10 Best Things to Do in Annecy – France’s Most Beautiful Lakeside Town
Annecy sits in the French Alps, just south of Geneva, with a glacial lake on one side and a medieval town on the other. The canals running through the Old Town earned it the nickname “Venice of the Alps,” while the lake, one of Europe’s cleanest, draws swimmers, cyclists, and paragliders.
The historic center, lined with arcades and market stalls, is best explored on foot. Here’s what to do while you’re there.
1. Explore the Old Town (Vieille Ville)
Annecy’s Old Town is a postcard brought to life. Colorful medieval buildings line narrow streets, with the Thiou River weaving through like a miniature Venice.
The Palais de l’Isle, an island-shaped former prison, is a must-see. Stroll past bakeries selling fresh tarte aux myrtilles and stop at the market on Tuesdays, Fridays, or Sundays for local cheese and cured meats.
Visit early in the morning for the quietest, most atmospheric experience before the day-trippers arrive.
2. Walk or Cycle Around Lake Annecy
Lake Annecy is one of the cleanest lakes in Europe – locals say you can drink straight from it. Rent a bike and ride the 42-km cycle path that circles the lake, passing through charming lakeside villages like Talloires.
If you’re on foot, start at Jardins de l’Europe and walk to Le Pâquier, a scenic open park where locals picnic. Or head to the more secluded Plage d’Angon.
Paddleboarding and kayaking are popular, with crystal-clear water revealing the lakebed below.
3. Visit Château d’Annecy
Once home to the Counts of Geneva, Château d’Annecy now houses a museum showcasing regional history, alpine art, and even a collection of medieval furniture. The best part? The panoramic views over the town and lake.
The climb up the cobbled streets is steep but worth it. If you visit in the late afternoon, the lighting over the rooftops is great for photos. Also check out the nearby Tour de l’Île, Annecy’s last remaining medieval tower.
4. Cross the Pont des Amours
This small, elegant bridge has a romantic legend: couples who kiss in the middle will stay together forever. Even if you’re not superstitious, the view from the bridge is stunning. It connects the Jardins de l’Europe with Le Pâquier – another awesome spot for sunset photos. Swans often glide by underneath.
5. Try Local Savoyard Cuisine
Annecy sits in the Haute-Savoie region, so expect rich, comforting mountain food. Fondue, raclette, and tartiflette (a potato, cheese, and bacon dish) dominate menus.
Le Fréti is a go-to for fondue, and La Table d’Elise proposes a refined take on traditional dishes. Pair your meal with a glass of Apremont or Roussette, white wines from the region.
Want a quick bite? Grab a diot (Savoyard sausage) in a baguette from a market stand.
6. Hike to Mont Veyrier for the Best View
Mont Veyrier offers the most breathtaking panoramic view over Annecy and the lake. The hike takes about 2-3 hours round trip and is moderately challenging, but the reward is unmatched. Bring water, as there are no refill stations.
Sunrise hikes are especially magical, with the first light hitting the town and the lake shimmering below. In the summer, be prepared for some heat and bring insect repellent.
7. Browse the Local Markets
Annecy’s Old Town market (Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays) is the best for fresh produce, charcuterie, and regional cheeses like Reblochon and Tomme de Savoie. The Saturday market near Boulevard Taine focuses more on clothing and antiques.
Arrive early for the best selection. Don’t miss the vendors selling freshly made rissoles -small pastries filled with pear or apple compote.
8. Take a Boat Cruise on the Lake
For a completely different perspective of Annecy, hop on a boat cruise. The 1-hour tours leave from Quai Napoléon III. You’ll get stunning views of lakeside villages and mountains. Some boats serve drinks onboard.
Or, for a more private experience, you can rent an electric boat (no license required) and explore at your own pace. The water is so clear you’ll see fish swimming beneath your boat.
9. Visit the Village of Talloires
Just 20 minutes from Annecy, Talloires is a stunning lakeside village with an almost Mediterranean feel. It’s home to the famous Auberge du Père Bise, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and some of the best swimming spots on the lake.
The Abbaye de Talloires, a former monastery, is a quiet escape with a lakeside terrace perfect for a coffee break. The Sentier des Roselières walking trail takes you through scenic marshlands along the shore.
10. Paraglide Over Lake Annecy
Annecy is a paragliding hotspot with dozens of take-off points in the surrounding mountains. If you’ve never tried it, this is one of the best places in the world to start.
Tandem flights from Col de la Forclaz will amaze you with unbeatable views of the lake and the Alps beyond. Summer afternoons are the busiest, so book ahead. The feeling of floating high above the lake, with the town and mountains spread out below, is something you won’t forget.