10 Best Things to Do in Annecy

Annecy Old Town invites you to stroll into history with its picturesque narrow lanes and historic landmarks. Settled on the banks of Lake Annecy and crossed by the Thiou River and the Vassé Canal, it features colourful Piedmontese-style buildings and notable structures like the Palais de l’Île, a 12th-century prison-castle converted into a museum.

Cars aren’t allowed into the Old Town, so it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely walk in the labyrinth of quaint alleys and lanes. Here, you’ll find a range of quirky bars and restaurants. In the charming boutiques, galleries and markets, you’re sure to find something unique to take home as a souvenir.

The pristine, clear-blue Lake Annecy welcomes you to its beaches to enjoy a day in the sun, have a swim or discover water sports. The 2 public beaches closest to the city are Plage d’Albigny and Plage des Marquisats. Bordered by large lawns and hosting snack bars and restaurants, they are great for families with children to picnic or have fun in the water.

Lake Annecy is fed by mountain springs and known for its clean water, thanks to a strict environmental regulation dating back to the 1960s. You’ll find trekking trails all around the lake where you can get up close and personal with the lush nature in the area and even spot some wildlife.

Built between the 12th and 16th centuries, Annecy Castle today hosts of the Museum of Alpine Popular Art that features an aquarium and temporary art exhibitions. Exploring modern art in such an ancient setting is a timeless experience in itself. You’ll discover something unique and breathtaking in each room and corridor of the castle.

The castle has been listed as a French Historical Monument and has gone through successive modifications which are still visible around the building. Before you leave, check out the terrace that offers a panoramic view of Annecy Old Town and the lake.

Located just a 15-minute drive west of Annecy Old Town, the Gorges du Fier is a glorious canyon carved through the rocky terrain by the Fier River. One of the oldest tourist sites in the Alps, it features a suspended footbridge built in 1869, which allows you to walk in the narrow gorge, right above the river.

The trail is not too challenging, and you can spot and photograph giant’s kettles and the variety of boulders of la Mer des Rochers (the Sea of Rocks). It’s best to wear sturdy walking shoes and go in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat of the day and fully enjoy your hike.

The opulent Basilica of Visitation is dedicated to and houses the relics of Saint-François de Sales and Saint-Jeanne de Chantal, the patron saints of Annecy. This 1930’s masterpiece is located only steps away from the Annecy Old Town. Even though built in the modern era but in distinct baroque style, it’s made of white stone and features beautiful large stained-glass windows and lavish decoration.

Inside the church, you’ll find lots of information about the 2 saints buried here. You can climb up the Basilica’s 236-ft-tall (72 meters) bell tower, which offers breathtaking views of Annecy and the lake.

The mountainous area around Annecy and the lake provide a great opportunity to challenge yourself with extreme sports. Adrenaline junkies will love the adventures and outdoor activities available in and around Annecy. You can try your hand at paragliding, gorge walking, mountain biking or white-water rafting, to name just a few.

There are many service provides offering exciting sporting activities in the area. The easiest way to get started is to visit the Lake Annecy Tourist Office on Rue Jean Jaurès or go online to get further info on the many possibilities to see this exciting region from different perspectives.

If you’re visiting Annecy for the first time, head to Place Georges Volland on the west side of Annecy Old Town and take in the atmosphere of this charming city. Marvel at the picturesque colourful houses and narrow alleys surrounding the square.

Place Georges Volland is the perfect spot for people-watching. Grab a box of chocolates at Philippe Rigollot’s pastry shop before taking a seat at one of the cafés and just watch the world go by. Place Georges Volland gets especially busy on market days (Sundays, Tuesdays and Fridays). Then you find exciting and unique local products to take home.

The Bridge of Love (Pont des Amours) is one of the most iconic and romantic bridges in France where you and your partner can traverse an arched and flowered path. The bridge dates back to 1907 when it replaced an older bridge from the mid-19th century.

The bridge is adorned with ornamental railings. The name comes from a local urban legend that states if 2 lovers kiss on the bridge, they'll be united forever. You'll find it crossing Canal du Vassé along the north-western corner of Lake Annecy.

Annecy Old Town offers a cool scene of dining venues where you can sample local food in a quaint and romantic setting. You’ll enjoy seasonal delicacies and wines topped with an amazing view of the city in night lights.

Take your pick of the most recommended restaurants in the Old Town: Le Fréti serves traditional dishes in a classic Savoyan décor. Le Lila’s Rose is a laidback rustic bistro with a mouthwatering pizza menu. L’Auberge de Savoie specialises in classic French gastronomic dishes in a contemporary-style décor near the Église Saint-François de Sales church.

To experience the nightlife in Annecy, head to the cool Old Town bars for a drink or 2 or make your way to the dancefloor and party the night away. Try La Queue du Coq, a cool cocktail bar with an immaculate drinks menu or La Cave, a affordably priced wine bar tucked away in the Passage des Échoppes.

To take partying to the next level and really discover Annecy after dark, the banks of Lake Annecy are the place to be. Pop Plage is a modern upscale discotheque. It’s part of La Plage de l’Impérial, a complex that includes a hotel, casino and restaurants.