2025 Annecy Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

Annecy, a small town in eastern France at the foot of the Alps, is close to Geneva, Switzerland, and nestled by Lake Annecy. The lake and mountain scenery are exceptionally tranquil and charming. During this Swiss free travel, we stayed one night in Chamonix, France, which allowed us to visit Annecy for a leisurely half-day. Annecy, surrounded by mountains and water, offers not only the beautiful peaks of the Alps but also the clear and clean Lake Annecy, which is perfect for water activities. A boat trip on the lake is definitely the best choice. The lake's water comes from the melting snow of the Alps, no wonder it's so clear. In addition, the Thiou River, which winds through the town of Annecy, is like a European fairy tale version of 'small bridges, flowing water, and homes.' From a distance, you can see St. Francis Church on the shore and the Island Palace in the river. The European version of a water town has a unique romantic feel. Taking a walk on a sunny day is truly delightful.

Annecy, often referred to as the “Pearl of the French Alps,” is a picturesque town that enchants visitors with its stunning landscapes, historic charm, and vibrant culture. Located in southeastern France, Annecy is nestled along the shores of Lake Annecy, one of Europe’s cleanest lakes, and surrounded by breathtaking alpine peaks. The town’s medieval old quarter, Vieille Ville, is a highlight for many travelers. Its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses adorned with flower boxes, and winding canals give it a fairy-tale ambiance. Landmarks like the Château d’Annecy, a restored castle-turned-museum, and the Palais de l’Île, a 12th-century prison in the middle of a canal, offer a glimpse into the town’s rich history. Lake Annecy is the crown jewel of the region. Its turquoise waters invite a range of activities, including swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Cyclists and walkers will enjoy the well-maintained paths that circle the lake, offering breathtaking views at every turn. In the winter, Annecy serves as a gateway to nearby ski resorts, making it a year-round destination. Annecy is also a haven for food lovers. Local specialties like tartiflette, raclette, and fondue reflect the Alpine region’s culinary traditions, while the town’s patisseries and restaurants offer a taste of French sophistication. While Annecy can get crowded during the peak summer months, its charm remains intact. The locals are friendly, and the town’s blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage ensures that every visitor finds something to love. Whether you’re exploring its historic streets, enjoying the pristine lake, or savoring the local cuisine, Annecy is a destination that leaves a lasting impression.

Lake Annecy (Lac d’Annecy) is renowned as the clearest lake in France. The lake's water comes from the melting snow of the Alps, shimmering a bright green under the sunlight. The flowing water runs through the entire town, surrounding the outer meadows. One of the most popular activities for tourists here is boating. You can row a small wooden boat yourself, join a group on a sightseeing boat, or even board a larger cruise ship docked at the other pier. There are many different boating companies along the lakeside, allowing you to sign up and depart immediately. A trip around the lake can take an entire day. There is also a Lovers' Bridge (Pont des Amours), the busiest and most crowded one. From the bridge, you can see a vast view of Lake Annecy, making it a perfect spot for photography. It takes about 15 minutes to walk from the train station to the Castle Square. A loop around the old town can be done in an hour, but if you want to take your time, it might take half a day. It's an ideal place for a day trip. There are many restaurants and shops around. Compared to traditional French cities, they resemble Switzerland more, whether in terms of food, the accent of the French language, or the personality of the residents. 🚴 Transportation: From Geneva: It is recommended to take the Eurolines or Flixbus from Geneva's Gare Routiere bus station, which takes about 45-55 minutes. You can also take a train from Geneva's train station. Recommendation: Spending about half a day exploring Lake Annecy and its surroundings should be sufficient.

#Overseas travel I'll introduce you to Annecy, where French people want to live after retirement🤗 ⭐️Location: Le Palais de I'Île (3 Pass. de l'Île, 74000 Annecy, France) 🍯Information: ✔️It's so beautiful that French people want to live there after retirement✨ ✔️There's a separate lake and it's great for walking💚 ✔️It's about 3-4 hours away from Paris! ✔️It's a small city, but it's really beautiful👍🏻

#timetotravel Pont des Amours can be translated into “Love Bridge” in english. It is indeed a very romantic bridge with love locks, overlooking the Swiss alps. I always question why did I visit with my sister and not my boyfriend 🙄 It is hard to miss Pont des Amours when you are in Annecy because it is along the shores of the lake of Annecy. I went to Annecy with no agenda and barely opened by google maps and I found myself stumbling across this bridge randomly!! #annecy #france #境外遊

#Emotional Accommodation This is an Airbnb located 7 minutes on foot from Annecy Station. The front door is hidden, but it has a local feel ✨ I prefer Airbnb to hotels and hostels, where I can get into the local life. This place is especially good for art, so I was able to see unique interiors. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes on foot to Annecy Old Town! It was a private room for me, so I didn't bump into the host, so I was able to use it more comfortably. 📍Annecy, France

#swimmingpool #france #annecy #annecylake 🏊🏼‍♀️ The cool and clear Annecy Lake is a natural swimming pool. I rented a manual paddle boat and swam in the clear and deep water of Annecy Lake to cool off from the summer heat. It was really refreshing and cool because it was freshwater. Annecy Lake is the best swimming pool created by nature.

Lake Annecy is probably the most famous and visited place in the city of Annecy. Getting there is pretty easy as it is located in downtown and all drivers know where is located or you can stay in nearby hotels. The recommended sightseen time is between one to two hours. Lake’s water has a beautiful light green shade, you might think the pics are photoshopped but this is the real color. Boats are available for rent. If you travel with friends or a family trip with kids then a medium size boat could be a great option to enjoy the lake and keep the kids busy. After the visit, you can also enjoy some shopping or nice food as there are many restaurants and shops around the area. #createwithtrip #france #annecy #lakeannecy

Annecy old town Address - Quai de l'Évêché, 74000 Annecy, France Highlights - Beautiful architecture right in the centre of this alpine town Avg. Price per Person - Free Rating - 5/5 If you happen to be passing by Annecy on the way to Chamonix or some of the other alpine towns, do take a couple hours to stroll down this gorgeous town with it’s cobblestones walkways and old shops. Stop by some of the local Bouchons or restaurants for some French cuisine or even Gelato when it gets hot in the summer. the views along the canal set against the backdrop of the French mountains will definitely be worth your while.

Another landmark that you must not miss is the Palais de I'lle. This place used to be a prison. It is currently undergoing renovations and is a selling point for the city. Both sides of the road are full of restaurants, bars and souvenir shops. #annecy #frence #traveleurope

A large waterfront park, Jardins de l'Europe or Gardens of Europe, has a great atmosphere. People come to relax. Along the way, we will see the Campagnie Bateaux Du Lac D’Annacy boat pier, which is a tourist boat that goes out to see the view and has dinner on the boat in the early evening. There is a large red and white boat called Libellule docked at the pier. During this winter season, the boat will depart at 3:00 p.m. and will take 1 hour. The boat will take us to see the view of the cities around Lake Annecy, but the boat will not stop for us to get off (if it is in the summer, there will be a route that we can go down to various cities). #winterseatravel #annecy #traveleurope

If you go to Annecy, in addition to the beauty of this city, please don’t miss the drugstores here! ! ! ! ! Annecy is very famous and many foreigners come here to visit. But in addition to the beautiful scenery, the prices in the drugstores are also very attractive! #goout

#travelinspiration #wintergetaway

summer vibes in Annecy - France. great weather to walk in the narrow streets which offers plenty of coffee shops and restaurants to enjoy great wine and amazing french food. #annecy #france #awesomepic

Annecy has the reputation of "Venice of the Alps" and "Alpine Pearls". The waters of Annecy come from the alpine snow and rain of the Alps. The town also preserves the scenery of the Middle Ages. Walking through it gradually realizes the existence of time. Compared to the Austrian town of Ha, Annecy has the unique romantic temperament of the French, it is difficult to make people love.

The small town of Annecy, France, is old and elegant. The blue mountains and the canals that pass through the city, the row upon row, the densely colored houses, and the green trees and flowers on the ground make up the beauty of the paradise, and are rated as one of the six charming towns in the world. There are not only beautiful natural landscapes, but also many well-preserved old buildings. The Old City is a typical European city. Huihe twists and turns through the entire old town, the riverside old houses are like forests, many buildings were built in the 12th to 17th centuries and have been preserved to this day. The ancient stone roads are still medieval, and most of them are opened as pedestrian streets. The small streets along the river are open-air cafes, souvenir shops, hotels and restaurants, and the flowers in front of the arcades of the buildings and across the river.

🌅 Day 1: Lakeside Walk & Old Town Magic We arrived in Annecy and instantly fell for the clear turquoise lake surrounded by mountains 🌊🏔️. We strolled along the Lake Annecy promenade 🚶♀️, where swans floated gracefully and colorful boats bobbed on the water—such a peaceful, picture-perfect start. After soaking in the views, we wandered the charming Old Town 🏘️ with its narrow cobblestone streets, pastel houses, and flower-filled balconies. For lunch, we stopped at a cozy café and savored classic Savoyard tartiflette 🧀 — warm, cheesy, and utterly comforting after our walk. 📍 Quai Napoléon III, Annecy 📍 Vieille Ville, Annecy 🏰 Day 2: Castle Views & Canal Charm We began the day exploring Château d’Annecy 🏰, perched on a hill with sweeping views over the lake and town. Inside, the museum gave us a glimpse into local history, but it was the castle gardens and terraces that stole our hearts. Later, we found a quiet bistro by the Thiou Canal 🌿, where clear water flows beneath ancient stone bridges. We enjoyed fresh trout and a glass of crisp local white wine 🍷 while watching the gentle current. To finish, we rented a paddle boat 🚣♂️ and drifted on the lake as the sunset painted everything gold—an unforgettable way to end our trip. 📍 Rue du Château, Annecy 📍 Rue Sainte-Claire, Annecy #summervacay #travel #vacation

Annecy, located in southeastern France at the foot of the Alps, is a picturesque city near the French-Swiss border and close to Italy. It serves as a convenient stopover for travelers exploring the region. Known for its stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage, Annecy is a year-round travel destination. Beyond exploring the city itself, visitors can venture around Lake Annecy (Lac d’Annecy), surrounded by the majestic Alps, to discover castles and enjoy various outdoor activities. The western Semnoz Mountain, the eastern La Tournette Peak, and the surrounding Alps create a breathtaking backdrop for Lake Annecy, making its scenery truly poetic and picturesque. This time, I rented an electric bike for €33 (a 4-hour rental) to cycle around the lake. With a French baguette as a snack, I enjoyed a delightful lakeside picnic. During the ride or while resting by the lake, I admired the boats, observed the relaxed locals, and explored charming towns and green parks along the way. It was a leisurely and memorable travel experience.

#summervacay The full loop is 38km with almost no hills—super friendly for beginners! There’s a grandpa selling ice-cold Coke from his cart by the lake. Halfway through the ride, you can take a swim, then sit on the grass sipping that cold Coke, zoning out, and maybe take a nap after getting a little sunburned. The whole experience feels long and peaceful, like reliving childhood summer vacations. Tips: Bring your swimsuit 🏊♀️ Cycle clockwise around the lake Don’t forget sunscreen! I got a bad sunburn on my legs 😭 There’s only one place to rent road bikes, so book early Next time, I’m bringing my own bike to ride again! #SummerCycling #SummerVibes #Annecy #LakeAnnecyLoop #SlowLiving #BikeLovers #LakesideMoments #FranceTravel

#summervacay **📍 *Why Annecy’s Canals?*** Winding through pastel-painted houses and under flower-laden bridges, Annecy’s **crystal-clear canals** (fed by Lake Annecy’s springs) are a **postcard-perfect blend of medieval charm and alpine freshness**. Think: Venice meets the French Alps! --- ### **🗓️ One-Day Itinerary: Canals, Markets & Lake Views** #### **Morning: Old Town & Canal Wander** - **9:00 AM** – **Palais de l’Isle** - Start at this **12th-century island prison** (Annecy’s most photographed spot!). - **10:00 AM** – **Canal Saint-Dominique** - Stroll along the **most colorful canals**, stopping at: - **Pont des Amours** (Lovers’ Bridge) for lake views. - **Rue Sainte-Claire** (cobbled street with arcades). - **11:00 AM** – **Marché d’Annecy** (Tue/Fri/Sun) - Taste **Savoyard cheese** (Reblochon, Tomme) and **fresh raspberries**. #### **Midday: Lakeside Picnic & Boat Ride** - **12:30 PM** – **Lunch by the Lake** - Grab a **baguette sandwich** from *La Petite Cuillère* and picnic at **Jardins de l’Europe**. - **2:00 PM** – **Boat Tour on Lake Annecy** - Opt for a **1-hour electric boat cruise** (€18) or rent a **paddleboard** for canals + lake. #### **Afternoon: Gardens & Sunset** - **4:00 PM** – **Château d’Annecy** - Climb to this **medieval castle** for panoramic canal + mountain views. - **6:00 PM** – **Canal-side Aperitif** - Sip **Aperol Spritz** at *Le Café des Arts* (canal seating!). #### **Evening: Dinner & Night Lights** - **8:00 PM** – **Dinner at L’Étage** - Savoyard specialties like **tartiflette** (melty potato-cheese heaven). - **10:00 PM** – **Moonlit Canal Walk** - The bridges glow like lanterns—pure magic! --- ### **🌺 Must-See Canal Spots:** ✅ **Thiou River**: The main canal, lined with **16th-century houses**. ✅ **Pont Morens**: Tiny bridge with **window-box flowers**. ✅ **Quai de l’Évêché**: Best reflections at golden hour. --- ### **📌 Pro Tips:** - **Best Time**: **April-June** for flowers; **Sept** for fewer crowds. - **Transport**: Walk everywhere—Old Town is car-free! - **Detour**: **Gorges du Fier** (20min drive; dramatic canyon walk). **"Annecy’s canals don’t just flow—they dance with color and history."** Ready to wander? 🎨🦢

Annecy, located in southeastern France, is often referred to as the "Pearl of the Alps." This picturesque city near the borders of Switzerland and Italy is also known as the "Venice of the Alps." Annecy boasts a rich history, having once been part of the Duchy of Savoy before becoming part of France. The city is famous for its medieval Old Town and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy. French philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau even lived here for 11 years. On Sundays, the Old Town hosts a holiday market (from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM), offering a dazzling array of goods that will leave visitors amazed. The riverside restaurants and streets of the Old Town are packed with tourists. Revisiting the Old Town at night reveals a different charm, as the illuminated streets and buildings exude a romantic atmosphere.

Sure Hotel by Best Western Annecy is ideal for travelers with cars, as it is conveniently located near the highway leading to Annecy and offers ample parking space. However, it is about 2 kilometers away from the town center, making it a bit of a walk for those who wish to explore the area on foot. If you have the stamina, you can enjoy a stroll to the city center or opt for a bus ride. The staff are friendly and welcoming, and the rooms are clean but somewhat small, lacking storage space. In a double room, placing two suitcases can make moving around a bit cramped. The hotel features a billiards and pinball area for entertainment and light exercise. Guests can also pay extra for breakfast, which is served in a stylish restaurant with a wide variety of fresh ingredients.

Allobroges Park Hotel is conveniently located near the train station in Annecy, offering travelers easy access to popular attractions and a variety of dining options. The hotel provides excellent service, with complimentary coffee, croissants, and cookies available in the stairwell. Situated just steps away from the oldest part of the town, it is nestled on a quiet street yet boasts modern rooms and top-notch facilities. The rooms are clean, cozy, and charmingly decorated, and the staff is exceptionally friendly. Guests can enjoy a delightful breakfast and unwind at the small bar. Although rated as a 3-star hotel, its well-equipped facilities significantly enhance the quality of the stay, adding joy to your journey.

I added this city as I was on a road trip from southern france to Lausanne, via the Napoleon route. The stay exceeded my expectations. The old town is nice and peaceful, with little Venice vibes. Not far away, there is a beautiful lake where you can do jogging, cycling and slow walk after a nice meal. The city centre is just need to the old town, so you get everything you need conveniently. There is also an open market within the old town. overall I really like the place and wish I could stay longer. #annecy

#Get a discount without relying on luck on the sixth day of traveling in France. Today, we drove from Jarnioux to Annecy, a city in southeastern France. There is a lake in the middle of the city and we can see the Alps. We parked in the city center. Parking here is quite expensive. Two hours is six euros. If you want to park longer, it is fifty euros. The reason for this is probably because this is a tourist city. Therefore, you are not allowed to park for a long time. If you want to park longer, you have to park a bit farther away. On the day we came, there were quite a lot of tourists because it was the Easter holiday, so there were quite a few French tourists. This trip to France, I was quite surprised that I didn't see many Chinese or Thai people. There were very few Asians. I mostly saw European tourists. We arrived around noon, so we stopped for lunch. Today, I tried Fondue. It was delicious at first, but if you eat a lot, it will start to get greasy because it is butter. After eating, we went for a walk at the lake. In Annecy, they said that the ice cream was delicious, so I ordered some. It cost three scoops for six euros. It was expensive, but the taste was good. We walked around taking pictures of the lake and walking around the city until 8 pm. Then we walked back to our accommodation. Today's result was walking twenty thousand steps!!!

🌟 France's breathtakingly beautiful travel destination! Stunning beyond words 💙 "If Paris is the epitome of romance, then Annecy is a fragment of heaven fallen to earth✨" 📍 Location: Situated in the Haute-Savoie region of eastern France Only a 40-minute drive from Geneva Known as "The Venice of the Alps" 💎 Must-visit Attractions: 1️⃣ Lake Annecy (Lac d'Annecy) - One of the purest lakes in Europe - Misty mornings on the lake create a dreamlike atmosphere 2️⃣ Old Town (Vieille Ville) ✔️ Palais de l'Isle - A triangular castle from the 12th century ✔️ Saint Maurice Church - A masterpiece of Gothic architecture ✔️ Pont des Amours (Lovers' Bridge) - ❤️ A must-visit for couples 3️⃣ Annecy Castle (Château d'Annecy) - The perfect viewpoint overlooking the entire town - Entrance fee: €5.5 🍴 Food Recommendations: 🧀 Must-try Savoyard Cheese Fondue (Fondue Savoyarde) 🍷 Pair it with local white wine Apremont 🍮 Dessert recommendation: Blueberry Tart (Tarte aux Myrtilles) 📸 Photography Tips: 1. Visit the Old Town between 7-9 AM for fewer crowds 2. Lovers' Bridge is most romantic at sunset 3. Picnic by the lake for the perfect photo op 🚌 Transportation: Geneva Airport ➡️ Annecy by bus in 1 hour Paris Gare de Lyon ➡️ Annecy by TGV in 3.5 hours 💡 Travel Tips: ▪️ Best travel season: June to September ▪️ Don't forget sunscreen! High-altitude UV rays are strong "Every frame here feels like a postcard Medieval archways around every corner The Tiffany-blue lake shimmering in the sunlight Even the air smells like sweet cream🍦"

Annecy, located in the Haute-Savoie department in southeastern France, is just about 40 kilometers from Geneva. Known as "The Venice of the Alps," this charming town is famous for its crystal-clear lake, winding canals, historic old town, and surrounding snow-capped mountains. Nestled at the foot of the Alps, Annecy is surrounded by spectacular peaks, the most notable being Semnoz Mountain, which overlooks the entire town (see photo 2). At the heart of the city lies the stunning Lake Annecy, one of the cleanest lakes in Europe. Fed by snowmelt and spring water, the lake is crystal clear, covering an area of approximately 27 square kilometers with a depth of 44.6 meters. Annecy's history dates back to the 1st century BC when it was originally a Celtic settlement. In the 19th century, following the end of the Napoleonic Wars, Annecy was officially incorporated into French territory. The town was once home to French writer and philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who described the natural beauty of Annecy in his "Confessions." Rousseau often strolled along the lakeside meadows, contemplating the beauty of nature—a tradition that continues to inspire visitors today. 🎬 Main Attractions * **Old Town**: The well-preserved medieval streets and buildings transport visitors back in time. The most iconic landmark is the Palais de l'Île, a unique prison built on the Savoie Canal, now serving as a local history museum. * **Lake Annecy**: Popular activities include lakeside walks, boating, swimming, and cycling. Nearby towns and villages like Talloires and Menthon-Saint-Bernard offer tranquil scenery that attracts countless travelers. * **Annecy Castle**: Once the residence of the Dukes of Savoy, the castle now houses a museum of art and regional history. 🚗 Annecy is easily accessible by road and rail. The nearest international airport is Geneva Airport, about a 40-minute drive away. Annecy's train station provides connections to major French cities and neighboring Switzerland. Within the city, walking or renting a bike is recommended for exploration, while public transportation covers key attractions. 🍲 Culinary Highlights: Don't miss local specialties like Fondue Savoyarde and Raclette, both made with locally produced cheese. 👀 Nearby Attractions: * **La Clusaz (Ski Resort)**: About 30 kilometers away, ideal for winter skiing and summer hiking. * **Yvoire (Flower Village)**: Located on the shores of Lake Geneva within French territory, accessible by boat from Annecy. Known for its flower-adorned streets and medieval charm. * **Aiguille du Midi (Mont Blanc Peak)**: A perfect day trip from Annecy, featuring a cable car ride to an altitude of 3,842 meters for breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps.

So beautiful! This is a century-old city, very peaceful and not crowded with tourists. You can walk around slowly and savor the flavor of the old city.