Chambery Itinerary 14 Days: Alpine Charm & Savoyard Splendor (2026)

Arrive in Chambery, check into your hotel, and get ready to explore the charming old town (Vieux Chambéry). Spend the afternoon wandering through the labyrinthine alleyways, admiring the colorful facades and hidden courtyards. Discover the Place Saint-Léger, the heart of the old town, with its lively cafes and shops. Don't miss the famous Fontaine des Éléphants, a tribute to Benoît de Boigne, a local adventurer who made his fortune in India. As evening approaches, treat yourself to a traditional Savoyard dinner at a local restaurant. We recommend Le Bistrot for its authentic atmosphere and delicious fondue. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of the old town, soaking in the magical ambiance of this historic city.

Today, delve into the history of the House of Savoy with a visit to the Château des Ducs de Savoie. This impressive castle, which now houses the prefecture and the department council, has a rich history dating back to the 11th century. Take a guided tour to discover the Sainte-Chapelle, which once housed the Shroud of Turin, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the castle grounds. In the afternoon, visit the Cathédrale Saint-François-de-Sales, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The cathedral is home to the largest collection of trompe-l'oeil paintings in Europe. Take your time to admire the intricate details of the paintings and the beautiful stained-glass windows. For dinner, try La Maniguette, a cozy restaurant known for its creative and refined cuisine.

Experience the local life at Les Halles, Chambery's covered market. Open every morning except Monday, the market is a feast for the senses. Browse the stalls overflowing with fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and other regional specialties. Grab a coffee and a croissant at one of the market cafes and soak in the bustling atmosphere. This is the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs or ingredients for a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in art at the Musée des Beaux-Arts. The museum houses a remarkable collection of Italian paintings from the 14th to the 18th centuries, as well as works by French and Savoyard artists. The collection is particularly strong in works from the Sienese School. For a casual dinner, head to L'Atelier, a popular spot for delicious burgers and craft beers.

Today, take a day trip to Lake Bourget, the largest natural lake in France. Just a short bus or train ride from Chambery, the lake offers stunning scenery and a variety of recreational activities. Take a boat trip on the lake to admire the views of the surrounding mountains and the impressive Hautecombe Abbey, a burial place for the House of Savoy. You can also go for a swim, rent a paddleboard, or simply relax on one of the many beaches. In the afternoon, explore the charming spa town of Aix-les-Bains, located on the shores of the lake. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, visit the Roman ruins, and try your luck at the casino. For dinner, enjoy a meal with a view at one of the many lakeside restaurants. We recommend Le Skiff for its delicious seafood and stunning sunsets.

Escape to the mountains today with a hiking trip in the Massif des Bauges Regional Nature Park. This protected area, a UNESCO Global Geopark, offers a wide range of trails for all fitness levels. Choose a trail that suits you and enjoy the stunning alpine scenery, with its lush forests, rolling meadows, and rugged peaks. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as chamois and marmots. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery. After your hike, reward yourself with a refreshing drink at a mountain refuge. For dinner back in Chambery, try Le St-Real, a restaurant that offers a modern take on traditional Savoyard cuisine.

Today, explore the mystical Chartreuse Regional Nature Park, home to the famous Grande Chartreuse Monastery. The park is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, deep gorges, and dense forests. Take a scenic drive through the park, stopping at viewpoints to admire the breathtaking landscapes. You can also visit the Musée de la Grande Chartreuse to learn about the history of the Carthusian order and their secret liqueur recipe. While the monastery itself is not open to the public, you can hike to a viewpoint for a glimpse of this secluded spiritual retreat. In the afternoon, enjoy a tasting of the famous Chartreuse liqueur at one of the local distilleries. For dinner, return to Chambery and try Le K'Ozzie, a restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and a menu that changes with the seasons.

Discover the wines of the Savoy region with a day trip to the Combe de Savoie, the heart of the local wine production. This sunny valley is home to numerous vineyards producing a variety of white, red, and rosé wines. Visit a few wineries for tastings and learn about the unique grape varietals of the region, such as Jacquère, Altesse, and Mondeuse. Many wineries offer guided tours of their vineyards and cellars. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a winery restaurant, pairing local wines with regional specialties. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive through the vineyards, stopping at charming villages along the way. For dinner back in Chambery, try Le Liberty, a restaurant with a creative menu and an extensive wine list.

After a busy week of exploring, take a more relaxed day in Chambery. Start your morning with a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe. Then, indulge in some retail therapy. The Rue de Boigne is the main shopping street, with a mix of high-street brands and independent boutiques. For unique souvenirs and local crafts, explore the shops in the old town. In the afternoon, relax in the Parc du Verney, a beautiful park with a lake, a playground, and plenty of green space. You can also visit the Musée des Charmettes, the former home of the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau. For dinner, try something different at L'Emulsion, a modern restaurant with an innovative menu.

Take a day trip to the beautiful city of Annecy, often called the "Venice of the Alps." Just a short train ride from Chambery, Annecy is famous for its picturesque canals, its stunning lake, and its charming old town. Spend the morning exploring the Vieille Ville (Old Town), with its pastel-colored houses, flower-decked bridges, and lively market. In the afternoon, take a boat trip on Lake Annecy, one of the purest lakes in Europe. Admire the views of the surrounding mountains and the fairytale-like Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard. You can also go for a swim, rent a bike to cycle around the lake, or simply relax on one of the many beaches. For dinner, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in the old town before heading back to Chambery.

For a day of adventure and breathtaking views, head to Mont Revard. This mountain, which overlooks Lake Bourget, offers a wide range of activities in both summer and winter. In the summer, you can go hiking, mountain biking, or paragliding. In the winter, it's a popular spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Take the cable car from Aix-les-Bains to the summit of Mont Revard for stunning panoramic views of the Alps, including Mont Blanc on a clear day. There are several restaurants at the summit where you can enjoy a meal with a view. For dinner back in Chambery, try Le 9, a restaurant with a modern and elegant setting.

Spend another day exploring the hidden corners of Vieux Chambéry. This time, focus on the traboules, the hidden passageways that connect the streets and courtyards of the old town. These secret passages were once used by merchants and artisans to transport their goods. Follow the signs to discover these fascinating architectural features. In the afternoon, visit the Musée Savoisien, which tells the story of the Savoy region from prehistory to the present day. The museum has a rich collection of artifacts, including tools, costumes, and works of art. For dinner, try a different Savoyard specialty at Le Savoyard, a restaurant known for its delicious raclette.

Immerse yourself in art and culture today. Start your morning with a visit to the Espace Malraux, Chambery's cultural center. The center hosts a variety of exhibitions, concerts, and performances throughout the year. Check the schedule to see what's on during your visit. In the afternoon, explore the city's street art scene. Chambery has a growing number of murals and other public art installations. Take a walk around the city to discover these colorful and creative works. For dinner, try L'Essentiel, a restaurant that offers a refined and contemporary dining experience.

Spend your last full day in Chambery indulging in the local cuisine. Take a cooking class to learn how to make your own Savoyard specialties, such as tartiflette or diots au vin blanc. Or, go on a food tour to discover the best local producers and artisans. In the afternoon, visit a fromagerie to taste a variety of local cheeses. You can also visit a chocolaterie to sample some of the delicious handmade chocolates. For your farewell dinner, treat yourself to a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant. We recommend Les Explorateurs, which offers a creative and innovative menu.

Enjoy a final breakfast in Chambery and do some last-minute souvenir shopping. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a final stroll through the old town. Then, head to the airport or train station for your departure, taking with you unforgettable memories of your time in the heart of the French Alps.