Tunnel du Mont-Blanc
France
France with extras, hop two borders and drive through a mountain on this riveting route between Switzerland and Italy. From Geneva across the French border to Chamonix (with a cable car ride to the Aiguille du Midi at 3,842 m), then through the 11.6 km Tunnel du Mont-Blanc directly beneath Europe's highest peak to Courmayeur and the Roman aqueduct town of Aosta.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Geneva
International city on the lake, the Jet d'Eau, Red Cross Museum, and Patek Philippe museum before the Alps rise southeast.
- Chamonix
Mountaineering capital at 1,035 m, Mont Blanc at 4,808 m fills the skyline. The Aiguille du Midi cable car rises to 3,842 m in 20 minutes.
- Aiguille du Midi
Cable car summit at 3,842 m with a glass-floored viewing platform. The panorama across the entire Alpine chain is staggering.
- Mer de Glace
France's largest glacier, 12 km long, reached by the 1908 Montenvers rack railway. The ice grotto is rebuilt lower each year as the glacier retreats.
- Tunnel du Mont-Blanc
11.6 km of tolled tunnel bored under Mont Blanc in 1965. The warm rock walls and the sudden Italian exit are one of Europe's strangest driving moments.
- Courmayeur
Italy's Mont Blanc gateway, stone streets, the world's oldest mountain guide association (1850), and a direct view up to the Grandes Jorasses.
- Aosta
A Roman city of intact walls, a triumphal arch, and a theatre still used for summer performances. Warm valley air and local wine after the mountain cold.
Where to Eat
- La Maison CarrierFrench
Traditional French cuisine in a rustic setting with mountain views.
- Ristorante La TerrazzaItalian
Authentic Italian dishes with a cozy ambiance in Courmayeur.
- Osteria dell'OcaItalian
Local Aosta Valley specialties served in a charming atmosphere.
Things to Do
- Skyway Monte BiancoScenic Viewpoint
Panoramic cable car offering breathtaking views of Mont Blanc.
- Forte di BardHistoric Site
Imposing fortress housing museums and art exhibitions.
- Parc de MerletNature
Wildlife park with alpine animals and stunning mountain vistas.
Travel advisory
The Mont Blanc Tunnel charges a significant toll and requires headlights, a minimum speed of 50 km/h, and strict safety intervals between vehicles. Carry passports for the French and Italian border crossings. Winter driving around Chamonix and the Aosta Valley demands snow tyres or chains.