There are many reasons to visit Annecy in France’s Haute-Savoie region. With its turquoise lake, its picturesque old town, and its exceptional Alpine scenery, the city offers a unique holiday experience. So much so that the city has become one of the leading tourist destinations in Europe!

So, if you’re wondering what to do in Annecy, you’ve found the right guide: here are 20 of the best things to do in Annecy, along with expert tips to make sure you won’t miss anything. 

 

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Where to Stay in Annecy

Still at the planning stage of your trip to Annecy? Well, after booking your way to go there, finding the right home base to start exploring the area is the second step to great travels. So let me help you with some good recommendations before getting down to business! 

✅ Best Hotel – Lodge et Dolce: Located in the heart of the city about 5min walk from the lake and 10min from the train station, this place is the best accommodation you could find. With a balcony overlooking the town’s canals, you’ll love waking up over this beautiful view. 

💰 Best Budget Hotel – Best Hotel Annecy: Providing a private bathroom, private parking, and comfy rooms, you won’t find a better value for money accommodation in Annecy. 

⭐️ Best Luxury Hotel – Impérial Palace: Located on the lake’s beach, this 4-star hotel has everything you could dream of for your holidays. You’ll find a casino, and a spa and rooms are equipped with minibars, air conditioning, and balconies with views over Lake Annecy and the mountains.

 

All the Top Things to do in Annecy

Below, you’ll find 18 of the best attractions of Annecy to add in your itinerary. It includes all Annecy must see and do, but also some unusual things you’ll love doing there, whatever your travel style.

Let’s jump right to it! 🚀

 

1. Take a boat cruise on Lake Annecy

Considered the most beautiful and purest lake in Europe, Lake Annecy is a true marvel of nature and the city’s most famous landmark. Surrounded by the mountains, the landscape is simply breathtaking, and going for a boat ride is definitely a great way to enjoy it. 

 

boat cruising in lake annecy things to do

 

We recommend taking a short guided cruise of 1 hour or 1h30 (16€ or 19€) starting at the Jardins de l’Europe, in the old town.

Or, you can also prefer renting a pedal boat for 30min to 2 hours, which is great if you’re with family or friends and want to swim and sunbathe. You’ll find plenty of pedal boat rental points all around the lake. 

 

2. Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town

The historic center of Annecy has an amazing charm. Crossed by the Thiou River, the Vieille Ville is made up of canals, cobbled streets, colored old stone houses, and historic monuments. You’ve probably already seen the most iconic photo of the city illustrating the most famous of its monuments, the Palais de l’Isle, as if floating on water.

 

 

The center is full of small bridges that you’ll love crossing, countless bars, small stores, and restaurants. Take a break in one of the picturesque cafes and get curious in the small typical stores, you won’t regret it!

Discover Annecy old town in a very unique way during a 2-hour guided tour.

 

3. Visit Annecy’s most famous monument: the Palais de l’Isle

Speaking of the Palais de l’Isle, a visit of Annecy isn’t complete without stepping into this palace.

Standing on a tiny triangular island on the Thiou River in the middle of the old town, the Palais de l’Isle is the symbol of the city of Annecy. Built in the 12th century, this medieval palace was first a lordly residence before becoming a courthouse, an asylum, a barracks, and a prison.

 

palais de l'isle is in the best annecy attractions

 

Classified as a historical monument since 1900, the Palais de l’Isle is now an exhibition place on the architecture and heritage of Annecy, allowing visitors to learn about the history of the city.

 

4. Stroll along the canals

The Thiou is a small river of only 5 kilometers that takes its source at Lake Annecy, runs through the old town, and flows into a larger river called the Fier. You can walk along the Thiou River thanks to a nice path allowing you to enjoy the canals and locks. This track will take you to the Pont des Amours before ending at the Paquier/le Champs de Mars, the huge esplanade bordering the lake. 

 

stroll along the canals

 

I recommend doing this bucolic stroll after lunch so you can stop in the middle for a snack or an ice cream. This off-the-beaten-path way to enjoy Annecy is also great to do by bike.

 

5. Take a photo on the Pont des Amours

The Pont des Amours is an essential point of interest for lovers in Annecy. It’s a pedestrian iron footbridge spanning the Thiou canal and offering a breathtaking view of the lake.

 

pont des amours is among the great places to visit in annecy

 

First built in wood in 1845, it was only in 1907 that the Pont des Amours as we know it today is built. Located near the Jardins de l’Europe and the Champs de Mars, this bridge is also the starting point of the city’s tourist train. 

If you’re visiting Annecy in the high season, this place might be crowded and you’ll need to fight a bit to take a selfie.  

 

6. Buy a souvenir in the Old Town market

The old town market on St. Clair street is held every week on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays from 7am to 1pm.

The market offers a special atmosphere to the old town that comes alive in the hustle and bustle of the crowd of visitors and merchants selling fruits, vegetables, and trinkets.

There, you can find a nice postcard or souvenir, but also taste the local gastronomy such as Reblochon cheese, Savoy ham, and other delicacies.

 

7. Relax in the Jardins de l’Europe

Don’t miss the gorgeous Jardin de l’Europe, one of the most beautiful gardens in France!

 

It’s a huge garden with trees located in the extension of the Pâquier/Champs de Mars promenade, behind the town hall on the shores of Annecy Lake. It offers large areas of lawns, mostly shaded by about 650 trees and more than 1,000 varied shrubs. The gardens are also equipped with benches, water fountains, and even a playground for children.

Don’t hesitate to stop by for a relaxing break while admiring the breathtaking panorama of the lake.

 

8. Visit Annecy Castle Museum

This castle is located on the heights of Annecy’s old town and overlooks the city and its surroundings. It’s one of the most popular places to visit in Annecy.

 

annecy castle is in the best attractions of annecy

 

Built in the 12th century, it was the residence of the Counts of Geneva in the 13th and 14th centuries. Restored over the centuries, the castle is now a mix of the rough style of medieval castles and the more refined style of the castles you can find in the Paris region.

A part of the castle has been transformed into a museum where visitors can discover a large collection of works made in the region, from prehistory to nowadays. Open every day except Tuesday, it costs 5€ per adult (free for children under 12).

 

9. Hike on the heights of Annecy

Annecy is one of the top places in France for hiking due to its ideal location between mountains and lakes. You’ll find hiking trails for all levels and of all lengths. Here are some of the best hikes I highly recommend as I did them myself: 

  • La Tournette: This is the most famous hike in the area, but it’s not an easy one + you’d need about 6 hours to do it. If you think of doing it, check here our dedicated guide where I share our experience in La Tournette with practical info and tips.
  • Roc de Chère: This is an easy 45min hike in a nature reserve offering beautiful views of the lake. Here’s a complete guide to the Roc de Chère hike if you consider doing it, you’ll find everything you need. 
  • Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier: Located about 10min from Annecy, this is a challenging hike leading to 3 different Christian crosses. It will take you about 2,5 hours to do it, find all the info in this guide. 

Find out the full list of the 21 best hiking trails in Annecy here

 

hiking is in the top things to do in annecy

View from the summit of La Tournette hike

10. Bath on one of the many beaches of the lake 

Lake Annecy offers some very pleasant beaches where you can swim freely, sunbathe in the dedicated areas, play volleyball, and enjoy water activities such as paddling. Some of these beaches are also equipped with diving boards, ideal for perfecting your best dives. 

 

Here are some of the greatest beaches in Annecy to enjoy in summer: 

 

11. Visit the beautiful churches

If you’re wondering what to do in Annecy to escape the sun or the rain, you should know that the city is home to many churches and historical religious buildings that are definitely worth a visit. Here they are, make sure not to miss them when visiting the town: 

churches are among the best annecy tourist attractions

Basilique de la Visitation in Annecy

12. Try the local dishes 

Some French people will tell you that the local cuisine is without a doubt the best reason to visit Annecy. With the cheeses (Reblochon, Tome, and others), the sausages, the terrines, the Savoyard fondue, or the tartiflette, it’s a real treat for your taste buds.

 

eating local cheese dishes is in annecy top things to do

Awesome tartiflette at Le Freti

So head to one of Annecy’s restaurants to taste the local specialties. Here are some good places to eat you’ll find in town:

 

13. Picnic on the Pâquier/Champs de Mars

The Pâquier, also known as Champ de Mars, is a nice place offering a huge green space and a nice walk along the lake in the middle of Annecy. It’s so large you can’t miss it! 

 

This place is very popular among the locals as soon as the weather allows it, either for picnicking, running, biking, skateboarding, or any other sports activity. Picnicking or having drinks at sunset there is certainly one of the top things to do in Annecy France. 

 

14. Go paragliding to discover Annecy from the sky

Paragliding and skydiving are among the most popular activities in Annecy. It’s one of the best ways to see the entire region from above and to enjoy unique views of the lake, the city, and the mountains of the Alps.

 

paragliding is in the best activities in annecy

 

The 2 main landing sites are in Doussard and Menthon, and there are different types of flights available, so you can learn to paraglide or practice freely if you’re already an experienced amateur.

Get all the info about it and book your flight here.

 

15. Ski or Summer Sledding at Semnoz 

Located about 25 minutes drive from Annecy at an altitude of 1,700 meters, the Semnoz resort offers a wonderful panorama of the Alps and the Mont Blanc and provides many activities depending on the season you come: downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing in winter; sledding, go-karting and scooter riding with a ski lift in summer.

The summer sled is accessible to children from 3 years old with an adult (alone or in pairs, you only pay for one run, which costs 3€). Children over 1,25m can go down alone. Pro tip: take a pack of 10 descents because the children (but also the adults, look at me in the photo below 😂) will certainly want to make more than one turn!

 

sledding in semnoz is one of the top things to do near annecy

 

16. Attend one of the famous festivals in Annecy

In addition to beautiful locations and must-see attractions, Annecy is also home to famous annual events that contribute to the city’s reputation.

The first event of the year takes place over 3 days in February/March, the second weekend after Mardi Gras. It’s the famous Venetian Carnival which has nothing to envy to the carnival of Italy’s Venice!

In June, the International Animation Film Festival takes place in the city with conferences, film projections, and a competition between animated films of various techniques. 

Finally, on the first Saturday of August, the bay of Albigny becomes the setting for the biggest fireworks show in Europe, the Fête du Lac. Lots of people flock from all around the world to see it, so if you have the chance to be there at this time of the year, don’t miss it! 

 

fete du lac is one of the top things to see in annecy

Fête du Lac in Annecy

17. Explore the wonderful nearby castles

Annecy isn’t only a breathtaking natural site. Its geographical location close to Switzerland has also made it a place full of history with plenty of castles, each one more impressive than the other.

 

chateau de menthon is one of the places to visit near annecy

Château de Menthon Saint-Bernard

Here are the castles near the city that will make you discover another side of the region + distance from the city center:

 

18. Enter the gorgeous Gorges du Fier

Located about 20min drive from the city center, don’t miss the spectacular walk in the Gorges du Fier on a wooden footbridge perched 25 meters high in a narrow canyon. 

 

gorges du fier is one of the places to visit annecy

 

Classified among the greatest geological curiosities of the Alps and discovered 150 years ago, these gorges are impressive and one of the top things to see in Annecy. 

You can go there with children of all ages as long as the youngest are in a baby carrier (no arms or stroller). Count 1 hour round trip and 6€ per person to visit one of the greatest places to visit near Annecy. 

 

19. Go on a day trip from Annecy

Another advantage of Annecy is its practical location in the Alps region, close to the French-Swiss border and not far from Italy. From Annecy, you can access lots of great destinations in only a few hours drive, which makes Annecy a great starting point/stopover for a road trip. 

So, if you’re spending enough time in Annecy to explore other places around, here are some of the best day trips you could do: 

  • Geneva: Switzerland’s second largest city is located only 40min drive and 1h40 by train, well-known for its wonderful Lac Léman. 
  • Lyon: France’s third largest city is only 1h45 drive from Annecy and 2 hours by train. A must-see if you’re around! 
  • Chamonix: located about 1h10 drive/bus, it’s the place to be for mountain and winter sports lovers.

Check this dedicated guide of the best day trips from Annecy for more options.

 

day trip from annecy

Lyon

20. Other top Annecy attractions and activities

You can do much more than what I’ve recommended in this guide. So, here’s a non-exhaustive list of other fund or unusual things to do in Annecy: 

other activities to do in annecy

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Hope you’ve completed your list of the top Annecy things to do thanks to this post.

But wait before leaving! Right below, you’ll find other advices to make your trip to Annecy a success 👇

 

Best Time to Visit Annecy 

With the wide range of activities, tourist attractions, and natural sites, you’ll have a blast in Annecy regardless of the season. But depending on your travel style, one season might be better for you.

 

🌸 Spring (March to June): In spring, temperatures are still cool in the mornings and evenings and it’s the rainiest season in Annecy. But the beautiful days are gradually coming back, nature is reviving with the days getting longer so it’s perfect to hike and walk around all day long. You can also attend the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in June. 

☀️ Summer (June to September): This is the hottest season in Annecy with temperatures up to 30°C, but it can rain sometimes. If you want to enjoy the lake at its fullest, summer is the best time to go. You can also do some forest walks to escape the heat. 

🍂 Fall (September to December): Along with spring, fall is the best season to go hiking around Annecy. Temperatures drop quickly and you should never forget warm clothes in your bag for the morning and evening. In the middle of the day, the pleasantly mild heat allows you to enjoy the city and the lake.

❄️ Winter (December to March): Annecy in winter is completely different than summer: it’s like a new whole city to discover! With temperatures ranging from -3°C to 7°C, the sun is replaced by snow – and sometimes rain – which transforms the hiking trails into ski slopes, and the lake get frozen. It’s also in this season that you can attend the Venetian Carnival. Definitely the best season if you like snow sports, eating tartiflette, and wandering in Christmas markets!

 

lake annecy

 

FAQ About Traveling Annecy 

How to get to Annecy? 

There’s no airport in Annecy. The nearest airports to Annecy are Lyon and Geneva (Switzerland). From these airports, you can take the bus and/or the train for about 1,5 hours to reach Annecy. 

But depending on how long you’ll stay in Annecy, renting a car can be more convenient. Indeed, if you’re staying more than 3 days in Annecy, you’d definitely need a car to go outside the city to try some activities recommended in this post. 😉

Coming from Geneva? Book your half-day trip to Annecy to make the most of your trip!

 

How to get around in Annecy? 

The old town and the lake shores are easily accessible, so you’ll only need your legs to walk! 

Otherwise, many different ways are available to get around Annecy and the surroundings: 

  • 🚌 Bus: the bus service in Annecy is very efficient and quite cheap (+ eco-friendly!), so it’s definitely the best way to get around. A single ticket valid for 1 hour costs 1,50€ and the 24-hour pass is 4,90€. Buy your ticket online on the dedicated app Tixipass and flash your QR code when getting on the bus.
  • 🚲 Bike: you’ll find no less than 130km of cycling path and 40 bike rental stations in Annecy! It’s very easy to rent a bike through the Vélonecy app and pay after giving it back. Price is good: 30min is free and 31 to 60min is 1,50€.     
  • 🚗 Car: I recommend not to use the car when in the center of Annecy as parking can be difficult to find and expensive. Know that there are several free parkings a little bit outside of downtown, but they get full very quickly in the high season. 

 

How many days do I need to visit Annecy?  

To visit the city center, you’ll only need 2 days in Annecy as it’s pretty small: you can dedicate one day to discovering the old town and the best places to see in Annecy center, and another day to enjoying the lake.

For 3 days or more, I recommend adding one of the recommended hikes, or other attractions nearby such as the Gorges du Fier along with the Château de Montrottier located only 13min walk from each other.  

 

I hope you enjoy your trip to Annecy! If you have any questions, let me know in the comments below, I always reply.

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