Annecy is an alpine town in southeastern France, where Lake Annecy feeds into the Thiou River. It’s known for its Vieille Ville (old town), with cobbled streets, winding canals and pastel-colored houses. Overlooking the city, the medieval Château d’Annecy, once home to the Counts of Geneva, contains a museum with regional artifacts such as Alpine furniture and religious art, plus a natural history exhibit.
Best Time to Visit Annecy:
The best time to visit Annecy depends on what you're looking to do:
To get to Annecy, here are your main options:
Annecy is well-connected by train. The main train station is Gare d'Annecy, which connects to:
Driving to Annecy is an option if you prefer flexibility. It's accessible from:
Annecy is often called the "Venice of the Alps" because of its charming canals and picturesque setting by Lake Annecy. Here are the top attractions you shouldn't miss:
One of the cleanest lakes in Europe, perfect for outdoor activities such as boating, swimming, paddleboarding, and cycling along its shores. The views of the surrounding mountains are breathtaking.
Explore the cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and canals of Annecy's medieval old town. Key highlights include:
Perched above the town, this 12th-century castle offers stunning panoramic views of Annecy and the surrounding area. The castle houses a museum with exhibits on regional history and art.
A Belle Époque palace by the lake, now a luxury hotel and casino. Even if you don’t stay, it’s worth admiring the building and the views of the lake and mountains.
Annecy has vibrant markets, especially the Saturday morning market. The Old Town market is full of fresh produce, local goods, and regional specialties.
A beautiful natural site about 10 km from Annecy, featuring a narrow gorge carved out by the Fier River. You can walk on a suspended walkway for spectacular views of the gorge and the surrounding forest.
For stunning views of Annecy and the lake, hike to the summit of Mont Veyrier. The trail is challenging but the views are totally worth it.
A mountain located near Annecy, great for both summer and winter activities. In winter, it’s a ski resort, while in summer, it’s a hub for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of the region.
Boating on Lake Annecy:
Rent a boat or take a guided tour around the lake to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and spectacular views of the surrounding Alps. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing are popular here too.
Cycling Around the Lake:
There’s a scenic 42 km cycle path around Lake Annecy, perfect for cycling enthusiasts. You can rent a bike and enjoy the views as you ride through charming villages and nature.
Hiking in the Mountains:
Exploring the Old Town:
Wander through Annecy's medieval Old Town (La Vieille Ville). Enjoy the charming canals, colorful buildings, and picturesque streets. Don’t miss the Palais de l'Isle and the Lovers' Bridge.
Paragliding:
Annecy is a popular spot for paragliding, offering stunning views of the lake, mountains, and surrounding countryside. Several companies offer tandem paragliding experiences.
Winter Sports (December - March):
Attend the Annecy International Animation Film Festival (June):
If you're in Annecy during the festival, it's a must for animation lovers. The festival showcases some of the best animated films globally.
Take a Day Trip to Mont Blanc:
About an hour and a half from Annecy, you can visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for breathtaking views and skiing or hiking in the Mont Blanc massif.
Luxury Hotels:
Boutique Hotels:
Budget Accommodation:
Hostels:
Apartments & Vacation Rentals:
Annecy’s culinary scene is influenced by its location in the French Alps, so you’ll find a mix of French, Savoyard, and alpine specialties. Here are some must-try foods and popular restaurants:
Fondue Savoyarde:
A traditional dish from the region, consisting of melted cheese (usually a mix of Gruyère and Emmental) served with bread for dipping. Sometimes, it’s served with potatoes or cured meats.
Raclette:
Another alpine favorite, raclette features melted cheese served over potatoes, pickles, and cured meats. It’s a hearty dish, perfect for cold weather.
Tartiflette:
A Savoyard specialty made with potatoes, reblochon cheese, bacon, and onions, baked to perfection. A comforting dish for the winter months.
Diots:
Savoyard sausages, often served with white wine and cooked with potatoes or in a casserole with vegetables.
Lake Fish:
Annecy is known for its clean, fresh lake waters, so try dishes featuring perch, smelt, or lake trout.
Pâtisseries:
Be sure to try Tarte de Myrtille (blueberry tart) and other pastries made with local fruit, especially during the summer months when the fruits are in season.
Cheese:
The region is famous for its cheeses, so be sure to try Reblochon, Abondance, and Beaufort.
La Table de l'Ours:
A cozy and stylish restaurant that specializes in Savoyard cuisine, including fondue and raclette. The atmosphere is warm, and the service is friendly.
Le Clos des Sens:
A Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative French cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The tasting menu is an unforgettable experience.
Auberge du Père Bise:
A historic restaurant on the shores of Lake Annecy, serving refined, modern French dishes with a view of the lake. It’s perfect for a special occasion.
Le Chalet d'Olivier:
A great place to try Savoyard specialties, offering a variety of fondues and grilled meats. It has a charming, rustic ambiance.
Chez Mamie Lise:
A more casual but highly praised restaurant known for its hearty local dishes, including raclette, fondue, and tartiflette. It’s a favorite among locals.
Les Terrasses du Lac:
Located near the lake, this restaurant offers a contemporary menu with a focus on fresh, local produce. The views of Lake Annecy add to the dining experience.
Le Bouillon:
A lovely bistro in the Old Town serving delicious French classics, including fresh seafood and regional dishes, with a welcoming atmosphere.
Annecy’s culture is deeply rooted in its medieval history, alpine traditions, and proximity to both French and Swiss influences. Here are some cultural aspects to know:
Annecy’s Old Town (La Vieille Ville) features well-preserved medieval architecture, with its canals, cobbled streets, and pastel-colored buildings. The Château d'Annecy and Palais de l'Isle are iconic landmarks that showcase the region’s historical significance.
The local culture revolves around outdoor activities, thanks to Annecy’s stunning natural surroundings. Residents and visitors alike enjoy hiking, cycling, skiing, and water sports, depending on the season.
Lake Annecy is a central part of local life. People love walking along the lake, cycling its perimeter, or simply enjoying the view from lakeside cafes. Boat rides and swimming are popular in the summer months.
The majority of people speak French, but you’ll often hear some local Savoyard dialect. The Savoy region has its own distinct traditions, including alpine festivals, crafts, and folklore. While Annecy is a popular tourist destination, it maintains a cozy, small-town vibe.
Annecy is home to many artists, and the town features numerous art galleries, especially in the Old Town. Traditional crafts, such as lacemaking and woodworking, are still practiced in the region, and you can find local artisans selling their creations in the markets.
Annecy hosts vibrant markets, particularly the Saturday market in the Old Town. Vendors offer fresh local produce, cheese, meat, and handmade goods. It’s an excellent way to experience local flavors and crafts.
Annecy’s culture is a beautiful blend of history, outdoor adventure, and a love for good food and local traditions, making it a unique and welcoming place to visit.