What if the most beautiful adventure of the year awaited you in the heart of the French Alps? Imagine a land where every valley, every lake, every peak tells a millennial story. Welcome to Haute-Savoie, between flowered villages, medieval castles, natural parks and breathtaking panoramas. Here, the Aiguille du Midi grazes the sky, the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval transports hikers to the foot of the snow-capped summits, and the town of Yvoire, perched on the shores of Léman, offers a journey out of time.
Do you dream of cultural walks, high-altitude hikes, Savoyard gastronomy, beaches by the water or alpine resorts lively in winter and summer? This guide takes you to discover the most beautiful sites of the region: Annecy, Chamonix, La Clusaz, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, or even the castle of Menthon-Saint-Bernard… so many jewels not to be missed.
Follow us through the stone alleys, the turquoise canals, the Baroque chapels and the eternal glaciers… Haute-Savoie is waiting for you.
We offer you our selection of the 10 must-see sites to visit in Haute Savoie, as well as a few “bonus” must-see sites, a little less known but just as interesting.
Lake Annecy :
It is truly one of the most essential places in Haute Savoie. This natural site is the second glacial-origin lake in France after Lake Bourget in Savoie. It is situated at 445m altitude and has an area of about 27 km². For cycling enthusiasts, a 33 km bike path called “the Green Way of Lake Annecy,” located on the west bank of the lake, allows you to enjoy a pleasant time near the lake and then discover the city of Annecy.
Annecy and its Old Town :
Of course, a visit to Haute-Savoie involves visiting the old town of Annecy. Wander through the alleys of the old town, perhaps with a visit to the Annecy Castle. Annecy offers several aspects to discover: a medieval aspect with its old town and castle, its alleys and bridges. And a romantic aspect with its famous Pont des Amours which connects the Jardins de l’Europe to the esplanade of the Pâquier, favorite walking spots for residents and visitors alike.
Note that driving and parking in the old town by car has become extremely complicated. Plan to arrive early if you want to find a nearby parking spot (such as the town hall parking or Place de la Tournette).
Best season to visit Annecy and Lake Annecy
- Spring: the best time to cycle around the lake without the crowd. Cherry trees and flowering trees beautify the shores and gardens.
- Summer: swimming, paddleboarding, family beaches, and cruises aboard the green boats. It’s the high season, but also the liveliest.
- Autumn: a calmer atmosphere, blazing colors on the mountains, and golden light perfect for photographers.
- Winter: ideal for a walk by the lake under the morning mist, or to combine a visit to Annecy with skiing in nearby resorts like Le Semnoz.
Chamonix :
The unmissable capital of mountaineering, Chamonix Mont Blanc is a place you must visit. This town of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc comprises sixteen villages or hamlets: le Tour, Montroc, le Planet, Argentière, les Chosalets, le Lavancher, les Tines, les Bois, les Praz de Chamonix, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, les Pècles, les Mouilles, les Barrats, les Pélerins, les Gaillands, les Bossons. Nestled between the mountain ranges of the Aiguilles Rouges and the Mont Blanc, Chamonix shares with Saint-Gervais-les-Bains the record for the highest altitude municipality in France and Western Europe, thanks to the presence of the Mont Blanc summit at 4810m. Chamonix is highly (too) popular with mountaineering enthusiasts and mountain sports lovers in general, which is starting to cause overcrowding issues, notably on the normal route to Mont Blanc.
Best season to visit Chamonix and Mont Blanc
- Winter: world capital of skiing and winter mountaineering, Chamonix buzzes between legendary descents and chic resort atmosphere.
- Summer: access to the Aiguille du Midi, hike to Lac Blanc, paragliding from Plan de l’Aiguille. Spectacular views over the cleared glaciers.
- Autumn: intense colors in the forests, more capricious weather but much fewer people.
- Spring: ideal for ski touring enthusiasts or to observe the persistent snow on the Mont Blanc summit without the summer crowds.
Aiguille du Midi :
Still in the commune of Chamonix, ascending the Aiguille du Midi is an activity not to be missed. The viewpoint at the summit of the needle is absolutely magnificent. From the center of the village of Chamonix, the Aiguille du Midi cable car takes you in 20 minutes to the doors of the High Mountain at 3842 m. At 3777m high (arrival station of the cable car), the Aiguille du Midi and its terraces offer a 360° view over all the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps. Thanks to an elevator, you can reach the summit terrace at 3842m to discover an unparalleled view of Mont Blanc.
But the thrill-seekers will appreciate the new attraction on site, the step into the void. Enter this glass box on 5 sides and find yourself with more than a thousand meters of void beneath your feet. Breath-taking!
Be careful though, the Aiguille du Midi site is extremely busy and we strongly recommend booking in advance: https://www.montblancnaturalresort.com/fr/billetterie. One drawback is the price, which is quite high and not affordable for everyone (Round trip adult: €81 / Round trip child: €68.90 / Family rate: €251.20 for 2 adults + 2 youths & 3rd, 4th and 5th youth of the same family free).
We also advise you to bring warm clothes, even if the weather is fine. It is very common to have negative temperatures at the top of the Aiguille du Midi, even in mid-summer. See the Aiguille du Midi map.
Best season to visit the Aiguille du Midi
- Winter (December to March): the cable car ascent turns into a polar journey. The panoramas over the glaciers, Mont Blanc, and the Vallée Blanche are breathtaking. In clear weather, the atmosphere is magical, but beware of the icy wind at 3,842 m altitude. Unforgettable for thrill-seekers, off-piste skiing fans, or simply lovers of extreme beauty.
- Spring (April to June): an excellent period to avoid the summer crowds while enjoying good visibility. The persistent snow still offers a wintery landscape, but the air becomes milder. Ideal to combine the Aiguille with a walk in Chamonix or a climb to Montenvers.
- Summer (July to September): very busy, but the conditions are the most stable to fully enjoy the panoramic terraces, the Step into the Void, and the connections to Italy via Pointe Helbronner. Best to visit early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the crowd.
- Autumn (October to early November): the most reflective season. Fewer tourists, low-angle lights, and sometimes the first snowfalls. A spectacular interlude before the annual technical closure (usually in November for maintenance).
The Mer de Glace :
Despite the current climate warming, set out to discover the Mer de Glace in the Chamonix Valley. Measuring 7 km in length, 200 m thick, and with a width varying between 700 and 1950 m, the Mer de Glace is the largest French glacier. To explore the heart of the glacier, you can visit the ice cave, which is reshaped every year (the glacier advances about 90 m per year on average). This cave is accessible on foot or by cable car. The Mer de Glace itself is reachable either on foot (about 2 hours uphill), or by the Montenvers train (a small red vintage train that takes you to the Montenvers refuge in 20 minutes via an exceptional walk, ascending through the forest, brushing the surrounding summits before revealing the giant of ice.).
Best season to visit the Mer de Glace
- Winter (December to March): a striking, almost lunar atmosphere. The Montenvers cog railway crosses snow-covered forests to reach a monumental icy scenery, where silence reigns. The ice cave is open, as well as the crystal gallery and the mountaineering museum. Attention: some activities close temporarily during heavy snowfalls.
- Spring (April to June): transitional period, ideal for those wanting to avoid the crowds. The glacier remains clearly visible, conditions are generally stable, and the light is exceptional. Access to the Montenvers refuge becomes possible for those wishing to extend the experience.
- Summer (July to September): high season. All tourist facilities are open, including the ladders and stairs leading down to the cave. The glacier has receded considerably, but the view of the crevasses, seracs, and needles remains impressive. Best early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- Autumn (late September to November): the atmosphere becomes more austere but also more intimate. Fewer visitors, golden tones on the surrounding peaks, and a strong contrast between rock, ice, and forests. Before the annual train closure for maintenance, the place offers a rawer, less developed beauty.
Yvoire :
Overlooking Lake Léman, the fortified medieval village of Yvoire, a former fishing village on the shores of Lake Léman, is now a must-see tourist site. It is also listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. Wander through its alleys alone, with a lover, or with family, and enjoy the shores of Léman.
Best season to visit Yvoire
- Late April to June: ideal period to enjoy the Garden of Five Senses in full bloom and the flowered alleys.
- Summer: very touristy but also very lively: open terraces, outdoor events, boat trips on Léman.
- September: the light on the lake and the calm create a more romantic atmosphere in Yvoire.
- Winter: many shops close, but it’s the perfect moment for a timeless contemplative visit, between mist and silence.
The Garden of Five Senses :
Still on the commune of Yvoire, the Garden of Five Senses is a living artwork, meticulously crafted for over 30 years, inviting discovery of the plant world. The Garden of Five Senses consists of 2 parts, the first half hosting green rooms with various themes: an alpine meadow echoing the surrounding Alps, a shaded woodland decorated with shade plants, a Renaissance-inspired weaving and a hornbeam cloister, a true place of meditation. The lower part forms a labyrinth of four small charming gardens, separated by hedges of hornbeam and espalier apple trees, dedicated respectively to sight, touch, taste, and smell. The 5th sense, hearing, is represented by the murmur of water and the song of birds. The garden is open to visitors every day from mid-April to early October, from 10:00 am to 6:30 pm.
The Rouget Waterfall :
The Rouget Waterfall, nicknamed the “Queen of the Alps,” is a waterfall in the Giffre Valley that flows all year long from the Salles torrent upstream and joins the Giffre des Fonds downstream to form the Petit Giffre in the Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval commune. It consists of 2 drops and plunges from over eighty meters high.
It is very easy to access the Rouget Waterfall by car (it is located 6 km from the village of Sixt, beyond the hamlet of Salvagny). It can also be reached by hiking on a 1h30 round-trip footpath. Altitude: 1000 m. Be cautious near the waterfall; slipping can happen quickly and be very dangerous.
Best season to visit the Rouget Waterfall
- Spring (May to early July): this is the most spectacular period to admire the so-called Queen of the Alps. Thanks to the snowmelt, the waterfall displays its full power. The roar of the water, mist in the air, wet rock walls… the experience is raw, intense, wild.
- Summer (July – August): accessible by car, the waterfall attracts many visitors, especially on beautiful sunny days. Prefer a visit during weekdays or early morning to enjoy the freshness and calm. The site is also a great starting point for hikes to the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval.
- Autumn (September – October): the atmosphere changes: the waterfall remains active but gentler. The fiery foliage of the surrounding forests adds a magical touch. A perfect moment for photographers or those seeking serenity.
- Winter: the road is often closed, but the most adventurous can reach the waterfall on snowshoes or ski touring. The fall may be partially frozen, creating a magical natural sculpture… provided you are well equipped!
The Fier Gorges :
The Fier Gorges are a remarkable natural curiosity in Haute-Savoie: a very narrow and deep gorge that can be visited thanks to a footbridge attached to the rock face, suspended 25m above the river, built in 1869 by the Annecy architect Marius Vallin and classified since 1943. This footbridge allows visitors to penetrate inside a gigantic canyon at the bottom of which flows the Fier river, where you can admire clusters of rock blocks in all sorts of shapes, as well as countless Giant’s Cauldrons carved by the river over millennia. The gorges are open from March 15 to October 15.
The Diosaz Gorges :
A curiosity of the Chamonix valley, the suspended path of the Diosaz Gorges offers, in a wild and natural setting, a grandiose and unusual spectacle. This developed gorge is one of the must-see visits in the Mont-Blanc region and is said to be one of the most beautiful in France! A trail of moderate difficulty, shaded, well equipped, solidly anchored, sometimes hanging on steep walls or crossing the torrent on pleasant footbridges, allows you to admire the erosive work of the Diosaz, contemplate the majesty of a nature in its raw state and thrill in front of foaming cascades.
Best season to visit the Diosaz Gorges
- June to September: the gorge is only accessible during the summer season. The developed trail allows you to follow the waterfalls on foot in a cool and spectacular environment.
- July-August: maximum waterfall flow, ideal after a storm or a period of melting. Plan to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- Late September: last chance to visit before the annual closure, with a wilder and more peaceful atmosphere.
- Closed in winter and spring: access impossible for safety reasons.
The Merlet Animal Park :
In the Chamonix Mont-Blanc valley, the Merlet animal park allows you to observe mountain animals living in their natural environment. Ibexes, chamois, marmots, deer… inhabit this 21-hectare area between meadows, rocks, and spruce forests. Two routes are offered to visitors, an easy one (about 1 hour), and a more strenuous one (about 2 to 3 hours minimum). Be aware, the Merlet park parking lots are located 300 to 1000m below the park, so you will have to walk to reach the park entrance. Avoid the very busy periods (especially August).
To these must-see places, we can also add other visits which are also of great interest:
The Cirque du Fer à Cheval in Sixt :
A few kilometers from the village of Sixt, this cirque will allow you to walk in a magnificent setting, surrounded by steep mountains and waterfalls. On the way back, a stop in the village of Samoëns is a must, for a little refreshment on the lime tree square.
Best season to visit the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval
- May to July: the waterfalls are at their peak thanks to snowmelt. The contrast between cliffs, greenery, and residual snow is striking.
- August: ideal conditions for hiking to the refuges, but more visitors.
- Late September: explosion of colors on limestone walls, peaceful and still accessible atmosphere.
- Winter: site closed to hiking, but accessible on snowshoes from Sixt, for a grand and silent atmosphere. Beware of significant avalanche risks in this sector during winter.
Lake Léman :
It is the largest lake in Europe! Along its shores, between France and Switzerland, typical towns and villages and beautiful beaches follow one another. Yvoire of course, but also Thonon-les-Bains or Evian are to be discovered. You can also make a getaway to our Swiss neighbors, by visiting Geneva, but especially, departing from Yvoire, take the boat on Lake Léman heading to Nyon. Or even visit Lausanne or Montreux departing from Thonon and Evian. Preferably on a sunny day to get a magnificent view of the Alps.
Best season to visit Lake Léman and its spa towns
- Summer: swimming, cruises, water activities in Thonon, Évian or Sciez. The cultural calendar is very rich.
- Spring: the Évian and Thonon thermal baths are less crowded, nature is reborn around the lake.
- Autumn: hushed atmosphere, calm lakes, romantic landscapes. Ideal for a thermal stay or a cozy weekend.
- Winter: perfect for a wellness break, Christmas markets and classical concerts in Belle Époque settings.
Abondance Valley :
Nestled in the heart of Haute-Savoie, the Abondance Valley, with its bucolic and authentic atmosphere, is an Alpine gem, famous for its grand landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and mountain traditions. Located just steps from the Swiss border, this valley offers a unique experience for nature lovers, sports enthusiasts, and cultural discovery seekers. Slightly less frequented than other valleys in the department, it is well worth a detour for a visit ranging from a few hours to several days.
Best season to visit the Abondance Valley
- Spring: meadows awaken, herds descend to the valley, pastoral and peaceful atmosphere.
- Summer: alpine festivals, hiking to high-altitude lakes, tasting farm cheeses in the heart of the mountains.
- Autumn: beautiful light on villages and forests, ideal time for photography and contemplation.
- Winter: family ski resorts open, Christmas traditions and markets in the villages.
The Aravis range:
From the La Clusaz ski resort. At the foot of the magnificent Aravis range, the village of Clusaz delights all its visitors, whether in summer with many possible hikes, but also in winter thanks to a varied ski area. And above all an undeniable asset, it is the country of Reblochon!
Best season to visit the Aravis Massif
- December to March: snowy resorts, chalet atmosphere, alpine and Nordic skiing, sledding, Savoyard specialties by the fire.
- June to September: walks between alpine chalets, paragliding, cows in the meadows… the massif becomes a living postcard.
- Autumn: tranquility and orange hues on the reliefs. Ideal for those seeking calm and authenticity.
- Spring: not recommended for high-altitude hikes due to unstable snow, but perfect for the valleys.
The village of Combloux :
This village probably offers one of the most beautiful panoramas of the Mont-Blanc massif. Not to be missed in good weather!
Practical information
Places to visit by season
Each season transforms Haute-Savoie into a completely different setting. Shimmering lakes in summer, fiery forests in autumn, frosted peaks in winter, or flowery meadows in spring… To fully enjoy your stay, here are the best times to discover each place according to its natural features, attendance, and available activities.
| Place | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Annecy | Bike rides, bloom on the shores | Swimming, cruises, summer events | Autumn colors around the lake | Misty walks, combine with skiing |
| Chamonix & Aiguille du Midi | Clear views, few people | Ascension, hiking, panoramic views of Mont Blanc | Fewer people, beautiful lights | Skiing, frosted panoramas |
| Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval | Start of waterfalls, still wild | Waterfalls at full flow, open hikes | Fiery foliage, calm | Snowshoes if open, grand atmosphere |
| Yvoire | Flowered alleys, Garden of Five Senses | Very touristy but lively | Romantic atmosphere, golden light | Very quiet, shops often closed |
| Mer de Glace | Visits with few crowds, glacier still covered | Full access to glacier and ice cave | Rock/ice contrast, rougher atmosphere | Glacial scenery, panoramic train |
Travel times to places from major cities
| Place | From Geneva | From Lyon | From Paris |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annecy | 45 min (car/train) | 2h (direct train) | 3h45 (TGV) |
| Chamonix | 1h20 (train via St-Gervais) | 3h (train via Bellegarde) | 6h (TGV + TER) |
| Yvoire | 1h (car, possible boat) | 2h30 (car) | 5h30 (TGV + car) |
| Évian | 1h15 (train + bus) | 3h (train via Thonon) | 5h45 (TGV + bus) |
| Fer-à-Cheval | 1h30 (car) | 3h15 (car) | 6h (TGV + car) |
| La Clusaz | 1h (car) | 2h15 (car) | 5h (TGV + car) |
Which place for which visitor profile?
Whether you travel as a couple, with family, looking for landscapes to photograph or trails to explore, Haute-Savoie has something to satisfy every desire. Here is a selection of iconic places, classified according to the type of experience you seek. Ideal for choosing the right place, at the right time, for the right person.
| Place | Couples | Families | Photographers | Hikers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annecy | Romantic walk, old town | Water activities, beaches | Reflections, sunrises/ sunsets | Lake cycling tour |
| Chamonix | Panoramic views, adventure | Cable car + museum | Alpine panoramas | Access to alpine hiking starts |
| Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval | Peaceful hiking | Easy hike + waterfall | Waterfall & limestone walls | Many trails from the site |
| Yvoire | Garden, lakeside dinner | Fun discovery | Flowers & architecture | Walk along Léman |
| Mer de Glace | Intense experience for two | Train, ice cave | Glacier, high mountain | Hike to Plan de l’Aiguille refuge |
| Lake Montriond | Quiet and nature spot | Picnic, swimming | Forest, autumn reflections | Trail around the lake |
Visiting Haute-Savoie without a car: 4 itineraries for a gentle and grand immersion
No need for a steering wheel to marvel in Haute-Savoie. Thanks to its networks of trains, buses, boats, and numerous cycle paths, this Alpine territory is perfectly suited for a car-free stay, more ecological and often more peaceful. Whether you are a fan of slow tourism, a curious traveler, or a visitor arriving by train, here are 4 ideas for immersive itineraries to experience without a car, in complete freedom.
Itinerary 1: Annecy – Menthon-Saint-Bernard – Talloires – Doussard (by bike + boat)
Transport mode: bike (greenway) + cruise boat
Ideal duration: 1 day or 2 days with overnight stay
Ideal for: couples, families, photographers
From Annecy, hop on your bike and follow the lake greenway. You will travel along the east bank, offering exceptional views of the lake, the mountains, and typical villas. First stop at Menthon-Saint-Bernard, dominated by its medieval castle that looks like it came out of a fairy tale. Continue to Talloires, an enchanting village with flowered alleys and a peaceful beach.
For the return, let yourself be carried by the Navibus boats that connect the villages to Annecy: a magical end of day on the water, with peaks tinted pink by the setting sun.
Itinerary 2: Chamonix – Montenvers – Mer de Glace – Plan de l’Aiguille (train + cable car)
Transport mode: cog railway + cable car
Duration: 1 day
Ideal for: nature lovers, glacier fans, and spectacular panoramas
From the Chamonix station, board the Montenvers cog railway, a historic gem that snakes through the forests to reach the Mer de Glace. On site, explore the carved glacier cave, the crystal museum, and take time to admire the scenery from the panoramic terrace.
Want to extend the magic? Reach the Plan de l’Aiguille on foot or by cable car for a break facing the Mont Blanc Massif. Return by the Aiguille du Midi cable car to Chamonix.
Itinerary 3: Thonon – Yvoire – Évian-les-Bains (Léman Express train + bus + boat)
Transport mode: train + bus + boat
Duration: 1 to 2 days
Ideal for: heritage lovers, flower enthusiasts, and lake lovers
Take the Léman Express to Thonon-les-Bains, a spa town overlooking Lake Léman. From there, a regular bus takes you to the medieval village of Yvoire, listed among the most beautiful villages of France. Flowered alleys, the Garden of Five Senses, lakeside restaurants… The atmosphere is magical.
End the day with a cruise on Léman to Évian, an elegant spa town, to enjoy the thermal baths, the beautiful Belle Époque hotels, and a sunset from the quays.
Itinerary 4: Car-free alpine pastures circuit around Abondance (itinerant hiking + shuttles)
Transport mode: walking + valley shuttles
Duration: 2 to 4 days
Ideal for: hikers, slow tourism families, cheese lovers
Reach Abondance by bus from Thonon, and set off on foot to discover this valley rich in traditions. You will pass through Baroque chapels, mountain villages, alpine cheese dairies where the famous farmhouse Reblochon is made. Local shuttles allow you to reach the villages of Châtel, La Chapelle-d’Abondance or even Lac des Plagnes.
An ideal way to discover Savoyard rural heritage on foot, while staying in a hostel, chalet, or farmhouse B&B.
Why choose a car-free stay in Haute-Savoie?
- Accessibility: Annecy, Thonon, Évian or Chamonix are accessible by direct train from Lyon, Paris, or Geneva.
- Ecology & tranquility: no driving stress, no need to look for parking, less CO₂.
- Total immersion: the journeys themselves become experiences (boats, scenic trains, hikes).
- Support for the local economy: by favoring regional accommodations and transports.
Explore Haute-Savoie, a never-ending journey
Spectacular mountains, villages with intact charm, crystalline lakes, living traditions: Haute-Savoie reveals itself to those who take the time to roam it, season after season, valley after valley. Whether you are a fan of vertiginous hikes, a photographer seeking the perfect light, a gourmet in search of alpine cheeses, or a history-loving wanderer, here you will find much more than landscapes: a land of character, sensations, and emotions.
And if these few places are not enough to tell it all, they open the first door to many other treasures to discover. Keep the adventure going, through the seasons, at your own pace, and let Haute-Savoie surprise you, again and again. We will regularly offer you new places to visit as we explore.
To read: Visit Haute-Savoie in 7 days
Some photos of must-see places in Haute-Savoie
Last updated: 07/07/2025
