A Picturesque Escape to Annecy, France for All Travelers

Although many locals indicate that their favorite time of year in Annecy is September since the weather is still nice and the crowds die down, Annecy can be appreciated year-round.

Things to do in Annecy in the Summer

During the summer months, everyone takes advantage of the beauty and purity of Lake Annecy by swimming, sunbathing, renting boats, paddle boarding, waterskiing, and taking boat tours.

In spring, summer and fall, Annecy is also a great spot for walking, bike riding (casual riders and/or cyclists), electric bike riding and hiking. For even more adventurous travelers, they're also known for paragliding, canyoning and hot air balloon flights.

Things to do in the Winter in Annecy

In the winter, Annecy is a popular destination because it's relatively close to ski resorts.

An Exploration of Old Town:

Old Town Annecy is quaint, picturesque and incredibly special. Old Town offers so many scenic and unexpected views as you wander through the streets and explore. It's hard to not feel like Belle from Beauty and the Beast.

Definite "must sees" are:

• Pont des Amors "Lover's Bridge" - The bridge connects the European Gardens and Paquier Esplanade. Legend has it that if you kiss anyone in the middle of the bridge you will stay together for life. Don't let this keep you away if you're a single traveler; the views are phenomenal.

• Jardins de l’Europe - A beautiful park with stunning views and beautiful flower beds. It's great for a nice stroll, a picnic, reading or just sitting back to enjoy the view.

• Palais de l’Île - A historic monument described as the "house in the shape of a ship." It has been a prison, a courthouse and an administrative center.

• Château d'Annecy (closed on Tuesdays) - A restored castle and museum. This historical monument offers clear views of the Alps with a museum comprised of temporary exhibitions.

• Admiring the views from the various bridges in Annecy such as Pont de la Halle, Pont de la République and Pont Perriere.

• Visit the Old Town Market on the Rue Sainte-Claire (open Tuesday, Friday and Sunday).
  

It's easy to find certain spots like Pont des Amors, Jardins de L'Europe, Palais de I'lle, and Château d'Annecy on your own. However, if you're someone that enjoys the benefits of a guided tour, I would highly recommend a guided tour of Old Town. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, I would suggest a self-guided tour option. Old Town continues to unfold as you walk and somehow continues to surprise you. It could be easy to miss the ever-changing aspects of each area of Old Town as the architecture and vibe can truly change from street to street. A tour option just helps to make sure you're able to really see the beauty of Old Town in its entirety and truly appreciate it!

Day Trips

• Geneva.

• Aix-les-Bains.

• Chambéry.

• Ski resorts: Manigod, La Clusaz, Le Grand Bornand and Saint Jean de Sixt.

Breakfast & Brunch in Annecy

• Slake Coffee - They have gluten-free options.

Lunch & Dinner in Annecy

• Le Chalet.

• L'Abbaye D'Annecy - They also have incredible ice cream sundaes for dessert.

• Les Terrasses du Lac.

• Le Viù at Le Palace de Menthon for dinner.

Here are some tips if you find yourself at the continental breakfast offered by LeViu and have food allergies:

• If you ask, they have gluten-free bread and packaged treats that they'll give you at the continental breakfast/room service.

• If you go to the continental breakfast you can order eggs made to order instead of what's served at the buffet station.

• They also offer alternative milk-soy, almond, and coconut if you ask for it.