A Quick Guide to Annecy | The Mediterranean Traveller

Annecy is a lakeside resort town in the southeast of France. Located at the foot of the Alps, it has a beautiful medieval quarter and a jaw-dropping location. Here’s what to see and do in Annecy.

About the author: Elin Davies is a part-time travel writer specialising in active and adventure travel. Check out her blog for highlights of a recent European cycle tour.

Why go?

Annecy is an Alpine jewel sometimes referred to as the Venice of the French Alps due to its dense winding streets and canals built surrounding the 13th century Château d’Annecy.

It’s located on the banks of the spectacularly clear-watered Lake Annecy. A charming canal cuts through the heart of the lively old town which is popular with tourists and locals alike.

The old quarter is a true feast for the eyes with its fascinatingly pretty pastel-hued buildings, old churches, and beautiful gardens.

Annecy has something for all types of travellers, from those looking to relax and sample the local delicacies to thrill seekers searching for adventure in the surrounding mountains.

There’s an infinite choice of scenic cafes and restaurants with lake and mountain views. There are many shops aimed at tourists selling local pottery, ceramics, and paintings.

How to get there?

Annecy is in the north of the French Alps and easily accessible from Geneva International Airport (GVA) by bus or car.

Driving from the airport typically takes 40 minutes but can be busy at rush hour due to commuters leaving Geneva. Alternatively, take the T72 bus from Geneva Aéroport Zone 10 which takes around 1 hour 20 minutes.

When to go?

Annecy perfect to visit at any time of year.

The summer months are buzzing when domestic tourists and campers head for the Alps.

To avoid the crowds, Annecy is equally beautiful in spring and autumn when views of surrounding mountains are capped with snow.

In winter, Annecy provides the perfect base or stopping off point for keen skiers and snowboarders en route to the mountains. It’s a popular day trip from Geneva.

The Annecy Venetian Carnival held in March each year draws big crowds as does the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in June and the Festival of the Lake (with its impressive firework display) in August.

Need to know before you go?

Consider booking restaurants in advance if visiting Annecy during the summer months or on a weekend as it can get busy.

What’s the best way to get around?

A car is not needed to explore the centre of Annecy as much of it is pedestrianised and it is small enough to get around on foot. For trips beyond town there are regular buses. Bike hire is readily available.

For visitors who are bringing a car central parking is available at the L’Hôtel de Ville (the town hall) and Bonlieu. Both can get busy in August. There is free parking at Marquisats beach which is a short walk into town.

Le Palais de I'Île. — Le Palais de I’Île

What to see if you’ve got 1 day?

Start by exploring the tangled streets and canals of Vieille Ville (Old Town). One of the prettiest spots is Pont Rue de la République. Visitors can stop on the bridge to admire Le Thiou canal and the iconic Le Palais de I’Île, a museum housed a 12th-century island prison. The triangular shaped building appearing to float like a ship on turquoise water is a must-see for anyone visiting Annecy. The museum is closed on Tuesdays.

For morning refreshment indulge in a coffee and pastry from one of the many cafes on Rue de l’Île, Faubourg Sainte-Claire or Rue Filaterie.

Close to Rue Filaterie is Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, an old Franciscan priory chapel dominating a quiet square. The cathedral is an impressive sight by day and when lit up at night time.

For lunch, enjoy a savoury crepe from one of the popular cafes on Quai de I’Île, a narrow street running adjacent to the canal in the centre of Old Town. Outdoor seating provides scenic views of the colourful Old Town architecture, river and mountains.

Take a walk through the Jardins de l’Europe and over the Pont des Amours bridge. This lover’s bridge is a perfect photo opportunity with the lake as a glittering blue backdrop. It is a must see for anyone visiting Annecy for the first time.

What else to see if you’ve got 2-3 days in town?

Annecy Market operates on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday is well worth a visit for those with a little more time. Market stalls assemble along the winding streets of old town offering fresh fruit, cured meats, cheese and sweet French nougat (just check the price tag first). On Fridays and Sundays the market is larger with added clothes stalls.

Annecy is becoming a top destination for adventure activities. Hire a kayak, stand-up paddleboard or pedalo for a few hours to appreciate the lake. Paddlers can take refreshments and stop off at one of the many small beaches for rests as required.

Hire a bike or take a longer stroll along the lake’s edge. Active travellers can cycle the entire 42km cycle path around the lake. This typically takes 3 hours. Further afield there’s hiking and mountain biking galore, paragliding, hang gliding, plus winter sports.

It’s a 30-minute drive up to the spectacular Gorges du Fier (summer only).

Off the beaten track?

For those seeking tranquillity away from the town centre there are plenty of walks and hikes that start from Annecy. There are regular buses around the lake and the further south you go the quieter it gets.

For a flat walking route take the path along Le Thiou towards Cran-Gevrier. The river and path run side by side for a kilometre or two offering a pleasant stroll through woods and open green space.

On the eastern side of the lake near Plage d’Albigny there are numerous well signposted hikes that offer stunning views over the lake and town. The Col des Sauts path offers rewarding views after a few hundred metres and hikers can continue to Mount Veyrier for a more challenging hike.

Best swimming spot?

Plage d’Albigny is a sandy beach for sunbathing and swimming which popular with families. It’s a 25-minute walk from the heart of town.

Best day trips?

Take a 45-minute bus to Semnoz part of the Massif des Bauges Regional Nature Park. The area offers breath taking hikes and scenery in the summer as well as skiing in the winter.

Slightly further afield is La Clusaz, a popular local ski resort nestled in the Alps. La Clusaz is accessible in 45 minutes by car and offers spectacular hiking in summer.

The Château de Menthon is 12km south of Annecy and a must for photographers, and there’s a waterfall a bit further on at Angon.

Buzzy areas to check out?

Check out Rue du Pâquier and Rue Sainte Claire which are both lined with bars and restaurants serving local French cuisine as well as Italian, tapas and cocktails. Most cafes and restaurants have outdoor seating creating a lively atmosphere in these areas.

Where’s the best view?

Take a walk up to Château d’Annecy, a historic castle and museum overlooking the city that is worth the €5 entry for views over the lake alone.

Where to chill out?

Le Pâquier d’Annecy is a large grassy park between the town and the lake where you can relax with an ice cream while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Where to stay?

For boutique rooms with an Old Town address have a look at Les Suites Sainte Claire.

Further afield, there are numerous grand resort hotels around the lake with a cluster around Talloires including the Abbayre de Tallouires and the lovely Les Grillons.

For those who prefer to be away from the hustle and bustle, Sévrier and Veyrier-du-Lac offer easy access to the lake and are only a short bus ride from the centre of Annecy.