Looking to spend four or five nights in the French Alps. Where should should we be based. I am thinking either Annecy or Chamonix. Itinerary or lodging suggestions very much appreciated.
If your main interest is the Alps, definitely stay in Chamonix but make sure you also visit the beautiful it’s of Annecy. Not to be missed.
I've just returned from Chamonix after completing the Tour du Mont Blanc. While I did not go to Annecy I do understand that it is a lovely town, but would agree Chamonix might offer a more central location. You can drive or take public/private transfer to Annecy for a day trip. If the Mont Blanc tunnel has reopened by the time of your trip I would also strongly suggest a visit to Courmayeur for a day. Flix bus has regular service to and from Courmayeur. When we were in Chamonix we stayed at the Heliopic and highly recommend it although I did get a fabulous price at the time I booked.
You don't say when you plan to go, but between now and ski season, there will be
a lot of closures/maintenance of the lifts/gondolas which may reduce the things you
are able to see if you stay in a place like Chamonix. And it is already starting to snow
sporadically at the higher elevations.
Annecy is not really in the Alps per se, but is indeed a lovely town. 5 nights might be
overkill, though, whereas it would not be in Chamonix in the summertime.