Annecy has been dubbed France's "Venice Of the Alps" and the "Pearl of French Alps" and is certainly one of France's best-kept secrets. It is located on the northern tip of the stunning Lake Annecy and is around 22 miles to the sound of Geneva - another must-see Francophone city of the Alps. Lake Annecy is known as the cleanest lake in Europe. Annecy may not be nearly as large as Venice but is it special in its own right (see here for a weekend Venice itinerary). Venice is a very popular tourist destination and it is packed with tourists. Annecy is one of France's quiet and secluded towns crisscrossed with canals through its old cobblestone streets.

About Annecy

Annecy was not always a part of France, for half of the 1800s, it was a part of the Kingdom of Sardina - one of the many Italian states before the unification of Italy. In 1860 with the signing of the Treaty of Turin and the French annexation of Savoy, the city became French.

Attractions In Annecy

Today it is an idyllic and picturesque city and its reputation as the Venice of the Alps steams from the three canals and the Thiou River that slice through the small city. The city boasts much more than these stunning canals and the city is rich in magnificent architecture. These include:

  • The Île palace: (A Former Prison And Many Other Things)
  • The Palais de Justice: This Historic Building Is The Home Of The City's Museum
  • Pedestrian Streets: These Are Beautiful And Narrow
  • Old Town: The Old Town Is Small And Easily Explored On Foot

Annecy was once the home to the counts of Geneva and the dukes of Genevois-Nemours. Due to its location, it has had influence from Geneva of Switzerland, France, and Northern Italy.

Related: Visit These Stunning Italian Cities Instead Of Venice (To Avoid The Crowds)

Besides other attractions in the heart of the town, there are many other things to see and do to experience the ambiance of this stunning town.

  • Enjoy The Incredible Views Of The Lake: The Lake (Called Lac d'Annecy) Is One Of France's Larges And Affords Stunning Views Of the Snow Capped Mountains
  • Lake Annecy's Beaches: The Lake Offers Some Beautiful Sandy Beaches To Relax On And Enjoy The Taste Of A Freshwater Beach
  • Sample Raclette: This Is A Swiss Delicacy Made From Melted Cow's Cheese
  • Get Wet With Watersports: There Are A Range Of Water Sports To Enjoy, Including Paddleboarding, Scuba Diving, And Sailing On The Picturesque Alpine Lake
  • The Farmer's Market: Of Course There Is A Must See Local Farmers Market That Is Held On Tuesday, Friday, And Sunday
  • The Gardens Of Europe: Manicured Gardens And Perfect For A Picnic

Related: 10 Of The World’s Least Visited Castles You Should Travel To

Palais de l'Ile

Literally meaning the "Palace of the Island", this is one of the central features and attractions of the town. Dating from the 12th century, it was a former stronghold from the medieval ages and has been rebuilt several times. It is built on a tiny natural river island and is open to the public and you can visit its old courtrooms, the prison cells, the spooky dungeons, and the old chapel. It was designated a historic monument way back in 1900.

  • When To Visit: Summer, Late Spring, Early Autumn. Winter May Be A Little Dready But The Mountains Will Be Capped In Snow

It has been described as a house in the shape of a ship and has served various functions in its long history. This includes being an administrative center, a school for stone carvers and carpenters, a gymnasium, accommodation, a courthouse, and even a prison. It was first attested to as a prison back in 1325 when the lord of Annecy paid for the food for two of its inmates. At some points in its history, it served multiple functions at once, including being an administrative center and a prison simultaneously - at least until 1864 when a new prison was built. The Palais de l'Ile entered a new chapter of its long career in 1865 when for 15 years it became a home for the elderly.

Today this is one of the central attractions of the town and can be visited. There are guided tours, unguided tours, and themed tours available. The cost of entry is very low.
  • Cost Of Admission: Adult 3.80 € ($4.50)
  • Cost Of Admission: Child 2 € ($2.50) - Children Under 12 Free

Annecy is just a small town and it only has three canals plus the river. So while it's beautiful and stunning it will not take very long to see and explore. It is best visited as a day's excursion, or as an overnight stay. Otherwise is a peaceful and tranquil place ideal for those travelers looking for a small and quiet retreat.

Related: 10 Unforgettable Things To Do In Venice