Annecy Travel Guide Venice of the Alps & Lake Annecy

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One of the most stunning cities in France is Annecy, the capital of the Haute-Savoie department in the east. There’s a reason it’s called the “Pearl of the French Alps” or the “Venice of the Alps.” It is located on Lake Annecy, a sizable lake that bears the name of the cleanest city in Europe. The old town of Annecy has largely retained its medieval charm. It started when the Counts of Geneva founded the city.Annecy even briefly belonged to Switzerland. In addition to the old town, there is a beautiful lake called Lake which is reachable by boat. Annecy also has a historic palace, a medieval castle with a breathtaking view, beautiful gardens, and big mountains surrounding the lake. All of this emphasizes how important it is to go to when on vacation in the Portes du Soleil region.

The old town of Annecy


The charming city center is defined by narrow waterways that meander between the homes. Beautiful bridges span the canals. Along the sea, there are many quaint terraces, flower banks, vibrant homes, and actual buildings. Annecy is like Venice in miniature. As you walk along the cobbled streets, check out the quaint boutiques, clothing stores, and traditional product shops. Be sure to explore the popular traboules, which are hidden passageways connecting streets. Among the buildings you should definitely see are the Castle of Annecy, the Cathedral of St. Pierre, and the 12th-century prison-turned-palais de l’Isle, which is located on an island in the Thiou River.Near the Palais is the Pont des Amours, which has beautiful views on both sides. Also, take a walk along the Quai de l’Île, a historic boulevard by the Thiou River that is dotted with quaint restaurants and an abundance of flowers. During a market, stalls line every street in the historic town. If you are going to the city, you may need a France environment sticker called “Crit’Air.” It is possible to drive through a temporary or permanent environmental zone.

Castle of Annecy


From the village, one can always see the castle of Annecy, which is located in the old city center. From the old city center, climb the Rampe du Château to the castle square. The castle was built on a hill by the Counts of Geneva between the 12th and 16th centuries. The walls are more than a meter thick in some places. The magnificent Tour de la Reine is the oldest part of this castle. Visitors are welcome to tour the castle. It features a museum with paintings and sculptures on display in addition to the original rooms and furnishings.The Alpine Lakes Observatory is located in the large castle square. Ascending the tower offers even more breathtaking views of the city and Lake Annecy than those that can be seen from the castle.

Palais de l’Île


Similarly built in the 12th century, the Palais de l’Île is situated in the middle of the Thiou River. This skyscraper appears on many postcards of Annecy and is one of the most photographed buildings in France. The judiciary and a prison were once housed in the cellars. Crossing the small bridge that links the building to the banks on either side will allow you to see it. Inside is a historical exhibit about Annecy.

The Pont des Amours


As the name suggests, this is a romantic place. You will definitely fall in love with the surroundings here because you can look down into the old town on one side and see Lake Annecy with the Alps in the background on the other. The bridge is located where the Vassé Canal empties into the lake. The Pont des Amours is an iron bridge from the Belle Époque period that crosses the Jardin de l’Europe park and the Pâquier.

Buildings utilized for religious activities


Near Annecy’s castle is a 16th-century church called St. Pierre Cathedral. This is a simple building with only the dome and ceiling painted.
Saint-François-de-Sales, a magnificent baroque structure with a white façade and crimson roof tiles, is located on the riverbank between the old city center and Les Jardins de l’Europe.

Located on Rue Notre Dame in the northern part of the old town, Notre-Dame-de-Liesse is a church that was constructed in the fourteenth century.
In the fifteenth century, Église Saint-Maurice was built in the Gothic style for the Order of Preachers, also known as the Dominican order. A trompe-l’oeil painting inside the church gives the impression that it is three-dimensional.
Église La Visitation is a pilgrimage church in the style of a cloister.

Road Sainte-Claire


The most beautiful street in Annecy is Rue Sainte-Claire. What makes this street unique are the arcades on either side of it. In the 17th century, traders and merchants made use of these covered spaces. There are now stores, boutiques, and restaurants with terraces. The houses above the galleries are painted in a variety of colors, giving this street a distinctive appearance. The Place de Sainte-Claire is connected to the Rue Sainte-Claire by the Porte Sainte-Claire. From this square, narrow passageways ascend to Annecy Castle.

Lake Annecy


A must-see while on vacation in Annecy is Lake . You can walk there from the old town. You can enjoy a range of water sports on the lake or go for a walk on one of the many hiking trails. There are benches begging you to sit and enjoy the beauty everywhere you look. The lake’s shore is home to the exquisitely planned Jardin de l’Europe, a park with lawns, fountains, and a playground. More information? Read our travel guide to Lake Annecy next.

Conclusion

Annecy truly lives up to its titles as the “Pearl of the French Alps” and the “Venice of the Alps.” From its medieval old town and romantic canals to the breathtaking Lake surrounding mountains, the city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring charming cobbled streets, visiting iconic landmarks like the Château d’Annecy or Palais de l’Île, or simply relaxing by the crystal-clear lake, Annecy is a destination that leaves every visitor enchanted. A trip here is more than just a ho lidayit’s an unforgettable experience in the heart of Haute-Savoie.

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FAQs

Because of its charming canals, bridges, and old town resembling Venice.

Visit Lake Annecy, the Old Town, Château d’Annecy, Palais de l’Île, and Pont des Amours.

Yes, Lake Annecy is often referred to as Europe’s cleanest lake.

Spring to early autumn (April–September) offers the best weather and activities.

Yes, a Crit’Air environmental sticker may be required in certain zones.

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