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To begin your adventure on the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), the most convenient way is to fly into Geneva Airport in Switzerland, the closest international hub.

From Geneva, travelers typically make their way to Les Houches, the unofficial starting point for those hiking in an anti-clockwise direction. 

Alternatively, if you prefer a clockwise route, Chamonix serves as the ideal starting point, offering a picturesque backdrop to kick off your journey.

Travelers doing the second half of the Tour du Mont Blanc typically start in Courmayeur, Italy, as it marks the beginning of the final leg of the hike.

Both locations are easily accessible via various transportation options, making Geneva the perfect gateway to this iconic trail.

Commuting from the Airport: Reaching the Tour du Mont Blanc Trailheads

FlixBus: 
The Best Budget-Friendly and Convenient Way to Reach Chamonix and Courmayeur

FlixBus runs multiple services daily, making it convenient for travelers with different schedules. Here’s a quick overview of the key details for both destinations

Whether you’re heading to Chamonix to start your hike in the clockwise direction or to Courmayeur for the second half of your journey, FlixBus provides an affordable and straightforward way to reach these key trailheads.

You can book your FlixBus tickets to Chamonix and Courmayeur directly through their official website

DestinationDeparture FrequencyCost (per person)Travel Time
Chamonix4 times a day21 Euros1.5 hours
Courmayeur3 times a day26 Euros3.2 hours

Private Shuttle:
Personalized Comfort and Convenience

If you’re looking for a more personalized and flexible travel experience, a private shuttle is the best option to get from the airport to any of the Tour du Mont Blanc trailheads at your convenience. I highly recommend Alpin Bus (alpinbus.com), as they are reliable, friendly, and incredibly responsive. I was pleasantly surprised to get a quick response from them, even late on a weekend evening.

While a private shuttle is more expensive than FlixBus, the added cost comes with the advantage of choosing your own schedule. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Travel Time: It takes around 1 hour to reach Chamonix and 2 hours to Courmayeur.
  • Drop-off Options: They also offer a drop-off in Les Houches, if requested when booking through their website.
  • Booking Process: Alpin Bus typically asks for your flight number and scheduled landing time so that someone can meet you at the airport exit.
  • Vehicle: They use an 8-seater van, ensuring a comfortable and spacious ride.
  • Pricing: The cost is 270 Euros to Chamonix and 312 Euros to Courmayeur.
  • Convenience: They will drop you directly at your hotel or refuge, making it incredibly convenient—especially after a tiring flight journey.