Best Things to Do in Annecy, France

Ne manquez pas le 1er avril prochain, le château rouvre ses portes 🏰
Nous vous attendons nombreux tous les vendredis, samedis et dimanches de 14 heures à 18 heures !

Le château rouvre ses portes tous les vendredis, samedis et dimanches entre 14 h et 18 h.

Appréciez le printemps pour visiter les jardins ainsi que le château 🌸 🏰

Château de Menthon Saint-Bernard

Sitting majestically on a hill that looks out to Menthon-Saint-Bernard, the Roc de Chère National Nature Reserve, and Lake Annecy, Château de Menthon Saint-Bernard is a stunning medieval castle.

Despite being privately owned for more than a century, it is open to visitors on the weekend between April and October.

It is worth going there just for the sensational views. However, if you speak French, you should also do an hour-long tour of the castle.

If you do, you will be able to see several of the castle’s well-preserved rooms, including the grand halls, the chapel, and the intimate living quarters. You will also see intricate tapestries, antique furniture, and captivating artwork that date back centuries, while outside, beautiful peacocks roam the ground.

Cascade d’Angon

Annecy has plenty of natural beauty. But nowhere is this more apparent than at Cascade d’Angon.

Nestled within the lush greenery of the Angon Valley, this stunning waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder that mesmerizes visitors with its cascading waterfall and pristine surroundings.

To reach it, you must embark on a scenic 45-minute hike through forested rocky trails that lead to the waterfall. However, once you get there, you’ll see the 35-meter cascade plunging into the pool below as a hypnotic spectacle. At the same time, the surrounding cliffs and rock formations add to the dramatic beauty of the landscape.

If you feel adventurous after seeing the waterfall, you can also engage in canyoning or abseiling in addition to further hikes.

Église Saint-François

If you are into significant religious sites, another one worth visiting in Annecy is the Église Saint-François.

Situated in Saint Francis Square, this historic church dates back to 1614. It is notable for once housing the bodies of St. Francis de Sales and St. Jeanne de Chantal.

Comprising a stunning combination of Gothic Baroque and Lombard architectural styles, it has an elegant façade adorned with intricate carvings and statues.

Once inside, visitors can marvel at the impressive vaulted ceilings, ornate altars, and exquisite stained-glass windows that bathe the church in a kaleidoscope of colors.

The church resides on the banks of the Thiou River. It is affectionately known as the ‘Church of the Italians’ because it is popular with the local Italian community.

Walk the Promenade du Thiou

The Promenade du Thiou is a delightful pathway that winds along the banks of the Thiou River. It is a charming promenade that offers a picturesque stroll through the heart of the city, allowing visitors to take in the beauty of the town’s waterfront.

Walking along the Promenade, you’ll see colorful buildings lining its banks. There are pathways on both sides of the river, lined with vibrant flowers, lampposts and benches where you can watch boats pass.

The further you walk along the path, the more secluded and wooded it becomes. You will also find some bridges and playgrounds along the way.

Walking from near the center of town is one of the most relaxing things to do in Annoy and a beautiful way to spend a couple of hours enjoying the beauty of nature.

Basilique de la Visitation

One of the best views of Lake Annecy is from the Basilique de la Visitation.

Set on a hill that provides breathtaking panoramic views as you look out to the water, it is an excellent spot for a photo opportunity. But while you are there, make a point of visiting the Basilique too.

A magnificent religious site dedicated to the Visitation of Mary, it showcases an impressive blend of architectural styles, with influences ranging from Romanesque to Gothic Revival.

Its intricate stone carvings, stunning stained glass windows, and ornate interior decorations make it a fascinating place to explore. Whilst doing this, be sure to visit the crypt, where the tomb of St. Francis de Sales, the patron saint of Annecy, is located.

Le Paquier

Situated along the shores of Lake Annecy, Le Paquier is a beautiful park that features lush grassy areas, towering trees, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It provides a perfect place for picnics, leisurely walks, or enjoying a moment of serenity.

The park is a popular for families with young children, as it has a playground, a carousel and plenty of space to run around and play ball sports.

Le Paquier also hosts various outdoor activities like volleyball, rollerblading, and cycling. While visitors can rent bicycles or rollerblades to explore the scenic paths that wind through the park and the lakefront.

In addition, the park is also home to several cultural events and festivities throughout the year, including the Fête du Lac, a spectacular fireworks display over the lake.