Things to Do in Annecy: Canals, Lake Views and Fondue

Annecy is the kind of place that looks too perfect to be real. Cobblestone alleys, flower-covered bridges and a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains. We’ve been more than once, and every time it still feels like walking into a storybook, just one with good food, glace (french for ice cream) and paddle boats.

The town has been settled since Roman times, but what you see today is mostly from the medieval and Savoy periods. The canals, castle and pastel houses are part of what earned Annecy the nickname the Venice of the Alps, but without the crowds or gondolas.

Getting to Annecy

Annecy is about 40 minutes by car or train from Geneva or an hour from Chambéry. If you’re coming from Lyon, it’s about a two-hour drive. The train station is right in town, and you don’t need a car once you arrive unless you’re planning to explore the lake villages or do some hiking nearby.

    • Exploring the Old Town

    The heart of Annecy is easy to walk. Streets are lined with ice cream stands, boulangeries and cafés with lake views or canal-side tables. Follow the canals through the center and stop in front of the Palais de l’Isle, the 12th-century stone building in the middle of the canal. It’s one of the most photographed places in town.

    Also you can walk up to Château d’Annecy, a restored castle that now holds a small museum. The courtyard gives you a nice view over the rooftops, and the walk isn’t too steep.

    Lakefront Walks and Boat Time

    The lake is the real draw, though. From the edge of the old town, you can walk through the Jardins de l’Europe and along the Pont des Amours (Lover’s Bridge). You’ll see pedal boats, canoes, tour boats and a great park for the kids (and dogs).

    If the weather’s warm, you’ll see people swimming, picnicking and just hanging out on the grass. The water is some of the cleanest in Europe and it’s so clear that you can see the rocks and fish below the surface.

    • Where We Ate

    We frequently eat at Le Freti, a restaurant known for its fondue and raclette. It’s not subtle, but it’s the good kind of cheesy, both literally and figuratively. We order the classic fondue with local white wine and shared a charcuterie board. Everything feels very Savoyard and very filling. Definitely not a light meal, but worth it.

    We also never miss glaces at Glacier des Alpes, which is easy to find because there’s always a line. The flavors rotate, but we love their passionfruit, pistachio, and salted butter caramel. You can’t go wrong!

    Know Before You Go

    When to visit: Late spring to early fall. Summer is popular, but not overwhelming. Winter is quieter unless you’re pairing it with a ski trip.
    How to get there: Trains run regularly from Geneva, Lyon, and Chambéry. The town is walkable, but parking is limited in high season.
    Where to stay: There are plenty of hotels and rentals in the center and near the lake. Book early in summer.
    What to pack: Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones, a swimsuit, and something warm if you’re headed out on the lake in the evening.

    Planning More Coastal Travel in France?

    If you’re exploring Normandy or heading along the coast, check out:
    Things to Do in Honfleur – Harborside cafés, wooden churches, and seafood lunches
    Things to Do in Rouen – Gothic cathedrals, historic streets, and a proper French dinner