Where to go in Annecy? 7 best places to visit in Annecy

What is so attractive about Annecy Town – “Venice of France”? In this article, we will share the experience of exploring this picturesque town, making you want to pack your bags and go right away!

A small town nestled by a lake, reflecting the mountains and the emerald-green canal, Annecy makes many people who come here not want to leave. People call this place “Venice of France”, because Annecy has its own charm: gentle, romantic and poetic in every corner. If you are looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of life, the 7 picturesque places in Annecy below will be the perfect love song for your dreamy soul.

A Brief Introduction to Annecy Town

The beautiful little town of Annecy in the Haute-Savoie region, Eastern France, is a stopover for romantic souls looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life. This town has many small, pretty canals winding through pastel-colored houses, creating a romantic, poetic, and ancient space.

This town is also a place of diverse cultures as it is located on the border of three countries: France, Italy, and Switzerland. Along with Annecy Castle, which used to be the residence of the Counts of Geneva, visitors will clearly feel the long history and rich culture of this place. It is not an exaggeration to say that Annecy can “enchant” visitors when anyone who sets foot here does not want to leave.

Experiences Not to Miss in Annecy

​Annecy is given countless beautiful nicknames by travel enthusiasts because this place can satisfy both culture and history lovers and #teamKlook who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Here are seven activities not to be missed when visiting the beautiful town of Annecy.

Take a Boat to See the Cool Blue Lake Annecy

Regarded as a giant emerald green mirror in the heart of the Alps, Lake Annecy always makes travelers’ hearts flutter with its elegant and poetic beauty. The lake surface is so calm and transparent that you can see the soft seaweed at the bottom. Sitting on a boat gliding gently through the blue water, you will feel the cool breeze blowing on your skin and watch the mountains and hills silently reflecting. What a moment that seems like it only exists in a picture!

When renting a boat on Lake Annecy, you do not need a driver’s license for basic electric boats, with costs ranging from 70 Euros for 1 hour (~2,065,560 VND). If you want to feel like driving a fast boat with a larger engine, choose a boat that requires a driver’s license with prices starting from 95 Euros/hour (~2,803,260 VND). Marinas such as Veyrier-du-Lac or Doussard offer boat rental services with life jackets, maps and guides.

From June to early September is the best time to fully enjoy the beauty of the lake. At that time, the brilliant sunlight seems to gild the water surface, creating a magical shimmering scene. A smooth afternoon drifting on the surface of Lake Annecy is not only a sightseeing activity, but also a fascinating healing journey for the soul.

Check-in at the poetic Pont des Amours Love Bridge

Hidden shyly among the shady trees on the shore of Lake Annecy, the charming iron bridge named Pont des Amours – “Love Bridge” is a place that holds countless promises and heart-wrenching glances. This is not only a famous check-in spot of the town, but also a place that captivates people with its gentle, romantic beauty that is unmistakable. The bridge connects the Paquier Delta Garden and the Promenade Jacquet, spanning the poetic Thiou Canal.

Every early morning, a thin mist lingers on the water, reflecting the curved bridge in the pale yellow light like a fairy tale painting. At sunset, the last rays of sunlight shine through the leaves, brightening the space, turning this place into an ideal place to capture sweet moments of love. According to local legend, if two lovers kiss in the middle of the bridge, they will be together forever. Therefore, this place is an unmissable stop for couples, photographers hunting for moments or souls who love poetic beauty.

Explore the Castle in the Canal – Palais de l’Isle

Like a fairy tale ship floating on the emerald green canal, Palais de l’Isle is a treasure in the heart of Annecy; a living symbol reminiscent of ancient times. Standing proudly at the confluence of the Thiou River, this 12th-century stone castle was once a palace, a court, and even a prison, and is now a miniature historical museum, documenting the town’s ups and downs.

The unique bow-shaped architecture and mossy stone walls create a strange attraction. Entrance fees are only about 3.80 Euros/adult (~112,130 VND), 2 Euros/child over 2 years old. Opening hours are from 10:00 to 18:00 depending on the season. Stepping through the ancient wooden door, visitors will feel like they are lost in a maze of time, exploring the courtroom, the cellar, the spiral stone staircase and the small window revealing a view of the calm water.

 

The small balcony on the upper floor is where you can enjoy the panoramic view of the old town of Annecy and the bridges spanning the winding canal like a watercolor painting. From Geneva, visitors can choose a half-day tour to visit Annecy by private car (price around 80 Euro/person, depending on schedule).

Best places to visit in Annecy: Stroll Through the Magical Corners of Annecy’s Old Town

Nowhere in Annecy makes the heart flutter like when stepping into the old town – where every stone slab, every wooden door covered with flowers seems to whisper stories of the past. The Old Town of Annecy, also known as Vieille Ville, is a charming maze of intact medieval architecture, winding along the Thiou Canal.

Walking here in the early morning, the gentle sunlight shines through the ancient tiled roofs, brightening up the honey yellow, brick red and moss green colors typical of each house close together. Each ancient arch, wrought iron balcony and blooming bougainvillea trellis further enhances the beauty of the old town. At every turn, visitors discover a lovely craft shop, a cafe hidden behind a trellis of vines, or a bakery with the fragrant smell of French butter and milk.

The atmosphere here is not too bustling, people still leisurely walk their bikes through the streets, children laugh loudly by the ancient fountain, street artists play saxophones as light as the wind. Visitors can weave through each alley, hear the origin of street names like Rue Sainte-Claire, stroll through sunny squares like Place de l’Hôtel de Ville.

Picnic to Watch Swans at the Peaceful Delta Garden

In the middle of the peaceful life of Annecy, the Delta Garden (Le Pâquier and Jardins de l’Europe) appears like an open sky. Stretching along the shore of Lake Annecy, this garden is an ideal destination for visitors to slow down, immerse themselves in pure nature and enjoy a poetic picnic.

Visitors can lie down to read a book, sip a baguette, or simply listen to the wind rustling through the chestnut trees by the lake. On the sparkling water, flocks of pure white swans swim quietly, leaving behind small waves like the soft outline of a vivid painting. In the summer, outdoor concerts often appear here. Local families gather, children fly kites, the elderly stroll under the trees, creating a lively space while still maintaining its inherent peace.

You just need to bring a blanket, some fruit, a bottle of cool juice and you can enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the middle of nature. In autumn, fallen yellow leaves cover the path, a romantic scene like in a French movie, ideal for couples looking for a gentle moment together.

Stroll Along the Canals – Listen to the Peaceful Rhythm of Life

If you want a gentle schedule, try walking slowly along the canals winding through the heart of the old town of Annecy. You will clearly feel the gentle, warm rhythm of life in this mountain town. The Thiou Canal is the “lifeblood” of Annecy, where the clear water reflects the sky and the silhouettes of the rows of brightly tiled houses.

On both sides of the canal, cafes with wooden tables and chairs placed close to the water’s edge are always bustling but not noisy. The sound you hear is not the sound of car horns, but the sound of wooden clogs tapping lightly on the paving stones, the murmur of soft French conversation, and occasionally the melodious jazz music of a street artist.

In the afternoon, the sunlight tilts golden on the water’s surface, each petal falls gently as if time has stopped. Visitors who love photography will easily catch poetic moments, while art lovers will find inspiration from every simple detail: moss-covered walls, pastel-colored windows, and roofs swaying in time.

Try Delicious Local Delicacies at the Bustling Weekend Market

In the middle of the fairy-tale old town of Annecy, the weekend market is a vibrant strip of color that depicts the soul of local cuisine and culture. Taking place every Tuesday, Friday and especially Sunday, the market stretches along Rue Sainte-Claire, where ancient grey stone arches shade hundreds of stalls full of Savoie mountain products.

From early morning, the rich aroma of cheese, especially Reblochon and Tomme de Savoie, permeates the air, attracting visitors. Along with that is the aroma of crispy toasted bread, dried sausages with black pepper, and sparkling ruby ​​​​local wine in glass bottles, all inviting with sincerity and enthusiasm. The prices of goods at the market are also quite pleasant. A small piece of Reblochon costs around 5–8 Euros (~147,540–236,064 VND), or a glass of local wine from just 3 Euros (~88,524 VND).

How to Get to Annecy

There are currently international flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to major airports such as Paris (Charles de Gaulle) or Geneva (Geneva International Airport). After a long flight from Vietnam, you will arrive in the “muse” Annecy, nestled in the majestic Alps.
From Paris, you can continue your trip by train or bus. From Geneva airport, Annecy is only about 50km away, and can be quickly reached by bus, train or rented car. The travel time from Paris to Annecy by train takes about 5-6 hours, while from Geneva, the train takes only about 1.5 hours.

Trains are the most popular means of transport in France. With routes connecting major cities such as Paris and Lyon, you can easily find a train to Annecy. Train tickets from Lyon to Annecy cost around 15-30 Euros (442,620 – 885,240 VND), depending on the type of ticket and the time you book. If you depart from Geneva, the ticket price may be lower and can be easily booked through dedicated websites.

In addition to trains, buses are also a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers. Flixbus offers trips from Lyon and Geneva to Annecy, with prices ranging from just 5-15 Euros (147,540 – 442,620 VND). This is the ideal means of transport for most travelers due to its convenience and low cost.

Finally, if you want to move freely, we suggest renting a car or using the Bla Bla Car service, a convenient car-sharing app. Both of these modes of transport make it easy to travel from major cities to Annecy, at a reasonable cost and with flexibility in choosing your travel time.

Best Time to Visit Annecy

The climate of Annecy, a charming town in France, is pleasant and adaptable for visitors all year round. However, for a complete exploration, the ideal time to visit is from mid-June to mid-September. This is when the climate is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 24-26 degrees Celsius, creating ideal conditions for you to enjoy the beauty of the clear lake, participate in outdoor activities and enjoy the fresh air.

Spring (March – May) in Annecy is the ideal time to visit the peaceful town. Although the temperature is only around 15 degrees Celsius, the scenery of blooming flowers and cool air are the highlights. In summer, Annecy comes alive with festivals, notably the International Animation Film Festival in June, and water sports such as sailing and windsurfing.

Autumn (September – November) is a great time for those who want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy the pleasant climate and brilliant golden leaves. Winter (December – February) brings peace and cool air, suitable for winter sports enthusiasts at the nearby resorts.

Notes When Visiting Annecy Town

When visiting Annecy town, there are a few important notes to help make your trip more complete. First, if you come during the peak season, be prepared to face crowds, especially around Lake Annecy. Second, because the climate here is quite cool in the summer, bring a light outerwear to move comfortably while still staying warm in the evening.

Also, if you want to explore the areas around the lake or take part in water sports activities, don’t forget to book your tickets in advance because during peak season, services are often full. Another important note is that the popular means of transport in Annecy is bicycles, so you can rent a bike to get around town. Finally, don’t forget to join the local festivals to enjoy the typical atmosphere of Annecy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Annecy Town

What is the best season to visit Annecy?

Summer, from mid-June to mid-September, is the best time to visit Annecy with warm weather, golden sunshine and the clear blue lake.

Can you do a day trip from Lyon or Geneva?

Absolutely. From Geneva it is only about a 45-minute drive or a half-day tour. From Lyon, it takes about 2 hours by train or bus.

Is Lake Annecy swimmable?

Yes. Lake Annecy is listed as the cleanest freshwater lake in Europe, and residents and visitors are allowed to swim freely at many public beaches in the lake area in the summer.

Can I go boating or rent a bike?

There are many services for renting rowboats, pedal boats and even motor yachts on the lake. In addition, renting a bike to ride around the lake is also a very popular experience.

What is special about Savoy cuisine?

Savoy cuisine is famous for its rich cheeses such as Reblochon, fragrant grilled Tartiflette, dried sausages and local wines with rich mountain flavors.

Nestled among the majestic Alps, the town of Annecy is like a peaceful dream with its turquoise lake, romantic canals and breathtaking old town corners. Whether you are passionate about history, love to immerse yourself in nature or are fascinated by Savoy cuisine, Annecy always has something to make your heart flutter. This is truly a fascinating hidden gem of France.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Annecy you can refer to

• Annecy Half Day Tour from Geneva
• From Geneva: Annecy Private Day Trip
• The Venice of the Alps – Annecy in France Private Tour from Geneva

Read more France guide here.