What is the Best Region of The Alps to Visit?

The best region often depends on what kind of trip you're planning. Many travellers enjoy the French Alps for their mix of mountain scenery, well-known resorts and easy access by ferry and car, but every Alpine country offers its own highlights.

When is the Best Time to Go to The Alps?

The Alps are a wonder to visit at any time of year. For sunshine-filled days and lush green mountains, visit in summer, or winter for cosy alpine lodges and sparkly Christmas markets galore.

Is it Expensive to Visit The Alps?

Costs can vary depending on where and when you travel. Driving gives you the flexibility to choose accommodation and explore quieter towns, which can help manage your overall budget.

Your Essential Guide to The Alps | Ferries to France

The Alps are one of Europe's most breathtaking regions, stretching across several countries and offering year‑round adventure, unforgettable scenery and a chance to explore charming mountain towns at your own pace. Whether you're dreaming of tranquil alpine lakes, scenic hikes or snowy slopes, the Alps are the perfect place to explore any time of year.

From the best hikes to embark on to exactly what to do in the Alps during summer and winter, read on to find out everything you need to plan your perfect Alpine escape.

Where Are The Alps?

The Alps stretch across eight countries, including France, Monaco, Slovenia, Liechtenstein, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Austria, forming one of Europe's most impressive natural landscapes. For UK travellers, the French Alps are often the easiest to reach with a simple Channel crossing followed by a scenic drive through the French countryside.

You can reach France with DFDS in under 2 hours via our routes from Dover to Dunkirk and Dover to Calais, or in 4 hours from Newhaven to Dieppe. Start your holiday the moment you board with our fantastic onboard services and disembark ready for a scenic road trip through Europe. Whether you're heading for lakes, popular Alpine hiking routes or winter villages, travelling via northern France gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Exploring The Alps Mountains

Exploring the Alps offers an adventure through ever‑changing scenery, from snow‑tipped summits to wide green valleys dotted with wooden chalets. The region is known for its fresh mountain air, crystal‑clear rivers and beautiful trails weaving through forests and rocky ridges.

Each country within the Alps offers its own charm, whether that's France's dramatic peaks, Italy's characterful villages or Switzerland's pristine lakes. Driving through Europe with your vehicle, you'll find countless viewpoints, picnic spots and scenic detours, making it easy to shape your trip around the landscapes that excite you most.

Top Things to Do in The Alps

When considering what to do in the Alps, you'll find an incredible mix of outdoor adventure, cultural highlights and peaceful places to unwind. Ride cable cars to spectacular viewpoints, explore lively market towns or follow gentle paths through colourful meadows. Food lovers will enjoy tasting regional cheeses, pastries and mountain dishes in cosy restaurants, while families can enjoy lakeside picnic spots, adventure parks and easy walking routes.

During warmer months, many visitors enjoy cycling, paddleboarding or simply soaking up the scenery. In winter, the Alps truly transform, offering skiing, snowshoeing and festive alpine charm. Whatever your style of holiday, there are endless things to do in the Alps all year round.

The Best Hikes in The Alps

The region is home to some of the most unforgettable hiking trails, offering routes for walkers of all levels, from beginners to experienced hikers. Gentle paths wind around lakes and through wildflower meadows, while more adventurous trails climb to dramatic viewpoints where you can enjoy sweeping panoramas across the mountains.

In France, valleys such as Chamonix offer iconic routes with unforgettable Alpine scenery. Italy's Dolomites are known for their jagged limestone peaks and well‑marked trails, while Switzerland's mountain passes are perfect for long days of exploration. Whether you're aiming for a challenging summit or a relaxed family walk, hiking in the Alps is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the region's natural beauty.

Discovering Alpine Lakes

The Alps are home to enchanting alpine lakes framed by rugged peaks and lush valleys. These lakes add a serene beauty to the region, offering the perfect backdrop for swimming, sailing or unhurried shoreline walks. Many feature charming lakeside towns where you can enjoy relaxed lunches or wander along quiet promenades. Our must-see lakes include:

Lac d'Allos, the largest natural high-altitude lake in Europe, is known for its deep blue colour and peaceful trails.
Lake de Serre‑Ponçon offers wide open views and gentle bays perfect for swimming.
Lake de Sainte‑Croix is the perfect spot for paddling through turquoise water and limestone gorges.
Lake Geneva combines alpine beauty with vibrant lakeside towns further north.

The Alps in Summer

An Alps summer holiday brings long days, warm sunshine and a landscape alive with colour. Cable cars open to walkers and cyclists, while mountain paths reveal fields of wildflowers and sweeping views. Lakes become inviting spots for swimming or paddleboarding, and lively towns bustle with open‑air dining and friendly cafés.

Families can enjoy adventure parks, gentle walking routes through the Chamonix Valley and fun outdoor activities set against stunning backdrops. For the warmest weather, visit between July and August; September is also a good option if you prefer fewer crowds and pleasant hiking conditions. Summer in the Alps has a light, uplifting atmosphere, making it a fantastic season for travellers who enjoy fresh air, scenic routes and relaxed exploration.

The Alps in Winter

During an Alpine winter, the mountains transform into a snowy world of crisp air and glistening landscapes. Resorts welcome visitors with excellent skiing and snowboarding, but non‑skiers will find plenty to enjoy too – from winter walks and snowshoeing to cosy moments in alpine cafés.

The region also shines with festive charm, as Christmas markets, glowing lights and warm mountain dishes create a magical seasonal atmosphere. Families can enjoy sledging, ice skating and gentle snow trails perfect for slower days outdoors. Winter in the Alps offers a balance of adventure and calm, giving travellers the chance to enjoy both exhilaration and peaceful wintry beauty.

Driving to The Alps

Driving in France, Belgium or Germany to the Alps gives you complete freedom to explore the region at your own pace. Travelling by car also means you can bring everything you need – from walking boots and winter gear to children's essentials and extra layers.

After a relaxing DFDS crossing to France, your journey continues through scenic countryside and welcoming towns. Plenty of stopping points along the way make the drive enjoyable and flexible, whether you're pausing for a meal, taking photos or exploring a new village. A driving holiday also allows you to combine different Alpine regions or activities in one trip easily.

Our Routes

Dover to Dunkirk

With a journey time of just 2 hours, our Dover to Dunkirk ferry crossing gives you access to Belgium, France, the Netherlands and beyond.

Dover to Calais

Hop onboard our most popular ferry crossing, Dover to Calais, and arrive in Calais in just 1 hour and 40 minutes. From there, enjoy a scenic drive through France, Belgium and the Netherlands to Amsterdam.

Newhaven to Dieppe

Arrive in Dieppe in 5 hours with our Newhaven to Dieppe ferry crossing. Enjoy fantastic facilities while you sail, including restaurants and an onboard shop.