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There are great many things to do in France, and so are in Chambery.
From savoring the city’s delicacies to wandering through its charming streets, Chambery is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered.
Like a palette of vibrant colors waiting to be painted, Chambery beckons you to come and explore its many hues.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Chambery:
1. Château des Ducs de Savoie
A historic castle located in the city of Chambery in southeastern France.
What to see or do: Explore the castle’s impressive architecture and learn about its rich history. Visit the museum inside to see exhibits on the city’s past and the castle’s role in it.
Take in the stunning views of the surrounding city from the castle’s towers.
Don’t miss: The chance to see the famous Elephant fountain located just outside the castle. This striking landmark features a statue of an elephant balancing a globe on its back.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are lots of stairs to climb within the castle. Plan your visit on a sunny day to fully appreciate the beautiful views from the castle.
Consider taking a guided tour to learn even more about the castle’s fascinating history.
2. Fontaine des Elephants
A beautiful fountain monument located in the heart of Chambery, France.
What to see or do: Marvel at the intricately carved elephants that adorn the fountain, which was built in 1838. Take in the stunning architecture of the surrounding buildings, including the Chateau des Ducs de Savoie.
Don’t miss: Catch the hourly water display, where water shoots out of the trunks of the elephants and surrounds the fountain in a misty haze.
Insider travel tips: For the best view of the fountain, head to the terrace of the nearby Cafe de la Fontaine. Also, be sure to visit in the evening when the fountain is illuminated, creating a magical ambiance.
3. Cathédrale Saint-Francois de Sales
Cathedral Saint-Francois de Sales is a historic church located in the heart of Chambery, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive facade and ornate interior of the cathedral, including intricate stained glass windows and beautiful artwork.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the peacefulness and spirituality that radiates throughout this sacred space.
Insider travel tips: For an even more memorable visit, attend one of the cathedral’s musical performances or Sunday services. Additionally, be respectful of the church’s dress code and remember to silence your phone while inside.
4. Musée des Beaux-Arts
The Musée des Beaux-Arts is an art museum located in the heart of Chambery, France.
What to see or do: The museum features an extensive collection of European art from the 15th to the 20th century, with works by famous artists such as Rubens, Canaletto, and Monet.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Baroque paintings and sculptures, as well as the impressive collection of French paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Insider travel tips: Visit the museum early in the morning or during the week to avoid large crowds. In the summer, take a break from the museum and relax in the nearby Jardin du Verney park.
5. Halle de marché
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: Go early in the morning to see the market come to life and avoid crowds. Bring cash as some vendors may not accept cards.
Take a break at one of the nearby cafes for a coffee or pastry.
6. Éléphants Fontaine
A unique public fountain in Chambery, France that features carved elephant sculptures.
What to see or do: Admire the intricate details of the elephant sculptures and watch as water spouts from their trunks into a large pool.
Don’t miss: The chance to take a memorable photo with the elephants as your backdrop.
Insider travel tips: Visit the Éléphants Fontaine early in the day when there are fewer tourists and more opportunities for great photos. The fountain is also beautifully lit up at night, so it’s worth a visit after dark too.
7. L’Allure en Tête Escape Game
L’Allure en Tête is an escape game situated in the heart of Chambery, France.
It is an adventure game where teams of players solve puzzles, riddles, and clues to escape the room within a set time limit.
What to see or do: Teams of 2 to 6 players are locked in a specially crafted and decorated room. They have 60 minutes to decipher the clues and solve the puzzles in the room to escape.
The room has different themes to choose from, including The Treasure of the Pirate, The Apocalypse, and The Murderer’s Mansion.
Don’t miss: The puzzles and clues are designed to challenge all ages and skill levels. The immersive experience provided by the room decor and sound enhances the game’s thrill and excitement.
Insider travel tips: Booking in advance is recommended. The game is suitable for families, friends, or team building activities.
It is accessible by public transportation, and there are nearby restaurants and cafes to celebrate after successful escapes.
8. Casino Grand Cercle
Casino Grand Cercle is a historic casino located in the heart of Chambery, France. It was built in the 1800s and has been beautifully maintained with elegant decor and a luxurious atmosphere.
What to see or do: Casino Grand Cercle offers a variety of gaming options, including slot machines and table games like blackjack and roulette. There are also regular poker tournaments and live shows featuring music and comedy.
The casino has a bar and restaurant, where visitors can enjoy a meal or drinks before or after playing.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the stunning Belle Epoque architecture and interior design of the casino. The painted ceilings and crystal chandeliers create a truly enchanting atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: Dress code is smart casual and you must be over 18 to enter the casino. There is a free shuttle service available to transport visitors between the casino and their hotel.
Visitors can join the casino’s loyalty program for discounts on drinks and meals, as well as exclusive access to certain games and events.
9. Place Saint-Léger
A charming square located in the heart of the historic town of Chambery, France.
What to see or do: The square features a beautiful fountain in the center and is surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and restaurants.
Visitors can take a stroll around the square and admire the architecture or sit down and enjoy a drink or meal at one of the many outdoor seating areas.
Don’t miss: The Éléphants Fountain, which is located in the center of the square and is a popular spot for photos.
Also, make sure to visit the nearby Castle of the Dukes of Savoy, a stunning medieval castle that now serves as a museum.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds. If you’re interested in history, take a guided tour of the Castle of the Dukes of Savoy.
And be sure to try the local Savoyard cuisine at one of the restaurants in the area.
10. Musée Savoisien
A museum located in the historic Château de Chambery, offering a glimpse into the art and history of the Savoie region.
What to see or do: Explore the exhibits showcasing the archaeology, fine arts, and ethnography of the Savoie region, including rare artifacts and paintings from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Don’t miss: The permanent exhibit on the history of Chambéry, which features a crown reportedly worn by the French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte during his coronation ceremony in 1804.
Insider travel tips: Head to the museum early in the day to avoid crowds, and consider buying a combined ticket with other local attractions like the Cathedral of Saint Francois de Sales and the Fontaine des Éléphants.
11. Grotte de Saint-Jean-de-Chevelu
Grotte de Saint-Jean-de-Chevelu is a natural cave system located in Chambery, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the unique rock formations and underground lake inside the cave system. Guided tours are available to highlight the geological wonders of the area.
Don’t miss: The highlight of a visit to Grotte de Saint-Jean-de-Chevelu is the stunning underground lake with crystal clear water. The reflections of the stalactites and stalagmites in the water create an otherworldly atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: – It is recommended to wear sturdy shoes with good grip as the cave floor can be slippery.
12. The Chartreuse Mountains
A mountain range located in the Isere and Savoie departments of France.
What to see or do: The Chartreuse Mountains offer numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking. Visitors can also explore the Chartreuse Regional Nature Park and enjoy stunning views of the beautiful landscapes.
Don’t miss: The Grande Chartreuse Monastery, one of the most important Carthusian monasteries in the world, located in the heart of the mountain range.
It is also recommended to visit the Aiguebelette Lake, one of the largest natural lakes in France.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to pack comfortable shoes and warm clothing, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains. It is also recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Additionally, travelers should try local dishes such as the Chartreuse liqueur, made by the Carthusian monks.
13. Abbaye d’Hautecombe
A medieval abbey located on the shores of the Bourget Lake in the French Alps.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the abbey, explore the peaceful grounds and gardens, and learn about the fascinating history of the site.
There is also a museum with exhibits on the art and history of the local area.
Don’t miss: The stunning tomb of the last kings and queens of Italy, which is located in the abbey’s crypt. The intricate marble and bronze sculptures are a sight to behold.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Also, don’t miss the on-site gift shop where you can purchase local delicacies and handmade crafts.
14. Les Tours de Chignin
Les Tours de Chignin are a set of medieval towers located in Chignin, a small village near Chambery in the French Alps.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb up the towers to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The towers also contain exhibits about the history and architecture of the region.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to explore the charming village of Chignin, which is known for its vineyards and quaint architecture. Wine tastings and tours are popular activities in the area.
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