There are places that feel plucked straight from a dream, and Annecy is one of them. Nestled at the foot of the French Alps, this lakeside gem blends romance, adventure, and timeless beauty. With pastel houses reflected in turquoise canals and the serene shimmer of Lake Annecy, it’s a destination that quietly steals your heart.
Whether you’re wandering the old streets, gliding across the lake, or savoring cheese fondue under the stars, Annecy is a place that makes you fall in love with life itself.
Here are the ten best things to do in Annecy.
10 Cycle the Voie Verte Trail
For those craving movement, rent a bike and follow the Voie Verte, a scenic cycling path that hugs the lake’s edge. The route winds through small villages, open fields, and quiet forests. Whether you’re chasing a workout or a lazy afternoon ride, this is one of the best ways to experience Annecy’s natural beauty.
9 Les Jardins de l’Europe
Located right beside the lake, these lush gardens offer a quiet escape from the buzz of the town. Stroll under centuries-old trees, watch swans glide by, or simply sit on a bench to admire the mountains across the water. The Pont des Amours (Lovers’ Bridge) nearby is a romantic spot for a photo—or a promise.
8 Shop the Antique Market
If you love treasure hunting, plan your trip to coincide with Annecy’s famous antique market. On the last Saturday of each month, the streets of the Old Town transform into an open-air museum of vintage delights. You’ll find everything from fine porcelain and old maps to rustic furniture and rare books. Even if you’re not buying, it’s a fascinating glimpse into French history and craftsmanship—and a perfect way to spend a lazy morning exploring the past.
7 Go Boating
Lake Annecy is known as one of Europe’s cleanest, and getting out on the water is a must. Rent a paddleboard, kayak, or small boat and glide across the shimmering surface. You’ll feel completely immersed in the Alpine calm, surrounded by emerald water and snowcapped peaks.
6 Visit Château d’Annecy
Rising above the Old Town, this medieval castle once housed the Counts of Geneva. Today, it’s a museum featuring regional art, history, and panoramic views over the lake and rooftops below.
Climbing up to the castle is worth it for the vistas alone.
5 Eat Traditional Savoyard Food
Annecy’s culinary scene is as comforting as its scenery. Taste classic Savoyard dishes like tartiflette—a hearty mix of potatoes, onions, lardons, and Reblochon cheese—or fondue savoyarde, perfect for sharing.
Don’t miss local lake fish such as perch and trout, best paired with a crisp white wine from Savoie vineyards.
For dessert, indulge in a blueberry tart or warm crêpe with mountain honey.
4 Discover Les Gorges du Fier
Just a short drive from Annecy lies one of the region’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Les Gorges du Fier is a stunning natural wonder carved by the Fier River through limestone cliffs. A narrow walkway suspended along the rock walls allows visitors to explore the gorge safely while marveling at its dramatic scenery.
Towering cliffs, swirling waters, and sculpted rock formations create a breathtaking experience, especially when sunlight filters through the narrow canyon. The site also features the “Sea of Rocks,” a field of ancient boulders shaped by erosion. Combining natural beauty and geological fascination, Les Gorges du Fier offers a memorable and accessible adventure just minutes from Annecy.
3 Stroll Along Lake Annecy
The lake is the heart of the town, and its crystal-clear waters are breathtaking in every season. Take a leisurely walk along the lakeside promenade, where you’ll find locals cycling, families picnicking, and paragliders drifting above the mountains. The views of the Alps reflected in the water are pure serenity.
2 Explore the Canals
Annecy’s canals are the soul of the city, winding gracefully through its pastel streets and under flower-covered bridges. Take your time wandering alongside the flowing water, watching reflections dance beneath balconies overflowing with blooms.
Stop for a coffee or ice cream at one of the riverside cafés, and let the rhythm of the town draw you in. Early morning or sunset are the most peaceful times to experience this side of Annecy.
1 Meander the Old Town
Start your adventure in Annecy’s Old Town (La Vieille Ville), a maze of cobbled lanes and pastel-colored houses that look straight out of a painting. The canals wind past charming cafés and flower-decked bridges, earning Annecy its nickname “Venice of the Alps.”
Don’t miss the Palais de l’Isle, the triangular fortress in the middle of the Thiou River—it’s one of the most photographed spots in France
Conclusion
To answer the question, “Is Annecy the prettiest town in France?” it is more than a destination—it’s a feeling of peace, joy, and connection with nature. From lakeside adventures and medieval charm to mountain air and mouthwatering food, it’s the perfect escape for travelers who want beauty without the rush. Once you’ve experienced its rhythm, you’ll never want to leave.
Click below to PIN so you can come back to decide is Annecy the prettiest town in France:
Most photos by Kary Kern
This article may contain affiliate/compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer.
About the Author
Patti Morrow
is a travel influencer and founder of the award-winning international blog Luggage and Lipstick. TripAdvisor called her one of the “20 Baby Boomer Travel Bloggers Having More Fun Than Millennials” and she was named one of the “Top 35 Travel Blogs” in the world.
She is also the star of the upcoming TV series “Destination Takeover” which is scheduled to premiere in the near future.
Patti is the author of the book “Girls Go Solo: Tips for Women Traveling Alone,” and has over 150 bylines in 40 print and online publications, including The Huffington Post, International Living Magazine, Washington Post Sunday Travel, Travel Girl, Travel Play Live Magazine, and Ladies Home Journal. She has traveled extensively across six continents, seeking fabulous destinations, exotic beaches, and adventure activities for her Baby Boomer tribe.
Leave a reply