Where to Park for the Tour du Mont Blanc? (The Complete 2026 Comparison)

Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is an unforgettable adventure, but the departure logistics can quickly become a headache. The question hikers ask most often before setting off is simple: Where can I leave my car safely for the 7 to 10 days of walking?

Between overcrowded public car parks, 24h or 48h time limits, and the risk of finding your car towed away, here is the complete comparison of parking solutions in the valley.

1. Les Houches: The official start of the TMB

This is where the adventure officially begins, right under the famous arch. It is naturally the most sought-after parking spot.

• Free car parks (Le Prarion / La Bellevue): They are free and tolerated for long stays, but they fill up by 7am in July and August. On top of that, they are completely unsupervised. Leaving your car parked for 10 days at a ski-lift car park always carries a risk (theft, scratches).
• The peace-of-mind solution: To avoid departure-day stress and keep your car secure, the best option is to book a TMB parking spot in Les Houches with a local resident. Your car stays on private, enclosed property for the whole duration of your hike.

2. Saint-Gervais-les-Bains: The strategic alternative

Saint-Gervais is an excellent starting town, especially if you arrive by train (Saint-Gervais - Le Fayet station) or via the A40 motorway.

• Public parking: The town offers several paid and free car parks, but regulations are strict in high season and long-stay spaces in the town centre are practically non-existent or time-limited.
• The peace-of-mind solution: By parking with a local via a TMB parking spot in Saint-Gervais, you can reach the trail in minutes thanks to the Mont-Blanc Tramway or local shuttles, all while knowing your car is safe with a trusted local host.

3. Passy: Easy access and budget-friendly

Located right across from the Mont Blanc massif, the town of Passy offers a great alternative to avoid the crowds in Les Houches and Chamonix.

• Public parking: Ideal if you are tackling the TMB via one of its variants, or if you would like to leave your car slightly away from the ultra-touristy starting points to save money.
• The peace-of-mind solution: Choosing a TMB parking spot in Passy with a local guarantees an ultra-competitive rate and total peace of mind. From there, you can easily reach Les Houches by bus or train from the valley floor.

Quick comparison: Which option should you choose?

Ready to set off with peace of mind?