Things to Do in Chambery

The former seat of the Dukes of Savoy, with courtyards and public gardens open daily. The grand staircase and chapel are visible from outside.

🕐 Courtyard daily 8:00-19:00 (winter until 17:00)

💡 Walk up the spiral staircase in the main courtyard for a free view over the old town. The building also houses government offices, so weekday mornings are quietest.

Jean-Jacques Rousseau's former home, a modest country house with a small garden. Free entry to the house and grounds, with exhibits about his life.

🕐 Wednesday-Monday 10:00-12:00, 14:00-18:00 (closed Tuesday)

💡 The garden is small but peaceful—bring a book and sit on the bench where Rousseau supposedly wrote. It's a 20-minute uphill walk from the centre, or take bus line 2.

A bustling open-air food market held three times a week on the main square. Fresh produce, cheese, charcuterie, and local Savoyard specialties.

🕐 Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 7:00-13:00

💡 Go early (by 8am) for the best selection and to avoid crowds. The cheese stall near the fountain often offers free samples of tomme and beaufort.

While the permanent Rousseau collection is free, temporary exhibitions in the same house often change and are free as well. Small but well-curated.

🕐 Wednesday-Monday 10:00-12:00, 14:00-18:00 (closed Tuesday)

💡 Temporary exhibits are usually related to Enlightenment themes or local history. Ask at the reception about the free guided tour in French—often included.

A large public park with wide lawns, plane trees, and a central fountain. Popular for picnics, jogging, and free summer concerts.

🕐 Open 24 hours

💡 Check the city website for the free 'Concerts au Parc' series in July-August. Also good for a midday break with a baguette from nearby boulangeries.