ANNECY: the city guide
Venice of the Alps
Getting to Annecy
Located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France, Annecy is one of the most picturesque destinations we've ever visited. Known for its crystal-clear lake, flower-lined canals, and pastel buildings nestled against an Alpine backdrop, it's a dream come true for lovers of charming small towns.
Annecy is easily accessible from major cities in France and Switzerland. If you're coming from Paris, the high-speed TGV train will get you there in about 3 hours and 40 minutes. We arrived from Geneva, Switzerland — just an hour away by train — and were treated to breathtaking mountain views the entire ride. Once in town, you’ll find Annecy compact and extremely walkable. Most attractions are within easy reach by foot or bike, so there’s no need for a car.
Explore the Old Town (Vieille Ville)
Just a short stroll from the train station, Annecy’s Old Town (Vieille Ville) feels like stepping into a postcard. Pastel-hued buildings with painted shutters, cobblestone streets, and serene canals make it one of the most charming areas in France. Often called the "Venice of the Alps," its canals are fed by Lake Annecy, creating a winding, photogenic network of waterways that flow between houses, arcades, and squares.
We started our day on Rue Sainte-Claire, one of the Old Town’s most vibrant streets, lined with cafés, bakeries, souvenir shops, and artisan boutiques. This is where we found the best selection of gifts and local specialties — think Savoyard knives, handmade soaps, and alpine-inspired ceramics. The street itself is a delight to wander, with vaulted arcades and views of the distant peaks framing every turn.
Don’t Miss:
Palais de l'Isle: This 12th-century triangular building in the middle of the Thiou River is Annecy’s most iconic landmark. Once a prison and courthouse, today it houses a small museum and is one of the most photographed spots in town.
Place Sainte-Claire: A beautiful square filled with lively cafés, ideal for people-watching or grabbing an espresso and croissant.
Rue Perrière: Another charming street with pastel buildings, boutiques, and cozy restaurants.
Église Saint-François de Sales, Église Notre-Dame de Liesse, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre: These beautiful historic churches offer peaceful interiors and a peek into the religious heritage of Annecy.
Lac d'Annecy and Jardins de l’Europe
Lake Annecy is known as one of the cleanest lakes in Europe, thanks to decades of strict environmental preservation. Its turquoise waters are surrounded by the Alps, offering a serene setting perfect for relaxation, photography, or a range of outdoor activities.
Stroll along the lake’s edge through the Jardins de l’Europe, a beautifully maintained park with walking paths, shaded lawns, and benches perfect for a lakeside picnic. Don’t miss the Pont des Amours (Lovers’ Bridge) — a romantic footbridge with panoramic views. Legend says couples who kiss here will stay together forever.
For a relaxed lunch, stop by Monoprix (yes, the French love their grocery stores!) and pick up a baguette, local cheese, and wine for a picnic in the gardens.
The Château d'Annecy
Overlooking the town, the Château d'Annecy is a must-visit for history lovers. This medieval fortress was the former home of the Counts of Geneva and was built over several centuries from the 12th to the 16th. Today, the castle is home to the Musée-Château d'Annecy, featuring collections of regional art, furniture, and exhibits on the lake’s natural environment. The panoramic views from the castle’s terrace are spectacular and well worth the climb.
Open daily except Tuesdays
Admission: €5.50 (adult)
Shopping
Annecy’s street markets are full of life and flavor. On Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, the Old Town Market brings local producers to the cobblestone streets with stalls full of alpine cheese (don’t miss the reblochon!), cured meats, fresh produce, pastries, and handcrafted goods.
For a more refined shopping experience, visit the Marché Couvert (Covered Market), where you’ll find gourmet items, local wine, and handmade chocolate. Annecy is also filled with charming independent boutiques and specialty shops selling everything from French linens and regional delicacies to artisan jewelry and homewares.
A Few More Things to Do in Annecy:
Take a canal-side walk along the Quai de l’Évêché or Quai de la Cathédrale for peaceful views and fewer crowds.
Enjoy a crêpe at one of the many restaurants lining the canal. Whether sweet or savory, it's a delicious break.
Rent a bike and take the Voie Verte, a scenic cycling path that hugs the lake and extends to nearby towns.
**Catch sunset from the Pâquier Esplanade, a wide lawn at the edge of the lake with unobstructed mountain views.
Try tartiflette, a rich local dish made with potatoes, reblochon cheese, lardons, and onions — hearty and comforting after a day of exploring.