5-Day Scenic Journey from Geneva to Annecy and Lac de Bourget

Day 1: Discover Geneva

Geneva, Switzerland on June 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café du Parc des Bastions

Enjoy a peaceful breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee overlooking Bastions Park, perfect for starting your day in Geneva.
CHF15, 1h0m

9:15am

Visit Jet d'Eau

The iconic Genevan fountain is a must-see, shooting water 140 meters into the air, symbolizing the city's charm and elegance. Ideal for a morning stroll by the lake.
Free, 0h30m

10:00am

Explore Old Town Geneva

Wander Geneva’s charming Old Town with cobblestone streets, historical landmarks like St. Peter’s Cathedral, and quaint shops.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Café Papon

Dine in an elegant historic setting with classic Swiss and French cuisine, located in the heart of Old Town.
CHF40, 1h15m

2:00pm

Visit the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

Learn about humanitarian work through interactive exhibits and emotional stories; open from 10am to 6pm.
CHF15, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Parc des Bastions

Enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful park featuring the Reformation Wall and numerous sculptures.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Les Armures

Experience traditional Swiss dishes like raclette or fondue in a cozy medieval setting.
CHF50, 1h30m

Day 2: Travel to Annecy

Annecy, France on July 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Boulangerie Pâtisserie Gaches

Start your day with fresh French pastries and coffee before departure.
EUR7, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive from Geneva to Annecy

Enjoy a scenic 45-minute drive south through the Jura Mountains to the picturesque town of Annecy.
Car rental/gas approx EUR30, 0h45m

10:00am

Check-in and settle at accommodation

Drop your bags and get ready to explore Annecy.
Varies, 1h0m

11:00am

Walk along Lake Annecy

Stroll the scenic lakefront promenade, admire crystal-clear water and stunning mountain views.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Le Freti

Taste authentic Savoyard specialties such as tartiflette and raclette in a warm and inviting setting.
EUR30, 1h15m

2:00pm

Explore Annecy Old Town

Discover canals, pastel-colored houses, and landmarks like Palais de l’Isle and Château d'Annecy.
Free, 2h30m

5:00pm

Boat tour on Lake Annecy

Take a relaxing 1-hour boat cruise to enjoy scenic panoramic views.
EUR15, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at La Ciboulette

Enjoy gourmet French cuisine with local ingredients in this acclaimed restaurant.
EUR45, 1h30m

Day 3: Annecy Adventures

Annecy, France on July 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Le Pain de l'Antan

Delight in artisan breads and coffees to fuel your day.
EUR8, 0h45m

9:00am

Hike Semnoz Mountain

Enjoy panoramic views of the Alps and Lake Annecy on this accessible hike; allow 3 hours round trip.
Free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Auberge du Semnoz

Savor traditional Alpine dishes with great views after your hike.
EUR35, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit the Annecy Musée-Château

Discover regional art, history, and archaeological exhibits housed within the medieval castle; open 10am-6pm.
EUR6, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Jardins de l'Europe

Unwind in the lovely lakeside gardens with flowers and sculptures.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at L'Esquisse

Experience inventive cuisine combining tradition and modern flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
EUR50, 1h30m

Day 4: Lac de Bourget Exploration

Lac de Bourget, France on July 3, 2025

7:30am

Early breakfast in Annecy

Grab a quick breakfast at a local bakery before heading out.
EUR5, 0h30m

8:00am

Drive to Lac de Bourget

Head towards the largest natural lake in France, approximately a 1h15m scenic drive from Annecy.
Fuel approx EUR20, 1h15m

9:30am

Visit Abbaye d'Hautecombe

Tour this splendid lakeside abbey that blends rich history with beautiful architecture; open 9:30am-6pm.
EUR8, 1h0m

11:00am

Explore Lac du Bourget by kayak

Rent a kayak from local outfitters and enjoy peaceful paddling on the lake’s calm waters.
EUR25, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Le Bateau Ivre

Relax lakeside while enjoying fresh fish dishes and regional specialties.
EUR35, 1h15m

3:00pm

Walk the Sentier du Tour du Lac

Enjoy a scenic hiking path along parts of the lake to spot wildlife and stunning vistas.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Check-in and relax at nearby hotel

Settle in and refresh after your day of exploration.
Varies, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at L'Éveil des Sens

Dine on gourmet French cuisine in a contemporary setting near the lake.
EUR50, 1h30m

Day 5: Relax & Departure

Lac de Bourget, France on July 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely hotel breakfast with views of Lac de Bourget.
Included/varies, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Château de Chambéry

Drive 30 minutes to Chambéry to explore this historic castle, former residence of the Dukes of Savoy; open 10am-6pm.
EUR7, 1h30m

11:00am

Explore Chambéry Old Town

Stroll through charming streets with quaint shops and cafes before heading back.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at L’Inattendu

Enjoy contemporary French cuisine with a creative twist in Chambéry’s center.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Departure or travel back to Geneva

Return journey or onward travel after a refreshing trip around Annecy and Lac de Bourget.
Depends on mode of transport, Varies