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Things to do in Annecy

All About Annecy, France

Going to Annecy is like stepping into a fairy tale due to its castle, canals, snow-capped mountains, and pretty pastel-coloured houses.

Located between the French Alps and Geneva, you can reach this beautiful destination in just 8 hours from Calais by car, and the drive is so scenic that it will feel like part of your holiday.

Although it is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and watch the world go by, there are plenty of things to do in Annecy when you visit. However, we guarantee that you will spend most of your trip simply admiring your surroundings.

To give you more freedom and peace of mind when you travel with your car why not upgrade to one of our Flexi tickets? Allowing you to take the scenic route home and not have to rush back, our Standard Flexi and Fully Flexi tickets give you greater flexibility to your departure time!

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Calais

Morning	02:00	04:25	06:50	09:15
Midday	11:40
Afternoon	14:05	16:30
Evening	18:55	21:15	23:40

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Annecy Old Town
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Eating in Annecy
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Lac d'Annecy
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Gardens in Annecy

Things to do in Annecy

Visit Annecy Old Town

The most popular part of Annecy is its Old Town, and when you see how picturesque it is you will understand why. The whole area is pedestrianised so you can explore the narrow streets and crooked alleyways with ease, and you’ll soon notice the unusual combination of medieval buildings and pastel coloured homes which make this place so unique.

Take time to wander past lemon, pistachio, and rose facades, discover crumbling churches, and stumble across secret gardens, as there really is something amazing hidden around every corner in Annecy. You will also want to make sure that you go to see the Palais de l’Isle, a castle that sits on an island in the river.

Don’t forget to make your way to the Perrière Bridge which is the most photographed spot in Annecy. The bridge crosses over the River Thiou connecting the Quai de I’lle with the Quai des Vielles Prisons and is the city’s most famous footbridge.

Eating in Annecy

You will be spoilt for choice when trying to find pretty places to eat in Annecy as there are a number of lovely bistros and cozy cafés lining the waterways, many of which offer the chance to sit outside and eat when the weather allows.

Annecy delicacies include tartiflette, fondue, bilberry tart, and lavender ice cream, and as the city is located so near to Switzerland you will also find many Swiss specialties, including raclette, a round cheese which is warmed and served with dried meats, potatoes, gherkins, and pickled onions.

If you fancy cooking up a local treat or two for yourself, visit the outdoor market, where you can buy anything from garlic frog’s legs to cheese. The market also has a number of takeaway options for those on the go, such as sausages or stew.

Lac d’Annecy

Named as the purest urban lake in Europe, the glacial Lac d’Annecy, France is protected by strict environmental guidelines which ensure that the water continues to look beautifully clean despite the number of people that spend time there.

With its mountain backdrop and mesmerizing azure water, this lake offers the perfect photo opportunity, and you can choose to walk, cycle, or Segway around it to see as much as possible. Cyclists can travel around the lake using cycle paths which span 50km, and many like to have a dip in the water to cool off afterwards.

Those looking for something a bit more active might enjoy paragliding, water-skiing, or wakeboarding on the lake instead, or you can opt for a luxurious boat ride if you’d prefer to just sit back and admire the view.

Gardens in Annecy

Annecy boasts a number of gardens and green spaces where you can either walk or sit down and relax. The most famous gardens are the Jardins de l’Europe which face the lake and are home to plantations which are over 100 years old. You’ll often see painters here using the view to inspire them, and each year the park is home to the Little Lost Ball which is held under the trees.

The Paquier is the other green space where you might like to spend time. Seven hectares in size, this expanse of grass is home to an old carousel and a little train which kids will love, and is the perfect place to have a picnic or play games.

We don’t think that you will find anywhere as pretty as Annecy in Europe, so book your Dover to Calais crossing today and see if you agree with us.

Featured blog post Tips for Driving in France

Take a look at our tips for driving in France so that you can reach Annecy with confidence.

Attractions in Annecy

Electric Mountain Biking Adventure

Chamonix . France

Discover the Aravis Valley with little effort as you ride an electric mountain bike above Annecy.

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Segway Tours of Annecy

Annecy . France

See the sights of Annecy during a Segway tour of the city.

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Walking tour of Annecy

Chamonix . France

Enjoy a three hour walking tour of Annecy with a local guide to explore the Old Town and Local Market.

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Local wine and cheese tasting tour

Annecy . France

Enjoy a guided tour of a wineyard before visiting a local cheesemaker.

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Top 10 Places to See and Things to Do in Annecy

1. Visit Annecy Old Town

The most popular part of Annecy is its Old Town, and when you see how picturesque it is, you'll understand why. The whole area is pedestrianized, so you can explore the narrow streets and crooked alleyways with ease. You’ll notice the unique blend of medieval buildings and pastel-colored homes, giving the area a charming and distinctive feel. Wander past lemon, pistachio, and rose facades, discover crumbling churches, and stumble upon secret gardens. Don’t miss the Palais de l’Isle, a castle that sits on an island in the river, and make sure to visit the Perrière Bridge, the most photographed spot in Annecy.

2. Explore the Château d'Annecy

Perched on a hill overlooking the town, Château d'Annecy is a restored castle that now houses a museum showcasing regional artifacts, sculptures, and artworks. It offers stunning views of the town and lake, making it a perfect spot for history buffs and photographers alike. Exploring this castle is one of the best things to do in Annecy.

3. Cruise Lac d’Annecy

Lac d’Annecy, named the purest urban lake in Europe, is a must-visit. You can take a boat cruise to enjoy the mesmerizing azure waters and scenic mountain backdrop. There are options for private boat hires or guided tours, providing a relaxing way to see the lake. This is especially beautiful during summer.

4. Visit Jardins de l’Europe

Annecy boasts several gardens and green spaces, with the most famous being the Jardins de l’Europe. Facing the lake, these gardens are home to plantations over 100 years old. Painters often find inspiration here, and the annual Little Lost Ball event is held under the trees. Visiting these gardens is one of the free things to do in Annecy.

5. Discover the Paquier

The Paquier, a seven-hectare expanse of grass, is perfect for picnics and outdoor games. It features an old carousel and a little train that kids will love. This large green space is ideal for families to relax and play.

6. Electric Mountain Biking Adventure

For those seeking adventure, discover the Aravis Valley on an electric mountain bike. This allows you to explore the beautiful mountainous terrain around Annecy with ease, making it a fun and exciting activity.

7. Take a Segway Tour

See the sights of Annecy during a Segway tour. This guided tour offers a unique way to explore the city, including its historic landmarks and picturesque streets, with the added fun of riding a Segway.

8. Enjoy a Walking Tour

A three-hour walking tour with a local guide is one of the top things to do in Annecy to delve deeper into Annecy’s history and culture. Explore the Old Town, visit the local market, and learn about the city’s rich past.

9. Local Wine and Cheese Tasting Tour

Indulge in a guided tour of a local vineyard before visiting a cheesemaker. This tour is perfect for food and wine lovers, offering a taste of the region’s renowned wines and cheeses.

10. Paragliding Over Lac d’Annecy

For thrill-seekers, paragliding over Lac d’Annecy is an unforgettable experience. Enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains from the sky, providing a unique perspective of this beautiful area.

When looking for things to do in Annecy, France, you'll find that there is no shortage of activities, regardless of the season. From fun activities in winter to exciting options for when it's raining, this picturesque town has something for everyone.

How to Get to Annecy: Sailing Away with P&O Ferries

Traveling to Annecy is straightforward and enjoyable, especially when you choose to sail with P&O Ferries. Start your journey by booking a ferry to France from Dover to Calais. Once you arrive in Calais, Annecy is approximately an 8-hour drive, allowing you to enjoy the scenic French countryside along the way.

With the flexibility of taking your own vehicle, you can explore at your own pace. P&O Ferries offers various ticket options, including Flexi tickets, giving you the freedom to take scenic routes without the rush. For those traveling with pets, P&O Ferries provides all the necessary information to ensure a smooth journey for your furry friends.

Don’t worry about how to get to Annecy and let P&O Ferries prepare your adventure as you get to experience the beauty of the French Alps and the charming town of Annecy. Start planning your trip today for a memorable holiday experience.

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