What to see, what to do
à Annecy

Travel guide Annecy

Annecy, nicknamed the Venice of the Alps, is famous for its crystal-clear lake and charming historic centre.

Annecy has a rich medieval past, visible in its ancient architecture. The town was an important centre of the Catholic Counter-Reformation.

Annecy is easily accessible by train from Lyon or Geneva. It is also well served by motorway for those who prefer to drive.

Accommodation

Annecy offers a wide choice of accommodation, from luxury lakeside hotels to youth hostels.

Gastronomy

Savoyard fondue, tartiflette, lake fish

What is there to see? What to do?

Lake Annecy, the Old Town, the Palais de l'Isle

Old town, Marquisats district, Parmelan district

Boat trips on the lake, hiking in the surrounding mountains, paragliding

Lake beaches, Parc Charles Bosson, Mini-Golf

Animated Film Festival, Lake Festival, Venetian Carnival

Activities

Shopping

Rue Royale for boutiques, the old town market for local produce

Nightlife

The nightlife is lively, particularly around the lake and in the old town.

Did you know?

Annecy is bidding to host the 2018 Winter Olympics.
Lake Annecy is renowned for being one of the cleanest lakes in the world.
The Palais de l'Isle, in the middle of the Thiou, was once a prison.
Annecy's old town is often compared to Venice because of its picturesque canals.
The region is famous for its cheeses, including Reblochon and Tomme de Savoie.

Tips and tricks
Opt for a travel card to make the most of the buses and boats.
Bring comfortable shoes to explore the city on foot.
Sample local specialities in the small restaurants of the old town.

Visit the old town early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Hire a bike to explore the area around the lake.

I'm Claire, a 40-year-old woman with a passion for discovering new destinations. My love of writing and travelling is expressed through my articles, in which I share my experiences and observations.

Claire D.

DiamsTrotter Annecy