Nicknamed the 'Venice of the Alps', Annecy charms with its canals lined with colourful houses, its medieval castle overlooking the old town and the turquoise waters of its lake, among the purest in Europe. Here are the places not to miss.
Looking for things to do in Annecy, places to visit near Annecy or an idea for a day out this weekend? Here is a selection of the finest sights to see, all explorable directly on the interactive map.
Open Annecy on the interactive mapBuilt from the 12th to the 16th century, this castle was the residence of the Counts of Geneva and later the Dukes of Genevois-Nemours. Converted into a museum, it holds collections of fine arts, natural history and contemporary art.
See on the map →Built on an islet in the Thiou canal in the 12th century, this former courthouse and prison is the most photographed monument in Annecy, a true emblem of the city.
See on the map →Cobbled lanes and pastel-fronted houses line the Thiou canals, earning Annecy its nickname of the 'Venice of the Alps'. An essential stroll, by day and by night.
See on the map →This wrought-iron bridge built in 1907 spans the Vassé canal and offers a romantic view of the lake. Legend has it that couples who kiss here stay together for life.
See on the map →Fed by mountain springs, Lake Annecy owes its turquoise colour to its exceptionally pure waters. The Pâquier esplanade invites you to walk, cycle or take a boat cruise.
See on the map →Built in the 20th century, this basilica holds the tombs of Saint Francis de Sales and Saint Jane de Chantal. Perched on the heights, it offers a magnificent view over the city and the lake.
See on the map →This 16th-century church, a former collegiate church turned cathedral, saw Jean-Jacques Rousseau serve as a choirboy during his stay in Annecy.
See on the map →Find these places and hundreds more — restaurants, places to stay, activities — on the BornToVisit interactive map. Filter by theme, find things to do around you and plan your outing.
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