Compare cheap car hire at Chambery Airport with practical details on rental desks, pickup locations, driving routes and winter pricing.
Chambéry Airport (Chambéry Savoie Mont Blanc Airport – CMF) is a seasonal airport in southeastern France, mainly serving ski resorts in the French Alps. Located about 10km from Chambéry and close to the borders of Switzerland and Italy, it is widely used during the winter ski season.
Hiring a car at the airport is one of the most practical ways to reach Alpine resorts, especially if you are travelling with ski equipment or planning to explore multiple areas.
Direct Flights from Ireland
Chambéry Airport has seasonal direct flights from Ireland during the winter ski season.
- Dublin → Chambéry (winter charter and limited scheduled services)
Flight time from Dublin is approximately 2 hours 15 minutes.
Car Hire Location at Chambéry Airport
The car hire desks at Chambéry Airport are located inside the small terminal building in the arrivals area. Due to the airport’s size, all facilities are within easy walking distance.
Vehicles are collected from the car rental parking area directly outside the terminal, just a short walk from arrivals.
Airport details and updates can be found on the official Chambéry Airport website.
Car Rental Companies at Chambéry Airport
A selection of international car hire companies operate at the airport, particularly during the winter season.
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Enterprise
Availability can be limited outside peak ski months, so booking in advance is recommended.
Typical Car Hire Prices in Chambéry
| Season | Economy | Family Car | Larger Vehicle |
|---|---|---|---|
| December – March (Ski Season) | €50 – €110 | €110 – €180 | €180 – €300 |
| April – June | €35 – €70 | €70 – €110 | €110 – €170 |
| July – August | €45 – €90 | €90 – €140 | €140 – €210 |
| September – November | €30 – €65 | €65 – €105 | €105 – €160 |
Best Vehicles for Alpine Travel
Compact Cars
Suitable for short trips and lower altitude areas, though less ideal in heavy snow.
Family Cars
More comfortable for longer journeys between resorts.
Estate Cars
Useful for carrying skis and luggage during winter trips.
Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles
Recommended for winter driving in mountainous areas, particularly during snow conditions.
Driving from Chambéry Airport
The airport provides easy access to major Alpine routes.
- Chambéry – about 15 minutes
- Aix-les-Bains – around 15 minutes
- Courchevel – roughly 1 hour 30 minutes
- Val d’Isère – about 2 hours 15 minutes
The A43 motorway connects Chambéry with many ski resorts and Alpine destinations.
Travellers heading to the Alps often compare different airports depending on resort access. You can also consider Geneva Airport, Lyon Airport or Grenoble Airport.
Winter Driving Tips
Driving in the Alps during winter requires extra preparation. Snow chains or winter tyres may be required depending on conditions.
Mountain roads can be steep and winding, so allow extra time for journeys.
Further travel advice is available on the official France tourism website.
Where to Go from Chambéry by Car
Chambéry is ideally located for accessing several ski areas and Alpine destinations.
- Three Valleys (Courchevel, Méribel) – large ski area
- Val d’Isère and Tignes – high-altitude resorts
- La Plagne – family-friendly ski destination
- Annecy – lakeside town (year-round)
Many visitors fly into Chambéry specifically for easy access to nearby ski resorts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the car hire desks at Chambéry Airport?
The desks are located inside the terminal building in the arrivals area.
Are there direct flights from Ireland to Chambéry?
Yes, seasonal flights operate during the winter ski season.
Is car hire necessary for ski resorts?
It is one of the most convenient ways to reach resorts, especially for flexible travel.
Do I need winter tyres or snow chains?
Yes, these may be required depending on weather conditions.
How far is Chambéry Airport from ski resorts?
Most major resorts are within 1 to 2.5 hours’ drive.
Do I need a credit card to rent a car?
Yes, most rental companies require a credit card.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, although manual vehicles are more common.
Is driving in the Alps difficult?
Conditions can be challenging in winter, especially on mountain roads.
Can I rent a 7 Seater at Chambéry Airport?
Yes, 7 Seater vehicles are available, though availability may be limited in peak season.
Which motorway connects Chambéry to the Alps?
The A43 motorway provides access to many Alpine destinations.
