Charming Day in Annecy: Explore the Venice of the Alps

Day 1: Explore the Lakeside

Annecy, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café des Avenues

Start your day with a delicious breakfast of flaky croissants and rich, aromatic coffee at this cozy café, perfect for people-watching.
Located just a 10-minute walk from the city center.
EUR 10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Stroll along Lake Annecy

Take a leisurely walk along the turquoise waters of Lake Annecy, where the backdrop of the snow-capped mountains makes for an unbelievable view.
You can access the lakeside from the café within a few minutes.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Palais de l'Isle

This iconic 12th-century building located on an island in the Thiou River serves as a historical museum, showcasing the history of Annecy.
Continue on foot; it’s a short 10-minute walk from the lakeside.
EUR 5, 1 hour

11:00AM

Wander the Old Town

Explore the charming canals and pastel-colored buildings of Annecy’s Old Town, known as 'La Vieille Ville', full of picturesque sights.
Old Town is adjacent to Palais de l'Isle.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Freti

Indulge in local Savoyard cuisine with a delicious tartiflette—a hearty dish of potatoes, cheese, and bacon that will refuel your energy for the afternoon.
Located just a 5-minute walk from Old Town.
EUR 20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Bicycle ride around Lake Annecy

Rent a bike and ride around the stunning 42-km perimeter of Lake Annecy, enjoying amazing views and beautiful spots for photos.
Bicycle rentals are available throughout the lake area.
EUR 15 for rental, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Château d'Annecy

Explore the impressive castle that offers beautiful views over the lake and houses a museum featuring local art and history.
Head back to Old Town and walk uphill to the castle; it takes about 15 minutes.
EUR 6, 1 hour

5:30PM

Relax at Plage d'Albigny

Unwind at this beautiful public beach, where you can lay back and soak in the alpine sun with the stunning lake view.
It's about a 15-minute walk from the castle.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at La Table de Fifine

Finish your day with a gourmet meal comprised of seasonal ingredients and regional specialties in this quaint restaurant.
A 10-minute walk from the beach to the restaurant.
EUR 35, 2 hours

9:00PM

Evening stroll by the lake

Wrap up your enchanting day with a peaceful stroll along the lake, watching the sunset reflect off the water veins and enjoying the serene ambiance.
The lake is right by the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour
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