If you’ve got a layover in Chambery, don’t let it go to waste sitting at CMF. The city, in France, is within easy reach — roughly 75 minutes by Bus (Ligne 14). Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of CMF:
- Can you legally enter France? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 75-minute journey each way by Bus (Ligne 14), you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Chambery
You have two main options for getting from Chambéry-Savoie Airport into town:
- Bus (Ligne 14): About 75 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 95 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Chambery layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$11 |
| Meal | ~$22 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$43 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What’s Worth Seeing in Chambery
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Chambery, two standouts are:
- Château de Chambéry – Castle of the Dukes of Savoy — A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
- La Fontaine des Ãléphants — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside CMF — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Enjoy Alpine Scenery
- Browse Local Savoie Products
Where to Eat
For food in Chambery, local travelers recommend Restaurant La Grange. If you have time for a second stop, Le Bruit Qui Court is another popular pick.
Back at CMF, Brasserie des Alpes is the go-to. Bar Tabac Presse rounds out your in-terminal options.
What to Do With Your Bags
You can store your luggage at Not typically available at this small regional airport; confirm with airport services.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Chambery as well.
Staying Connected
WiFi at CMF should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in France and you’re good to go.
Taking a Break at CMF
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at CMF, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Chambery with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Chambery may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.