Visit Annecy
Nestled beside a lake of exceptional purity, between the Pre-Alps and the alpine valley, Annecy reveals a canal-threaded old town, a medieval castle overlooking the rooftops, and breathtaking hiking trails. The Venice of the Alps is a delight in every season.
Why visit Annecy in Haute-Savoie?
Annecy is the prefecture of Haute-Savoie, renowned for one of Europe's purest lakes and a listed medieval old town. The city draws nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike, thanks to its international animation film festival and the famous Fête du Lac celebration.
Annecy Highlights
A mythical lake, a medieval old town and Alpine nature: here are the sites that make Annecy incomparably charming.
Lake Annecy
One of Europe's purest lakes, surrounded by mountains. Its crystal-clear waters invite swimming, boat cruises and a wide range of water sports throughout the summer season.
Old Town and Canals
Cobbled lanes, colourful canals and medieval facades create a unique backdrop. A lively market and café terraces bring daily life to Annecy's enchanting old town.
Annecy Castle
Perched on its hillside, this former residence of the Counts of Geneva now houses a regional museum and offers exceptional views over the town and the lake.
Palais de l'Isle
Built in the 12th century on an islet in the middle of the Thiou river, this iconic boat-shaped building is one of the most photographed monuments in France.
Alpine Hiking Trails
Trails on the Semnoz and Forclaz ridges offer spectacular panoramas over the lake. In winter, Aravis ski resorts are reachable from Annecy in under an hour.
Animation Film Festival
Each June, Annecy hosts one of the world's leading animation film festivals, bringing together industry professionals and enthusiasts from across the globe.
What to discover in Annecy?
Annecy's old town is a picture-postcard setting: geranium-lined canals, colourful medieval facades and stone bridges reflected in the waters of the Thiou. The Palais de l'Isle, a 12th-century building shaped like the prow of a boat, and Annecy Castle, which watches over the rooftops from its hillside, are among the most photographed landmarks in France. The old town market, one of the most lively in the region, takes place several times a week and features local produce and regional crafts.
Lake Annecy, ranked among the cleanest in Europe, offers a full range of activities: swimming in its clear waters, guided boat cruises, kayaking, windsurfing and diving. On the surrounding heights, the hiking trails of the Semnoz and Forclaz ridges overlook the lake and provide spectacular panoramas. In winter, the ski resorts of the Aravis and Grand Massif areas are reachable in under an hour, making Annecy an ideal base for mountain sports.
Practical Information for Annecy
Region
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Department
Haute-Savoie (74)
Population
Approx. 135,000 inhabitants
Area
67 km²
Time zone
UTC+1 (Central European Time)
Official language
French
Currency
Euro (€)
Best season
Summer for the lake, winter for skiing
Annecy in pictures
Frequently Asked Questions about Annecy
How do you get to Annecy?
Annecy is reachable from Paris by TGV in around 3.5 hours, or by car via the A41 motorway from Geneva (45 min) or Lyon (1h30). The nearest airport is Geneva-Cointrin, about 45 km away, served by many international airlines. Shuttle services connect the airport to the city centre.
When is the best time to visit Annecy?
Annecy is worth visiting year-round. Summer (June to September) is ideal for enjoying the lake and water sports. Spring offers vibrant greenery and fewer crowds. In winter, the town takes on a festive charm and nearby ski resorts become the main attraction for mountain lovers.
Can you swim in Lake Annecy?
Yes, Lake Annecy is renowned for the quality of its water, among the best in Europe. Several public and private beaches are accessible around the lake. Swimming is possible from June to September, with water temperatures reaching comfortable levels during the summer months.
What activities are available around Annecy?
The lake offers swimming, kayaking, windsurfing and boat cruises. Hiking trails on the Semnoz and Forclaz overlook the lake with stunning views. In winter, the Aravis and Grand Massif ski resorts allow skiing within less than an hour's drive from the city centre.
What is the Annecy festival?
The Annecy International Animation Film Festival, founded in 1960, is one of the world's most important events in the field. Held each June, it gathers cinema professionals and enthusiasts for screenings, competitions and masterclasses, welcoming over 15,000 participants annually.
What day trips can you take from Annecy?
From Annecy, it is easy to reach Talloires and its abbey, the Gorges du Fier, Menthon-Saint-Bernard Castle and Montrottier Castle. Geneva is 45 minutes by car, Chambéry about 40 minutes. The Bourget and Aiguebelette lakes are also easily accessible for a change of scenery.
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