was on our list to do when we were in Chamonix, and we completely forgot – we were so disappointed as it looks like so much fun and it’s really well priced. The Luge Alpine Coaster is open all year round, except November-mid-December, and is the perfect activity for every age.
It is a 1300m-long track with jumps, turns and 540° twists. You can either opt to go down it by yourself or in pairs (making it essentially half-price).
To visit, head to the Les Planards ski area and the Chamonix Amusement Park. There are tons of other things that you can also do here, so if you have time, make a day of it!
The Luge Alpine Coaster costs the following:
1 or 2 persons in the same luge –
1 ride: €9.00
6 rides ( 5 + 1 free): €45.00
10 rides (8 + 2 free): €72
To get here, it’s just a short walk from Chamonix town centre, taking approximately a 15-minutes. You can then decide if you just want to go on the Chamonix Luge Alpine Coaster or if you want to go on some of the other rides that Chamonix Amusement Park offers!
If you are open to spending a bit on some activities whilst you’re in Chamonix, then here are some other things to do in Chamonix:
Final thoughts on free & cheap things to Chamonix, France
As you can see, there are plenty of incredible things to do in Chamonix for free. From gorgeous hikes along the Lac des Gaillands to riding the Chamonix Luge Alpine Coaster, you can fill your Chamonix itinerary without splurging too much!
Whilst you can certainly visit Chamonix on a small budget, we do recommend spending a little on a few iconic activities, such as relaxing in QC Terme Chamonix and taking the cable car up to Aiguille du Midi to witness the incredible views over the Alps. We’ve put together our top 21 things to do in Chamonix here.
But you can certainly have an incredible trip without blowing your budget.
Wondering where to stay in Chamonix? Read our review of Hotel les Aiglons, a gorgeous 4-star hotel that starts at £100 per night or my full guide on spots to stay in Chamonix, for every budget!
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) on the best free and cheap things to do in Chamonix
No, Chamonix isn’t a cheap destination. The average meal costs around €25-30, and on average, a hotel costs approximately $165 per night, with peak season rates around $308. But, as mentioned in this post, there are plenty of free and cheap activities to keep you entertained whilst here.
Yes, most buses in Chamonix are free with a valid guest card or lift pass. You can get a guest card or a “carte d’hôte” from your hotel or chalet; this is issued by the Chamonix City Hall and covers the trains and buses in Chamonix.
Yes! There is so much to see and do in Chamonix besides skiing. Neither of us ski’s and we still didn’t have enough time to see and do everything that we wanted to.
A perfect day in Chamonix starts with a walk along the Arve River, followed by a ride up the Aiguille du Midi cable car for incredible views of Mont Blanc and the mountain range. Explore the Mer de Glace glacier or hike Le Petit Balcon and take in the scenery. In the afternoon, visit Chamonix’s alpine museum (free with the guest card) or stroll through the charming town centre. End the day watching the sunset from Parc de Merlet or enjoy an après-ski at a local bar. Many trails and viewpoints are free, making it easy to enjoy Chamonix on a budget!
