4,807metres · Mont Blanc
Short answer: it depends on where you draw Europe’s border. If the Caucasus counts, Mount Elbrus in Russia is Europe’s highest mountain at 5,642 metres. If not, it is Mont Blanc in the Alps: 4,807.47 metres according to the latest measurement.
Mont Blanc
Mont Blanc stands on the border of France and Italy, above Chamonix. Its height changes slightly over time because the summit is capped with ice and snow. In September 2026 French surveyors measured 4,807.47 metres, almost two metres higher than in 2023, reports Euronews.
You do not need to be a mountaineer to see Mont Blanc up close: the cable car from Chamonix takes you to the Aiguille du Midi, at over 3,800 metres, with views of the summit.
Mount Elbrus
Elbrus is a dormant volcano in the Caucasus with two summits. The higher one is 5,642 metres, according to Britannica. Because the Caucasus watershed has traditionally been seen as the border between Europe and Asia, many climbers count Elbrus as part of Europe. It is on the list of the Seven Summits, the highest mountains on each continent.
Other high mountains in Europe
- Monte Rosa (Switzerland/Italy): the highest mountain in Switzerland.
- Matterhorn (Switzerland/Italy): perhaps the best-known pyramid-shaped mountain in the world.
- Grossglockner (Austria): Austria’s highest mountain, with a famous scenic road.
- Zugspitze (Germany): Germany’s highest mountain, reachable by cog railway and cable car.
Curious about the real giants? Read about the highest mountain in the world.
Final edit: Jan Willem Beumer, editor-in-chief of Mindbogglingmedia
