Chambery, France

Capital City

With a population of just under 60,000, Chambéry is a small French city that lacks the glitz and glamour of Paris. The prefecture and largest city of the Savoie department, it sits in a valley surrounded by the French Alps, making it a convenient base for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the climate can be a persistent headache, with hot summers and frequent sub-freezing temperatures in the winter. Chambéry's historical ties to the House of Savoy are evident in the Château des ducs de Savoie, a 14th-century castle that now houses the local government. While the city has a charming old town and landmarks like the Fontaine des Éléphants, the bureaucracy can be a frustrating reality for expats. Overall, Chambéry offers a more modest, provincial French experience compared to the country's bigger cities, making it best suited for those seeking a quieter alpine lifestyle.