Things To Do
in Annecy
Annecy, often called the Pearl of the Alps, sits on the shores of Lac d'Annecy with towering Alpine scenery framing the city. Its Vieille Ville is a maze of canals, pastel façades and leafy squares that invite wandering on foot. The crystal-clear lake offers year-round opportunities for boating, swimming, and lakeside strolls along promenades and gardens.
A rich Savoyard cuisine, vibrant markets, and a lively cultural scene make Annecy a memorable destination in any season.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Annecy and check into your quaint lakeside hotel. After settling in, take a relaxing stroll along the picturesque lake to shake off any travel fatigue. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Spend your afternoon exploring the charming old town with its colorful buildings and canals. Visit the Palais de l'Isle, a 12th-century castle that offers insight into the city's history. Take time to enjoy some gelato from a local shop as you wander through the vibrant streets.
Cap off your day with dinner at a traditional Savoyard restaurant, savoring dishes like fondue or raclette. After your meal, take a scenic walk along the lakeshore, with the city lights reflecting off the water. If you're up for it, find a cozy bar to enjoy a glass of local wine.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before setting out to discover Lake Annecy. Rent a bicycle and ride along the banks, taking in the breathtaking scenery and fresh mountain air. Stop for a swim or to relax on the beach at one of the many lakeside parks.
Have a picnic lunch by the lake, indulging in seasonal local delicacies. Afterward, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters further. The afternoon sun sparkling on the lake creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Enjoy a sunset cruise on Lake Annecy to watch the sky turn to shades of pink and orange as the day fades. Savor a delightful dinner at one of the restaurants on the water's edge, where you can sample fresh fish caught from the lake. End the night with a leisurely walk back to your hotel, enjoying the tranquil ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🧀Groceries (cheese/ingredients) | $6-15 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $80-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning lake and alpine scenery
- Compact, walkable town with a charming medieval core
- Excellent dining options and cheese-focused cuisine
- Easy access to nature and day trips to surrounding mountains
- Crowded in peak summer and holiday periods
- Prices can be high for accommodation and dining
- Parking can be challenging in the Old Town during peak times
- Lake water quality is excellent but swimming spots can be crowded
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît." - The check, please.
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)." - I am vegetarian.
Places to Visit in Annecy
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic medieval prison perched between Thiou canal, offering famous reflections and a quintessential Annecy silhouette.
Romantic bridge with views across Lac d'Annecy; especially magical at sunrise or sunset.
Hilltop fortress with vantage points over the town and lake; great for wide-angle lake panoramas.
Picturesque promenades and green spaces along the water, perfect for sunset shots and candid lake life.
Narrow lanes and flowing canals framed by colorful houses, ideal for street photography and intimate portraits.
Food in Annecy
Annecy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A communal pot of melted cheese (usually Gruyère, Emmental, and Comté) served with bread for dipping; perfect for a cozy Alpine dinner in a mountain bistro.
Must-Try!
Baked potatoes, lardons, onions, and Reblochon cheese; a comforting, cheese-forward dish widely found in Savoyard restaurants.
Cheese warmed until melty, served with potatoes, pickles, and charcut; a convivial meal in a traditional setting.
Local fish from Lac d'Annecy often prepared with herbs, paired with crozets (small Savoyard pasta) or potatoes for a light, regional option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily or weekly markets near the Old Town offering cheeses, charcuterie, fresh produce, breads and local specialties—great for sampling and picking up picnic supplies.
Small market vendors selling reblochon, tomme, and other cheeses alongside cured meats and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour on entering shops and restaurants; polite to use ‘s'il vous plaît’ and ‘merci.’
Punctuality is appreciated for appointments. Keep conversations measured in public spaces; avoid loud behavior late at night near residences.
Casual-smart attire is common for most dining; avoid very athletic wear in formal restaurants.
Safety
Tipping in Annecy
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, a service charge is often included in the bill (service compris). It’s customary to round up or leave a small extra 5-10% for exceptional service if not included.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash is always useful for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming gardens; shoulder-season crowds; great for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Warm days and long evenings; lake activities, boat cruises, and outdoor concerts frequent the promenades; expect crowds on weekends.
Cooler temperatures with colorful fall foliage; tranquil lakeside walks and fewer crowds; the Savoyard dishes feel heartier.
Snow in the surrounding Alps; proximity to ski resorts makes Annecy a winter escape with cozy bistros and a festive market atmosphere.
Annecy at Night
Hiking in Annecy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular mountain with alpine meadows and panoramic ridge walks near Annecy.
Steep, scenic ascent with rewarding views of Lac d'Annecy from the summit.
One of the region's highest peaks offering dramatic lake and valley vistas.
Airports
How to reach Annecy by plane.
Major international gateway about 40-60 minutes from Annecy by road; frequent train and bus connections through Genève-Aéroport station to Annecy.
Close to 40-60 minutes from Annecy; convenient for low-cost and seasonal routes.
Larger hub about 1.5-2 hours away by road or train; good options for long-haul and connecting flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for the lake activities, easy hikes, and kid-friendly attractions.
Romantic scenery and sunset views over the lake plus charming streets for evening strolls.
A mix of international and local residents drawn by the scenic setting and quality of life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Nearby resorts and alpine terrain attract winter sports enthusiasts.
Lake activities are popular in warmer months with rental shops around the shoreline.
Scenic routes around the lake and into the surrounding hills are favorites.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Annecy.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Savoyard cuisine tends to center on cheese and dairy; vegetarians can enjoy crozets with sauce, seasonal vegetable plates, fruit desserts, and cheese-focused savories. Ask for dishes without meat or with relaxed cheese-based sauces; most restaurants can adapt if you specify preferences.