Annecy Tourism

Visit Annecy

Former stronghold of the Counts of Geneva and Savoy, Annecy contains the remains of a turbulent history until its annexation to the Duchy of Savoy and to France in the 19th century. Walking through the old town crossed by canals, the Venice of the Alps seduces it's visitors with its pedestrian streets, its maze of alleys and the famous traboules. You will see on the way the Palais de l'Isle, which served as the Mint and prison before being converted into an interpretation center, the castle which houses the Museum of Contemporary Art and Regional Art of Annecy, Saint-Pierre cathedral, the Basilica of the Visitation and the Notre-Dame-de-Liesse church. The city has several remarkable buildings such as the Imperial Palace and green spaces suitable for relaxation on the banks of the lake such as the Pâquier and the Gardens of Europe. But it is especially its lake and its mountains which give the prefecture of Haute-Savoie its particular charm. Lake Annecy, one of the purest in Europe and the second largest lake of glacial origin behind that of Le Bourget, is perfect for bathers and lovers of nautical activities during fine weather. Several nautical bases are installed on its banks, and it has a few developed beaches.

What to do in Annecy?

Located in the Logis Vieux of the castle, listed as a historic monument, the Annecy Agglomeration Museum allows you to discover works by artists from the region (paintings, sculptures) and beautiful furniture. The west shore of Lake Annecy is crossed by a 35 km cycle path suitable for all audiences. The Bornes and Aravis mountains that protect the lake are perfect playgrounds for experienced hikers and cyclists. If you reach the Col de la Forclaz, you can watch the paragliders take off and microlights flying over Lake Annecy. Le Semnoz, one of the closest ski resorts to Annecy, offers sports activities during all seasons. If you are staying with a family at an Annecy campsite in summer, you can go down the toboggan run on rails with your children and watch them drive a minikart. Around Annecy, there are several natural sites coveted by sports enthusiasts and nature lovers, including the Angon waterfall (must-see canyoning spot) and the Fier gorges (hiking). You can also rent a kayak, a stand up paddle or pedal boats to sail on Lake Annecy.