There are a thousand and one ways to explore Annecy, depending on what takes your fancy: wander freely through the narrow streets, opt for a guided tour of the museums, or treat yourself to a gourmet getaway to savour Savoyard specialities. It’s up to you to choose the experience that suits you best!
Nicknamed the “Little Venice of the Alps”, Annecy was voted the best city to live in France in 2020 and 2021. Its historic centre is best explored on foot, thanks to its extensive pedestrian zone and public transport network, which make getting around easy without the hassle of finding a parking space.
Here, walks are pleasant and accessible: the town is almost entirely flat, with the exception of the climb up to the Château and the Basilica of the Visitation. To help you find your way around, signage on the pavements indicates the walking time between the main attractions, making exploration even smoother and more enjoyable.
Visiting Annecy
Discover the town of Annecy in a day or more; there are several options available depending on your interests. Choose between a guided or self-guided tour of the Palais de l’Île, the Château d’Annecy Museum, the Animation Film Museum or the Basilica of the Visitation. And for an even more delicious experience, treat yourself to a gourmet tour – the perfect way to explore the local culinary specialities.
Annecy’s Old Town
A stroll through Annecy’s Old Town is a must; here are a few highlights you shouldn’t miss. Depending on the season and the weather, we recommend exploring Annecy’s Old Town during the warmest part of the day, as the narrow streets are largely shaded, and visiting the Pâquier at the start or end of the day.
Find out more: Annecy’s Old Town
The Jardins de l’Europe
This is the favourite wooded park among Annecy’s residents. Situated opposite the lake and Île des Cygnes, it’s an ideal spot for a stroll, particularly in summer, when you can enjoy the cool, refreshing atmosphere. Its superb fountain adds a refreshing touch to this green oasis, offering a peaceful and pleasant setting.
Find out more: The Jardins de l’Europe
The Pont des Amours
This footbridge, linking the Esplanade du Pâquier to the Jardins de l’Europe, offers exceptional views over the lake and the surrounding mountains. It is an iconic and romantic spot, perfect for a souvenir photo. Legend has it that couples who kiss on the bridge will stay together forever.
Find out more: The Pont des Amours
The Île des Cygnes
This little island, the only one on Lake Annecy, is full of charm. You can admire it whilst strolling through the Jardins de l’Europe or from the Esplanade du Pâquier. But beyond its beauty, it also plays an important role as a refuge for the lake’s birds, particularly ducks and swans, which find a haven of peace there.
Find out more: Swan Island
Le Pâquier
To enjoy a breathtaking view of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains, there’s nothing better than relaxing on the Pâquier lawn. A picnic and a pedal boat ride are highly recommended for a true taste of life in Annecy!
Find out more: Le Pâquier
The Thiou
This pretty river, which flows through Annecy’s Old Town, winding its way around the iconic Vieilles Prisons, offers a pleasant stroll all the way to Cran-Gevrier. Beyond its charm, the Thiou plays a vital role: it drains water from Lake Annecy, thereby regulating its level and contributing to the region’s water balance.
Find out more: The Thiou
Historic monuments
Taking a self-guided tour of Annecy means strolling at your own pace, through charming narrow streets and past magnificent scenery. The historic centre captivates with its unique atmosphere, whilst a walk around the lake offers breathtaking views of the water and the mountains.
Here, everything is within easy reach: most of the monuments are concentrated within a small area, making them easy to explore. And the good news is that most of them are free to visit, with the exception of Annecy Castle and the Old Prisons, which require a combined ticket for entry.
The Palais de l’Île
The Palais de l’Île, nicknamed the “Vieilles Prisons”, is one of Annecy’s most iconic and frequently photographed landmarks. Situated on a small island in the middle of the River Thiou, this historic building, shaped like the prow of a ship, has served as a prison, a courthouse and an administrative centre over the centuries.
Today, it houses an architecture and heritage interpretation centre, offering visitors an insight into the town’s medieval history. The tour includes the former courtrooms, cells and dungeons, as well as the old chapel, providing an insight into prison life in the Middle Ages.
Top tip: visits to the Palais de l’Île and the Musée-Château d’Annecy are free on the first Sunday of every month, from October to May. Admission is also free all year round for children under 12.
Find out more: The Palais de l’Île
Annecy Castle
Annecy Castle is a fascinating museum, blending history and heritage. As well as its permanent collections, it houses an observatory dedicated to the Alpine lakes and regularly hosts temporary exhibitions focusing on the region’s history and culture. From its lofty vantage point, it also offers a magnificent panoramic view of Lake Annecy.
Find out more: Annecy Castle
The Basilica of the Visitation
Perched at the foot of Mount Semnoz, the Basilica of the Visitation overlooks Annecy and offers an exceptional panoramic view of the town and its surroundings. This iconic site houses the tombs of Saint Francis de Sales and Saint Jeanne de Chantal, key figures in the region’s religious history.
Find out more: The Basilica of the Visitation
Saint Maurice Church
Situated opposite Annecy Town Hall, Saint Maurice Church is the oldest church in the town. A testament to a rich past, it underwent a complete renovation in 2016, allowing visitors to rediscover the building as it was when first built.
Find out more: Saint Maurice Church
Notre-Dame de Liesse Church
Marvel at the magnificent dome and the gilded Virgin Mary that dominate Notre-Dame de Liesse Church, a testament to its rich history since it was built. Its stained-glass windows also depict the key moments of its past. Every year, this church becomes a must-see attraction during the Annecy Alps Christmas celebrations, hosting the traditional Christmas illuminations.
Find out more: The Church of Notre-Dame de Liesse
The Church of Saint François de Sales
The Church of Saint François de Sales, also known as the ‘Italians’ Church’, is situated near the Vieilles Prisons and marks the entrance to Annecy’s Old Town. Founded in 1610 and rebuilt in 1642, its architecture is inspired by the Church of the Gesù in Rome, with a façade divided into two levels topped by a triangular pediment.
Find out more: Saint-François de Sales Church
Saint Pierre Cathedral
Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau in Annecy is home to Saint-Pierre Cathedral, a late Gothic building influenced by the Italian Renaissance. Built between 1535 and 1538, this cathedral served as the seat of the bishops of Geneva who took refuge in Annecy during the Protestant Reformation. Today, it is the centre of the Diocese of Annecy.
Find out more: Saint Pierre Cathedral
Annecy Town Hall
Annecy Town Hall, situated on the Esplanade de l’Hôtel de Ville, is an ideal base from which to organise your visits, thanks to its central location. Built between 1847 and 1851 to plans by the Sardinian engineer François Justin, this neoclassical building bears witness to the city’s history when it was part of the Kingdom of Sardinia.
In November 2019, the Town Hall was partially damaged by a fire; restoration work is currently underway.
Find out more: The Town Hall
Rue Royale
Rue Royale connects the old town to the Pâquier. Created in 1823, it features aligned façades characteristic of late 18th-century urban planning, which sought to open up towns to the outside world. As you stroll along it, you’ll pass through different architectural eras, from the medieval-style buildings at the start of the street to the 19th-century façades, right up to the modern city of the 20th century.
Today, this pedestrianised street is popular for its diverse range of shops and historic buildings, offering an enriching experience for lovers of shopping and history.
Find out more: Rue Royale
The Hôtel de Sales
The Hôtel de Sales, situated on Rue du Pâquier, is a historic building constructed between 1688 and 1690 by the de Sales family. In the 17th century, it served as a residence for the princes of the House of Savoy during their stays in the city. After the French Revolution, the building was confiscated and subsequently housed various institutions.
From 1815 onwards, it became the headquarters of the Banque de Savoie, which issued its own currency until Savoy was annexed by France in 1860, when this function ceased. Listed as a historic monument since 1930, the Hôtel de Sales is distinguished by its façade, adorned with busts representing the four seasons.
Find out more: The Hôtel de Sales
The Annecy Stud Farm
The Annecy Stud Farm, established during the First Empire, was long dedicated to horse breeding and equestrian activities. Today, this historic site in the heart of the city centre is undergoing regeneration to become a cultural and nature hub. The works, which began in December 2023, include the creation of a landscaped public park, the International Centre for Animated Film with a museum, exhibitions, a screening room and a bookshop-café, as well as a gourmet market dedicated to local produce. The opening is scheduled for autumn 2025.
Find out more: The Annecy Stud Farm
The former Annecy Town Hall
The former Annecy Town Hall, situated on Place Notre-Dame, has played a central role in the town’s history. Built on the site of a former medieval oratory, it initially served as a hospital and a town council chamber before becoming exclusively the town hall from 1770 onwards.
Its 18th-century façade features a porch accessed via a double wrought-iron staircase, adorned with a carved trout, the symbol of Annecy’s coat of arms. This remarkable piece of ironwork was praised in the 19th century by the English art critic John Ruskin.
Find out more: Annecy’s former Town Hall
The Gallo House
The Maison Gallo, situated at the end of Rue Sainte-Claire in Annecy’s old town, is a beautiful 18th-century building that bears witness to the influence of the Renaissance on Annecy’s architecture. Its Italian-inspired architecture is well worth a visit.
Find out more: The Maison Gallo
Castles around Annecy
Haute-Savoie is home to many remarkable castles to explore during your holiday, all situated near Annecy. Here are some of the most notable ones.
Please note that Duingt Castle is not open to visitors.
Tamié Abbey
Founded in 1132, Tamié Abbey is still home to Trappist monks today. Although the abbey is not open to visitors, as it is home to a community of monks, you can learn about its history and monastic life by attending religious services or staying at the guesthouse for a spiritual retreat.
It’s worth noting that the monks produce an excellent cheese on site, called Tamié, which you can taste and buy at the abbey shop.
Find out more: Tamié Abbey
Guided tours
As you stroll through the colourful alleyways of Annecy’s Old Town, several monuments and museums are well worth a guided tour to enrich your exploration. Among them, the Palais de l’Île, an iconic landmark of the city, offers an insight into its history as a fortified house, court and prison.
The Musée-Château d’Annecy, perched on the hillside, hosts exhibitions on regional art and heritage. Guided tours are available for these sites and are often included in the admission price. To organise your itinerary, we recommend contacting the Tourist Office or local guides who offer tours tailored to your interests
Find out more: Guided tour of Annecy
Gourmet tours
Gourmet tours are highly recommended for discovering local and international culinary specialities. Our region boasts a wealth of specialities – not all of which are recommended if you’re on a diet, but they’re certainly delicious! Fondues, tartiflettes, diots and raclettes are just some of the dishes that make our mouths water just talking about them. Here are a few suggestions:
- The best restaurants in Annecy for fondue
- The best restaurants in Annecy for raclette
- The best wine bars in Annecy
Here are a few recipes if you’d like to try your hand at making the region’s traditional dishes yourself:
- 5 must-try recipes for your mountain holiday
- Matouille: the origins and recipe for this Savoyard dish made with melted cheese
- Savoyard dessert recipes: Rissoles, Savoy cake & blueberry tart
Book a wine and cheese tasting
Experience Annecy differently: The Lake Greeters
The Annecy Lake Greeters are passionate locals who offer to help you discover the town from a different perspective, tailoring your visit to your tastes and preferences. This free service allows you to explore Annecy in a different way, accompanied by volunteers keen to share their love for their town as well as their stories.
Find out more: Experience Annecy differently.
A town nestled between the lake and the mountains
Finished exploring Annecy? Hit the road or hop on a bike to cycle round the lake and take in the scenery. Fancy some fresh air? Go for a hike in the mountains overlooking the lake. And for a real immersion in nature, don’t miss the two superb nature reserves! Here are a few ideas for places to discover:
- The beaches of Lake Annecy
- A cycle ride round the lake
- Hikes
- The Bout du Lac d’Annecy nature reserve
- The Roc de Chère Nature Reserve
The Secret Gardens of Vaulx
Tucked away in Vaulx, between Lake Annecy and Lake Bourget, this haven of peace covers nearly 7,000 m². Conceived and created by the Moumen family since the 1980s, the Secret Gardens offer a peaceful retreat where patios, galleries, fountains and vegetation blend together. Every corner reveals a unique atmosphere, combining oriental influences with bucolic charm.
A visit that invites you to lose yourself in reverie, open from April to October.
Find out more: Les Jardins Secrets
The Bell Museum in Sévrier
Just 10 minutes from Annecy, on the shores of the lake, immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Bell Museum. Since 1796, the Paccard foundry has been preserving a unique craft here, casting bells and chimes destined for all corners of the world. A captivating visit to discover the history and secrets of this age-old tradition.
Find out more: Bell Museum
Les Aigles du Léman
This wildlife park is home to over 80 species of birds of prey and boasts the world’s largest aviary. At Les Aigles du Léman, in Sciez, witness impressive falconry displays and fascinating demonstrations featuring eagles and other majestic birds. A unique experience to admire these kings of the skies up close!
Find out more: Les Aigles du Léman
Map of Annecy
To help you plan your visit to Annecy, a map of the town is available. It will help you easily locate the main tourist attractions and places of interest so you can make the most of your stay.
What’s the best way to get around Annecy?
It’s up to you to choose your ideal mode of transport for visiting Annecy: bus, bike, Segway, City Tour, scooter or even boat – there’s no shortage of options! That said, the best way to explore the town centre and the lake’s shores is still on foot. With no major hills – apart from the climb up to Annecy Castle – the town is perfect for a stroll.
Find out more: Getting around Annecy
