Chamonix: the capital of the TMB, and its parking under pressure
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc attracts several million visitors a year. In summer, the valley is saturated — and its car parks even more so. For Tour du Mont Blanc hikers arriving by car, Chamonix offers an exceptional transport hub (buses, Mont-Blanc Express, shuttles) but makes it nearly impossible to park long-term without risking a fine or a tow. ParkTMB connects these hikers with local homeowners offering secure private parking spots.
Why Chamonix's public car parks aren't suited to the TMB
- Les Bossons and Les Pèlerins car parks: The two car parks closest to the centre are full by 8am in July and August. Their duration is officially capped at 72h maximum — incompatible with a 7-to-11-day TMB.
- Paid car parks at the station: Limited night-time surveillance, high rates (€10–18/day), and always under pressure. A car left for 9 days can rack up to €162 in fees — with no guarantee of a spot.
- Residential areas: Chamonix's municipal police regularly fine vehicles parked for more than 72h in residential neighbourhoods. Residents report offenders from the second night onward.
- Ski-lift car parks: Aiguille du Midi, Montenvers, Le Brévent — run by the Compagnie du Mont-Blanc, reserved for their customers. A vehicle left for several days will be towed.
The advantages of private ParkTMB parking in Chamonix
With ParkTMB, your car is entrusted to a Chamonix local — not left in a crowded public car park:
- ✓Spot reserved in your name, for the entire duration of your trek (1 to 14 days)
- ✓Fenced private property, off public land and with no risk of a fine
- ✓Reachable host for any unexpected event (delayed return, extension)
- ✓From €9/day — €81 for a 9-day TMB
- ✓Direct contact with your host, free cancellation up to 48h before
Bus and train connections from Chamonix
Reaching the TMB trail from Chamonix
Chamonix is an exceptional transport hub for reaching every starting point of the Tour du Mont Blanc:
- Chamonix Bus to Les Houches: 5 to 10 minutes, about €2. The fastest connection for the official counter-clockwise TMB start.
- Mont-Blanc Express to Montroc/Vallorcine: To start with the Swiss section, the train reaches Montroc in 15 min and Vallorcine in 20 min.
- Shuttles to Les Contamines: Via Le Fayet (30 min by train) then bus line N°4 (20 min). Total connection under 1h for the start from Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge.
Frequently asked questions — TMB parking Chamonix
Can I start the TMB from Chamonix?
Yes, many hikers leave their car in Chamonix and take the bus or train to Les Houches (5 min, €2) to start the TMB. It's a practical option with more parking available.
How much does parking in Chamonix cost during the TMB?
Our private parking in Chamonix starts at €9/day. Public car parks in Chamonix charge similar rates but are often full from June.
How do I get from Chamonix to Les Houches?
Chamonix Bus (line between Chamonix station and Les Houches): 5-10 min, around €2. Mont-Blanc Express train: same price and duration. Both run frequently in summer.
Explore other Tour du Mont Blanc starting points
Each TMB starting point offers a different experience. Compare long-stay parking options from other villages:
- Private parking in Les Houches — official TMB start— The iconic counter-clockwise start
- Long-stay parking in Les Contamines-Montjoie— A wild, nature-immersed start
- Long-stay parking in Le Fayet — Mont-Blanc Express— Gateway to the Montjoie valley
- Secure parking in Montroc-le-Planet— Direct access on the Chamonix side