A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kalampaka (Meteora) vs. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a spiritual, dramatic, and historic destination. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a awe-inspiring, epic, and majestic mountain town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
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
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mont Blanc


Is there more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Kalampaka (Meteora), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Kalampaka (Meteora) is more popular for its museums. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Kalampaka (Meteora) and is known for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is famous for Mont Blanc. Kalampaka (Meteora) is well known for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations.

Mont Blanc
Mont Blanc

How is Kalampaka (Meteora) different from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Skiing?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is terrific for skiing and snowboarding. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a skiing destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Kalampaka (Meteora) is terrific for its museums and history. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kalampaka (Meteora) are world-renowned. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

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

Is the Food Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kalampaka (Meteora) area. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Nightlife?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Kalampaka (Meteora). This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Resorts?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for its luxury resorts. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski destination.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a resort destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Hiking?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a hiking destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a hiking destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Families?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kalampaka (Meteora). There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Couples?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a good destination for couples to visit. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Unless you're willing to rent a car or scooter, or take an organized tour, this is a very difficult area to explore independently. Some visitors hire a taxi after they arrive to take them to the monasteries.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc can take you anywhere. 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc a more walkable city?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.

For even more information, also check out Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting? and Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

How long in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than in Kalampaka (Meteora). Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kalampaka (Meteora), and 4-7 days is enough time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

Families should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Kalampaka (Meteora). 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 Kalampaka (Meteora). You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 2-3 
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 4-7

One day in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

In Kalampaka (Meteora), many people enjoy the food and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the food and skiing that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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

Many people visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

The beautiful destination of Kalampaka (Meteora) 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.

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Kalampaka (Meteora). This destination 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.

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the food and skiing that this majestic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This mountain town offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has to offer.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Greece, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kalampaka (Meteora) is €134, while the average daily cost in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is €235. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 65
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 130
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 180
Compare Hotels in Kalampaka (Meteora) and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Looking for a hotel in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)


Hotels in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 37
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also for Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer From Kalabaka - Meteora To Athens: $274
  • Meteora Small Group Hiking tour with Transfer and Monastery Visit: $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Prices for flights to both Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Kalampaka (Meteora) 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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 39
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 48

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 44
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 80

Tours and Activities in Kalampaka (Meteora)

For Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Meteora All Monasteries Tour with Photo Stops: $41
  • Meteora Sunset E-Bike Tour: $44
  • 3-Hour Hiking and Scramble Guided Tour of Great Saint in Meteora: $82
  • 4-Hour Tour Morning Highlights of Meteora on E-Bike: $43
  • 4-hours Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Amazing Morning Meteora Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Breath-taking Meteora Sunset Tour: $44
  • Discover Meteora's Monastic Heritage: Personalized Private Tour: $240
  • Golden Sunrise Meteora Private Photo Tour: $147
  • Half-Day Meteora Cultural Tour from Kalambaka train station: $47
  • Hiking Tour to Meteora from Kalambaka - Local Agency: $49
  • Kalambaka's Train Station: Meteora Monasteries Tour with Lunch: $52

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:

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 11
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 9.64

Sample the Local Flavors in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also in Kalampaka (Meteora), these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Meteora Private Guided Wine Tasting Experience from Kalampaka : $76

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


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

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


Which is Bigger, Kalampaka (Meteora) or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Kalampaka (Meteora). When comparing the sizes of Kalampaka (Meteora) and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, 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.