The city of Chambéry is the prefecture of Savoie. With nearly 60,000 inhabitants, it is located 50 km from Annecy and 15 km from the Bourget Lake. Its rich historical heritage and cultural events are appreciated by tourists.
History and heritage
Chambéry is located near Aix-les-Bains, in the Northern Prealps, between the Chartreuse and Bauges mountain ranges, at the confluence of the Albanne and Leysse rivers. The city has held the label “City of Art and History” since 1985. Historically, the first human settlements on the heights of Saint-Saturnin date back to the Neolithic period, around 4,000 years BC.
The Gauls, followed by the Romans, settled on the hill of Lémenc. The city’s prominence began in the 13th century with the establishment of the counts and then the dukes of Savoy. Chambéry became the capital of a sovereign state: Savoy. It was regularly invaded by French armies until its annexation to France in 1792.
During the contemporary period, the city developed by building collective housing and enhancing various neighborhoods. Its geographical location between Lyon and Turin favors its economy.
The historic center of the city is composed of must-see places:
The Castle of the Dukes of Savoy
This historical visit begins with the imposing entrance of the building, then the Sainte-Chapelle which received the Holy Shroud in the 16th century, the ramparts, and the semi-round tower that offers a beautiful panorama of the Bauges.
The Elephant Fountain
It is the symbol of Chambéry, built in 1838 in honor of General Count de Boigne, who made a fortune in India and was very generous to the city. The people of Chambéry nickname it “The Four Without Pants.”
The Arcades of Rue de Boigne
This typical street offers many shops and leads to the castle square. General de Boigne gave money to the city to build this street. The work was completed in 1830. These arcades in the Turin style are very appreciated by the population.
Place Saint-Léger
Located in the historic center, this pedestrian square is lined with three private mansions. You can refresh yourself on its terraces. It allows for a pedestrian crossing of the historic center of the capital of Savoie.
The Private Mansions
Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, they are witnesses to the opulence of that era. A guided tour allows you to enter the inner courtyards and discover the architectural richness of these buildings.
The Narrow Streets of Old Chambéry
Similar to the traboules of Lyon, they allow passage from one urban axis to another. They add charm to the historic center of the city. Many shortcuts are thus possible to reach your destination in the old center.
The Cathedral of Saint-François-de-Salle
Built in flamboyant Gothic style, this building houses the largest collection of trompe-l’œil murals in Europe. It is located in the historic center of the city, between Rue de la Croix d’Or and Place Saint-Léger.
The Fine Arts Museum
It is located in the former grain hall called “grenette.” After the Louvre Museum, it has the second largest collection of Italian paintings in France. Donations from Baron Hector Garriod and King Victor-Emmanuel II have allowed for the gathering of rare works painted from the late Middle Ages to the early 20th century. Visitors can appreciate the various movements of painting: primitives, Renaissance, mannerism, baroque, and neoclassicism. The museum is open every day except Monday from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Price: €5.50, free for those under 25 years old.
Address: Place du Palais de Justice, 73000 Chambéry. Prices: €5.50, free for those under 25 years old.
The best-rated hotels
Depending on your budget, we have selected five hotels in Chambéry that offer excellent value for money and receive very good customer reviews.
Hôtel des Princes, Chambéry Centre
This beautiful hotel is located in the historic center of Chambéry, near the castle of the dukes of Savoy. The rooms are spacious and air-conditioned. The piano bar organizes friendly entertainment in the evening. For an additional fee, you have access to a spa and massages.
From €69 per night.
Hôtel le Cinq Hyper – Centre
Ideally located near the Cathedral of Saint-François-de-Salle and the train station, the hotel offers rooms with contemporary decor and private bathrooms, a large indoor pool, and a bar. A coworking space allows for collaborative work on-site.
From €88 per night.
Best Western Alexander Park Chambéry
Located 5 km from the center of Chambéry, this 4-star establishment is certified with an ecological label. It has a beautiful outdoor pool. Its restaurant serves delicious specialties cooked on a plancha. A massage service is offered. The outdoor park is equipped with children’s games. Private parking is free.
From €75 per night.
Mercure Chambéry Centre
The Mercure hotel in Chambéry is located near monuments, cinemas, and theaters. It is opposite the train station. Its decor is in contemporary alpine style. The bedding is particularly comfortable according to customer reviews. A private garage is available for an additional fee.
From €82 per night.
Château de Candie
Located 5 km from Chambéry, this luxurious 4-star hotel is housed in a 14th-century castle. It is adorned with period paintings and antiques. Each room has a unique decor. For dining, two restaurants are available, including one gourmet. You can swim in the large outdoor pool.
From €198 per night.
The three markets
The city of Chambéry offers three markets that are open all year round, except on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. They allow you to purchase manufactured goods and quality fresh products.
- The Covered Market of Halles: offers fresh products all year round. Open from Tuesday to Saturday from 7 AM to 12 PM. Place des Halles.
- The Organic Market: sells organic products from about fifteen producers and processors from the Chambéry region. Open on Thursdays from 3 PM to 7 PM. Place du Palais de Justice.
- The Plein Vent Market: offers food and manufactured products. Open at Place de Genève on Tuesdays from 7 AM to 12 PM and on De Maistre and Favre streets on Saturdays from 6 AM to 1:30 PM. Manufactured products are offered only on Saturdays, at Place du Palais de Justice from 8 AM to 7 PM.
Cultural and sports activities
The beauty and diversity of natural sites allow for pleasant walks:
The Picot Promenade
This walk allows you to discover the Chéran, labeled “wild river,” and its lakes. The outing will lead you to the suspended pedestrian bridge Picot. Starting point: Plan d’eau de la Motte en Bauges, 73340 La Motte-en-Bauges.
The Poets’ Path
This marked route is only open during the months of July and August. This path connects the Bellevue loop to the Angle loop. Panels present poems that punctuate the walk. Starting point: Le Trappeur, 73100 Le Revard.
The Islands of Chéran Promenade
This walking circuit allows you to discover three bodies of water along the Chéran. You can fish, swim, and dine on-site. The circuit can also take you to the beautiful Pissieu waterfall. Starting point: Plan d’eau de Lescheraines, 73340 Lescheraines.
Lac d’Aiguebelette
20 minutes from Chambéry, you can stroll along the shores of this natural lake to admire its turquoise waters. The lake of Aiguebelette also allows for various water activities on its beautiful sandy beaches.
The Lighthouse
This large hall hosts numerous cultural events such as concerts, comedy shows, and handball and basketball tournaments. Open since 2009, many economic events, such as trade shows, are also regularly organized. Address: 800 Avenue du Grand Arietaz, 73000 Chambéry.
Town Hall
The town hall of Chambéry is located at Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, 73000 Chambéry. It is open from Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 12 PM and from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
Official website of the town hall of Chambéry.
The tourist office of Chambéry.
