A Travel Price Comparison for France Saint-Tropez vs. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a opulent, ritzy, and celebrity-filled resort town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a epic, majestic, and world-class mountain town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Saint-Tropez and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Saint-Tropez, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is better known for its skiing, food, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Saint-Tropez is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Saint-Tropez and is popular for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is famous for Mont Blanc. Saint-Tropez is well known for its trendy beach clubs around the Bay of Pampelonne, as well as its popularity with celebrities and the extravagantly wealthy.

Mont Blanc

How is Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Skiing?

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

If you're an avid snow skiier, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc should be on your list. 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.

Saint-Tropez is not a skiing destination.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. 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).

Saint-Tropez is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food is all about the local flavors. You'll find plenty of local seafood as well as local organic meats, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, garlic, and truffles. Cheese is a common ingredient as well. There are many different soups and stews, and bouillabaisse is a common fish soup found in the restaurants around town. Daube is another popular stew that is made with beef. Ratatouille is a vegetable casserole that has made a name for itself both inside and outside of France. And, of course, you have to try the local salads and pastries. Because it's such a touristy area, there are many restaurants geared specifically to the tourists, many of which are overpriced.

Is Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Tropez is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Saint-Tropez is a must-see party destination. It is a place to see and be seen, so if you're looking for A-list celebrities, glamourous yacht parties, and ritzy dance clubs, then this is your place. While the nightlife scene is filled with extravagance, there are still laid back clubs where you can sip a cocktail in style. The best season to come and party is during the summer months, but you'll still find plenty to do throughout the year.

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.

Is Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Resorts?

Saint-Tropez and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc offer a relatively similar set of amazing luxury resort options.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Saint-Tropez is a great choice. Luxury and extravagance is what this resort town is all about. If you have the money to spend, you'll have no trouble finding a glamourous villa or luxury hotel where you can relax, party, or soak up the French Riviera sun.

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.

Is Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Saint-Tropez is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Saint-Tropez. The Gulf of Saint Tropez is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive along the French Riviera. There are wreck dives including the most famous, The Rubis, a submarine that is surrounded by marine life. Although you're not allowed to enter the vessel, there is still plenty to see. There are also plenty of dive spots that feature rock formations, schools of fish, and lobsters.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Beaches?

Saint-Tropez is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Saint-Tropez for it's beautiful beaches. The beaches are frequented by celebrities, so you'll find plenty of glitz and glamour by the water. For some of the best beaches, you'll want to head a little out of town. The most famous beach in the area is Pampelonne Beach which is popular with Hollywood celebrities during the summer months. Bouillabaisse Beach is the place to go if you want to look at the yachts, but for a more natural setting head to Graniers Beach.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a beach destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Hiking?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Saint-Tropez is not a hiking destination.

People visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Saint-Tropez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Saint-Tropez is terrific for its shopping opportunities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Known for shopping, Saint-Tropez draws large crowds to its stores. Surrounded by luxury, shopping is a must in this glamourous resort town. There are international luxury brands as well as local designer boutiques. Whether you're looking for yachting clothes, cigars, jewelry, or perfume, this is one of the best shopping destinations along the Cote d'Azur. Art is a particularly popular item to purchase while you're in town.

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

Is Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Families?

Saint-Tropez is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Saint-Tropez is very family-friendly. With great beaches, several amusement parks, waterparks, and even Marineland, there are an endless supply of activities for kids. There's also a zoo and nature reserve for wildlife enthusiasts. For adventure lovers, there are a number of different watersports to try and if the weather isn't cooperating, there are a few good museums and other indoor activities as well.

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.

Is Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Saint-Tropez and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc make for a amazing place to visit.

Saint-Tropez makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Whether you're honeymooning or taking a short getaway to the French Riviera, this is a great option for couples. You can take a stroll at sunset, relax on one of the beautiful beaches, dine on local seafood, and soak up the rich local culture. The romance and beauty of this French Riviera city make it a world class romantic destination.

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.

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

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great mountain town to visit for backpackers. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.

Saint-Tropez is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. For many backpackers it may seem cost prohibitive to visit the French Riviera, but for those with the money, it is well worth the splurge. You can save some money by staying outside of town or finding a vacation rental where you can cook meals. There are also hostels and rooms in local homes that come at a more reasonable price.

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

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

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.

While Saint-Tropez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system that connects many parts of the area.

Is Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc a more walkable city?

Saint-Tropez is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Saint-Tropez. It's easy to explore many places on foot, passing by beautiful beaches, stunning views, impressive yachts, and glamourous villas.

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

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

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

How long in Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Both Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint-Tropez, and 4-7 days is enough time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

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

Couples should spend more time in Saint-Tropez than Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

In Saint-Tropez, many people enjoy the nightlife and food 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.

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this spectacular mountain town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

The beautiful destination of Saint-Tropez offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this epic destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Saint-Tropez. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France, The Best Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Saint-Tropez or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a larger population, and is about 79% larger than the population of Saint-Tropez. When comparing the sizes of Saint-Tropez 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.