The 10 essential things to do in Annecy

The Old Town of Annecy is a picturesque gem nestled in the heart of the French Alps, offering travelers an enchanted experience infused with history, medieval charm, and a vibrant atmosphere. As you wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, each step transports you to a world where time seems to stand still, revealing the timeless elegance of this destination.

The colorful facades of the buildings, painted in pastel hues, create a living canvas, with each window and balcony telling an ancient story. The Palais de l'Isle, with its imposing medieval presence, sits in the middle of the Thiou canal, adding an air of mystery to the surroundings. This building, once a prison, is now a museum that echoes with the whispers of the past.

The local shops lining the narrow streets contribute to the friendly atmosphere. Craft stores, art galleries, and cozy cafes invite you to stroll and explore. The local markets, where fresh produce and Savoyard specialties abound, create a captivating olfactory and gustatory symphony.

Lake Annecy, with its crystal-clear waters, adds a dimension of tranquility to this lively old town. The lake's shores provide a peaceful retreat for walking, relaxing, and admiring the Alpine peaks reflected in the shimmering waters.

Every corner of the Old Town reveals fascinating architectural details, from delicate sculptures to Gothic arches, capturing the essence of the region's rich history. The nighttime ambiance, when lights twinkle along the canals and squares, creates a romantic and magical atmosphere, perfect for a travel getaway.

The Old Town of Annecy is more than just a collection of ancient streets. It's a journey through time, an immersion into Savoyard culture, and a sensory experience that leaves a lasting imprint in the hearts of travelers.

Set in the middle of the Thiou like the prow of a ship, the Palais de l'Isle is the most photographed monument in Annecy. Built from the 12th century, it served in turn as a fortified house, the mint of the Counts of Geneva, a courthouse and a prison, right up to the 20th century. Restored and listed as a historic monument, it now houses the CIAP (Heritage and Architecture Interpretation Centre) of the conurbation, tracing the town's urban and architectural history (the local-history collections are shown at the Castle).

The natural outlet of the lake, the Thiou flows through the old town and forms the canals that earn Annecy its nickname of the 'Venice of the Alps'. Over barely 3.5 km it once drove mills and workshops, including the mint in the Palais de l'Isle. Today its flower-lined banks, little footbridges and the Pont Perrière, right in front of the Palais de l'Isle, make up Annecy's classic postcard. Not to be confused with the Pont des Amours (c.1906), which spans the Vassé canal at the lake's edge.

Perched on a rocky spur above the old town, the Castle of Annecy was the residence of the Counts of Geneva and then of the Dukes of Genevois-Nemours, a branch of the House of Savoy. Built from the 12th century and rebuilt several times after the fires of 1340 and 1412, it dominates the town with its massive silhouette. Bought by the town in 1953, it became a museum: it holds the collections of the conurbation's museums (fine arts, regional art, history) and the Regional Observatory of Alpine Lakes, devoted to lake wildlife and habitats.

Cycling around Lake Annecy is an unforgettable experience, offering breathtaking views of the lake, the surrounding mountains, and charming villages. Here's a suggested itinerary for a bike ride around the lake:

Start: Annecy

Begin your bike ride in Annecy, ideally from the Old Town. Head northeast along the lake's shores, following the dedicated bike path.

First Stop: Sévrier

Cycle along the lakeside bike path to Sévrier, a charming village by the water. Take a break, enjoy the views, and perhaps indulge in some ice cream.

Second Stop: Talloires

Continue your ride towards Talloires, one of the most picturesque spots on the lake. Take a moment to explore the village, visit the Abbey of Talloires, or simply relax on the lakeside beaches.

Third Stop: Menthon-Saint-Bernard

Keep going towards Menthon-Saint-Bernard. You can visit the Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, which offers stunning views of the lake.

Fourth Stop: Duingt

Continue along the eastern shore of the lake and make a stop in Duingt. The Château de Duingt, situated on a small peninsula, is another interesting attraction.

Fifth Stop: Angon Beach

Pause at Angon Beach for some relaxation. It's a pleasant spot for swimming, resting, and enjoying the scenery.

Return to Annecy

Resume your journey towards Annecy. On the way back, you'll have the opportunity to admire the spectacular views of the lake and the mountains one last time.

This bike ride around Lake Annecy provides a picturesque and relaxing experience, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Embarking on a boat ride on Lake Annecy offers an enchanting experience in the heart of the French Alps. Setting sail on the serene waters of the lake, surrounded by majestic peaks, reveals a landscape of captivating beauty. Onboard the boat, the gentle lapping of the water accompanies each movement, creating a peaceful ambiance conducive to relaxation.

The lake's shores unfold with a succession of breathtaking panoramas, punctuated by picturesque villages and verdant hills. The crystal-clear waters occasionally reflect striking images of the surrounding mountains and ever-changing skies.

Navigating Lake Annecy also provides the opportunity to admire iconic points of interest, such as the Palais de l'Isle in Annecy, which stands gracefully at the water's edge, or the medieval castles that silently watch over the shores.

The boat journey allows a departure from terrestrial hustle and bustle to immerse oneself in a serene atmosphere. Whether on a leisurely sunset cruise or a daytime adventure, each boat ride on Lake Annecy is a tranquil exploration, inviting contemplation of the remarkable natural landscapes that characterize this exceptional region.

The Venetian Carnival of Annecy is a colorful and festive event that brings a touch of Venetian atmosphere to the city. Here are some key points about this carnival:

1. Origins: The Annecy Venetian Carnival is inspired by the famous Carnival of Venice in Italy, known for its elaborate masks and sumptuous costumes. The event in Annecy aims to recreate this unique ambiance.
2. Costumes and Masks: One of the most iconic aspects of the carnival is the magnificent collection of costumes and masks worn by participants. These outfits recall traditional Venetian style with intricate details.
3. Parades in the Old Town: The festivities include parades through the old town of Annecy, providing visitors with the opportunity to get up close to the magnificent costumes and artistic masks. The cobblestone streets create a picturesque backdrop for this celebration.
4. Photography: The Venetian Carnival offers excellent photography opportunities. The colorful masks and extravagant costumes create visually stunning scenes.
5. Events and Entertainment: In addition to parades, the carnival may include various events and entertainment such as concerts, street performances, and costume contests. There is often a festive atmosphere throughout the city.
6. Public Participation: Some Venetian carnivals encourage public participation, allowing people to don their own masks and costumes to join in the celebration.
7. Dates: The dates of the Annecy Venetian Carnival can vary from year to year, so it is recommended to check the local event calendar for the most up-to-date information.
8. Tradition and Heritage: The Venetian Carnival celebrates the tradition and cultural heritage of Venice. It offers a unique experience that transports participants into the enchanting atmosphere of the Italian city.

Attending the Annecy Venetian Carnival is an extraordinary way to experience art, creativity, and history while participating in a joyful and lively celebration.

Embarking on a hike through the heights of Annecy is an immersive adventure into the heart of the mountainous landscapes offered by the French Alps. This experience goes beyond a simple stroll; it takes you to discover spectacular panoramas, winding trails, and the preserved nature of the region.

The journey through the heights of Annecy often begins with a gradual ascent, allowing hikers to progressively appreciate breathtaking views of the glistening lake below. Trails wind through dense forests, unveiling a rich diversity of alpine flora.

As the ascent continues, the horizon opens up to the surrounding peaks, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The snow-capped summits, lush valleys, and rugged ridges contribute to a majestic tableau that evolves at every turn of the trail.

The heights of Annecy also offer stunning viewpoints of the city itself, with its characteristic rooftops, the expansive lake, and the mountains in the background, creating a unique visual harmony.

At the summit of the hike, hikers are often rewarded with a 360-degree panorama, providing the sensation of touching the sky. It's a perfect moment for a well-deserved break, to contemplate the stunning landscapes and savor the sense of accomplishment.

The descent, equally important, offers a different perspective, revealing new angles and allowing an appreciation of the landscape in a different light. Every step, whether uphill or downhill, provides a unique connection with nature, an immersive experience in the natural splendors of the heights of Annecy.

Annecy, while renowned for its beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, does not have traditional beaches. However, the shores of the lake offer landscaped areas and zones conducive to relaxation by the water. Here are some of these places where you can enjoy Lake Annecy:

1. Le Pâquier: This is a large lawn along the lake, near the city center of Annecy. People gather here for picnics, outdoor games, or simply to relax with breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
2. Les Jardins de l'Europe: These well-maintained gardens are located along the lake and offer peaceful walks as well as shaded areas ideal for rest.
3. Albigny Beach: While the term "beach" might be a bit misleading, this location offers an organized area by the lake where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
4. Sevrier Beach: Sevrier has a small public beach where you can sunbathe, swim, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
5. Angon Beach: This beach is located on the eastern shore of the lake, near the village of Angon. It provides a natural setting with a small sandy beach and clear water.
6. Talloires Beach: The village of Talloires has a small tranquil beach where you can relax and enjoy panoramic views.

Although these spaces are not traditional beaches, they offer opportunities to enjoy Lake Annecy in a relaxed and picturesque manner. Whether sunbathing, swimming, or simply contemplating the landscape, these places allow you to fully experience the lakeside charm of Annecy.

Standing on the Visitation hill southwest of the old town, this 20th-century basilica holds the tombs of Saint Francis de Sales and Saint Jane Frances de Chantal, founders of the Order of the Visitation. Its bell tower houses a major carillon. But what draws visitors above all is the panorama: from the forecourt, the view takes in Annecy, the lake and the surrounding mountains.