Annecy,
Annecy is a picturesque town in the French Alps known for its stunning lake, charming old town, and medieval architecture. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy attract visitors seeking water sports and relaxation. The town is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, providing a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.
Annecy's lively marketplaces, cozy cafés, and colorful houses create a quintessential French atmosphere that enchants visitors.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Bonjour (Hello)" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît (Please)" - Please
- "Merci (Thank you)" - Thank you
- "Excusez-moi (Excuse me)" - Excuse me
- "Oui (Yes)" - Yes
- "Non (No)" - No
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the Old Town
morning:Start your day with a leisurely walk through the charming Old Town, admiring the canals and pastel-colored buildings. Don't miss trying some local pastries at Maison Saint-Joseph.
afternoon:Afterwards, visit the Château d'Annecy to discover the city's history and enjoy panoramic views of the town and Lake Annecy. For a pleasant lunch, head to Le Freti for traditional Savoyard cuisine.
evening:In the evening, experience authentic French dining at Le Belvédère, followed by a stroll along the Thiou River and a nightcap at Bar Le Vénitien.
Lake Activities & Gastronomy
morning:Spend your morning exploring Lake Annecy with a boat tour or kayaking adventure. Stop by Le P'tit Resto for a delightful lakeside brunch with breathtaking views.
afternoon:Next, venture to the Jardins de l'Europe for a relaxing lakeside picnic and leisurely stroll. You can also take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy.
evening:For an unforgettable dining experience, savor a gourmet dinner at L'Esquisse, known for its innovative cuisine and elegant ambiance.
Alpine Adventure & Local Markets
morning:Embark on a morning hike in the nearby Semnoz or La Tournette mountains for stunning alpine vistas and crisp mountain air. Refuel with a hearty brunch at La Ciboulette, known for its organic and locally-sourced ingredients.
afternoon:Head to the local markets at Place Sainte-Claire for an authentic taste of Annecy’s local produce and delicacies. Engage in some relaxed shopping and soak in the lively atmosphere of the market square.
evening:Afterwards, dine at Le Bilboquet and experience a fusion of French and international flavors. Cap off the day with a pleasant stroll by the lakeshore and live music at Le Baratin.
History & Art Exploration
morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Musée-Château d'Annecy to explore the impressive art and history collections within the historical castle walls. Enjoy a delightful brunch at L'Atelier Café to energize for the day ahead.
afternoon:Continue your cultural journey at the Palais de l'Isle, a picturesque medieval building. For a delightful afternoon treat, indulge in some gelato at Glacier des Alpes.
evening:In the evening, dine at Aux 3 Chamois for a taste of traditional French cuisine in a cozy alpine setting. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the Pont Morens area and enjoy the lively ambience.
Annecy Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Tartiflette
A must-try dish made with potatoes, reblochon cheese, lardons (bacon), and onions, creating a rich and satisfying meal typically found in traditional Savoyard restaurants like La Fermette
Must-Try!
FĂ©ra du Lac
Freshly caught local lake fish, typically smoked, grilled, or served in a creamy sauce. The Restaurant l'Esquisse is known for its excellent preparation of FĂ©ra du Lac
Raclette
A cheese-lover's delight featuring melted cheese scraped onto plates and served with potatoes, charcuterie, and pickles. Le Freti Raffiné is a great place to indulge in this classic dish
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Marché d'Annecy
This bustling market offers a wide array of local produce, cheeses, meats, and other delicacies every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday. It’s an ideal spot to savor local flavors and pick up picnic supplies.
Savoyard Street Food
While strolling through the charming streets of Annecy, keep an eye out for food stalls offering regional specialties such as diots (Savoyard sausages), socca (chickpea pancake), and crepes filled with local ingredients.
Pet sitters in Annecy
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!