Overview
Annecy earns its nickname "the Venice of Savoie" through small canals and streams dissecting the medieval old town, all flowing from the pristine azure waters of Lac Annecy. The 14th-century chateau overlooks the city, while the surrounding French Alps provide year-round outdoor activities from swimming to skiing.
Architecture · Cycling · Day Trips · Festivals · History
Before you go
Activities
Lac Annecy has free and pay beaches, 36 km of lakeside cycling, boat trips from €13.40, and mountain hiking. Ski resorts are 30 minutes away.
Connectivity
French mobile providers offer SIM cards in town. WiFi available at cafés and the tourist office.
Food
Haute-Savoie is cheese country — expect fondue, raclette, and local tartiflette. Bakeries and ice cream shops line the old town's pedestrian streets.
Transport
Annecy has a train station (Gare d'Annecy) and bus station (Gare routière) in front of it, served by Alsa and FlixBus. A shuttle runs to Geneva Airport.
Weather
July is extremely crowded; September offers fewer tourists, clearer air, and better mountain views. Winter brings skiers to nearby resorts.