A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chamonix-Mont-Blanc vs. Bressanone for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Bressanone?

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 Bressanone. 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 spectacular, awe-inspiring, and epic mountain town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and skiing.

Bressanone

Bressanone is a quaint, picturesque, and idyllic town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Bressanone: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mont Blanc
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Although Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Bressanone 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, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bressanone is known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Bressanone and is popular for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. It is also home to Mont Blanc. Bressanone is popular for its charming old town and its idyllic setting.

Mont Blanc
Mont Blanc

How is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc different from Bressanone?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Bressanone

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class destination for winter skiing. However, Bressanone is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. 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.

Bressanone is not a skiing destination.


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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Bressanone

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

Bressanone offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most visitors simply enjoy soaking up the town's atmosphere, but sights around town include The Royal Palace, the cathedral, and Franzenfeste Fortress.

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

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Bressanone

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Bressanone.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a huge number of terrific 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).

Dining out in Bressanone is an experience not to be missed. Despite its small size, there are many family run restaurants that make use of ingredients from local farms. The town also hosts a few culinary festivals throughout the year.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Bressanone

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Bressanone is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc know how to have a good time. 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.

Bressanone doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small town with some quaint bars and pubs where you can enjoy a beer and chat with other visitors.


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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Bressanone

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Bressanone is not a resort destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world class resort vacation destination. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski destination.

Bressanone is not a resort destination.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Bressanone Better for its Old Town?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Bressanone

Bressanone is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Bressanone. The cathedral and beautiful old buildings make this a charming place to explore.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Bressanone

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Bressanone is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Chamonix-Mont-Blanc visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Many visitors go to Bressanone for the hiking trails. There's a huge variety of hikes in the surrounding countryside. You can walk alongside the river, head into the foothills, or explore the nearby vineyards.


Is the Shopping Better in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Bressanone?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Bressanone

Bressanone is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bressanone. The medieval streets are lined with family-owned shops, boutique clothing stores, and other unique local shopping opportunities.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Bressanone

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Bressanone is a town with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

For families, Bressanone is not always the best place to visit. It's a great town to take a lunch break. The kids will enjoy wandering the alley-like streets. There's a river through town and great views of the Alps.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Bressanone

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Bressanone is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great mountain town for couples, as it 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.

Bressanone is a great mountain town if you're traveling as a couple. This charming town is seeped in romance. The quaint streets and surrounding mountain setting make this an idyllic place to take a romantic trip.


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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Bressanone

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Bressanone is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very popular mountain town for backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bressanone. There's a couple of hostels and cheaper guesthouses in town, so backpackers can enjoy a few days in this picturesque alpine town.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Bressanone

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Bressanone is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc can get you around easily. 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.

While Bressanone offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Bressanone

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Bressanone are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Bressanone is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and small enough to explore on foot.


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

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

How long in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Bressanone?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Bressanone to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Bressanone 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 Bressanone.

Families should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Bressanone. 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 Bressanone. 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 Bressanone 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.


  • How many days in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Bressanone? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 4-7 
    Bressanone 1-2

One day in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Bressanone?

With food and skiing around the world-class mountain town of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Bressanone is a small town with plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Bressanone?

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

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

Five days in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Bressanone?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, a popular mountain town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this mountain town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Because Bressanone is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Bressanone?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this mountain town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this mountain town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Since Bressanone is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Bressanone or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is €235, while the average daily cost in Bressanone is €138. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Bressanone in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 90
    Bressanone 72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 180
    Bressanone 144
Compare Hotels in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Bressanone

Looking for a hotel in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Bressanone? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc


Hotels in Bressanone


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Hotel Prices and Bressanone Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 40
    Bressanone 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Chamonix (FR) to Geneva Airport (GVA)- Departure Private Transfer: $131
  • Chamonix to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $71
  • Chamonix-Morzine-Avoriaz to Geneva Airport GVA-Departure Transfer: $147
  • Courmayeur Ski Club to Linate Airport (LIN) - Departure Transfer: $162
  • Courmayeur to Milan Malpensa Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $137
  • Courmayeur to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Courmayeur, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $153
  • Private Departure Transfer from Chamonix to Milan Airport: $170
  • Private Transfer Chamonix and Morzine to Milan Malpensa Airport: $229

Is it cheaper to fly into Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Bressanone?

Prices for flights to both Bressanone and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 48
    Bressanone 47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Food Tour in Chamonix: $444

Typical Food Prices in Bressanone

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Bressanone:


  • Gelato
    2.20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 80
    Bressanone 20

Tours and Activities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • On an adventure with Rosalie - Nancy-sur-Cluses: $5.45
  • Monte Bianco Skyway Experience : $144
  • Fly in Paragliding! Paragliding experience over Chamonix!: $171
  • Live an eBike Mountain Bike Experience in the Heart of Chamonix Mont-Blanc: $195
  • Bespoke Private Chamonix Experience: $196
  • Altitude experience above Chamonix by eBike: $298
  • Chamonix: Private Guided Walking Tour: $307
  • From Geneva: Chamonix Mont-Blanc Private Guided Tour: $416
  • Geneva: Private Chamonix Mont Blanc Day Tour: $538

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 9.64
    Bressanone 26

Sample the Local Flavors in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tour with private driver - 10 hours: $823

Typical Alcohol Prices in Bressanone

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Bressanone:


  • 1/2 Litre of wine
    9.00
  • 2 Glasses of Wine
    7.00


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Bressanone, we can see that Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more expensive. And not only is Bressanone much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bressanone would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bressanone 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 Bressanone.

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 Bressanone Expensive?.


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

Bressanone has a larger population, and is about 73% larger than the population of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. When comparing the sizes of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Bressanone, 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.