Annecy

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Annecy

Coiled between lake and mountains, Annecy deserves its nickname of "Venice of the Alps". This harmonious city allows you to travel through time, from prehistory to the present day, before following in the tracks of the Princes of Savoy and eating next to the purest lake of Europe, while enjoying the numerous festivals and cultural animations. The city is also turned towards sports: the ski resorts are near the city and accessible by bus, and a biking trail goes all around the lake and lets you explore the shores.

The City

Welcome to Annecy, the jewel of the Haute-Savoie department. Between lake and mountains, between Italy and Switzerland, this city is blessed by a luxurious nature and bathed by a romantic light. The medieval streets and arcades of the old town will let you feel like walking around in a fairy tale. Even if it was founded in the Prehistoric times and expanded by the Romans, the asset we know today is mostly due to the influence of the Dukes of Savoy, from the 15th century. Annecy was also a centre of the Calvinist counter-Reform which lead the Catholic Church to increase its presence in the city: as a result, several churches were built and a monastery was founded. The Sardinian period, in the 19th century, led Annecy to its industrial revolution: a lot of factories were created, such as paper and clothing industries. Taken by France in 1860, the industrialisation kept on and the city started to become attractive to tourists. Nowadays, Annecy is an influential city, turned mostly towards tourism and culture: the International Film Festival for Animation and the International Film Festival for Italian Movies are organised each year and attract thousands of visitors.

Do & See

Discovering Annecy is like wandering in a romantic fairy tale. The castle, the gates, the arches are a perfect setting to stroll around. The lovely canals leading to the purest lake of Europe and all the cultural events draw 2.5 million visitors each year.

Dining

The gastronomy in Annecy is influenced by the mountains and the lakes. So expect to taste some exquisite fish, great wines, and exceptional cheeses, which come in all shapes and forms, from the famous fondue to the popular raclette, to the traditional French Alps dish known as tartiflette--a baked dish made up of sliced potatoes, cream, lardons, and onions topped with cheese and baked in the oven--to the simple yet delicious bacon & cheese baguette.

Cafes

Take a break from all the sightseeing and enjoy a hot cup of coffee in one of the lovely cafes this city has to offer. Whether you choose a view over the lake or of the old town, one thing is sure: you will love it.

Bars & Nightlife

Annecy's nightlife offers you lots of trendy and popular bars. Good music, tasty drinks, all is gathered to make you enjoy your night out. From high-tech dance clubs to rock bars, there is always something for everyone here.

Shopping

Shopping in Annecy involves luxury stores but also local artists' works of art. From fashion stores to cheese and wine boutiques, small souvenirs shops and artisan workshops, all the finest goods in Haute Savoie can be found there.

Tourist Information