A tailor-made excursion in the Little Venice of the Alps

Discover the treasures of the jewel of the Alps during your trip to Annecy, with guided tours, lake cruises, hiking, or mountain biking excursions!

Annecy, nicknamed the “Little Venice of the Alps”, is a gem that reveals itself through its narrow cobblestone streets, its shimmering waters, and the scenic trails that overlook it. Here, we present an example itinerary for an unforgettable three-day stay in this must-visit destination in the Alps. A guided tour of the city takes you to the Palais de l’Isle, the esplanade of Annecy Castle, and the Gardens of Europe. A fondue cruise on the lake offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience. For the more adventurous seeking breathtaking landscapes, we recommend a hike up Mont Veyrier and La Tournette or an electric mountain bike excursion on the Semnoz. No matter what you choose, you're sure to find something to make your trip to Annecy feel like a dream come true!

Day 1: A day in Annecy - Culinary experience in Annecy’s old town

For this first experience in the heart of Annecy, we invite you to wander through the picturesque pedestrian streets of the historic center for a true sensory journey. A trip to the Alps wouldn’t be complete without a gourmet adventure!

Step inside a cheese shop that celebrates the legacy of a former master cheesemaker, crowned Meilleur Ouvrier de France, for an exquisite wine and cheese tasting. Guided by the artisan cheesemaker and a professional sommelier, you’ll explore the perfect pairings they have carefully curated.

Savor some of the most iconic wines of Savoie, now gracing the finest tables in the region. Learn to observe their color, identify aromas on the nose and palate, and discover the traditional winemaking techniques of the Savoyard terroir. Names like Jacquère, Altesse, Roussette, Chignin-Bergeron, and Mondeuse will soon hold no secrets for you!

This tasting reaches new heights when paired with the rich flavors and textures of local cheeses such as Beaufort, Abondance, Tomme de Savoie, and Reblochon.

Day 2: What to do during a trip to Annecy? The best of the things to do in Annecy

Annecy can be explored as much by stepping inside its historic landmarks as by strolling outdoors to uncover its many cultural and natural treasures. On this second day of your journey in Annecy, we’ve put together a selection of some of the best activities to immerse yourself in the town’s picturesque and authentic surroundings.

Cycling tour around Lake Annecy

The shores of Lake Annecy are a true paradise for casual cyclists. With a dedicated path encircling the entire 40-kilometer stretch of water, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the area on two wheels.

This morning, your guide will take you along their favorite section of the route, offering stunning views of the lush landscapes surrounding the city, as well as the charming neighboring villages. Among them is Talloires, a gem tucked away in a secluded bay, seemingly untouched by the hustle and bustle of the world. It’s the perfect spot to take a well-deserved break and soak in the serene, enchanting panorama.

Afterward, it’s time to hop back on your bike and continue marveling at the lake’s crystalline hues. The reflections of the surrounding peaks create a breathtaking frame for the jewel that is Lake Annecy.

Walking tour of the city with a guide to discover the food specialties of Annecy

The cycling tour has worked up your appetite, hasn’t it? You’re welcomed by a guide who will take you on an absolutely unique experience—a Food Tour in Annecy! Together, you’ll wander through the cobblestone streets of the Little Venice of the Alps. Explore the history of Annecy Castle, the Palais de l’Isle, Saint-Pierre Cathedral, and Saint-François Church. Along the way, you’ll step into local artisan shops to savor regional specialties. As you delve into the town’s rich past, you’ll enjoy tastings of cheeses, pastries, beers, and other renowned products. It’s a perfect blend of history and gastronomy, offering a truly unforgettable experience during your trip to Annecy!

Boat trip on the lake of Annecy

And finally, to end the day on a high note, how about enjoying Annecy’s landscapes from the water? Step aboard a boat that will take you on a journey to uncover the treasures of the lake. Guided across its serene waters, you’ll marvel at the wild beauty of Roc de Chère and the majestic structures overlooking the lake. The castles of Menthon-Saint-Bernard and Duingt stand as preserved and privileged witnesses to the passage of centuries. But that’s not all! You’ll also have the pleasure of savoring a delicious Savoyard fondue, gently rocked by the sound of the water lapping against your boat. It’s a timeless moment, where everything seems to pause, offering you a truly idyllic escape.

Day 3: Hiking in the Heights of Annecy

Lake Annecy is surrounded by iconic peaks such as Semnoz, Mont Veyrier, La Tournette, and Parmelan, all offering breathtaking panoramic views. Depending on your skill level and preferences, your guide will lead you along trails overlooking the region, sharing fascinating stories about the nature, wildlife, flora, and landscapes unfolding before your eyes. This third day offers a chance to see Annecy from a completely new perspective. And, of course, no hike would be complete without a delicious Savoyard picnic to restore your energy and keep you going on your adventure!

Bonus: Annecy to Chamonix day trip

Looking to extend your exploration of the Alps and add a special interlude to your trip to Annecy? Don’t miss out on a marvelous and captivating day in the world capital of mountaineering! Just 1 hour and 15 minutes from Annecy, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc will enchant you with its idyllic setting at the foot of Mont Blanc. Get closer to the roof of Europe with a visit to the legendary Aiguille du Midi, where you’ll be treated to an absolutely breathtaking panorama of the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps. After this awe-inspiring experience, descend to the town for a cozy Savoyard lunch in a welcoming restaurant. In the afternoon, dive into the history of Chamonix with an engaging guide who will bring to life the exploits of the greatest adventurers of the Mont Blanc massif. Learn about the first ascent of Mont Blanc in 1786 and the story of the first Winter Olympics in 1924. It’s a day rich in discovery and inspiration!

Your tailor-made stay in Annecy

You’ve now had a glimpse of a possible itinerary for your trip to Annecy. Of course, the team at Agence 1786 is at your service to create the perfect itinerary tailored to your desired duration and preferences. We’ll take care of finding the ideal accommodation and organizing your transfers, meals, and experiences.

To discover even more, browse through the many other activities available year-round: guided city tours, visits to a farm with cheese-making workshops, tours of Savoyard vineyards, cooking classes, excursions into the Bauges Mountains, electric mountain bike outings, gourmet strolls through the market... The possibilities are endless with our unique and original experiences in Annecy!

Finally, these Annecy discovery programs are fully customizable for group stays in the Alps.

Useful information for your stay in Annecy

To help you plan your trip to Annecy, here are some essential details.

Where is Annecy?

Annecy is located in the heart of the French Alps, between Geneva, Lyon, and Chambéry. Geneva is 40 km away, Lyon is 145 km, and Chambéry is approximately 50 km from Annecy.

How to get to Annecy and how far is Annecy from Geneva?

Annecy is ideally situated in the Alps. You can easily reach it by train or car. The train station is well-connected to the major cities in the region, and the city benefits from a nearby motorway exit, offering excellent accessibility.

Annecy is also close to the two international airports: Lyon (125 km) and Geneva (45 km). Upon arrival at either airport, you can choose to take a private transfer to Annecy, which takes approximately 40 minutes from Geneva and 1 hour and 20 minutes from Lyon.

What is the best time to visit Annecy?

Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for exploring Annecy. During these times, the city is less crowded compared to the peak months of July and August, yet the days remain just as beautiful, offering a wide variety of experiences. Of course, walking through the streets of Annecy is pleasant in summer and winter as well.

Annecy in Winter

A visit to Annecy can be the perfect escape before, after, or during your ski trip in the Alps. When the weather isn’t ideal for skiing, or if you simply want to change your surroundings during the week, treat yourself to a few days in the charming Little Venice of the Alps. The itinerary may include wine and cheese tastings, farm excursions, a cruise with fondue on the lake, or a Food Tour through the city—an experience sure to warm all your senses!

Annecy summer activities

For your summer trip to Annecy, let yourself be tempted by the many water activities, such as cruises, paddleboarding, or wakeboarding. Enjoy the beauty of the lake during an e-bike tour along the surrounding bike path or during an excursion into the surrounding mountains. Stroll through the pedestrian streets during a gourmet market walk or an engaging guided tour. Then, take in some fresh air in the heights—whether it’s hiking up Mont Veyrier, opting for an excursion to Chamonix, or heading out for a day in the heart of the Bauges Mountains.

Is Annecy worth visiting?

Annecy is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the Alps. Nicknamed the "Little Venice of the Alps", it captivates with its canals winding through the pedestrian streets of the city. The castle, perched above the old town, stands as a remarkable witness to the era of the House of Savoy and its duchy. Charming shops line the bridges crossing the Thiou River. As you wander through the cobbled streets, you’ll discover the city’s rich religious heritage and admire the colorful façades of its historic monuments. Be sure to also relax in the Gardens of Europe, along the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy—heaven for water sports. As you can see, Annecy is an absolute must-visit in the Alps, which is why we offer countless unique and original experiences here, allowing you to uncover all its hidden treasures!

What is Annecy famous for?

The most iconic image of Annecy is undoubtedly that of the Palais de l’Isle, proudly standing in the heart of the old town, surrounded by the canals of the Thiou.

Lake Annecy is also particularly popular during the summer. You can cool off at its surrounding beaches and enjoy a variety of water activities, such as cruises, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, or even snorkeling, among others.

What to see in Annecy, from the Thiou canals to the Palais de l’Isle, the Gardens of Europe, and other treasures?

The Palais de l’Isle, Annecy’s most famous monument, the Thiou canals, Annecy Castle, and the Gardens of Europe, with their iconic Pont des Amours, are the must-see sites to admire during your exploration of Annecy. To this list, you can also add the pedestrian street Sainte-Claire, Saint-Pierre Cathedral, as well as the churches of Saint-François-de-Sales and Notre-Dame-de-Liesse.

Discover these during our guided tours of Annecy, as well as through our Food Tours!

How much time do you need to explore Annecy?

We recommend a stay of at least three days to fully experience Annecy, whether through its rich cultural treasures or the countless outdoor activities the destination offers.

For your trip to Annecy—whether as a couple, with family, friends, or as a group—our team is here to assist you in every detail. Don’t hesitate to contact us and explore all of our services!