Photo courtesy of Chamonix Tourism
Winter in the French Alps is a dream destination for travelers worldwide. Of course it’s a popular pick for winter sports enthusiasts, but it’s also a bucket-list trip for those who simply appreciate stunning natural beauty and historic mountain culture.
Beyond the ski slopes, French alpine towns have so much to offer. The villages charm with fresh snow on cobblestones, the chalets glow from the light of wood-burning fires, and the mountain views are utterly cinematic.
If you’re seeking an enchanting trip in France, these are some of the best towns in the French Alps for an unforgettable winter holiday.
Chamonix
Arriving in Chamonix, it’s clear to see why this Alpine destination has inspired so many adventurers over the course of history. Set directly beneath Mont Blanc — the highest peak in Western Europe — the inspiring energy in this mountain town reverberates through every ski slope, hiking path, and village street.
Chamonix is a dream for experienced skiers and snowboarders, with access to challenging terrain like the Vallée Blanche, but even non-skiers are drawn here for the atmosphere alone. Chic cafés and alpine boutiques dot the town center while a panoramic cable car and a mountainside train make the stunning mountain views accessible without the need to bundle into snow gear.
In the afternoon, a vibrant après-ski spills out into wine bars and casual brasseries for skiers and non-athletes alike. Meanwhile, cozy chalets with crackling fireplaces and boutique hotels with relaxing spas offer refuge to those seeking a quieter evening.
Aix-les-Bains
For a restorative winter escape, Aix-les-Bains offers a refreshing contrast to the ski-heavy image of the Alps. Located on the shores of Lake Bourget, the largest natural lake in France, this iconic spa town has long been associated with wellness getaways.
Winter here is gentle rather than adrenaline-fueled. Snow-dusted mountains rise behind the town over the serene lake. Visitors come for the historic thermal spas, modern wellness centers, and lakeside promenades that feel especially peaceful in the off-season.
Aix-les-Bains is also well-positioned for day trips to nearby ski resorts in the Bauges and Chartreuse mountains, making it ideal for travelers who want a mix of light winter sports and relaxation.
Courchevel
Winter in Courchevel is nothing short of glamorous. Part of the vast Trois Vallées ski region, Courchevel is a resort town that defines high-end alpine travel. Everything here feels polished, from impeccably groomed slopes to designer boutiques and Michelin-starred restaurants.
Days are spent skiing expansive terrain suitable for all levels, while evenings revolve around fine dining, champagne-fueled après-ski, and luxurious chalets. Courchevel is divided into different villages at varying altitudes, each with its own personality, from the more relaxed Le Praz to the more exclusive Courchevel 1850.
This French Alps destination is ideal for travelers who want world-class skiing paired with indulgence, comfort, and refined service at every level.
Annecy
Often called the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy is enchanting year-round, but winter brings a quieter, more intimate beauty. The medieval Old Town feels especially magical with the winter light shining on its quaint pastel buildings lining the canals. Here, travelers and locals cozy up in the chalet-inspired Savoyard restaurants serving up traditional dishes like fondue, raclette, and tartiflette.
Lake Annecy remains a frequented destination even in the colder months, its turquoise waters framed by snow-capped mountains. While Annecy itself is not a ski town, several major ski areas are within easy reach.
Annecy is perfect for those seeking romance, scenery, and a slower-paced alpine experience for a winter holiday.
Grenoble
Grenoble is often overlooked as a winter destination, but it offers something rare in the Alps: a true city set within dramatic mountain scenery. Known as the “Capital of the Alps,” Grenoble combines urban culture with immediate access to multiple mountain ranges. A ride up the iconic Bastille cable car reveals sweeping views of snow-covered peaks surrounding the city.
In winter, the city becomes a hub for skiers heading to nearby resorts like Chamrousse, Les Sept Laux, and Villard-de-Lans. But Grenoble itself remains lively, with museums, food markets, and a strong local dining scene that feels authentic rather than tourist-driven.
Grenoble is great choice for travelers who want alpine adventures by day and city life by night for a blend of urban culture and nearby mountain access.
Choosing Your Winter Escapade
The beauty of the French Alps lies in their diversity. Chamonix delivers adrenaline and awe, Courchevel offers luxury and scale, Aix-les-Bains soothes with wellness and calm, Annecy charms with storybook beauty, and Grenoble grounds winter travel in urban alpine life. There is truly something for every kind of traveler.