Lyon & Annecy 5‑Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration of Lyon

Morning: Arrive in Lyon and settle into your hotel. Take a leisurely stroll to the historic Vieux Lyon to admire its Renaissance facades and hidden traboules.

Afternoon: Visit the iconic Basilique Notre‑Dame de Fourvière for panoramic city views, then wander down the Roman‑era Ancient Theatre of Fourvière.

Evening: Dine at a traditional bouchon in the Presqu'île district, sampling local specialties such as quenelles and tarte à la praline.

Day 2: Museums & Green Spaces

Morning: Explore the contemporary Musée des Confluences, where science and anthropology intersect in striking architecture.

Afternoon: Relax in the expansive Parc de la Tête d’Or, rent a boat on the lake, and visit the botanical garden and zoo.

Evening: Enjoy a riverside walk along the Saône, ending with drinks at a trendy bar in the Confluence neighborhood.

Day 3: Culinary Delights & Croix‑Rousse

Morning: Join a guided food tour of the Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, tasting charcuterie, cheeses, and local wines.

Afternoon: Climb up to the bohemian hill of Croix‑Rousse, visit the historic silk workshops and enjoy city vistas from the Mur des Canuts.

Evening: Savor a gourmet dinner at a Michelin‑starred restaurant near Place Bellecour, then stroll through the illuminated streets.

Day 4: Transfer to Annecy & Old Town

Morning: Take a scenic train ride to Annecy (≈2 hours). Check into your accommodation and drop off luggage.

Afternoon: Explore the charming Vieille Ville (Old Town), with its pastel houses, canals, and the stunning Palais de l'Isle.

Evening: Dine by the lake at a waterfront restaurant, trying the regional dish tartiflette, and enjoy a relaxed night walk along the **Lake Annecy** promenade.

Day 5: Lake Annecy & Departure

Morning: Rent a pedal boat or take a short cruise to admire the crystal‑clear waters of Lake Annecy and the surrounding Alpine scenery.

Afternoon: Visit the medieval Château d'Annecy for art exhibits and panoramic views, then stroll through the nearby gardens.

Evening: Enjoy a final leisurely dinner in the Old Town before heading to the train station or airport for departure.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Vieux Lyon – 2 hrs – €0 (free walking)
• Basilique Notre‑Dame de Fourvière – 1 hr – €0 (free entry)
• Musée des Confluences – 2 hrs – €9
• Parc de la Tête d’Or – 3 hrs – €0 (boat rental €5)
• Hall​es de Lyon Paul Bocuse – 2 hrs – €30 (tasting)
• Croix‑Rousse & Mur des Canuts – 2 hrs – €0
• Train Lyon → Annecy – 2 hrs – €25
• Vieille Ville & Palais de l'Isle – 2 hrs – €0
• Lake Annecy boat rental/cruise – 2 hrs – €12
• Château d'Annecy – 1.5 hrs – €8
• Meals (average) – 5 days – €150
• Accommodation (mid‑range, 4 nights) – €80 / night – €320
• Local transport & misc. – €40
• Total Estimated Cost: €594

Tips

If you have extra time, add a day to explore the vineyards of the nearby Beaujolais region or take a short hike in the Alps from Annecy. To shorten the trip, combine Day 2 and Day 3 activities in Lyon and skip the train ride, opting for a day‑trip to the historic town of Pérouges instead of traveling to Annecy.