Things To Do
in Passy

Passy is a picturesque commune nestled in the Haute-Savoie region of France, known for its stunning alpine scenery and proximity to Mont Blanc. The village is a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities including hiking, skiing, and mountaineering. Passy boasts charming architecture, traditional markets, and a warm local community that welcomes visitors year-round.

Its natural beauty and serene environment make it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Passy
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Plateau d'Assy, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and explore the surrounding trails.

afternoon
:

Head to the village center to visit local shops and enjoy lunch at one of the cozy bistros, followed by a visit to the Église Notre-Dame-de-Passy, a beautiful church with impressive architecture.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely stroll to admire the sunset over the mountains.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure Awaits
morning
:

Spend the morning hiking the trails of the nearby Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval National Nature Reserve, known for its stunning waterfalls and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

After a morning of hiking, enjoy a picnic lunch in the nature reserve, then visit the Passy Lake for some relaxation or water activities.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with dinner at a mountain lodge, sampling local Savoyard dishes while enjoying the cozy atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🏡Hotel per night$80-$150
🍞Loaf of bread$2-$3
🥛Liter of milk$1-$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Charming local culture and cuisine.
  • Peaceful atmosphere away from busy tourist areas.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some hiking trails may be challenging for beginners.
  • Public transport options are limited, requiring a car for easier access.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "À quelle heure?" - At what time?

Places to Visit in Passy

Visit one of these nice places.

Plateau d'Assy

Offers panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding valleys, perfect for capturing stunning landscapes.

Passy Lake

A picturesque spot for sunset photography, with reflections of the mountains on the water.

Église Notre-Dame-de-Passy

The unique architecture of this church makes it a beautiful backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Passy

Passy offers a delightful culinary experience, characterized by its traditional Savoyard cuisine that features rich flavors and locally sourced ingredients.

Passy Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Raclette

A melted cheese dish served with boiled potatoes, pickles, and cured meats.

Must-Try!

Tartiflette

A hearty casserole made with potatoes, reblochon cheese, onions, and lardons.

Fondue Savoyarde

A melted cheese dish served in a communal pot, perfect for dipping bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Passy Market

A weekly market offering fresh local produce, cheeses, and artisanal goods.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls serving traditional Savoyard snacks like crêpes and galettes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Passy experiences a temperate alpine climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with heavy snowfall, making it ideal for skiing and winter sports. Summers are mild to warm, with temperatures averaging 20-25°C (68-77°F), making it perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. Spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures, with beautiful natural scenery as flowers bloom or leaves change color.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite greeting such as 'Bonjour' is expected when entering shops or interacting with locals.

Dining Etiquette

Keep hands on the table and wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Respecting Nature

Take care not to litter and respect local wildlife when exploring outdoor areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Passy is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or during events.

Tipping in Passy

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, though cash is handy for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is warm and perfect for mountain activities, with lush green landscapes.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures, great for photography.

Winter

Winter transforms Passy into a snowy wonderland, attracting skiers and snowshoe enthusiasts.

Nightlife Guide

Passy at Night

Passy's nightlife is relatively quiet compared to larger cities, but there are cozy bars and restaurants where locals gather for drinks and conversation. Some venues may feature live music or special events, particularly during the winter ski season, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for socializing after dark.

Hiking in Passy

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lac de Passy Trail

A scenic trail around Passy Lake, suitable for families and beginners, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Col de la Forclaz

A more challenging hike that rewards with stunning vistas, ideal for experienced hikers looking for a workout.

Airports

How to reach Passy by plane.

Geneva Airport (GVA)

Located about 70 km from Passy, Geneva Airport is the nearest international airport, providing easy access to the region and connecting flights worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Passy is a compact village, making it quite walkable. Most amenities, including shops and restaurants, are within a short walking distance. The scenic routes also encourage exploration on foot, allowing visitors to soak in the beautiful alpine environment.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population mainly consists of locals engaged in tourism, agriculture, and outdoor sports.

Tourists

During peak seasons, Passy attracts many tourists keen on skiing, hiking, and enjoying the alpine scenery.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

Skiing is a popular sport in the region, with numerous ski resorts nearby offering varied terrain for all skill levels.

Mountain Climbing

The proximity to Mont Blanc makes mountain climbing a favored activity, attracting climbers from around the globe.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Passy is generally light, with most visitors traveling by car. Public transportation is available, but it may be limited, especially outside of peak tourist seasons. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead for travel times and routes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Passy.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, though traditional Savoyard cuisine is meat-heavy.

Gluten-Free Options

It's best to check with restaurants in advance for gluten-free meals, as options may be limited.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Passy is good, with a local pharmacy and several clinics available for minor health concerns. For more serious medical issues, larger hospitals are located in nearby towns, and emergency services can be contacted easily.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide