A Travel Price Comparison for France Chamonix-Mont-Blanc vs. Auxerre for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Auxerre. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a majestic, world-class, and spectacular mountain town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a under-rated, undiscovered, and authentic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Auxerre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Although Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Auxerre are both popular with visitors, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Auxerre is known for its museums and small town charm. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Auxerre and is known for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. It is also home to Mont Blanc. Auxerre is popular for its food, wine, and art history.

Mont Blanc

How is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc different from Auxerre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Auxerre and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre Better for Skiing?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for skiing. However, Auxerre is not a skiing destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is among the world's best ski destinations. It is one of the most famous and best ski areas in the world. There are 5 ski resorts in the area (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent) and many options for expert skiers. You can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car from the middle of town to the top of the 3840 meter peak.

Auxerre is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre?

Auxerre is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

Auxerre offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Regional food is wonderful and hearty, making for a great energy boost for all of your hiking or skiing. Dishes often include a lot of cream and cheese as well as local meats and potatoes. Local specialties include Crozets (buckwheat pasta), Fondue, and Galette des Rois (cake).

Auxerre offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre Better for Nightlife?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is great for its evening party scene. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for the nightlife scene. The town offers a great après-ski scene with many places to grab a drink or listen to live music. It's a tourist area with many young and adventurous vacationers who are out to have a good time.

Most people don't head to Auxerre specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre Better for Resorts?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Auxerre is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a perfect choice. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski destination.

Auxerre is not a resort destination.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre Better for Hiking?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for hiking. However, Auxerre is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc specifically for its hiking. Filled with panoramic views and breathtaking natural scenes, the hiking is among the best in the world. Some of the best hikes in the area include Plan de l'Aiguille - Montenvers Train Mer de Glace, Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve Hiking, and any of the "Glacier Views" Hikes.

Auxerre is not a hiking destination.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre Better for Families?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. The mountains are the perfect playground for families. Kids will love the gondolas, chairlifts, and kid-friendly hikes that take them over rocks and to spectacular viewpoints. This is the perfect addition to a European family vacation.

Auxerre is a family-friendly place to visit. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre Better for Couples?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has plenty to offer. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Public transit in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is top-notch. It's easy to explore the region by public transport. There are buses and trains available, most of which are free with a local transport card.

Auxerre has a few public transit options. There are buses around town.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre a more walkable city?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very walkable destination. It's generally walkable and there are plenty of walking trails outside of town.

Auxerre is somewhat walkable. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.

For even more information, also check out Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Worth Visiting? and Is Auxerre Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auxerre or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

How long in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Auxerre because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, and 1-2 days is enough time in Auxerre.

Families should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Auxerre. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Auxerre. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Auxerre if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

One day in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre?

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, you'll find food and skiing. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This mountain town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Auxerre, many people enjoy the food and museums that this destination offers. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre?

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, you'll find skiing and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Many people visit Auxerre for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Auxerre, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The destination of Auxerre offers food and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, you'll find food and skiing. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Auxerre. This town offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Auxerre, we can see that Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more expensive. And not only is Auxerre much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Auxerre would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Auxerre and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than you might in Auxerre.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Expensive? and Is Auxerre Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Auxerre?

Auxerre has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. When comparing the sizes of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Auxerre, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.