Savoie, the complete guide to planning your vacation

Visit Elephant fountain, This emblematic 19th-century monument attracts thousands of visitors every year.

👉 Not to be missed in Chambéry:

• The historic center and its traboules

• Castle of the Dukes of Savoy

• The Fine Arts Museum

• Local markets and Savoyard specialities

📊 Key figure : Chambéry is home to around 60,000 inhabitants and attracts several hundred thousand visitors a year.

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Annecy and its lake, an Alpine jewel

Annecy is regularly ranked among the most beautiful towns in France, thanks to its exceptional natural setting. Its lake, considered one of the purest in Europe, is fed by mountain springs, which explains the remarkable quality of its water. The old town, with its canals and colorful facades, is the epitome of Alpine charm.

Visit Palais de l'Isle, the former courthouse and medieval prison, is one of France's most photographed monuments. Visit Annecy castle, The lake, which has been converted into a museum, offers a panoramic view of local history. Around the lake, a 40 km cycle path attracts thousands of cyclists every year.

👉 Things to do in Annecy :

• Cycling around the lake

• Water sports (paddle, sailing, kayaking)

• Paragliding from the Col de la Forclaz

• Visit the villages around the lake

📊 Key figure : Lake Annecy reaches a maximum depth of 82 meters and attracts over 2.5 million visitors a year.

Aix-les-Bains, an emblematic spa resort

Aix-les-Bains is a leading destination for wellness tourism in Savoie. Known since Roman times, the town developed around its thermal baths, renowned for their therapeutic properties. Its Belle Époque architecture, visible in its former palaces and casino, bears witness to its prestigious past.

Lac du Bourget, France's largest natural lake, is a major asset. Visitors can take advantage of the lake's many beaches, cruises and water sports. L’Hautecombe abbey, located on the west bank, is a major historical site and home to the tombs of the princes of Savoy.

👉 Discover Aix-les-Bains:

• Thermal baths and spas

• Lac du Bourget and its beaches

• Mont Revard for its panoramic views

• Grand Cercle casino

📊 Key figure : Aix-les-Bains welcomes over 200,000 spa visitors and tourists every year.

Albertville, between history and mountains

Albertville is a strategic city in the heart of the Alps, famous for hosting the 1992 Winter Olympics. Today, it is a gateway to the region's major ski resorts. But beyond its logistical role, the town also boasts a rich historical heritage.

The medieval quarter of Conflans, perched high above the town, offers a unique setting with its ramparts, cobbled streets and old houses. The Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (Museum of Art and History) is a great place to learn more about the Savoyard region. Nature lovers have easy access to the surrounding valleys for outdoor activities.

👉 What to see in Albertville :

• The medieval town of Conflans

• The Museum of Art and History

• Remnants of the 1992 Olympic Games

• Access to Alpine resorts

📊 Key figure : Albertville is located at the crossroads of 4 major Alpine valleys.

Les Arcs and La Plagne, ski paradise

The Paradiski domain, linking Les Arcs and La Plagne, is one of the world's largest ski areas, with over 425 km of pistes. Every winter, it attracts ski enthusiasts from all over the world. Les Arcs offers spectacular views of Mont Blanc, particularly from the Aiguille Rouge.

La Plagne, which comprises several resorts, is particularly family-friendly thanks to its infrastructure and numerous activities. It also boasts France's only Olympic bobsleigh run. In summer, these resorts become ideal destinations for hiking and mountain biking.

👉 Paradiski activities :

• Ski and snowboard

• Bobsleigh and sliding sports

• Summer hiking and mountain biking

• Family activities in the resort

📊 Key figure : Paradiski welcomes over 2 million skiers every season.

Bonneval-sur-Arc, an authentic village

Bonneval-sur-Arc is one of the best-preserved villages in France. Savoie, one of France's most beautiful villages. Situated at an altitude of over 1,800 metres, it offers an exceptional setting in the heart of the Alps. Its traditional architecture, with its stone houses and lauze roofs, bears witness to its authenticity.

The village is also a family ski resort in winter, and an ideal starting point for hiking in summer. The nearby Col de l'Iseran, Europe's highest road pass, offers spectacular scenery.

👉 Discover Bonneval-sur-Arc:

• The traditional village

• The Iseran pass

• Alpine hiking

• Skiing in a family resort

📊 Key figure : Bonneval-sur-Arc is located at an altitude of 1,800 meters.

Vanoise National Park, unspoilt nature

Created in 1963, the Vanoise National Park is France's first national park. It is an exceptional protected area for Alpine flora and fauna. Emblematic species include the ibex, chamois and marmot.

The park boasts over 500 km of marked trails and numerous mountain huts. The scenery is varied: glaciers, high altitude lakes, alpine meadows and peaks. Lac des Vaches, with its paved path across the water, is one of the most photographed sites.

👉 Things to do in Vanoise :

• Observing wildlife

• Hiking on marked trails

• Sleeping in a refuge

• Discover high-altitude lakes

📊 Key figure : The park covers more than 500 km².

Lac du Bourget, France's largest natural lake

Lac du Bourget is a must in Savoie, It offers an exceptional natural setting between mountains and crystal-clear water. It is ideal for relaxation and water sports enthusiasts. Its well-maintained beaches attract many visitors every summer.

Hautecombe Abbey, on its shores, is a major historical site. Hikes around the lake, particularly to Mont du Chat, offer spectacular panoramic views. The lake is also popular for cruises and fishing.

👉 What to do in Lac du Bourget :

• Swimming and relaxation

• Nautical activities

• Visit Hautecombe Abbey

• Panoramic walks

📊 Key figure : Lac du Bourget is 18 km long.

Summary table of Savoie's must-see sites

Focus on Chambéry: the historic heart of Savoie

A historical overview

Since the 13th century, Chambéry has established itself as the historic capital of Savoy, thanks to Amadeus V, Count of Savoy, who chose it as the seat of his power. This decision marked the beginning of an era of Savoyard rule. Chambéry’s strategic location, at the crossroads between France, Italy, and Switzerland, has had a significant influence on its architecture and culture. The annexation of Savoy by France in 1860 is another important chapter in its history.

Main sights and attractions

The heart of Chambéry is a true celebration of architecture, featuring the Castle of the Dukes of Savoy—built in the 12th century and remodeled in the 15th century—which now serves as the prefecture and headquarters of the Savoy Departmental Council. The Cathedral of Saint-François-de-Sales, famous for its trompe-l’œil, is a must-see. Place Saint-Léger, with its traboules and medieval buildings, as well as the Fountain of the Elephants—a symbol of General de Boigne’s exploits in India—add to the city’s unique charm.

Events and festivals not to be missed

Chambéry also stands out for its vibrant cultural life, hosting guided night tours—such as «Secrets de ville»—that reveal the city’s hidden wonders in an enchanting light. The many festivals and events, which highlight the region’s rich cultural heritage, are celebrations not to be missed. In addition, the city plays an active role in the Association of Alpine Cities of the Year, promoting sustainable development in the Alpine region.

Savoie wines: a journey of taste

Panorama of Savoie wines

Exploring the wines of Savoie is a unique culinary experience, where every sip reflects the richness of the terroirs and the climatic diversity of the French Alps. With vineyards spread across Savoie, the department of Haute-Savoie, Isère and the AinThe region is particularly renowned for its white wines, which account for around 70% of its production. Emblematic grape varieties such as Jacquère, Altesse, Chasselas and Bergeron give life to wines with fresh, complex aromatic profiles. These evolve from notes of fresh walnut and bergamot in their youth to hints of honey, toast and walnut as they age.

Visits to vineyards and must-see estates

Visiting the Savoyard vineyards is a must for any wine lover. The region’s wine-growing heart lies southeast of Chambéry, particularly in the Chignin and Apremont areas. There, the Alpine landscapes offer a majestic sight, with vineyards rising to altitudes between 250 and 550 meters. The wineries in the Cluse de Chambéry and Chautagne regions offer guided tours, providing a glimpse into modern winemaking methods and the winemakers’ passion for their terroir.

Tastings and food pairings

Savoie wines excel in the art of food and wine pairing, thanks to their great diversity. The whites, particularly the Chignin Bergeron, pair wonderfully with lake fish in sauce, breaded foie gras, or desserts featuring exotic fruits. The reds, made primarily from Gamay, are perfect with local sausages such as diots, or traditional dishes like tartiflette. For festive occasions, Crémants de Savoie add a sparkling touch, ideal as an aperitif or with celebratory meals. The region is also rich in culinary specialties, such as Savoyard fondue, polenta, or perch fillets, which pair perfectly with its wines.

Savoyard cultural heritage

Museums and art galleries

Savoie is home to numerous museums and art galleries that showcase its exceptional cultural heritage. Among them, the Chambéry Museum of Fine Arts stands out with its impressive collection of artworks, spanning a period from the Middle Ages to the present day. The Musée Savoisien, nestled in the heart of the Castle of the Dukes of Savoy, invites visitors to explore Savoyard history and culture through exhibitions dedicated to local traditions, crafts, and the region’s traditional costumes.

These cultural spaces play a key role in discovering the artistic and historical riches of Savoie, offering visitors an experience that is both educational and fascinating.

Architecture and historic sites

Renowned for its architecture and historic sites, Savoie is distinguished by its castles and military forts, such as the Château de Clermont and the Barrière de l’Esseillon, which tell the story of the region’s military and defensive history. Churches and abbeys, such as the Abbaye Sainte-Marie d’Aulps, beautifully exemplify Savoyard religious architecture. These buildings, often set against breathtaking Alpine landscapes, offer a unique glimpse into Savoyard history and culture.

Local traditions and crafts

Local traditions and crafts play a central role in Savoyard cultural heritage. The Savoyard language, a dialect of Franco-Provençal, is still spoken in some valleys, while traditional costumes reflect the cultural diversity of the region’s villages and valleys. Local crafts—including the production of iconic cheeses such as Beaufort and Tome des Bauges, traditional jewelry such as the Cross of Savoy, and wooden objects—are a cornerstone of Savoyard identity.

These traditions are celebrated during local festivals and events, offering visitors a unique opportunity to discover and experience the authenticity of Savoyard culture.

To discover this department, opt for a vacation rental, for example in Aix-les-Bains, or elsewhere in the department.

Conclusion

Savoie boasts a fascinating history, renowned wines and a rich cultural heritage, making it a destination of choice for those with a passion for travel and discovery. At the heart of this region, Chambéry shines with its historic past, offering visitors a unique immersion through its emblematic monuments, lively festivals and remarkable architecture. Savoyard wines, renowned for their diversity and excellence, promise memorable tasting moments.

Savoie’s cultural heritage, enriched by vibrant local traditions and exceptional craftsmanship, adds another dimension to this experience. We therefore invite you to immerse yourself in exploring Savoie and discover its hidden treasures.

Embark on an authentic adventure and let yourself be charmed by the natural and cultural splendor of this magnificent Alpine region.

FAQ

What's the most beautiful place in Savoie?

Considered by many to be the jewel of Savoie, the village of Yvoire stands proudly on the shores of Lake Geneva. This medieval haven, encircled by 14th-century ramparts and adorned with beautifully flower-decorated houses, offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Why are there two Savoies?

The division into two departments, Savoie and Haute-Savoie, stems from the history of the Duchy of Savoy following its annexation by France in 1860. This separation was maintained for both administrative and historical reasons, allowing each entity to retain a certain degree of autonomy.

Is Savoie in the Alps?

Indeed, Savoie lies at the heart of the French Alps, more precisely in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It is renowned for its spectacular mountain scenery, including Mont Blanc, and picturesque valleys such as Maurienne and Tarentaise.

Where does the name «Savoie» come from?

The name «Savoie» has its origins in the former Duchy of Savoie, derived from the Latin term «Sapaudia,» which first appeared in the late 4th century. It refers to the territories historically inhabited by the Allobroges and the Ceutrons, and this name has endured throughout history.