Things To Do
in Poisy

Poisy is a picturesque commune located in the Haute-Savoie region of southeastern France, just a few kilometers from the city of Annecy. Nestled at the foot of the Alps, it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush landscapes. The area is known for its rich history, charming architecture, and vibrant local culture.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and culinary delights that make Poisy a hidden gem in the French Alps.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Poisy
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the historic Church of Saint-Nicolas, known for its beautiful architecture.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll through the scenic Parc des Glaisins, where you can relax and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Annecy and the mountains.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Savoyard restaurant, where you can savor local specialties like fondue or raclette.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a guided hike in the nearby mountains, exploring trails that showcase the natural beauty of the region.

afternoon
:

Visit the Annecy Museum to learn about the local history and culture, and wander through the charming streets of Annecy's old town.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset dinner at a lakeside restaurant, followed by a casual walk along the shores of Lake Annecy.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-30
Coffee$2-5
🍺Local beer$5-8
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel (mid-range)$80-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Rich local culture and history
  • Delicious regional cuisine
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons
  • Public transport options may be limited in rural areas
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Poisy

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Annecy

Capture the stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains in this crystal-clear lake, especially during sunset.

Church of Saint-Nicolas

The beautiful architecture of this historic church provides a perfect backdrop for photography, especially with the Alps in the background.

Parc des Glaisins

With its lush greenery and panoramic views, this park is ideal for nature photography and capturing the essence of the region.

Culinary Guide

Food in Poisy

Poisy is a culinary delight, offering a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich traditions of the Haute-Savoie region.

Poisy Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fondue Savoyarde

A traditional melted cheese dish made with a blend of local cheeses, served with crusty bread for dipping.

Must-Try!

Raclette

A dish featuring melted cheese scraped off a wheel, typically served with potatoes, pickles, and cured meats.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Annecy Market

Located just a short distance from Poisy, this vibrant market offers fresh produce, artisan foods, and local delicacies every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday.

Climate Guide

Weather

Poisy experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F), often accompanied by snowfall. Summers are warm and pleasant, averaging 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, with averages around 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet with 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants; it's considered polite.

Dining Manners

Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during meals, and wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Dress Code

Dress neatly and modestly, especially in restaurants and cultural sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Poisy is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals are equipped to handle medical situations.

Tipping in Poisy

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Custom

While service is included in restaurant bills, a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated for exceptional service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments or markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities and hiking.

Summer

Summer is warm and ideal for swimming in Lake Annecy and enjoying outdoor festivals, though it can be crowded.

Autumn

Experience stunning fall foliage and cooler temperatures, perfect for hiking and scenic photography.

Winter

Winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, attracting skiers and snowshoe enthusiasts to the nearby Alps.

Nightlife Guide

Poisy at Night

Poisy has a relaxed nightlife scene, with several cozy bars and restaurants offering a warm atmosphere. While it may not be as vibrant as larger cities, you can find local wine bars and pubs where you can enjoy regional wines and craft beers. On weekends, some venues host live music and events, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Poisy

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Traces

This trail offers a moderate hike with stunning views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains, perfect for a half-day adventure.

Mont Veyrier

A more challenging hike that rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the entire Annecy region, ideal for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Poisy by plane.

Geneva Airport (GVA)

Located about 40 km from Poisy, this international airport offers flights to and from numerous global destinations, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Poisy is quite walkable, with many amenities and attractions located within a short distance. The town features pedestrian-friendly paths and sidewalks, making it easy to explore on foot. Additionally, nearby parks and lakes offer pleasant walking trails for those looking to enjoy nature.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The local population is predominantly French, with a strong sense of community and pride in their cultural heritage.

Tourists

Poisy attracts visitors from around the world, especially during summer and winter for outdoor activities and scenic views.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

Due to its proximity to the Alps, skiing is a popular sport in the region, attracting enthusiasts to nearby ski resorts.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored activity, especially around Lake Annecy, where scenic routes are abundant.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Poisy is generally light, with the main roads connecting to Annecy and other nearby towns. Public transportation is available, including buses that connect Poisy to Annecy and surrounding areas. Biking and walking are also popular options for getting around, especially during the warmer months.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Poisy.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the chef for specific preparations.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some eateries can accommodate gluten-free diets, but always inform the staff to ensure safe meal preparation.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Poisy is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital in nearby Annecy. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and most medical staff speak English. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies while abroad.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide