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Annecy Travel Guide

Annecy attracts, surprises, and soothes. Whether for a family vacation, a romantic weekend, a cultural break, or an exploration of nature, the city offers a mosaic of rare experiences, enhanced by the lake and mountains. This guide reveals the best places, atmospheres, and tips for experiencing Annecy like an informed traveler—between discoveries, wonder, and the art of living.

Annecy is a place that leaves an instant impression. Few cities in France can boast such a perfect balance: the purity of an alpine lake, the charm of a medieval old town, the proximity of picturesque villages and accessible mountain peaks. Here, every walk seems to paint a new picture postcard, every moment invites you to slow down, every season tells a different story.

Just arrive early in the morning on the shores of the lake to feel this unique atmosphere: the soft light above the mountains, the water reflecting the sky like a mirror, the first bicycles gliding along the bike path, the terraces waking up... Annecy has this rare talent for combining beauty and simplicity.

This guide has been designed to accompany you on your discovery, whether you are traveling for the first time or returning again and again. You'll find must-see places, tips from locals, suggestions for seasonal activities, ideas for families, lovers, explorers and strollers alike. Annecy isn't just a place to “visit”: it's a place to experience. And we're here to help you capture all its magic.

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(NCY) Aéroport Annecy Mont-Blanc(GVA) Aéroport International de Genève(LYS) Aéroport de Lyon Saint-Exupéry(CMF) Aéroport Chambéry Savoie Mont Blanc(CDG) Aéroport de Paris-Charles de Gaulle(LBG) Aéroport de Paris-Le Bourget(NCE) Aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur(BOD) Aéroport de Bordeaux-Mérignac(GNB) Aéroport Grenoble Alpes Isère
Gare d'AnnecyGare d'Aix les Bains-Le RevardGare de Lyon Part DieuGare de Bellegarde sur ValserineGare de ChambéryGare de Genève CornavinGare de Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le FayetGare de Sallanches Combloux MegèveGare de Paris Gare de LyonGare de Paris Gare du NordGare de Paris MontparnasseGare de Paris Gare de l'EstGare de Paris Bercy BourgogneGare de Paris AusterlitzGare de Paris Saint-LazareGare de Nice VilleGare de Bordeaux Saint-JeanGare de ClusesGare de Grenoble
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(NCY) Aéroport Annecy Mont-Blanc(GVA) Aéroport International de Genève(LYS) Aéroport de Lyon Saint-Exupéry(CMF) Aéroport Chambéry Savoie Mont Blanc(CDG) Aéroport de Paris-Charles de Gaulle(LBG) Aéroport de Paris-Le Bourget(NCE) Aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur(BOD) Aéroport de Bordeaux-Mérignac(GNB) Aéroport Grenoble Alpes Isère
Gare d'AnnecyGare d'Aix les Bains-Le RevardGare de Lyon Part DieuGare de Bellegarde sur ValserineGare de ChambéryGare de Genève CornavinGare de Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le FayetGare de Sallanches Combloux MegèveGare de Paris Gare de LyonGare de Paris Gare du NordGare de Paris MontparnasseGare de Paris Gare de l'EstGare de Paris Bercy BourgogneGare de Paris AusterlitzGare de Paris Saint-LazareGare de Nice VilleGare de Bordeaux Saint-JeanGare de ClusesGare de Grenoble
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(NCY) Aéroport Annecy Mont-Blanc(GVA) Aéroport International de Genève(LYS) Aéroport de Lyon Saint-Exupéry(CMF) Aéroport Chambéry Savoie Mont Blanc(CDG) Aéroport de Paris-Charles de Gaulle(LBG) Aéroport de Paris-Le Bourget(NCE) Aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur(BOD) Aéroport de Bordeaux-Mérignac(GNB) Aéroport Grenoble Alpes Isère
Gare d'AnnecyGare d'Aix les Bains-Le RevardGare de Lyon Part DieuGare de Bellegarde sur ValserineGare de ChambéryGare de Genève CornavinGare de Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le FayetGare de Sallanches Combloux MegèveGare de Paris Gare de LyonGare de Paris Gare du NordGare de Paris MontparnasseGare de Paris Gare de l'EstGare de Paris Bercy BourgogneGare de Paris AusterlitzGare de Paris Saint-LazareGare de Nice VilleGare de Bordeaux Saint-JeanGare de ClusesGare de Grenoble
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(NCY) Aéroport Annecy Mont-Blanc(GVA) Aéroport International de Genève(LYS) Aéroport de Lyon Saint-Exupéry(CMF) Aéroport Chambéry Savoie Mont Blanc(CDG) Aéroport de Paris-Charles de Gaulle(LBG) Aéroport de Paris-Le Bourget(NCE) Aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur(BOD) Aéroport de Bordeaux-Mérignac(GNB) Aéroport Grenoble Alpes Isère
Gare d'AnnecyGare d'Aix les Bains-Le RevardGare de Lyon Part DieuGare de Bellegarde sur ValserineGare de ChambéryGare de Genève CornavinGare de Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le FayetGare de Sallanches Combloux MegèveGare de Paris Gare de LyonGare de Paris Gare du NordGare de Paris MontparnasseGare de Paris Gare de l'EstGare de Paris Bercy BourgogneGare de Paris AusterlitzGare de Paris Saint-LazareGare de Nice VilleGare de Bordeaux Saint-JeanGare de ClusesGare de Grenoble
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(NCY) Aéroport Annecy Mont-Blanc(GVA) Aéroport International de Genève(LYS) Aéroport de Lyon Saint-Exupéry(CMF) Aéroport Chambéry Savoie Mont Blanc(CDG) Aéroport de Paris-Charles de Gaulle(LBG) Aéroport de Paris-Le Bourget(NCE) Aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur(BOD) Aéroport de Bordeaux-Mérignac(GNB) Aéroport Grenoble Alpes Isère
Gare d'AnnecyGare d'Aix les Bains-Le RevardGare de Lyon Part DieuGare de Bellegarde sur ValserineGare de ChambéryGare de Genève CornavinGare de Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le FayetGare de Sallanches Combloux MegèveGare de Paris Gare de LyonGare de Paris Gare du NordGare de Paris MontparnasseGare de Paris Gare de l'EstGare de Paris Bercy BourgogneGare de Paris AusterlitzGare de Paris Saint-LazareGare de Nice VilleGare de Bordeaux Saint-JeanGare de ClusesGare de Grenoble
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(NCY) Aéroport Annecy Mont-Blanc(GVA) Aéroport International de Genève(LYS) Aéroport de Lyon Saint-Exupéry(CMF) Aéroport Chambéry Savoie Mont Blanc(CDG) Aéroport de Paris-Charles de Gaulle(LBG) Aéroport de Paris-Le Bourget(NCE) Aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur(BOD) Aéroport de Bordeaux-Mérignac(GNB) Aéroport Grenoble Alpes Isère
Gare d'AnnecyGare d'Aix les Bains-Le RevardGare de Lyon Part DieuGare de Bellegarde sur ValserineGare de ChambéryGare de Genève CornavinGare de Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le FayetGare de Sallanches Combloux MegèveGare de Paris Gare de LyonGare de Paris Gare du NordGare de Paris MontparnasseGare de Paris Gare de l'EstGare de Paris Bercy BourgogneGare de Paris AusterlitzGare de Paris Saint-LazareGare de Nice VilleGare de Bordeaux Saint-JeanGare de ClusesGare de Grenoble
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(NCY) Aéroport Annecy Mont-Blanc(GVA) Aéroport International de Genève(LYS) Aéroport de Lyon Saint-Exupéry(CMF) Aéroport Chambéry Savoie Mont Blanc(CDG) Aéroport de Paris-Charles de Gaulle(LBG) Aéroport de Paris-Le Bourget(NCE) Aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur(BOD) Aéroport de Bordeaux-Mérignac(GNB) Aéroport Grenoble Alpes Isère
Gare d'AnnecyGare d'Aix les Bains-Le RevardGare de Lyon Part DieuGare de Bellegarde sur ValserineGare de ChambéryGare de Genève CornavinGare de Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le FayetGare de Sallanches Combloux MegèveGare de Paris Gare de LyonGare de Paris Gare du NordGare de Paris MontparnasseGare de Paris Gare de l'EstGare de Paris Bercy BourgogneGare de Paris AusterlitzGare de Paris Saint-LazareGare de Nice VilleGare de Bordeaux Saint-JeanGare de ClusesGare de Grenoble
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Annecy, a city to live in before visiting

Annecy never leaves anyone indifferent, because it is not just beautiful: it is alive. The first moments in the city are often spent in silent observation: a couple walking hand in hand along the quays, children chasing pigeons, the sun's reflections on the pastel-colored facades, the mountains rising up like a natural backdrop. From the moment they arrive, visitors sense that this city offers an experience rather than just places to visit.

What is striking is the intimate relationship between the city and nature. The lake seems to surround Annecy with a permanent gentleness, as if the water soothes everything it touches. The mountains, both massive and reassuring, create a visual backdrop that gives travelers a feeling of refuge.

Annecy lives at the pace of its inhabitants: coffee in the morning on a sunny terrace, a stroll through the streets of the Old Town, a picnic in summer by the lake, hot chocolate in winter under the arcades. It is a city that imposes nothing but offers everything: calm, beauty, activities, gourmet delights, walks. From the very first moments, it invites you to breathe—truly.

Lake Annecy, a living jewel that changes with the seasons

Lake Annecy is a character in its own right, a traveling companion that changes its appearance depending on the time of day and the season. In summer, it becomes a huge playground: swimming, pedal boats, paddleboarding, sailing, paddle boats, cruises, diving... Families settle on the lawns of Le Pâquier, children run barefoot in the grass, couples rent electric boats to explore the coves of Duingt and Talloires.

But the lake is not just for summer. In autumn, warm colors transform the shores into a living watercolor painting. In winter, the lake calms down: its surface becomes smooth, almost meditative. A crystalline light settles in, offering almost unreal landscapes. Sunrise over the lake on a January morning is an experience in itself.

In spring, everything is reborn: trees, flowers, birds, terraces. The shores become a ballet of walkers, joggers, cyclists, families, and lovers. The lake accompanies, reassures, and amazes. It is the beating heart of Annecy, always ready to offer a moment suspended in time.

The Old Town: medieval charm, colorful streets, and a unique atmosphere

Annecy's Old Town is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, colorful facades, small bridges, and canals. You enter it as if entering a stage set, but you linger because of its atmosphere. The pastel-colored houses, ancient arcades, the Palais de l'Isle standing on the river, local shops, lively terraces... everything tells the story of centuries of history.

To fully discover it, nothing beats an early morning stroll. Shopkeepers set up their market stalls, the sound of the Thiou river accompanies your every step, and you meet locals starting their day. It is in these moments that the Old Town is at its most authentic.

During the day, it becomes the lively heart of the city: cafes, ice cream parlors, artisan workshops, cheese shops, restaurants... and magnificent views of the canals. At sunset, it regains an intimate, almost romantic atmosphere. The Old Town is a concentration of charm that makes Annecy an unforgettable destination.

The lakeside villages: a mosaic of characters

A trip around Lake Annecy is an opportunity to discover a series of villages that seem to have come straight out of a picture book, each with its own unique character.

Talloires, elegant and discreet, attracts lovers of serenity and travelers in search of exceptional views. Veyrier-du-Lac is known for its panoramas of rare beauty, perfect for contemplating the lake at sunrise or sunset. Menthon-Saint-Bernardcharms with its medieval castle reminiscent of fairy tales. Sevrier and Saint-Jorioz offer long bike paths, family-friendly beaches, and a gentle, joyful atmosphere. Duingt, with its iconic castle perched on the peninsula, offers one of the most beautiful views of the lake.

Exploring the villages around the lake means understanding that each shore offers a different journey, but all are connected by the same thread: the beauty of the lake and the gentle way of life.

Must-see attractions: Annecy as seen by locals and savvy visitors

Annecy is a destination where you can enjoy a thousand different experiences, depending on what you feel like doing. Travelers looking for a relaxing time can stroll around Le Pâquier, sit on a terrace, rent a boat, or wander through the narrow streets. Sports enthusiasts can go paragliding from the Col de la Forclaz, cycle along the greenway, climb Semnoz, or hike along the ridges of Mont Veyrier.

Families will enjoy accessible activities such as pedal boats, playgrounds, family-friendly beaches, mini golf, easy hiking at Roc de Chère, and visits to the Gorges du Fier.

Those who are curious can discover museums, castles, Savoyard markets, and artisan workshops.

And in the evening, the city lights reflect on the water, creating a unique, gentle, and almost cinematic atmosphere.

Annecy with the family: a simple, joyful, and suitable destination

Annecy is one of the most family-friendly cities around. Everything is accessible: gently sloping beaches, large lawns, safe bike paths, shaded walks, kid-friendly restaurants, and a wide range of activities.

Even in bad weather, the city offers simple solutions: museums, creative workshops, cinemas, play areas, ice rinks, and more.
What parents especially appreciate is the relaxed atmosphere and proximity of activities. You can go from the Old Town to the lake in a few minutes, have a snack on a terrace after a walk, rent a bike for an impromptu outing... Annecy makes family vacations easy without ever sacrificing beauty or quality of experience.

Gastronomy and local products: a delicious identity

Annecy is also a gourmet destination: alpine cheeses, fish from the lake, Savoyard specialties, fine pastries, renowned chocolatiers, colorful markets...

In the Old Town, you will find artisans faithful to Savoyard tradition, while the lakeside villages offer refined restaurants and cozy bistros.

For gourmet travelers, Annecy is a haven: local cheese shops, elegant wines, revisited mountain recipes... The region's culinary identity is generous, authentic, and varied. Not to be missed.

Around Annecy: getaways and discoveries less than an hour away

Annecy is an ideal starting point for exploring the whole of Haute-Savoie:
La Clusaz → winter sports and summer activities
Le Grand-Bornand → authentic charm & families
Chamonix → high mountains, glaciers, Mer de Glace
✔ Semnoz → family skiing, 360° panoramic views
✔ Aix-les-Bains → Lake Bourget & thermal baths
Geneva → culture, museums, international aviation
These getaways add an extra dimension to your stay.

Booking a chauffeur-driven car in Annecy with Allego is the easiest way to travel between Annecy and La Clusaz, Le Grand-Bornand, Megeve, Chamonix, or Geneva.

Transportation & mobility: how to get around easily in Annecy

Getting around Annecy can be easy or complicated depending on the time of year. To avoid the hassle of parking, connections, or family constraints, many travelers choose a private chauffeur.

✔ Avoid traffic during peak hours
✔ Be dropped off in front of your hotel or activity
✔ Transport skis, strollers, bikes, and luggage
✔ Travel together without stress

How to get to Annecy?

Annecy enjoys an ideal location and is particularly easy to reach, whether you are traveling by plane, train, or car. The city is located near several major airports: Geneva Airport (GVA) is the most convenient, about a 45-minute drive away, with daily connections to Europe, Asia, North America, and the Middle East. Lyon Airport (LYS) is an excellent alternative, located about 1.5 hours away, and offers numerous international connections. Even closer, Chambery Airport offers seasonal arrivals, particularly in winter for access to the Alps. Annecy also has its own terminal, Annecy Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc Airport, which reserves its runways for business aviation and private flights.

For train travelers, Annecy Station offers direct TGV connections from Paris, as well as an efficient regional network to Aix-les-Bains, Lyon, Geneva, and Chamonix. Once you arrive, getting to your accommodation or the lakeside villages is easy: taxis, buses, bike rentals... but the most comfortable option is a private chauffeur, ideal for connecting the city to airports, surrounding ski resorts, or traveling around the lake with luggage, children, or sports equipment.

FAQ – Your complete guide to discovering Annecy

🌅 When is the best time to visit Annecy?

Annecy is a year-round destination. Summer is ideal for water sports, boat trips, beaches, and evenings on the terrace. Autumn offers sublime colors on the shores of the lake. Winter is perfect for those who enjoy a quieter atmosphere, soft lighting, and proximity to ski resorts. Spring reveals a city in full bloom: flower markets, terraces, and accessible hiking trails. Each season has its charms, but June, September, and October are often considered the most pleasant months to enjoy the lake without the crowds.

🚤 Is it easy to swim in Lake Annecy?

Yes, Lake Annecy is one of the purest lakes in Europe and swimming is permitted in many areas. The beaches at Albigny, Marquisats, Saint-Jorioz, and Talloires are particularly suitable for families. Some have supervised areas, children's playgrounds, bleachers, or long lawns for picnics. In summer, the water easily reaches 22 to 24°C, making it an unmissable activity. Outside of summer, swimming is still possible for the more courageous or as part of sports such as paddleboarding or whitewater swimming.

🚶‍♂️ Is Annecy's Old Town accessible for families?

Yes. Although some streets are cobbled, the Old Town is generally accessible with a stroller. Most of the streets are pedestrianized, allowing for peaceful exploration. Children enjoy the canals, bridges, artisanal ice cream shops, and colorful little boutiques. For a family break, the Jardins de l'Europe and Le Pâquier are located right next door, offering large green spaces and playgrounds.

🚲 Is it easy to rent bicycles in Annecy?

Absolutely. Annecy is one of the most bike-friendly cities in France, with a greenway running along the entire western shore of the lake. You'll find rental shops offering traditional bikes, electric bikes, cargo bikes (for families), and bikes adapted for children. The ride to Saint-Jorioz or Sévrier is ideal: flat, safe, pleasant, and dotted with rest areas. It's one of the favorite activities for families and couples.

🚗 How to get around Lake Annecy without a car?

A chauffeur-driven car is often the simplest solution, especially for families or travelers with luggage or equipment (skis, mountain bikes, strollers). Buses run well but may be limited depending on the time of day or season. The water bus connects certain shores in summer. The villages around the lake are accessible by bike for the more athletic. For trips to the resorts (La Clusaz, Le Grand-Bornand), a private driver avoids the hassle of mountain roads, especially in winter.

🏞️ What accessible hikes can you do around Annecy?

Several family-friendly or beginner-friendly hikes:

  • Le Roc de Chère (Talloires): shaded, magnificent views.
  • Le Semnoz: lookout points + easy trails.
  • Les Gorges du Fier: spectacular footbridge over the canyon.
  • Mont Veyrier (for intermediate hikers). These hikes offer varied panoramas: lake, mountains, forests... something to suit all levels.

🧀 Where to eat in Annecy to discover local flavors?

Annecy is a foodie town. You'll find:

  • Local cheese makers (Alain Michel for exemple) offering Reblochon, Tomme, Raclette, Abondance, and more.
  • Traditional restaurants in the Old Town (tartiflette, croziflette, fondue).
  • More contemporary spots around the lakeside villages. For a typical experience, the markets are a must: the Sunday market is the most famous.

🛶 Peut-on faire des activités nautiques en famille ?

Oui, et c’est même l’une des forces d’Annecy. Paddle, pédalo, bateau électrique, mini-croisière, locations de kayaks… Toutes ces activités sont accessibles aux enfants. Certaines plages proposent également des zones de baignade surveillée.

🌦️ What to do in Annecy when it rains?

Annecy offers several alternatives:

  • Museums (Annecy Castle, Animation Film Museum).
  • Annecy Aquarium.
  • Creative workshops for children.
  • The ice rink.
  • Cinemas or escape games. The charm of the Old Town works even in the rain, with its arcades and cozy cafés.

🏔️ What excursions can you do from Annecy?

Several incredible destinations less than an hour away:

  • La Clusaz and Le Grand-Bornand (families, skiing, summer).
  • Chamonix (high mountains, Mont Blanc, Mer de Glace).
  • Le Semnoz (hiking, panoramic views, skiing).
  • Geneva (culture, shopping, airport).

These excursions are also available with a private driver, ideal for avoiding parking and mountain roads.

✈️ Is Annecy well connected by airports?

Yes:

  • Geneva Airport → 45 min to 1 hour.
  • Chambery → 45 min.
  • Lyon → 1 hour 30 min. 

A private driver is often the easiest option, especially if you have luggage, skis, or are traveling with your family.

🎒 Is Annecy suitable for solo travelers?

Absolutely. With hiking, biking, cozy cafes, water sports, and a peaceful atmosphere, it's a safe, welcoming destination with plenty to do.

💑 Is Annecy a romantic destination?

Yes, probably one of the most beautiful places in France for a weekend getaway with your partner: sunrise over the lake, dinner on the shore, evening stroll through the Old Town... Annecy has a timeless charm.

📅 How long does it take to visit Annecy?

✔ 1 day → quick overview
✔ 2–3 days → full experience
✔ 1 week → total immersion in lakes, villages, mountains, and gastronomy
It's a destination where you'll never get bored.

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