There is something very special about the french city of Annecy, a historic alpine town with arguably one of the most picturesque lakes in the world. The old town, with its castle, flowing canals and cobble streets takes you into a fairytale world, one where you are eating cheese fondue every day and wandering through fresh food markets tasting local produce. Spending a weekend, or 2 to 3 days, in Annecy is a perfect taster of this little alpine city.
This 1 to 3 day itinerary for spending the weekend in Annecy includes how to get there, the best things to see and do, and some hidden gems we discovered on our trip!
How to get to Annecy
Flying to Annecy
Annecy itself doesn’t have an airport so to get to the city you must fly to either Lyon in France or Geneva in Switzerland.
Geneva to Annecy
Flying to Geneva is relatively easy, with regular flights from airports around Europe. However, many flights are not direct and stop in Zurich on the way, especially if you fly with Swiss air. For these flights, I actually suggest taking the train from Zurich to Geneva. It takes 3 hours rather than 1, however, you are less bound by delays, it is better for the environment, and ends up taking a similar amount of time when you account for connections.
From Geneva, there are several buses you can take to Annecy. They arrive semi-regularly but it is always best to book in advance. This way they are cheaper and you can better plan your trip.
Travel by bus or train
The other way to get to Annecy is by bus or train. This city is very well connected to major cities in both Switzerland and France so is very easily accessible! A common connection in France is Lyon, where there is a Flixbus that leaves every few hours! The best way to plan your bus travel to Annecy is using the companies Flixbus and Blablacar.
If you want to travel to Annecy by train then the best platform to book this through is the Trainline. This way you can find all sorts of different routes and book them in the same place!
Annecy as a day trip from Geneva
One day in Annecy
Although any place is best explored slowly, Annecy is still a great day trip from Geneva! The bus journey takes around 1 hour one way so gives you the whole day to explore the city! This weekend in Annecy itinerary still works for anyone planning a day trip from Geneva, however, you will want to prioritize the things to see and do that fit your travel style as it includes too much to fit into one day!
Alternatively, you can take a half day tour of Annecy which takes care of transport from Geneva and back and gives you the best the city has to offer!
If you want a more private experience, there is also the option of a private trip for small groups! Here you get your own private tour guide and the chance to explore the city in the way you want, without the hassle of arranging transfers and buying tickets.
Things to do in Annecy – 2 day weekend itinerary
This 2 to 3 day Annecy itinerary is set out as more of a guide of things to see and do rather than a strict timetable! As there are so many different ways to explore Annecy, the best way for everyone to plan their optimal weekend is to pick and choose their own activities!
Must see places and things to do in Annecy
Lake Annecy
Lake Annecy is something right out of a postcard. Crystal blue water against the layered mountain backdrop of the French alps, dotted with colourful pedalos and sailing boats throughout the summer months. No matter what time of year you are visiting, Lake Annecy is worth seeing, even if it is just to take a stroll down Le Pâquier d’Annecy.
Hire a Pedalo on Lake Annecy
You can’t go wrong with hiring a pedalo on Lake Annecy, paddling out to the middle of the lake and taking a swim in the refreshingly cold water! It is a must when visiting Annecy for a weekend in the summer. There are many different places to hire a pedalo, all lined up along the water to both sides of Pont des Amours.
Although there are various different companies, hiring a pedalo costs the same no matter which you choose! You pay for the first hour and then a set cost for every 15 minutes following!
We found that one hour was enough to peddle out a fair way, take a swim and peddle back. However, choosing 1.5 to 2 hours will take the stress off of your trip a little bit!
Cycle around Lake Annecy
If you like cycling, then don’t miss the incredible cycling route that takes you around Lake Annecy. The cycle path is 42km in total and takes around 3 hours to complete without stopping. The path takes you past some of the most picturesque points of Lake Annecy. Don’t miss stopping at the town of Talloires on your way past, or exploring some of the smaller beaches along the way.
Swimming in Lake Annecy
As an alpine lake, the water in Lake Annecy never reaches high temperatures. However, that doesn’t take away from the experience of taking a dip here! There are a few different places close to Annecy city centre that make for good swimming spots! Two of my top recommendations are below!
Parc Charles Bosson
The swimming area in Parc Charles Bosson is the best place in Annecy to Swim. Along the water’s edge you can sit in the grassy park, swim from the dock or jump from the diving board at Plage de l’Imperial. In the summer months, this is a paid area, however, from September to June access is free and the park is open 24 hours a day!
If you are feeling up for it, and the weather permits, I definitely recommend a sunrise swim here! There is no better moment than when the sun rises over the mountains behind, sending light rays out across the lake.
Plage d’Albigny
Plage d’Albigny is the main beach in Annecy, located just around the corner from the diving board at Plage de l’Imperial. The beach is quite small, but sandy with a shallow decline into the water!
Le Palais de I’Île
This medieval gaol is the centre of one of the most iconic views in Annecy’s old town. Located in the middle of two canals and only accessible by bridges on their side, it is a point that marks the historic centre of Annecy. The oldest parts dating back to the 12th century, this building has a history of being used as a prison, a courthouse and an administrative centre. Today, it is a museum and exhibition space.
Entry costs 3.90€ for adults and 2€ for children. You can book tickets in advance here, or on the day!
Château d’Annecy
Château d’Annecy is more commonly known as Annecy Castle, a big residence turned military barracks that overlooks the city. The castle dates back to the 13th century, with later additions being added over the next 300 years. Today, the castle is home to a great museum. The museum is open every day except Tuesdays and costs 5.60€ for adults and 3€ for children and students.
Pont des Amours
Pont des Amours, or the lover bridge, is an iron bridge in the centre of Annecy, designed to give a beautiful view over the lake. Made of iron and designed by Charles Galletto, Pont des Amours connects the two sides of the Canal du Vasse – the European Gardens and the Paquier Esplanade. This is a popular spot for visitors, the legend states that those who kiss in the middle of the bridge will stay together for life.
Stroll around Annecy Market
The best market in Annecy to visit is the old town market. This runs every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday morning and fills the streets of the old town. The stalls are usually open from 8am until just before midday, selling local fruits and vegetables, cheese, meats, and handmade crafts!
Explore Annecy Canals
Annecy is nicknamed “the Venice of the alps” for a reason. Throughout the old town, thin canals break up the streets, leading you over bridges and through tunnels to navigate the city! Make sure to walk along Quai de I’lle to discover some of the most picturesque bridges and street corners!
Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour
A great way to explore a city is by taking a walking tour, and there’s no way to make this more fun than turning it into a scavenger hunt! We did this during our time in Annecy and thoroughly enjoyed exploring the city in an alternative way, discovering places and facts we wouldn’t have otherwise been aware of!
Taste Annecy’s Best Ice Cream
When we asked the locals for tips on the best ice cream in Annecy, opinions were divided! After tasting them all, we know why – they all have great ice cream and there are different flavours which make each the best! Head to Le Glacier Des Alpes for the creamiest mango sorbet, Gelateria L’Edelweiss for their voilet ice cream, and Le Palais Des Glaces for one of the best pistachio ice creams you will ever taste!
Frequently asked questions
Is Annecy worth visiting?
Yes, Annecy is definitely a city worth visiting! It is one of the most picturesque alpine cities in France, with a stunning old town and mountainside lake right out of a postcard!
Is one day in Annecy enough?
One day in Annecy is enough to see the main sights, however, two days are recommended if you want to really experience the city.
How many days do you need in Annecy?
I recommend spending a long weekend in Annecy, so 2 to 3 days in total. This way, you can slowly explore the city, visit your favourite spots more than once, and not rush your travels.
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