
Annecy, the Venice of the Alps
Welcome to Annecy, a pretty French town nicknamed the “Venice of the Alps”, where enchanting landscapes and provincial charm meet in an exceptional natural setting. Situated on the shores of Lake Annecy, one of the purest in Europe, this town will enchant you with its beauty and sporty atmosphere. From the moment you arrive, let yourself be seduced by its winding canals, lively alleyways and majestic mountains, which form an idyllic picture.
Discover the Old Town, a tourist center famous for its picturesque canals and bridges, the Palais de l’Île, and the artisanal ice cream parlors that are so popular in summer. Stroll through the cobbled shopping streets, admire the medieval facades and take the traditional photo on the Pont des Amours. Take a stroll with the family or your loved ones on the Pâquier, a large esplanade bordering the lake, ideal for a stroll or jog while admiring the scenery.
Enjoy year-round outdoor activities in Annecy, a popular destination for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts. In summer, the crystal-clear waters of the lake invite you to swim, water-ski, sail and paddle. In mid-season, hiking trails around the lake and in the surrounding mountains offer breathtaking panoramas. In winter, nearby ski resorts turn Annecy into an ideal base for snow sports.
If you’d like to experience all the region’s must-do activities while avoiding the tourist traps, then put your trust in TheWeekender and its Local Insiders and let us organize your weekend or stay so you can discover all the surprises this magnificent destination has in store for you !
Annecy is known as the “Venice of the Alps” because of the picturesque canals running through the old town.
Lake Annecy is reputed to be one of the cleanest in Europe.
Annecy is home to numerous international events, including the International Animation Film Festival.
Lake Annecy is a 14-star lake and a gourmet paradise with 8 Michelin-starred restaurants.
A wine merchant chose to immerse 300 bottles in Lake Annecy at a depth of 20 meters to test a new way of preserving wine !
What to do in Annecy ?
- Discover Annecy’s Old Town, with its medieval atmosphere, canals, craft stores and unmissable market.
- Take a boat or pedalo trip on Lake Annecy to admire its turquoise waters and surrounding mountains from a different angle.
- Explore the hiking trails around the lake and in the mountains, suitable for all levels, for breathtaking panoramic views.
- In winter, take a day trip to one of the nearest ski resorts for a dose of adventure and a breath of fresh air.
- Enjoy Savoyard cuisine in local restaurants, with cheese specialties such as fondue, raclette and tartiflette, accompanied by regional wines.


