Find out what to see in Annecy, Alpina Jewel and the Venice of France
Annecy, known as the “Venice of the Alps,” is a picturesque city located in the region of Auvernia-Rhódano-Alpes, at the foot of the French Alps. With its impressive crystal lake and its charming old town, Annecy is a perfect destination for those who seek natural beauty and history. In this entrance you will discover the best places to see in Annecy.
What to see in Annecy
- Palais de l’Isle: fortified house located on a small island in the middle of the Thiou channel. Today, it houses a museum dedicated to the history of the city. In the past it was a prison and inside you can visit their cells.
- Château d’Annecy (Annecy Castle): castle offering panoramic views of the city and the lake. It also houses a museum with exhibitions of art and archaeology.
- Hours Palais de l’Isle and Château d’Annecy:
- Every day except Tuesday:
- From 1 October to 31 May: 10 to 12 and 14 to 17.
- From 1 June to 30 September: from 10: 30 to 18: 00
- Every day except Tuesday:
- Prices:
- Palais de l’Isle: 3.80
- Castle entrance: 5.50.
- Joint entrance Palais de l’Isle and Castillo: €7.20
- You can review the reduced rates and times of the Palais de l’Isle in case they change inthis websiteand the castle inthis website.
- Hours Palais de l’Isle and Château d’Annecy:
- Lake Annecy: with a nice park on its shores, known as the European Gardens. In addition, next to him is the one known as the Bridge of the Love.
- Church of Notre-Dame-de-Liesse: founded in the 14th century by the Geneva Counts. It is known for its central dome and its golden statue of the Virgin Mary.
- La Porte Sainte Claire: medieval door located in Rue Sainte Claire, in the old town of Annecy. This historic door is known for its stone arch and bell tower, and is an emblematic entry point to the Sainte Claire district.
- Porte du Sepulcre: is located in Rue Sainte Claire, in the old town of Annecy. It is a beautiful medieval arch door that has been preserved over the centuries and is a testimony to the rich history of the city.
- Cathedral of San Pedro: historical church that was originally built as a convent in the 16th century. The cathedral has been restored and remains an important place of worship and tourism in Annecy.
- Other places to see:
- Rue De La Republic Bridge
- Rue Sainte- Claire
- Morens Bridge
- Puente Perrière
- Impérial Palace
- Église de Saint François de Sales
- If you go on Christmas, the Christmas Market is at: Place de l’hôtel de ville of 11-21.30 h.
History and Annecy Architecture
Founded in Roman times, Annecy has preserved its rich heritage over the centuries. The old town of Annecy is full of channels, bridges and historical buildings that will transport you to another time. Among the most emblematic places are the Island Palace and Annecy Castle.
Photos of Annecy
- Palais de l’Isle.
- Château d’Annecy.
- Lake Annecy.
View from Annecy Castle:
- Church of Notre-Dame-de-Liesse.
- La Porte Sainte Claire
- Porte du Sepulcre.
- Cathedral of San Pedro.
- Photos of Annecy streets:
Map of what to see in Annecy
What to eat in Annecy
- Annecy’s is typical of the chunky cheese. It is made up of tartiflette, fondue and grated cheese.
Events and Festivitiesof Annecy
Annecy is famous for hisInternational Animation Film Festivalwhich is celebrated every June and attracts filmmakers and fans from all over the world. Another major event is theAlpine descent, an annual race of traditional ships taking place in the lake.
How to get to Annecy
Annecy is approximately an hour’s drive from Geneva and two hours from Lyon. You can also arrive by train from Lyon or Paris.
Annecy is one of the villages we visited on our trip to Lyon. I recommend you visit other places near Lyon that we show you in our tickets: