A historical and cultural tour through the heart of Chambéry

The morning ‘Following the Elephants’

The‘Following the Elephants’walking tour, which starts at Place du Palais de Justice, invites you to explore the historic heart of Chambéry at your own pace. By following the small metal elephants embedded in the cobblestones, you’ll take a journey back in time through medieval alleyways, colourful façades and bustling squares.

The elephant has become a powerful symbol of the city, in honour of Benoît de Boigne, a general and Count of Chambéry who made his fortune in India. The Elephant Fountain, erected in 1838, commemorates his story and remains one of Chambéry’s most iconic monuments to this day.

💡 A brochure detailing the route is available from the Tourist Office’s information points.

I’m going to Place du Palais de justice

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ART PRISM - Grand Chambéry Alpes Tourisme

Late morning Urban escape game Uncharted Horizons

To extend your exploration in a fun way, urban escape games are available around the city.

Available from the Tourist Office’s information points, these trails allow youto explore Chambéry whilst solving puzzles. A unique experience for young and old alike.

I’m discovering them

Midi A Culinary Break

At lunchtime, Chambéry is the perfect place to take a break at the Jardin du Verney – ideal for a picnic in the shade of the tall trees – or to stop off at one of the many gourmet spots in the city centre.

From restaurants specialising in Savoyard cuisine to traditional bistros, international cuisine and artisan ice-cream parlours: the city is brimming with great places to eat to suit all tastes.

Restaurants

Nestled amongst vineyards and mountains, the restaurants of Chambéry Montagnes invite you to savour the spirit of Savoie. From traditional dishes that warm the heart to the...

Afternoon Two museums, two perspectives on history

The tour continues with the Château Museum, which has just opened in the former Court of Auditors. This museum traces the history of the castle of the Dukes of Savoy, from its origins to its successive transformations. Here, visitors can learn about the strategic role of Chambéry, capital of the duchy until 1536, and the fate of a dynasty that reigned for nine centuries – one of the longest in Europe.

Not far from there, the Musée Savoisien, which has recently been completely refurbished, offers a second perspective on Savoyard identity. Situated on Place de la Cathédrale, in the former Franciscan cloister, this museum features superb, modern and immersive exhibition spaces. Here, visitors can explore life in Savoy through the ages: archaeology, everyday objects, regional languages, religions, intangible heritage… A true journey through time.

The two museums complement each other perfectly, offering a comprehensive understanding of this region’s rich and unique history.

I’m exploring the museums in Chambéry

End of day At Les Charmettes, following in Rousseau’s footsteps

To round off the day, we head to Les Charmettes, the country house where Jean-Jacques Rousseau spent certain summers between 1736 and 1742 with Madame de Warens. Although the philosopher spent nearly ten years of his youth in Chambéry, it was in this bucolic setting that he found peace of mind. He spoke of it thus:

“Here begins the brief happiness of my life. Here come the peaceful yet fleeting moments that have given me the right to say that I have lived.”

Accessible via the Jean-Jacques Rousseau footpath, the Maison des Charmettes is surrounded by a well-preserved garden, perfect for daydreaming.

Discover

A day filled with history, nature and new discoveries

With its historic trails, complementary museums, urban and natural landscapes, and thriving food scene, Chambéry is a city to be experienced to the full, even if you’re only here for a day.

Fancy putting together the perfect ingredients for your ideal day out? Pop into the Tourist Office at the Palais de Justice: we’ll whip up a homemade recipe for you, with a generous helping of top tips and a dash of local surprises.