Annecy

Written by Camille Laurent, Celine Fournier, Marcus Kayode, Sebastien Simon
30/08/2025
Scenic view of Annecy's historic cityscape featuring charming canals and classic European architecture.
Magda Ehlers, Pexels

Annecy presents itself as a captivating destination where the azure waters of its pristine lake meet the charm of a medieval town, often called the "Venice of the Alps." It is an ideal spot for those who appreciate both natural landscapes and rich history.

Within its Old Town, numerous cafes, restaurants, and market areas provide ample opportunities to mingle and enjoy the local atmosphere. The lively streets of the historic center are particularly popular with visitors, offering a social environment day and night.

Top 6 Things to do in Annecy

Activities range from exploring the medieval architecture and vibrant markets of the Old Town to engaging in various watersports on Europe's cleanest lake and hiking in the scenic alpine foothills.

1. Stroll through Annecy's Old Town (Vieille Ville) and Canal Banks

Wandering through the cobblestone streets of Annecy's Old Town is an essential experience. The Thious River and canals, lined with pastel-colored buildings and vibrant flowers, create picturesque scenes. Visitors can discover charming arcades, boutique shops, and numerous cafes. It is a delightful way to immerse oneself in the 'Venice of the Alps' atmosphere. Exploring the various markets on designated days offers a taste of local life and regional produce.

Cost: Free to explore. Market purchases vary.

Transport: The Old Town is entirely walkable and forms the heart of Annecy.

2. Visit the Château d'Annecy

Perched above the town, the Château d'Annecy, once a residence for the Counts of Geneva and the House of Savoy, provides a deep dive into the region's history. Exploring its ancient walls and towers offers a glimpse into medieval life. The castle also houses a museum, and from its elevated position, visitors can enjoy panoramic views over Annecy and the lake below.

Cost: Full admission is approximately €5.60. A combined ticket for the Château Museum and Palais de l'Isle is around €7.20.

Transport: The Château is a short uphill walk from the Old Town. It is easily accessible on foot from the city center.

3. Cycle Around Lake Annecy

Cycling the scenic route around Lake Annecy offers an active way to appreciate its crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains. A dedicated cycle path covers much of the lake's perimeter (approximately 40 km), passing through charming lakeside villages and offering numerous spots to stop for views or a break. It is an invigorating activity suitable for various fitness levels.

Cost: Bike rentals typically range from €4 to €46 per day, depending on the bike type (classic, electric, or folding) and rental duration. Public services like Velonecy and private shops offer rentals.

Transport: Rental shops are available in Annecy's city center and near the lake, providing direct access to the cycle path.

4. Take a Boat Trip or Paddle on Lake Annecy

Experiencing Lake Annecy from the water allows for a unique perspective of its beauty. Visitors can rent pedal boats, paddleboards, or kayaks for a leisurely exploration of the lake's pure, turquoise waters. Alternatively, organized boat tours provide a relaxing way to see the various lakeside towns and enjoy the stunning mountain backdrop without physical exertion.

Cost: Rental prices for pedal boats, paddleboards, or kayaks vary by provider and duration (e.g., hourly). Organized boat tours have separate ticketing.

Transport: Rental facilities and boat tour departures are conveniently located along the lakefront, within walking distance of the Old Town.

5. Experience Tandem Paragliding from Col de la Forclaz

For those seeking an adrenaline rush and unparalleled aerial views, tandem paragliding over Lake Annecy is an unforgettable experience. Launching from spots like Col de la Forclaz, participants soar above the pristine lake and alpine landscape, with professional pilots ensuring a safe and exhilarating flight. It offers a breathtaking panorama of the entire region, including the Aravis mountain range.

Cost: A tandem paragliding flight typically costs between €80 and €175, depending on the flight duration and type (e.g., discovery, thermal, prestige).

Transport: Paragliding companies usually provide shuttle services to the launch sites (e.g., Col de la Forclaz) from Annecy, often included in the flight price.

6. Hike in the Annecy Mountains (e.g., Mont Veyrier or Roc de Chère)

The mountains surrounding Annecy offer numerous hiking trails for all levels, providing stunning viewpoints of the lake and the French Alps. Popular options include the Mont Veyrier loop, known for its magnificent balcony views, or the Roc de Chère nature reserve, an easier walk offering excellent lake vistas and a chance to observe local flora and fauna. These hikes allow visitors to connect with the pristine alpine environment.

Cost: Free (guided hikes may incur a fee).

Transport: Some trailheads, like those for Mont Veyrier, can be reached from Annecy by bus (a single trip costs €1.50-€2, requiring an Oùra card) or a short taxi ride (around €11 for 5km). Others, like Roc de Chère, may require a short drive.

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