Chamonix worth it?

Have you looked into how long it takes to go by train from Chamonix to the BO? The reason I ask is that when we were there 2001, we met a woman in the laundrymat who was doing that trip and it was convoluted and time consuming. I think she was going to stop at Chateau Chillion on the way and she would have to go to Geneva and spend a night. Since we were going the same direction and making the same stops, we gave her a ride to Interlakken and she was really grateful. Anyway, it would only be worth going to Chamonix if it is easy to catch a train to the Berner Oberland area. As for views, they are both great, but my favorite is the Berner Oberland area. (and I've been to both areas multiple times) I'm sure you will have a great trip whatever you decide.

Chamonix to Interlaken is only a 3.5 hour journey, but requires four changes. You can checkout the schedules at the Swiss Rail site:

www.rail.ch

It would be redundant going to both, in my opinion. The Chamonix area doesn't have a valley quite as spectacular as the Lauterbrunnen Valley, but the scenery from the mountains is about the same. The higher Mt. Blanc massif is the true roof of Europe, but this makes little difference for a tourist. Chamonix is much cheaper, though. Prepare for sticker shock in Switzerland ("How much for a plate of raclette?!")

I'm planning on stopping at Chateau de Chillon on the way to Interlaken to break up the trek. Thanks for your comments so far!

I loved Chamonix! I went up the Aiguille du Midi and then walked along the Balcony and took the train down. It was exhausting, but spectacular. For me it was the walk that made the trip. Chamonix itself was pleasant too. Pam

Id agree - the train from Chamonix to Zermatt or B.O. is great. Did it last summer. Chamonix is a wonderful town and if you like the alps - its a great combo for 2 days with 3 in BO after. If hiking and mountaineering and village towns are your cup of tea - this is what started it all - Chamonix put the sport on the map. Two days is perfect to get some nice hikes in as well as going up the the Midi.

Lausanne is also a beautiful city with lots of old historic charm and a big university and cathedral and winding streets. Geneva is more global (although it too has a nice old town - but Lausanne's is bigger I think). But if youre into hiking go Chamonix to B.O. and enjoy the ride! If you feel 1 full day in Chamonix gives you all you need - stop in Lausanne one nite enroute to BO. You will get a different scenery but still beautiful ride along the Lake.

Went to Chamonix in 2005 and loved it. The town was pleasant for walking, the trip up to Mont Blanc was spectacular, and the town has a summer luge!

When I looked into going by train from Geneva airport for a return trip, I decided that the van shuttles were a much better way to go, so you may want to check on those, although I haven't done it. Don't know about train route to BO.

It is difficult for me to compare to BO, since I was only there 20 years ago but I am going back this August!

Once I visit Chamonix, I won't be returning to Geneva, I will continue on to B.O. via Montreux. So I wouldn't be able to do a round trip bus shuttle. I think that's when the price works out better than a train. Agree? All your responses have been VERY helpful!

Boy, I don't think Chamonix is worth it if you're going to be in the Berner Oberland. It's an out-of-season ski resort town. If the weather is warm and clear, then taking the gondola up to Hellbronner is cool. But this time of year you're still likely to encounter clouds.