Chamonix

Le Garage
270, av. de l'Aiguille de Midi
+33-4-50-53-64-49
Slightly out of the centre (walking distance) near the Aiguille de Midi

Chamonix's largest nightclub may be a bit empty out of season even though it's often the only late-night joint open but it's still fun and a good place to mingle with tourists, expats and even a few locals!

Le Tof
58 Pl. Edmond Desailloud
+33-4-50-55-95-19
Chamonix Sud

Gay-friendly nightclub in Chamonix Sud. Good place for a boogie.

Chambre Neuf
272 av. Michel Croz, Chamonix
+33-4-50-55-89-81
Open daily until 2am
Centre of town

Popular with the après-ski crowd and expats, Chambre Neuf offers a classy location for a tasty and reasonably-priced lunch, a bite to eat, or a happy-hour cocktail.

Vagabond
365 Av. Ravanel le Rouge
+33-4-50-53-15-43
Chamonix Sud

While the walk to 'the Vag' can be a chilly one in winter, you'll probably be met by a roaring fire, football on the TV and a fun crowd of regulars expats and backpackers staying in the adjoining hostel. A good place to watch sport or for a low-key midweek chat.

Drinking in Chamonix is relatively expensive. Expect to pay around €5 in most places for a pint of beer, though most places will sell pitchers which can work out cheaper. There are many happy hours during the late afternoon.The Microbrasserie de Chamonix MBC has different kinds of microbrews, in an American/Canadian ambiance serves onion rings and hot wings, for example. Otherwise, most places serve standard pilsners, such as Heineken or 1664. Just ask for 'un demi pression' for tap beer, or a 'demi panache' for a mix of half beer, half Sprite, a refreshing alternative with less alcohol. A pint is called a "serieux" or for better value, order a "pitcher". Although most people working in the tourism/hospitality industry will speak some english, making the effort to speak a little french is always appreciated. So throw in a little 'bonjour' hello or 'merci' thankyou when you can.