Best Time to Visit
June to September
Currency
Euro (€)
Language
French
Timezone
CET (UTC+1)
Discover Annecy
Annecy isn't just a postcard; it's a living, breathing masterpiece where the Alps literally meet the water. The Thiou River, flowing directly from the impossibly turquoise Lake Annecy, threads through the Vieille Ville, creating intimate canals crossed by flower-bedecked bridges. Here, you can paddleboard past 12th-century facades in the morning, hike the Semnoz mountain for panoramic lake views by lunch, and savor a tartiflette in a cozy bistro as the castle above glows in the evening light.
This is a town built for active discovery. The 42km cycling path encircling Europe's cleanest major lake offers a flat, car-free journey past beaches, cliffs, and villages like Menthon-Saint-Bernard with its fairytale château. Meanwhile, the sky is dotted with paragliders launching from Col de la Forclaz, floating silently over a landscape so vivid it feels surreal. Annecy seamlessly blends medieval charm with alpine adventure, creating a destination that feels both timeless and exhilaratingly alive.
Why Visit Annecy?
Europe's Cleanest Lake: Swim, paddleboard, or sail in the shockingly turquoise, pristine waters of Lake Annecy, certified as the cleanest in Europe, with public beaches like Plage d'Albigny and the secluded coves of the Roc de Chère reserve.
A Medieval Venice in the Alps: Wander the cobbled lanes and flower-lined canals of the Vieille Ville, discovering hidden courtyards, the iconic Palais de l'Île prison-museum, and pastel-colored houses reflected in the Thiou River.
An Outdoor Sports Paradise: Cycle the entire lake on a dedicated path, paraglide from the Col de la Forclaz for breathtaking aerial views, or hike trails in the nearby Bauges or Aravis mountain ranges.
A Living Historical Tapestry: Explore the Château d'Annecy, a 12th-16th century fortress housing museums, and discover the region's rich history at the Pâquier esplanade and the Basilique de la Visitation.
Gastronomic Alpine Delights: Indulge in hearty Savoyard cuisine like fondue, raclette, and diots sausages in traditional bôites à fondue, paired with local wines from the nearby vineyards.
Vibrant Festivals & Markets: Experience the world-famous Annecy International Animated Film Festival in June or browse the bustling daily markets for local Reblochon cheese, produce, and crafts.
Annecy is Known For
Ready to explore Annecy?
Annecy Neighborhoods
Vieille Ville (Old Town)
The historic heart of Annecy, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, pastel buildings, and serene canals crossed by stone bridges. The atmosphere is charmingly bustling with tourists by day and romantically lit by night.
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Les Marquisats / Albigny
A relaxed, lakeside area centered around the large grassy Pâquier esplanade and the Imperial Palace. It's the hub for lake activities, with beaches, boat rentals, and stunning views across the water.
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Annecy-le-Vieux
A quieter, more residential hillside neighborhood just north of the old town. It offers spectacular elevated views over the lake and old town, with a village-like feel and excellent restaurants.
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Cran-Gevrier
A former industrial area south of the Thiou River, now a dynamic cultural and creative district. It's less touristy, with modern architecture, cultural venues, and green spaces along the river.
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Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •For the best lake swimming without crowds, head to the small, free beaches east of the old town like Plage des Marquisats or take a short bus ride to the quieter Plage de l'Imperial in Sévrier.
- •Buy a 'Carte M'agglo' transport card for unlimited bus travel around the greater Annecy area; it's much cheaper than single tickets and covers buses to nearby villages like Talloires.
- •Visit the outdoor food market in the Old Town (held Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings) early to get the best local Reblochon, Tomme de Savoie cheese, and diots sausages before they sell out.
- •The best free view of Annecy is from the Jardins de l'Europe park or the Pont des Amours bridge at sunset, when the light turns the lake and mountains golden.
- •Rent an electric bike (Vélonecy) from one of the many stations to effortlessly cycle the 42km lake path, especially useful for tackling the hillier sections near Duingt.
- •For paragliding, book a tandem flight for late afternoon when the thermals are most stable, offering smoother flights and the best chance for the iconic 'lake reflection' photos.
- •Many smaller museums, like the Palais de l'Île and Château d'Annecy, are free on the first Sunday of the month from October to May.
- •Avoid driving in the Old Town; it's a maze of one-way streets with limited parking. Use the large, inexpensive parking structures like Bonlieu or Courier on the periphery.
- •In summer, take a cheap and scenic 50-minute boat cruise (Compagnie des Bateaux) to the village of Talloires for lunch instead of the more expensive dinner cruises.
- •If you visit in winter, the Christmas market is lovely, but also take the cable car up to Le Semnoz for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing with incredible lake vistas.
Annecy Food Scene
Annecy's cuisine is pure Savoyard mountain fare—rich, hearty, and designed to fuel alpine adventures. Cheese is the undisputed star, melted into communal pots of fondue or raclette, and served alongside cured meats like génépi sausage. The dining scene ranges from rustic, wood-paneled bôites (traditional eateries) to elegant lakeside terraces.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional Bôites à Fondue
- • Le Freti for authentic fondue in the old town
- • La Savoyarde for a classic raclette experience
- • Auberge du Lyonnais for hearty tartiflette
These places are often small and popular; reservations are essential, especially in the evening.
Lakeside Dining
- • Le Belvédère in Talloires for fine dining with a view
- • Le Bistro du Port for more casual brasserie fare by the water
- • La Ciboulette for creative French cuisine on a terrace
Lakeside restaurants command a premium; consider going for lunch instead of dinner for better value and the same views.
Local Markets & Street Food
- • Cheese & charcuterie from the Old Town market
- • Crozet (small square pasta) from a traiteur
- • Berthillon ice cream from a glacier
Assemble a picnic from the market and enjoy it on the Pâquier esplanade or by the lake.
Modern & Creative Savoyard
- • L'Esquisse for inventive tasting menus
- • Le Denti for refined local ingredients
- • Le Saint-Maurice for a modern twist on regional classics
These restaurants often highlight seasonal, local produce; look for menus using 'produits du terroir'.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Annecy
Spring
Spring sees Annecy awakening with blooming flowers along the canals and warmer temperatures. The mountains may still have snow, creating a dramatic backdrop, while the lake starts to become swimmable by late May.
Pros:
- + Fewer crowds than summer
- + Beautiful blossoms and greenery
- + Comfortable temperatures for hiking
- + Lower accommodation prices
Cons:
- - Weather can be unpredictable with rain showers
- - Lake water is still quite cold for swimming early in the season
- - Some seasonal boat tours may not have started full schedules
Summer
Peak season brings long, sunny days perfect for all lake activities. The town is vibrant, bustling, and full of energy, with outdoor cafes packed and festivals in full swing.
Pros:
- + Ideal weather for swimming, boating, and cycling
- + All attractions, tours, and restaurants are open
- + Lively atmosphere with festivals and events
- + Long daylight hours
Cons:
- - Highest prices for flights and accommodation
- - Significant crowds, especially in the Old Town
- - Need to book activities and restaurants well in advance
- - Can be quite hot in the afternoon
Autumn
Autumn paints the surrounding forests in stunning hues of gold and red. The summer crowds dissipate, the air becomes crisp, and the focus shifts to hiking, mushroom foraging, and cozy dining.
Pros:
- + Stunning fall foliage around the lake and mountains
- + Pleasant, cool temperatures for active pursuits
- + Harvest season brings food festivals
- + More availability and lower prices
Cons:
- - Weather becomes increasingly unpredictable
- - Lake is too cold for most swimmers
- - Some water-based activities and boat services reduce schedules
- - Shorter days
Winter
Winter transforms Annecy into a festive wonderland with a Christmas market and potential snow dusting the old town roofs. While the lakefront is chilly, nearby ski resorts are in full swing.
Pros:
- + Magical Christmas market and decorations
- + Proximity to ski resorts like La Clusaz (45 min drive)
- + Few tourists and a peaceful, local atmosphere
- + Opportunities for snowshoeing on Le Semnoz
Cons:
- - Many lake activities are unavailable
- - Cold and potentially wet weather
- - Some hotels and restaurants may close for a seasonal break
- - Limited daylight hours
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Day Trips from Annecy
Talloires & the Roc de Chère Nature Reserve
20 min by car or 50 min by boat from Annecy
A picturesque village on the eastern lake shore, famous for its luxury hotels and stunning bay. The adjacent Roc de Chère peninsula offers fantastic forest hikes with breathtaking viewpoints over the lake.
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
1 hour by car
The world-famous alpine town at the foot of Western Europe's highest peak. A must for mountain lovers, offering access to the Aiguille du Midi cable car and the Mer de Glace glacier.
Yvoire, France
45 min by car (or combined lake cruise)
A stunningly preserved medieval village on the southern shore of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman), known as the 'Gem of the Lake.' It's famed for its flower displays, stone houses, and charming port.
Annecy Budget Guide
Annecy is a popular destination and can be moderately expensive, especially in peak summer. However, with careful planning—like picnicking, using public transport, and visiting in shoulder seasons—costs can be managed effectively.
Budget
€60-90 per person for budget travelers (hostel dorm, supermarket meals, free activities)
per day
Mid-Range
€120-200 per person for mid-range (private hotel room, meals at casual restaurants, paid activities like boat tours)
per day
Luxury
€300+ per person for luxury (boutique/lakeside hotel, fine dining, private guides, spa treatments)
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •The Annecy City Pass offers discounts on museums, boat tours, and bike rentals, and includes public transport.
- •Self-catering apartments are a great value for families or groups, allowing you to cook with local market ingredients.
- •Many of the best experiences (hiking, swimming in the lake, exploring the old town) are completely free.
- •Travel mid-week and outside of July/August for significantly better hotel rates.
- •Use the efficient and affordable SIBRA bus network to explore the lake's perimeter villages instead of taxis.
Annecy Hidden Gems
Le Pont de la Caille
Two spectacular historic bridges—one a stone suspension bridge from 1839, the other a concrete arch from 1929—spanning the deep Usses gorge just west of Annecy.
An impressive feat of engineering in a dramatic natural setting, offering fantastic photo opportunities and short cliffside walks away from the lake crowds.
Gorges du Fier
A remarkable natural site where a walkway is suspended along a cliff face through a narrow, moss-covered limestone gorge carved by the Fier River.
A cool, otherworldly escape on a hot day, just a 15-minute drive from town. The power of the water and the unique perspective from the walkway are unforgettable.
Île des Cygnes (Swan Island)
A tiny, artificial island located in the middle of Lake Annecy, near the shore of Sevrier, accessible by a narrow footbridge from the cycling path.
A perfectly peaceful spot for a quiet picnic or moment of reflection, with 360-degree lake views and, as the name suggests, often visited by swans.
La Tournette Viewpoint
The drive or hike up to the Col de la Forclaz, the famous paragliding launch site, offers one of the most iconic panoramic views of Lake Annecy and the towering La Tournette mountain.
While paragliding is popular, simply driving up to enjoy the view is free and offers a perspective that rivals any postcard, especially at sunset.
The Atelier de la Rose des Vents
A small, family-run workshop in the old town where traditional Savoyard wooden shoes (sabots) and other folk art are crafted and sold.
A genuine artisan shop offering unique, handcrafted souvenirs that support local tradition, far removed from the mass-produced trinkets found elsewhere.
Annecy Culture & Customs
Annecy's culture is a blend of proud Savoyard mountain heritage and refined French elegance. Life revolves around the outdoors, family, and food, with a slower, more appreciative pace. The town is historically Catholic, which is reflected in its many churches and festivals, but it has a modern, welcoming, and active vibe.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Always greet shopkeepers with a polite 'Bonjour' upon entering and 'Au revoir' when leaving.
- •Meals, especially dinner, are a social event to be savored, not rushed. Don't expect quick service.
- •When invited for fondue or raclette, it's customary to not lose your bread in the pot (tradition says you buy the next round of wine!).
- •Dress is generally smart-casual; while athletic wear is fine for hiking, it's less common in town centers at night.
- •Tipping is not obligatory as service is included, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change for good service is appreciated.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Annecy
Is Annecy expensive to visit?
Annecy can be moderately expensive, especially for lakeside dining and summer accommodation. However, costs can be managed by visiting in shoulder seasons, self-catering, using public transport, and enjoying the many free activities like hiking, swimming, and exploring the old town.
How many days do I need in Annecy?
We recommend a minimum of 2-3 full days. This allows one day to explore the old town and château, one day for lake activities (cycling, swimming, or a boat trip), and a third day for a hike in the mountains or a day trip to a nearby village like Talloires.
Do I need a car in Annecy?
No, a car is not necessary for exploring Annecy itself and can be a hassle in the congested old town. The city is very walkable, and buses/bikes are excellent for the lake perimeter. A car is only useful for flexible day trips to more remote mountain areas or villages.
Can you swim in Lake Annecy?
Yes, absolutely. Lake Annecy is renowned for its cleanliness and is a popular swimming destination from June to September. There are numerous public beaches (plages) with facilities, like Plage d'Albigny, as well as smaller, free grassy areas all around the shore.
What is the best way to get to Annecy from Geneva Airport?
The most convenient and cost-effective way is by shuttle bus. Companies like FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, and Ouibus run frequent services from Geneva Airport directly to Annecy's bus station, taking 50-70 minutes and costing €15-€25. Remember your passport for the France-Switzerland border.
When is the Annecy Animated Film Festival?
The Annecy International Animation Film Festival, one of the world's most important animation events, is typically held over one week in mid-June. The town becomes incredibly busy, so book accommodation and transport many months in advance if you plan to attend.
Is Annecy good for families?
Yes, it's excellent for families. The flat lake path is perfect for family cycling, there are safe, shallow swimming beaches, boat tours are engaging for all ages, and attractions like the Palais de l'Île and the science center La Turbine offer kid-friendly activities.
What should I pack for a trip to Annecy?
Pack layers! Even in summer, evenings can be cool, and mountain weather changes quickly. Essentials include comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, a light jacket, and a reusable water bottle. In spring/autumn, add a warmer jacket and rain gear; in winter, pack proper cold-weather clothing.
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