Annecy is the perfect place for a short break, but with so much to see and do, it's hard to know what to prioritise. That's why we created two three-day itineraries, one for spring/summer and the other for autumn/winter..Both are packed with the best activities so you can be sure to experience Annecy to the fullest during your stay.
Keep reading to discover your guide to spending three days in Annecy…
Discover holiday properties in Annecy
...
Three days in Annecy: spring/summer
Day one: cycle around the lake
Cycling around Lake Annecy is an amazing way to make the most of your time there, whatever the season.
There are several rental companies where you can rent a bike for the day, and if you want a more leisurely ride, many now also offer electric bike hire. However, in the summer they can be extremely busy, so it's best to try and get there early and start the tour before the lines start.
Why not pack a picnic and stop at one of thebeachesto enjoy your lunch with a view? If you are leaving the center of Annecy, Doussard Beach is a great stop on the way.
Interested cyclists can also go further into the Aravis Mountains if they take some more challenging routes, such as the Col des Aravis and Col de la Croix Fry, which are regulars on the Tour de France.
Day two: go for a walk
If you're still feeling energetic on day four, it's time to explore the mountains! There are numerous walking trails close to Annecy, but the options may vary depending on your ability and whether or not you have a car. Here are our top picks:
- The Angon Falls– easy/moderate
- O Roc de Chere– easy/moderate
- Circuit of Mont Veyrier- difficult
- spinner- difficult
- Annecy Crest Trail- difficult
Day Three: Go Paragliding
Many alpine locations offer paragliding as an activity, and Annecy is no different! This is the perfect way to end your holiday while enjoying panoramic views of Europe's cleanest lake and its surrounding peaks.
From March to November, you can enjoy this85€per person (depending on the weather). It's definitely one of the highlights on the list!
Other aerial activities include hang gliding, skydiving, hot air ballooning and gyro rides.
You can book a wide range of these activitiesActiv' Annecy.
A guide to paragliding in Annecy
Other ways to enjoy Lake Annecy on summer holidays
- Stand Up Paddle Boarding
- Navigation
- diving
- Wakeboard/wake surf/water ski
- windsurfing
- kayak
- Rent a boat or bicycle
Discover holiday properties in Annecy
...
Three days in Annecy: autumn/winter
Day One: Discover the Culture
On the first day, we recommend visitingThe Island PalaceeMuseum-Chateau Of Annecy. These two historic monuments are Annecy's most iconic buildings and should not be missed.
ComCommon rate €7.20 or €4 for under 25s, you can buy a combo ticket from each site, giving you access to both sites. Both are open every day of the year except Tuesday.
If you still want to discover more culture, head to the Musée du Film d'animation, which is just a two-minute walk from the Chateau.
In between visits, you can stop for lunch or coffee at one of the many restaurants in the old town.
The Island Palace
The Island Palaceit was listed as a historic monument in 1900, with its oldest parts dating back to the 12th century. Originally housing the prison and mint workshop of the Counts of Geneva, this famous medieval structure is located in the heart of Annecy and has since become an emblem of the city.
Guided tours are available or choose to book a self-guided tour3,90€for adults and2€for a child. There is free entry for children under 12 and rates for groups of 5 or more. youre gonna need itbetween 30 minutes and an hourvisit.
Museum-Chateau Of Annecy
Above the charming old town is theMuseum-Chateau Of Annecy, which became the residence of the Counts of Geneva in the 13th and 14th centuries.
During your visit, admire the original collections of traditional furniture and artwork, and even visit the nature room, where you can discover the local species and wildlife of the lake!
the entrance is5,60€and there is free admission for children under 12 years old. It will take you about an hour to visit the site.
Museum of Animation
Annecy is known for its rich animation history and has hosted an international festival every June since the 1960s.Museum of Animationoffers a free, immersive experience for film lovers and tourists alike, providing insight into the art's origins, techniques, processes and equipment.
The exhibition is open all year round (except Tuesdays and Sundays), from10 a.m. at 5 pm(except June-September which opens at 10:30am). expect to spendup to one hourhere.
If you have more time, you can also wander around the following landmarks:
- Saint Peter's Cathedral
- church of san francisco
- Church of San Mauritius
- Church of Our Lady of Liesse in Annecy
- royal visit
- The Gardens of Europe
- the bridge of love
Second day: Annecy market
The Annecy market operates all year roundTuesday, Friday and Sunday between 7am. and 1pm. So, depending on the time you arrive, you may need to do this activity on a different day.
The market starts to get busy from 10:30 am, so we recommend arriving as early as possible so you can browse the stalls easily and avoid long queues.
It encompasses the Old Town, with the main strip of stalls located on Rue Saint Claire. You'll also find vendors on Rue de la République, Quai de Semnoz, Quai de l'Île and Rue du Pont Morens.
The Tuesday market is full of local produce, with a wide range of food stalls selling local delicacies. On Fridays and Sundays, in addition to food, street vendors also sell industrialized products and textiles.
If you want to further improve your shopping experience, you canbook a tourfollowed by a private dinner with an Annecy local to learn more about modern French cuisine.
More ways to enjoy the food scene in Annecy
- Cheese and wine tasting in Annecy
- Wine Tasting Cruise on Lake Annecy
- Visit a Michelin star restaurant
- Discover the bars, restaurants and cafes
- Try local specialties
Third day: let's go skiing!
Annecy is within walking distance of several fantastic ski resorts including La Clusaz, Manigod and Le Grand Bornand. The journey from Annecy to these resorts takes around 50 minutes or you can take the bus from the station.
If you prefer to stay a little closer to Annecy, there is alsoLe Semnoz and La Sambuy, which may be closer to your accommodation depending on where you live.
You can buy a half or full day pass at most resorts and there are ski rental shops in the resort and on the trail where you can rent some kits.
Visit each resort's tourism office websites to learn more:
- La Clusaz
- be diligent
- Le Grand Bornand
- Semnoz(website in French only)
- o shampoo
Whether you are looking for a cultural visit or an active holiday,a gourmet exploration or quality time with your loved ones, Annecy has it all!
And don't forget to browse the OVO Network's range of partners in the area. From stylish city center apartments in the heart of the action to luxurious lakeside villas, you'll find the perfect base for your next trip.
Book your stay in Annecy
...
Also, don't forgetSubscribe to our newsletterand stay up to date with the latest offers and news from the OVO Network.
If you enjoyed reading this, we think you might also enjoy:
- 5 ideas for a long weekend in Annecy in May
- Lake Annecy in spring
- Where to stay in Annecy France?
- Our Annecy archives
AnnecyAnnecy food marketLago Annecycultural toursbike vacationparaglidersummer activitieswinter activities