The Aiguille du Midi is one of Chamonix’s most famous locations. Reached by a two-stage cable car from the centre of town, it carries you up, over 20 minutes, from the valley floor to 3,842 m.
At the top you are surrounded by a sea of peaks — the Mont Blanc massif right in front of you and the Matterhorn in the distance on a clear day. There are viewing platforms, café and the famous “Step into the Void” glass box for a dizzying look straight down.
It’s a good idea to take your time there, and you may notice the altitude as you have to draw in extra breaths every so often.
For most people it’s a place to relax and take in the scenery but for experienced mountaineers and extreme hikers, the Aiguille du Midi is also a gateway to serious adventures — starting points for routes like the Vallée Blanche ski descent or climbs towards Mont Blanc itself.
It is recommended to book your tickets for the cable car before you head off. Tickets and more information available here.