Despite its essentially mountainous character, Haute-Savoie is a magnificent region, nestled in the heart of the French Alps, which has large cities, but also very beautiful small villages to discover. Below you will find a brief presentation of some of the main emblematic cities, which will delight lovers of nature, history, and culture. On the pages of each city, you will also find all practical information if you wish to visit them during your next holidays.
Annecy

Nicknamed “The Venice of the Alps,” Annecy is famous for its crystal-clear lake and picturesque canals. The historic center is a jewel of medieval architecture, with the Palais de l’Isle and the Château d’Annecy attracting visitors from around the world.
Annemasse

Located on the Swiss border, Annemasse is a strategic crossroads between France and Geneva. Modern and dynamic, the city offers a pleasant living environment with many parks, as well as an ideal proximity to the Lake Geneva basin.
Bonneville

Bonneville, at the foot of the mountains, is a town with a rich historical past. The Château de Bonneville and the banks of the Arve offer pleasant walking areas. It also serves as a starting point for hiking enthusiasts heading towards the Alps.
Chamonix

An internationally renowned resort, Chamonix is a paradise for mountain sports lovers. The town, nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, offers unmatched access to ski slopes in winter and hiking trails in summer.
Cluses

Cluses is an industrial city renowned for its watchmaking expertise. Surrounded by mountains, it offers superb panoramas and outdoor activities, while remaining an important economic center in the Arve valley.
Évian-les-Bains

Famous for its mineral waters, Évian-les-Bains is an elegant spa town located on the shores of Lake Geneva. Its idyllic setting and thermal baths make it a popular destination for relaxation and well-being.
Gaillard

Gaillard, on the Swiss border, stands out for its proximity to Geneva and its peaceful residential atmosphere. The city benefits from an ideal location to explore both the Geneva region and the natural beauties of Haute-Savoie.
La Roche-sur-Foron

A medieval town with intact charm, La Roche-sur-Foron is known for its architectural heritage, with remains such as the Château de l’Échelle. The city also hosts numerous cultural events and exhibitions, making it a regional attraction center.
Megève

A prestigious ski resort, Megève is synonymous with luxury and Alpine charm. Its wooden chalets, elegant boutiques, and authentic atmosphere attract an international clientele. In both summer and winter, the town is a must-visit destination for high-end tourism.
Passy

Passy, located at the foot of Mont Blanc, is a true haven for nature lovers. Between lake and mountain, the town offers a variety of landscapes conducive to hiking and outdoor activities, while providing spectacular views of the Alps.
Rumilly

A human-sized town, Rumilly charms with its authenticity and dynamism. Situated in the Alban basin, it is surrounded by green landscapes and serves as an ideal gateway to discover the Savoy countryside and its natural riches.
Saint-Julien-en-Genevois

Just a few kilometers from Geneva, Saint-Julien-en-Genevois is a town with a gentle cross-border atmosphere. It combines modernity and tradition with its local markets and rich cultural life, while offering proximity to Swiss dynamism.
Sallanches

Sallanches, a town at the foot of Mont Blanc, is a real balcony overlooking the Aravis range and the Mont Blanc massif. Its exceptional natural setting makes it a popular destination for mountain lovers, with a rich network of hiking trails and outdoor activities all year round.
Thônes

Nestled between the Aravis massif and Lake Annecy, Thônes is a charming small town with an authentic mountain character. Known as the capital of reblochon cheese, it delights lovers of gastronomy and local traditions. With its breathtaking Alpine landscapes, Thônes is also an ideal starting point for hikes and outdoor activities, while offering a rich historical heritage with monuments such as the Saint-Maurice church and its many picturesque bridges and alleys.
Thonon-les-Bains

On the shores of Lake Geneva, Thonon-les-Bains is a charming spa town. Known for its marina, beaches, and thermal baths, it is a privileged place to enjoy nature while rejuvenating in a peaceful and enchanting setting.
These cities, each unique, reflect the diversity and richness of Haute-Savoie. They combine preserved nature, history, and modernity, offering visitors a multitude of experiences to discover. Whether you are passionate about culture, sports, or simply seeking relaxation, Haute-Savoie always has a place to discover.
Article mis à jour le 10 March 2026