Modane, France Travel Guide

The official currency in Modane is the Euro (€). As part of southeastern France, the town follows standard French banking and payment practices.

Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Modane accept major credit and debit cards, particularly those equipped with chip-and-PIN technology. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases at local markets, family-run cafes, and nearby rural areas.

ATMs in Modane, also known as "distributeurs," are easy to find near the train station and in the town center. They generally accept international cards and allow for quick and secure euro withdrawals.

You’ll find ATMs at these convenient bank branches in central Modane:

Tipping in Modane follows general tipping etiquette in France. While service charges are included in restaurant bills, it is customary to leave a small tip for good service. A tip of 5 to 10 percent or rounding up the bill is appreciated. Tips are typically left in cash, even when you pay the bill by card.

When traveling to Modane, France, it’s beneficial to have a basic grasp of French, as English is not widely spoken. Start with simple phrases like 'Bonjour' (Hello), 'Merci' (Thank you), and 'S'il vous plaît' (Please). Knowing how to ask for help, 'Pouvez-vous m'aider?' (Can you help me?), and how to request directions, 'Où est…?' (Where is…?), can be particularly useful.

Consider downloading a translation app or carrying a pocket phrasebook for quick reference. Locals appreciate any effort to speak their language, even if it's just a few words. Pronunciation can be tricky, so practice common phrases beforehand. If you find yourself struggling, don’t hesitate to politely ask, 'Parlez-vous anglais?' (Do you speak English?).

Remember, a friendly smile and respectful demeanor go a long way in making communication smoother and your travel experience more enjoyable.

(Mid-December to March, July to August)

Modane’s busiest periods are during the winter ski season and peak summer holidays. From mid-December to late March, snow covers the region, and nearby resorts like Valfrejus are in full operation. Expect lively ski towns and higher prices, especially during French school holidays (typically late December to early January and mid-February).

A second high season arrives in July and August, when sunny weather draws hikers, cyclists, and families. Trails are fully open, and local events like open-air concerts and weekly markets are in full swing. These are the most crowded and expensive months for accommodations.

(April to mid-May, Mid-October to early December)

These months are quiet, as ski lifts are closed and some high-altitude trails may still be snow-covered or muddy. Tourist services may operate on limited hours or pause altogether. However, this is a good time for budget travel, scenic train journeys, or experiencing the slower pace of daily life in Modane.

(Late May to June, September to mid-October)

The shoulder seasons in Modane are great for travelers who want good weather without high-season crowds. In late spring, temperatures are mild, and trails begin to reopen as the snow melts. Alpine meadows bloom with wildflowers like gentian, wild crocus, and primrose, adding bursts of color to the landscape.

In early autumn, the scenery turns golden, and it’s still warm enough for outdoor exploration. Many hotels in Modane remain open, but booking is easier and rates are generally lower.

(December to March)

Winter in Modane is cold and snowy, ideal for skiing in Valfrejus and nearby resorts. Average daytime temperatures range from –2 C to 3 C (28 F to 37 F), with nights often dropping below –8 C (17 F). Heavy snowfall is common between December and February, making it the most popular time for winter sports. Visitors in Modane in January should be prepared for icy conditions and pack warm layers.

(April to May)

Spring brings gradual snowmelt and unpredictable weather. April in Modane is often wet and chilly, with daytime temperatures between 8 C and 14 C (46 F to 57 F). Snow may linger on higher trails, and hiking conditions can be muddy. May in Modane offers clearer skies, blooming wildflowers at lower elevations, and quieter trails, although nights can still be cold.

(June to August)

Summer in Modane is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. Daytime highs range from 18 C to 25 C (64 F to 77 F), with cooler evenings around 10 C (50 F). July and August in Modane are popular for hiking, cycling, and day trips into the Maurienne Valley. Afternoon thunderstorms can occur, so it’s smart to start outdoor adventures early in the day.

(September to November)

Early autumn in Modane brings crisp air, golden landscapes, and fewer tourists. September temperatures stay around 15 C to 20 C (59 F to 68 F) before cooling into single digits by November. Rain increases in October in Modane, and snow may return to the peaks by late fall. Many trails are still accessible, but waterproof gear is recommended.

One of Modane's best-kept secrets is the Polset Valley, a peaceful alpine hamlet set at around 5,580 ft (1,700 m) elevation. Unlike the crowded resort areas, Polset feels worlds away, with wooden chalets, wide meadows, and trails that lead straight into the Vanoise National Park.

Getting there is straightforward: you can drive up the road toward L'Orgère and Saint-André, or, in summer, hop on line 1 public transport and get off at the “Polset” stop. From the village, marked paths wind into the valley, rewarding hikers with sweeping views of the Maurienne peaks.

A highlight for many visitors is the short walk to the Polset Falls, a waterfall tumbling down from nearly 6,070 ft (1,850 m). Late spring and early summer are particularly magical when wildflowers bloom along the paths, and you might spot marmots or ibex grazing nearby.

Pack a picnic with local Beaufort cheese, cured meats, and mountain honey from Modane's weekly market, and you'll have everything you need to enjoy a slower-paced alpine escape that most tourists never experience.

One of the most surprising cultural experiences in Modane is the Carré Sciences exhibition, which brings the fascinating work of the Laboratoire Souterrain de Modane (LSM) to life. While the laboratory itself lies hidden 5,580 ft (1,700 m) beneath the rock inside the Fréjus Tunnel, visitors can discover its secrets at a 1,290 sq ft (120 m²) interactive museum space in Modane.

The permanent exhibition, titled “The Little Secrets of the Universe,” explains how international teams of scientists study dark matter, neutrinos, cosmic rays, and the origins of the universe. Displays are designed to be engaging for adults and accessible to families, with children over 10 years old able to enjoy the visit.

Information is available in French, English, and Italian. Entry is free of charge and the museum is open daily from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm (closed weekends and certain public holidays, plus December 25 to January 8). The space is wheelchair accessible, and even pets are welcome.

If you want to taste the Alps in its most authentic form, don't miss Modane's Coopérative Laitière Haute-Maurienne Vanoise. Step into the town's small shop and you'll find wheels of Beaufort AOP, creamy Bleu de Bonneval-sur-Arc, mountain honey, herbal liqueurs, and even Savoie wines. It's the kind of place where you buy a picnic and end up chatting with locals about recipes handed down through generations.

For a deeper dive, make the short trip to Val-Cenis-Lanslebourg, where the cooperative runs its cheese workshop. Here, you can peek inside the maturation cellars, learn how 5 million liters of milk are transformed into Beaufort each year, and enjoy a tasting—all for just a couple of euros. Kids (and grown-ups) will love watching traditional alpine craftsmanship come to life.

With eight outlets scattered across the valley, the cooperative connects visitors directly to the farmers who keep these traditions alive.

Even though Modane is a small mountain town, it has a surprising number of cultural and historical landmarks that reveal its Alpine heritage. From religious art to military architecture, these attractions highlight the town’s unique role as both a border crossing and a mountain community.

Just a short drive from Modane, travelers can discover alpine valleys, historic fortresses, and family-friendly ski resorts. These nearby destinations provide easy day trips that combine nature, culture, and outdoor adventure.

Choosing the right accommodation in Modane can elevate your travel experience. Explore the list below to discover all 7 types of accommodation in Modane. Find the perfect fit for your style, budget, and trip purpose.

Besides offering basic amenities, the top hotels in Modane also provide meals and additional services, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and more, making them the go-to options for travelers in the village.

If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Hôtel Saint Charles, the top 4-star hotel in the village.

When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Modane, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, The Hotel Alpazur, is for you. It's an ideal choice for travelers who prioritize value without compromising on essential amenities.

Your ideal stay in Modane is just a click away. Browse through the list of top-rated hotels below to view each option's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

Finding the perfect stay for your visit to Modane has never been easier! With our powerful search tool, you can explore the biggest selection of hotels and accommodations, compare prices, and check amenities—all in just a few clicks.

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When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

The town's main transport hub is the Modane Train Station, where you can book train tickets from Paris, Lyon, Chambéry, or Turin via high-speed TGV services. The journey from Paris takes just over four hours, while trips from Lyon, Chambéry, or Turin are shorter and more frequent.

Regional TER trains also operate from Modane, linking the town with Chambéry and nearby alpine villages. From Chambéry, connections extend further into the Alps. For example, you can book train tickets to Chamonix Mont Blanc, though this trip requires two changes: first at Chambéry-Challes-les-Eaux, then at Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet, where the Mont Blanc Express completes the scenic final leg.

Although Modane doesn't have its own airport, it is well connected to several nearby international hubs. The closest option is Chambéry Airport (CMF), just 1h 15m away, which operates seasonal winter flights ideal for ski travelers. Many visitors also choose to book flights to Lyon, as Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) runs year-round connections and has a direct train link to Modane.

Another convenient choice is flights to Turin, with Turin Airport (TRN) just over two hours away by car and also linked by regional trains. For international arrivals, flights to Geneva are especially popular, with Geneva Airport (GVA) offering easy onward travel to Modane via shuttles, trains, or rental cars.

In addition, Grenoble Alpes-Isère Airport (GNB) provides seasonal winter routes (around 2h by car), making it a practical option during ski season. From all airports, you'll find onward connections by coach transfer, private shuttle, or rental car, making it simple to reach Modane.

Once in Modane, several bus services connect the town to the wider Maurienne Valley, with seasonal shuttles running directly to ski resorts like Valfréjus, La Norma, and Aussois. Regional coach networks, including Altibus, also provide winter connections to major airports such as Chambéry, Lyon, Geneva, and Grenoble, making transfers especially easy for ski travelers.

Since Modane is a compact mountain town, most visitors find it easy to get around on foot. For trips further afield, car rental in Modane is available near the train station, giving travelers the freedom to explore the Maurienne Valley and Vanoise National Park at their own pace. In summer, driving also makes it possible to cross spectacular alpine passes like the Col du Mont-Cenis or Col de l'Iseran.

If you'd rather not drive, taxis can be found at the train station or booked in advance. They're a hassle-free option for short transfers to ski resorts, hiking trailheads, or nearby villages.

Modane is a small alpine town in the Maurienne Valley, nestled in the Savoie area of southeastern France. It lies close to the Italian border, just below the Fréjus Road Tunnel, making it a natural gateway between France and Italy. Surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, it’s ideally placed for exploring the French Alps and nearby national parks.

Modane is best known for its stunning mountain landscapes and access to Vanoise National Park. It has a rich cultural history, with sites like Fort du Replaton and the 13th-century Saint-Julien Chapel. Today, it's also recognized as a hub for winter sports, thanks to nearby ski resorts like Valfréjus and La Norma.

Yes, Modane is very family-friendly, with safe, walkable streets and plenty of outdoor activities for all ages. Families can enjoy gentle ski slopes in winter, fun hiking trails in summer, and cultural attractions throughout the year. Nearby resorts like La Norma are especially popular with parents looking for a relaxed, child-friendly atmosphere.

Travelers can step back in time at Fort du Replaton, learn about alpine rail history at the Modane Railway Museum, or admire medieval frescoes in Saint-Julien Chapel. Nature lovers won't want to miss hiking in the Orgère Valley, part of Vanoise National Park, where wildflowers and wildlife thrive. Modane's mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure makes it a unique alpine destination.

Chamonix is about 93 miles (150 kilometers) from Modane, making it possible to visit as part of a longer alpine trip. By train, the journey takes around 5-6 hours with two changes: first at Chambéry-Challes-les-Eaux, then again at Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet for the scenic Mont Blanc Express. Traveling by car is quicker, with a drive time of about 2 hours and 15 minute