Getting to Chamonix: Car Hire

It's only and hour's drive from the airport to Chamonix, and although not neccessary, it can be useful to have a car as the ski areas are quite spread out. (More information about travel within the Chamonix Valley).
If you want to hire a car, it's best to book it well in advance to get the best price. Also be aware that at very busy times they do sell out. All the main car hire companies have offices at the airport, and they all speak English.
Geneva Airport car hire phone numbers
Unless you have an existing loyalty programme or acccount, it's generally easiest to get it through a site like www.holidayautos.co.uk or Easycar who find the best price from all of them. Lately Easycar have been adding a compulsory winter equipment surcharge on after the rates are calculated, so check that this is included when you compare prices, as it can add up.

Swiss Side or French Side?

You can hire a car from the Swiss side or French side of Geneva airport, though many places only hire from the Swiss side. Although it can be slightly cheaper to hire from the French side, it's very complicated to pick up and return your car.

Also, cars from the Swiss side will have snow chains and winter tyres included - it's a legal requirement - and you may well need them! They also have a Swiss motorway "vignette" - a tax disc which allows you to drive on the Swiss motorways. Without it, you have to take a roundabout, badly signposted route both to and from the airport. So the minor saving is generally not worth the bother, even if you are arriving on the French side.

If you have to get your car from the French side, allow two hours minimum (more at busy times) to return to the airport and keep the map and directions for the return journey as it is not easy to find. You have to ignore almost all signs to the airport as these will take you to the Swiss side. Make sure you have the phone number for the hire car company in case you need help.

Driving from Geneva to Chamonix

Once you have your car, it's just an hour's drive on good roads to Chamonix. Follow signs for France and once you are through the border, Chamonix is well signed. Don't forget some euros for the tolls. (1.70 and 3.50). They also take cards.

Car Hire in Chamonix

If you just want a car for a day or so, it's possible to hire one in Chamonix itself. Again, it's best to book in advance via a site like www.holidayautos.co.uk. There are three companies with Chamonix offices:
Avis
73 Rue Ravanel Le Rouge 74400, Tel +33 (0)450 539532
Europcar
36 Place de la Gare 74400, Tel +33 (0)450 536340
Hertz
11 Allee du Savoy 74400, Tel +33 (0)450 537368