If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Annecy.
Nestled snugly in the heart of the French Alps, Annecy is a picturesque and enchanting destination that offers a plethora of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages and interests to revel in.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Annecy:
1. Lake Annecy
Lake Annecy is a stunning glacial lake located in the Haute-Savoie region of France.
What to see or do: – Go for a swim or relax on one of the lake’s beaches.
Don’t miss: – The Pont des Amours (Lovers’ Bridge) in Annecy, a popular spot for romantic strolls.
Insider travel tips: – Summer can be very busy, so consider visiting in the shoulder seasons for a quieter experience.
2. Palais de l’Île
Palais de l’Île is a medieval castle located in the heart of Annecy, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the castle and learn about its rich history which dates back to the 12th century.
The castle has also served as a courthouse and a prison in the past, and it now houses a local history museum.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss a chance to take a stroll along the picturesque Thiou river and admire the castle’s unique triangular shape.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and get the best lighting for photos.
3. Château d’Annecy
Château d’Annecy is a restored medieval castle in the heart of Annecy, France, that showcases exhibitions and art pieces from the region’s local history.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the many rooms showcasing the castle’s architecture, history, and regional heritage. They can also enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains from the rooftop terrace.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the Palace of the Isle, an iconic landmark just a short walk away. It is a former jailhouse that has been transformed into a museum and art center.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs to climb while exploring the castle. Also, consider visiting during the off-season to avoid the crowds.
Finally, take some time to explore the charming old town of Annecy, which is full of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
4. Pont des Amours
A charming bridge in Annecy, France, that is known as the Bridge of Love due to its romantic ambiance.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll across the bridge to admire the stunning views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains. The area is perfect for a scenic picnic or a romantic boat ride.
Don’t miss: The sunset over the lake from the bridge is absolutely breathtaking. Also, keep an eye out for the numerous swans that grace the waters of the canal below.
Insider travel tips: For the most picturesque experience, visit Pont des Amours in the early morning or evening when the lighting is ideal for photos.
The bridge can become crowded during peak tourist season, so plan your visit accordingly. Consider enjoying a glass of French wine at one of the charming cafes nearby.
5. Jardins de l’Europe
A beautifully landscaped public park in the heart of Annecy, France.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy the variety of plants and flowers. Marvel at the stunning views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains.
Pack a picnic and relax on the grassy areas or grab a book and find a peaceful spot to read.
Don’t miss: The panoramic view of the lake from the top of the hill in the Jardins de l’Europe. The charming bandstand where local bands play music on summer evenings.
Insider travel tips: Visit the gardens in the morning or early evening to avoid crowds. Bring a camera to capture the spectacular views of the lake and mountains.
Head to the Farmer’s Market in the Old Town for picnic provisions.
6. Basilique de la Visitation
A Baroque-style basilica located on a hilltop overlooking Annecy, France.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning architecture, including the elaborate facade and ornate interior with beautiful frescoes and marble columns.
Don’t miss: The statue of Saint Francois de Sales, which contains the heart of the patron saint of the city.
Insider travel tips: Visit the basilica early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the views in the soft light.
7. Musée-Château
A castle that houses various history museums and exhibitions in Annecy, France.
What to see or do: Explore the castle’s history and architecture through the museums, including archeology, fine arts, and ethnography. Admire the views of Annecy from the castle’s towers and ramparts.
Don’t miss: The stunning panorama of the city and the surrounding mountains from the “Chemin de Ronde,” the castle’s walkway.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the crowds and get the best views. Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs and uneven surfaces within the castle.
Check the museum’s website for any temporary exhibitions or events taking place during your visit.
8. Vieille Ville d’Annecy
Vieille Ville d’Annecy is a charming pedestrianized historic district in the heart of Annecy, France.
What to see or do: Stroll around the narrow streets to admire the colorful buildings adorned with flowers, and soak up the medieval atmosphere.
Visit the iconic Palais de l’Isle, a 12th-century island castle that was previously used as a courthouse, a mint and a prison.
Learn about the local heritage and culture at the Château d’Annecy, a 13th-century castle that now houses a museum.
Discover the Saint-Pierre Cathedral, a striking 16th-century Gothic church, and the beautiful Jardins de l’Europe, a picturesque park located along the lake.
Don’t miss: Catch a glimpse of the stunning views of the Old Town from the Pont des Amours bridge, or try some local specialties such as the Tartiflette, a delicious cheesy potato dish, or the Savoyarde Fondue, a melted cheese and bread dish that is perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Insider travel tips: Exploring Vieille Ville d’Annecy is best experienced on foot, so wear comfortable shoes. Try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Don’t forget to bring some cash, as many shops and restaurants don’t accept credit cards. For a unique experience, rent a bike or boat and explore the city from a different perspective.
9. Mont Veyrier
Mont Veyrier is a mountain located on the eastern shore of Lake Annecy in France.
What to see or do: You can hike or bike to the summit for breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. There are also several rock climbing routes for the adventurous.
Don’t miss: Take a moment to enjoy the panoramic view of the turquoise waters and the charming town of Annecy from the summit.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water for the hike. The trail can be a bit steep in places, but the effort is worth it.
Plan your visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the sunrise.
10. Le Pâquier
A charming park located in the heart of Annecy, France.
What to see or do: Relax on the lush green grass, take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, enjoy the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: Taking a boat ride on the lake, visiting the nearby Saint-Pierre Cathedral, and exploring the quaint streets of Old Town Annecy.
Insider travel tips: Bring a blanket and some snacks to have a picnic, arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds, and check the weather forecast as it can get chilly in the evenings even during summer.
11. Gorges du Fier
A narrow scenic gorge located just outside the city of Annecy in France.
What to see or do: Enjoy a stunning walkway made of metal that hangs over the side of the gorge, giving visitors the unique experience of walking over the rushing water 25 meters below.
Learn about the gorge’s history at the information center, visit the gift shop to get a souvenir, and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
Don’t miss: The chance to take amazing photos from various viewing points, capturing the beauty and drama of the gorge. Also, the opportunity to discover the underground tunnels which were used in the Second World War.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the day to avoid queues and foot traffic. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket, as the gorge can be chilly.
Additionally, if you’re up for a longer hike, explore the nearby valley of Fier which is also highly recommended.
12. Tournette
Tournette is a mountain located in the French Alps near Annecy, with an altitude of 2,351 meters.
What to see or do: Take a challenging yet rewarding hike up the mountain, which offers incredible panoramic views of Annecy and the surrounding mountains. For those feeling less adventurous, take a scenic drive to the top via a winding road.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking views from the summit of Tournette, which are some of the best in the entire region. On clear days, you can even see Mont Blanc in the distance.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water if hiking. The hike is best attempted in the summer months when the weather is mild.
Additionally, it’s worth stopping in the quaint town of Menthon-Saint-Bernard at the foot of the mountain for a bite to eat or a drink.
13. Semnoz
A mountain and nature reserve located near Annecy in the French Alps.
What to see or do: Semnoz offers a range of activities year-round, including hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, snowshoeing, and skiing.
In the summer, visitors can explore the Alpine gardens, visit the goats and llamas, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
In the winter, Semnoz is a popular spot for skiing, with 18 ski runs of varying difficulty levels.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views from the summit of Semnoz are not to be missed. On a clear day, visitors can see all the way to Mont Blanc and Lake Annecy from the top.
Children will love the playgrounds, tree houses, and other adventure activities at the top too.
Insider travel tips: Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the many picnic tables scattered around the reserve. Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds, especially in peak season.
In the winter, make sure to bring cold-weather gear and warm socks for the ski boots.
14. Les Grottes et Cascade de Seythenex
Les Grottes et Cascade de Seythenex is a limestone cave system and waterfall located near Annecy in the French Alps.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour through the cave system, which includes several impressive chambers and formations such as stalactites and stalagmites.
After the cave tour, visitors can also enjoy a beautiful waterfall located just outside, surrounded by lush greenery.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the visit is the impressive underground waterfall, which is illuminated in different colours and provides a truly magical experience.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket, as the cave can be chilly. It’s also recommended to book in advance during peak season to avoid long wait times for the guided tours.
Lastly, be sure to check the opening hours ahead of time as they can vary throughout the year.