Curator’s statement
As a Francophile myself, Annecy had been on the top of my French travel wishlist for quite some time. It embodies everything I love in a destination: cultural charm, gorgeous landscapes, delicious food and endless things to do outdoors. I visited in Spring 2026 with my husband and our 2 year old and it proved to be just as magical for families and it is for couples, solo travelers and adventure seekers! Whether you’re visiting on a day trip or lingering by the lake for several days, it’s the kind of place that has a way of slowing you down, making you want to stay just a little longer.
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Where to stay in Annecy
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Things to do in Annecy
Le tour du lac d'Annecy - just a glimpse at the view you get cycling around the lake
Annecy is in the Northern region of the French Alps. The city itself is surrounded by mountainous views, easily accessible bike trails and Lake Annecy which is one of the cleanest in Europe.
Rent bikes: There are quite a few bike rental shops around the city. We went to ROUL’ma POULE knowing they had bike trailers available. To bike around Lake Annecy is about 25 miles and a well-worthwhile way to explore the region! On the trail you’ll see paragliders, have the chance to stop for lake side dining and get the chance to do historical tours of ancient chalets.
Get on a boat: Whether it’s a peddle boat, a kayak or a sailboat, you can enjoy being on the water by any means necessary! Rentals are widely available. If getting on a boat isn’t your preferred way to enjoy the water, you can simply go for a swim from one of the beaches that are within walking distance of the main town.
Hikes and walks: La Tournette and Mont Veyrier are just a couple of the gorgeous, panoramic hikes you can take without going far. If you’re up for a daytrip, Chamonix and the likes of the Alps are just a bus ride away, under 2 hours. You needn’t leave the city to absorb the views though; take a leisurely strolls along Promenade du Thiou.
With kids: If you’re like us and traveling with a little one, our daughter absolutely loved the 120+ year old carousel Manège Dufaux, located just across the street from our stay at Splendid Hotel Lac d’Annecy. We got “jetons” to ride for each day we were there. Most of our mornings started with a ride on the carousel and enjoying coffee and pastries picnic-style in the Le Pâquier grassfields adjacent to it. Speaking of picnics, the city is not short on parks by any means! There are also a ton of playgrounds
around the city. We stopped at Aire de jeu a lot, on Rue Royale.Old Town Market: There is an awesome open-air market in old town on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
History: One of my favorite things about visiting anywhere in France is the likelihood of seeing well preserved Middle Age/Renaissance architecture, such as the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre to the 13th century Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard. Both are in or around Annecy.
Places to eat & drink in Annecy
Patisserie Showcase at Au Peche Mignon
La Freti: Traditional Haute Savoie food. Enjoy fondue on a quintessential cobblestone street.
Tete de Cochon: A traditional brasserie in Old Town with a menu featuring Alpine comfort food, crafty charcuterie boards and gourmet cheeses.
Cozna: Michelin-award-winning French cuisine in Old Town.
Le Chalet: More traditional Haute Savoie food with beautiful canal view seating. The brie appetizer is to die for!
Pura Vida: Euro flair at a smoothie cafe with plenty of options for sweet or savory. I absolutely loved the sweet potato & burrata waffle entree!
So Kaffe: A great spot for a Danish Brunch and coffee.
Cafe Bunna: A tiny and authentic spot for espresso and homemade pottery.
Glacier des Alpes: Gelato & ice cream! Is it a warm weather destination if you don't see people with cones of something everywhere you look?!
Chez Gaston: Another honorable mention for gelato. Very small, very delicious!
Au Péché Mignon: A patisserie with something sweet for everyone!
Need to know
Always greet with “Bonjour/Bonsoir” when entering an establishment. Although Annecy is very English-friendly, it is simply customary and appreciated. English is widely spoken but it is respectful to at least attempt French if you are able!
If you rent bikes for multiple days, your hotel can most likely provide storage for them.
Spring is a shoulder season. During the week, the crowds were small but by Saturday, the city had filled up! Just something to keep in mind if you’re considering visiting during peak season, in the Summer! June-September is peak season. Book everything in advance!
It is only a 45-minute drive from GVA and LYS is about 90 minutes. Trains, buses and taxis were very easy to access.
Skip the car rental; get there by public transport and rely on walking, biking or public transportation when in destination.
I loved Annecy so much and cannot wait to go back. I just had clients visit and they loved it as one of their first destinations in France. I'd love to help you live out a dreamy, lakeside weekend there too!
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Jennifer Hanley
Jennifer Hanley
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