· FR

Annecy

Annecy, Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, France

Annecy: Where Fairytale Charm Meets Alpine Adventure Nestled between shimmering Lake Annecy and the breathtaking French Alps, Annecy is a picture-perfect town that feels straight out of a storybook. With its flower-line…

#scenic#lake#historic#Alps#tourism

1/39

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Annecy.

Top Hotels in Annecy

Top Flights to Annecy

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Annecy.

Tours

Lake Annecy Boat Tour

Enjoy a scenic boat tour on the turquoise waters of Lake Annecy, surrounded by mountains.

Old Town Annecy Walk

Walk through the cobblestone streets of Annecy’s medieval Old Town, filled with canals and pastel-colored buildings.

Shopping

Annecy Food Market Exploration

Discover local produce, cheese, and delicacies at Annecy’s bustling food markets.

Outdoor

Paragliding over Annecy

Experience the thrill of paragliding and enjoy aerial views of Lake Annecy and surrounding Alps.

Hiking in Semnoz

Explore the mountain of Semnoz with hiking trails offering panoramic views of the Alps and Lake Annecy.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Annecy.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

Information not available.

Languages

French, French

Average weather

Annecy

Jan

5°-1°

Feb

7°0°

Mar

11°2°

Apr

15°5°

May

19°9°

Jun

23°13°

Jul

26°15°

Aug

25°14°

Sep

21°11°

Oct

15°7°

Nov

9°3°

Dec

5°0°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Annecy.

What people love

Annecy, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, is a beautiful destination known for its stunning scenery and charming atmosphere. Here are some pros of traveling to Annecy:

Scenic Beauty: Annecy is often referred to as the "Venice of the Alps" due to its picturesque canals, beautiful lake, and surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy stunning views and outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and cycling.
Old Town Charm: The historic Old Town of Annecy is a delight to explore, with its winding cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and quaint cafes. Visitors can wander through the narrow alleyways, visit the Palais de l'Isle, and admire the colorful flower displays.
Lake Annecy: The crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy offer a range of water activities, including swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The lake is surrounded by beaches and parks, making it a popular spot for relaxation and recreation.
Gastronomy: Annecy is known for its delicious Savoyard cuisine, which features local specialties such as raclette, tartiflette, and fondue. Visitors can enjoy sampling these hearty dishes in cozy restaurants around the town.
Outdoor Adventure: The Annecy region offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including paragliding, rock climbing, and skiing in the nearby mountains. Adventurous travelers will find plenty of opportunities for adrenaline-pumping experiences.

Overall, traveling to Annecy offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and outdoor adventure, making it a wonderful destination for visitors seeking a memorable vacation experience.

What to know

Traveling to Annecy in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France, may have a few cons that visitors should be aware of:

Crowds: Annecy is a popular destination, especially during the summer months. This can lead to overcrowding in popular tourist areas, making it challenging to fully enjoy the sights and attractions.
High Prices: Due to its popularity among tourists, prices for accommodation, dining, and activities in Annecy can be higher compared to other smaller towns in the region.
Language Barrier: While many locals in Annecy may speak English, French is the predominant language. Travelers who do not speak French may encounter some language barriers, especially in less touristy areas.
Weather: The weather in Annecy can be unpredictable, with cold winters and hot summers. Visitors should be prepared for varying weather conditions and pack accordingly.
Traffic and Parking: During peak tourist seasons, traffic congestion and limited parking spaces can be a problem in Annecy. Navigating the narrow streets and finding parking can be challenging for drivers.
Limited Public Transportation: While Annecy does have public transportation options, they may not be as extensive or frequent as in larger cities. Depending on where you stay and what you plan to do, getting around may require more planning.

Overall, while Annecy is a beautiful destination with much to offer, visitors should be prepared for potential crowds, higher costs, language barriers, weather variations, traffic issues, and limited public transportation options.

Annecy, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France, has a rich and varied history that dates back to ancient times.

Ancient and Medieval Periods:

Prehistoric and Roman Times: The area around Annecy has been inhabited since prehistoric times. During the Roman era, the nearby town of Boutae was established, which is now part of modern-day Annecy.
Medieval Era: In the 10th century, Annecy became a part of the County of Geneva, and it served as a strategic location due to its proximity to Lake Annecy and the Thiou River. In 1401, the county was sold to the House of Savoy, bringing Annecy under Savoyard control.

Renaissance and Early Modern Period:

Calvinism and Counter-Reformation: In the 16th century, Annecy became an important center for the Counter-Reformation due to the influence of Saint Francis de Sales, who was the Bishop of Geneva. Francis de Sales later became a significant Catholic figure and was canonized as a saint.
Cultural Development: During this period, Annecy developed culturally and architecturally, with the construction of significant buildings such as the Palais de l'Isle and the Château d'Annecy.

19th Century:

Annexation by France: Annecy was officially annexed by France in 1860 following the Treaty of Turin. This event marked a significant turning point in the city's history as it became part of the French state.

20th Century to Present:

World War II: During World War II, Annecy and the surrounding region were occupied by Nazi Germany, but it was also a center for the French Resistance.
Post-war Development: After the war, Annecy developed as a tourist destination, often referred to as the "Venice of the Alps" due to its picturesque canals and lakeside setting.

Significant Landmarks:

Château d'Annecy: Overlooking the town, this historic castle was the residence of the Counts of Geneva and later the Dukes of Genevois-Nemours. Today, it houses a museum with exhibitions on regional history and art.
Palais de l'Isle: Often considered the symbol of Annecy, this 12th-century building is located on an island in the Thiou River. It has served various functions, including a prison and a courthouse, and now operates as a local history museum.
Lake Annecy: Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, the lake is a major attraction for outdoor activities such as boating, swimming, and cycling.

Annecy continues to thrive as a hub of tourism and culture, known for its stunning natural scenery, vibrant cultural life, and historical architecture.