Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is a region of superlatives. It is home to Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe, to Lyon, often called France’s food capital, and to the Chaîne des Puys, a line of extinct volcanoes listed by UNESCO. This travel guide helps you choose between cities, lakes and mountains.
Why visit Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Few regions offer such variety: world-famous ski resorts, crystal-clear alpine lakes, wild volcanic landscapes, vineyards in Beaujolais and the Rhône valley, and historic cities full of character.
Top places to visit in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Lyon
Lyon’s old town (Vieux Lyon) is a UNESCO site, with Renaissance courtyards and hidden passageways called *traboules*. Eat in a traditional bouchon and climb to the Fourvière basilica.
Annecy and its lake
Annecy has canals, flowers and pastel houses, and its lake is known for its exceptionally clear water.
Chamonix and Mont Blanc
Chamonix is the world’s mountaineering capital. Take the cable car to the Aiguille du Midi for views of Mont Blanc, or the train to the Mer de Glace glacier.
The Auvergne volcanoes
Around Clermont-Ferrand, the Puy de Dôme and the Chaîne des Puys offer easy hikes with huge views. Further south, the Monts du Cantal and Le Puy-en-Velay are stunning.
Ski resorts
Courchevel, Val d’Isère, Les Arcs, Alpe d’Huez and dozens more make the region one of the largest ski areas in the world.
Best time to visit
June to September is ideal for hiking, lakes and mountain villages. December to April is ski season. Lyon is lovely all year, especially during the Festival of Lights in early December.
Getting to and around
Lyon-Saint-Exupéry is the main airport; Geneva is convenient for the Alps and Clermont-Ferrand for Auvergne. TGV trains reach Lyon from Paris in about 2 hours. A car is useful for the mountains and the volcanoes.
What to eat
Quenelles, saucisson de Lyon, tartiflette, raclette and fondue savoyarde, Auvergne cheeses such as Saint-Nectaire, Cantal and Bleu d’Auvergne, truffade, and wines from Beaujolais and the Côtes du Rhône.
Travel tips
- Book ski accommodation early for school holidays.
- Check cable car schedules; some close between seasons.
- Combine Lyon and Annecy: they are under two hours apart.
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes FAQ
What is the region known for?
Lyon’s food, Mont Blanc, ski resorts, alpine lakes and the Auvergne volcanoes.
Is it good for summer holidays?
Yes – lakes, hiking and mountain villages make it a top summer destination.
