Snow chains or winter tires? Where to park? Can you also take the train in the summer? And what about that famous “last kilometer” to the resort? Relax—we’ve got it all covered. Train, car, taxi, funicular: find the option that works best for you to get to Les Arcs.
Getting to Les Arcs
Find the mode of transportation that's right for you
Discover the different ways to get to Les Arcs and choose the one that will give you the most peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Train, car, or plane: pick your mode of transportation, and we’ll help you with the rest. By train, you’ll arrive directly in Bourg-Saint-Maurice, and then the funicular will take you to Arc 1600 in just 7 minutes. If you’re driving, be sure to check road conditions and your winter equipment. If flying, the nearest airports are Geneva and Lyon, about 2 hours and 30 minutes away. Be sure to book your transfer in advance: train from Lyon, taxi, private car, or shuttle, depending on your route. Once you’re there, shuttles and sustainable transportation options will help you get around more easily.
After the last funicular (9:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 11:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday), you’ll need to take a taxi or ride-hailing service to get to Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950, or Arc 2000. A quick tip: Book your ride in advance, especially on arrival weekends.
In winter, the funicular ride is free with the presentation of a train ticket. In summer, it is also free for pedestrians and paragliders.
Yes, the shuttle buses between stations are free from the funicular’s arrival station. They allow you to travel between the various high-altitude resorts: Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950, and Arc 2000.
Shuttle schedules vary depending on the season, operating dates, and holiday periods. Before planning your trip, always check the current shuttle schedules between Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950, and Arc 2000.
Between November 1 and March 31, in mountainous areas, your vehicle must be equipped with winter tires or have snow chains or snow socks. In Les Arcs, this is essential for a stress-free drive up to the resort.
If you don’t feel comfortable driving on mountain roads, you can park your car in Bourg-Saint-Maurice and then reach your lodging via the funicular and shuttles. This is a convenient way to avoid driving up the mountain. Please note, however: even if you stop in Bourg-Saint-Maurice, winter equipment remains mandatory.
Before hitting the road, check real-time road conditions, traffic conditions, and any potential disruptions in Savoie. This is the number one thing to do before heading to a ski resort, especially in winter and on busy travel days.
It’s best not to count on that. On arrival weekends, gas stations may be closed, and stores don’t always have a lot of stock. The best tip is to stock up before you leave.
Don’t panic: Online reservations apply only to a limited number of spaces in certain covered parking garages. If you haven’t made a reservation, you can park in a covered garage subject to availability, or in an outdoor parking lot that cannot be reserved in advance.
In the summer, most parking lots are free, with some exceptions, such as the covered parking garage at Arc 1950.
No, not all parking lots can be reserved in advance. Some indoor parking lots offer online reservations, but outdoor parking lots generally operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A good tip: Check the parking lot closest to your lodging before you leave.
The easiest way is to choose your parking lot based on where you live or your neighborhood: Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950, or Arc 2000. Some parking lots are closer to the shops, while others are more convenient for those arriving with heavy luggage—like a sherpa—at the end of the season.
Several charging options for electric vehicles are available in Les Arcs and Bourg-Saint-Maurice, particularly in certain parking lots, accommodations, and service locations.
Before you arrive, check which parking lot is closest to your lodging and which charging stations are available based on your destination: Bourg Saint Maurice, Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950, or Arc 2000. It’s a quick check that’ll help you avoid ending your trip with 4% battery life and way too much suspense.
