Published: June 8, 2026
Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes is France's most adventure-packed region. From the gastronomic streets of Lyon to the highest peak in the Alps, from volcanic landscapes to the cleanest lake in France — the variety of experiences is staggering. This guide covers the absolute best things to do across this remarkable region.
Lyon's old town (Vieux Lyon) is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most extensive Renaissance quarters in Europe. The cobbled streets are lined with colourful buildings, Italianate courtyards, and traboules — hidden passageways that connect the streets through private courtyards. The Cathédrale Saint-Jean, with its 14th-century astronomical clock, dominates the district. The hill of Fourvière, accessible by the funicular, offers panoramic city views and the magnificent Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
The Aiguille du Midi cable car in Chamonix is one of the most spectacular cable car rides in the world. It ascends from Chamonix (1,035 m) to the summit of the Aiguille du Midi (3,842 m) in just 20 minutes. At the top, a glass-floored observation deck, "Step into the Void," offers a dizzying view straight down 1,000 metres to the valley floor. Mont Blanc, just 8 km away, feels close enough to touch. The cable car operates year-round. Tickets are EUR68 return. Book online in advance to avoid queues.
Lake Annecy is the cleanest lake in France, fed by mountain streams and surrounded by the Alps. The water is clear and turquoise, reaching 24°C in summer. Public beaches line the eastern shore, with free swimming areas and equipped beach clubs. The 38-km cycle path around the lake is one of France's most popular cycling routes. The town of Annecy itself is a medieval gem, with canals, a 12th-century castle, and the iconic Palais de l'Isle, a 12th-century prison built on an island in the Thiou canal.
The Chaîne des Puys is a chain of 80 extinct volcanoes in the Auvergne, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2018. The most accessible and spectacular is the Puy de Dôme (1,465 m), which can be ascended on foot, by mountain bike, or via the panoramic train. The view from the summit encompasses the entire chain, with the Massif Central stretching to the horizon. The Vulcania theme park at the foot of the chain offers interactive exhibits on volcanology and geology.
The French Alps offer some of the best skiing in the world. Chamonix is the birthplace of mountaineering and offers extreme off-piste terrain. Val d'Isère and Tignes together form the Espace Killy, with 300 km of runs suitable for all levels. Les Trois Vallées is the largest ski area in the world, with 600 km of runs connecting eight resorts including Courchevel, Méribel, and Val Thorens. The ski season runs from December to April. Lift passes cost approximately EUR60-70 per day.
The Théâtre Romain de Fourvière is a remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheatre dating from 15 BC. It seats 10,000 spectators and is still used for performances during the Nuits de Fourvière festival each summer. The adjacent Odéon was a smaller covered theatre for musical performances. The site offers excellent views over Lyon and the confluence of the Saône and Rhône rivers. Entrance is free.
The Ardèche Gorges are a dramatic limestone canyon in the southern part of the region. Canoeing through the gorge is one of France's most popular summer activities. The classic descent starts at Pont d'Arc, a spectacular natural arch 54 metres high, and ends at the Château de la Tourette. The full route takes about 6-8 hours, with shorter options available. Canoe rental costs approximately EUR25-35 per person.
Grenoble's Bastille cable car, known locally as "les bulles" (the bubbles), is a distinctive spherical cable car that ascends from the city centre to the Bastille fortress on the mountainside. The view from the top encompasses the entire Grenoble basin, surrounded by the Belledonne, Chartreuse, and Vercors mountain ranges. The fortress houses a museum of Alpine history, a restaurant, and several cafés. The return trip costs EUR8.
The Beaujolais wine region north of Lyon produces fruity, vibrant red wines from the Gamay grape. The Route des Vins du Beaujolais is a scenic driving route through vineyards and hilltop villages. Stop at the village of Oingt, classified as one of France's plus beaux villages (most beautiful villages), and the cellars of the Château du Lac. Most wineries offer tastings for EUR5-10. The annual Beaujolais Nouveau release on the third Thursday of November is celebrated with parties across Lyon.
The Musée de l'Aventure Michelin in Clermont-Ferrand tells the story of one of France's most iconic companies. Exhibits trace the history of the tyre from its invention in 1889 to the present day, including the iconic Bibendum (Michelin Man) mascot, vintage cars, and the history of the Michelin Guide restaurant rating system. The museum is housed in the original Michelin factory building. Admission is EUR14.
The Montenvers cog railway in Chamonix has been running since 1908. It carries passengers from Chamonix (1,042 m) to the Mer de Glace glacier (1,913 m) in 20 minutes. The Mer de Glace is the longest glacier in France, stretching 7 km. The viewpoint includes a cave carved into the glacier itself, a museum about glaciology, and several walking paths. The return ticket costs EUR37. The railway operates year-round.
The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the world's great treks. The 170-km circuit around the Mont Blanc massif passes through France, Italy, and Switzerland, offering some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on the planet. The trek typically takes 7-11 days and requires a reasonable level of fitness. Mountain huts (refuges) along the route provide accommodation and meals. The best months are July and August. Book hut accommodation well in advance.
From Alpine peaks to volcanic craters, from Lyon bouchons to Beaujolais vineyards — Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes offers an unmatched diversity of experiences. Book your hotels through IMPT and make every night carbon-negative. Browse eco hotels →