Top 7 activities in Annecy

Annecy, here you are! You’ll be amazed to see the emblematic lake with its translucent waters, the mountainous panorama between the sky and the Alps, and the romantic little streets with their holiday atmosphere…

There’s nothing to stop you from marvelling, and only one question remains: what activities can you do in Annecy?

Luckily, this Savoyard destination is one of the most popular in eastern France. There are plenty of activities on offer to discover the lake and the surrounding area. They’re sure to satisfy your craving for cheeses galore, natural escapades and a change of scenery in the mountains.

Annecy and its surrounding countryside deserve your undivided attention. Start with its green spaces and the landscaped banks of the lake. Then there’s the mountainous skyline that circles the town and lends height to the panorama.

Psst, Annecy is a city that can also be explored with a shuffleboard! Savoy wines, mountain beers, charcuterie and cheeses galore: the list of local delights is endless. Try your hand at being a culinary critic as you sample (mostly) savoury and sweet specialities.

What to do in Annecy? 7 ideas for activities

The streets of Annecy, and in particular Annecy-le-Vieux, offer a wealth of activities in their own right. Take a stroll through the beautifully cobbled, flower-filled and sometimes rollercoaster-like alleys! You’ll fall in love with the culinary speciality shops and charming restaurants that dot the pedestrian streets. Food lovers be warned: taking part in a food tour in Annecy is a delicious activity in every way.

1 – Pedal-boating on Lake Annecy

Category: €€ / Unusual

Description: Annecy’s pedal boats are a bit like “the lake’s must-sees”. As soon as the first rays of sunshine appear, Annecy’s young people and the first tourists flock to these small 2, 4 or 6-seater boats. Go to the banks of the town centre and the old town to hire them. You’ll love the regressive, whimsical feel of Annecy’s pedal boats. They’re the perfect way to cool off and enjoy a completely different view of the lake and town, away from the hustle and bustle of other holidaymakers.

Good to know: Can you pedal-boat in Annecy with children? A thousand times yes! Several boats have everything you need to have a great time. You’ll find pedal boats with slides, non-slip floors and canvas roofs to shelter you from the sun.

2. Around the lake on an electric bike

Category: €€ / Sporting / Cultural

Description: Have you noticed the cyclists whizzing through the streets of Annecy? Bikes are everywhere, because the people of Annecy are fans of them. We can’t blame them! Adopt this economical, environmentally-friendly and invigorating way of getting around. From the historic centre to the shores of the lake, an electric bike will take you everywhere. In the centre of Annecy, there are several rental agencies to help you find the bike best suited to your needs.

Good to know: Cycling around Lake Annecy is an unforgettable challenge. With little or no effort and an electric bike, it’s an adventure that’s accessible to everyone. For a day or half-day, follow the voie verte along the western shore of the lake towards Ugine. On the way back, continue along the eastern shore, which will take you back to Annecy without a hitch.

3. Get together for a cheese and wine tasting

Category: €€ / Gastronomy / Cultural

Description: Taste the best of the region’s emblematic cheeses and wines, in the heart of Annecy. A fine team including a sommelier and a Meilleur Ouvrier de France Master Cheesemaker will take your gourmet getaway to a whole new level. On the menu: Tome des Bauges, Beaufort d’Alpage, Reblochon… Just imagine the aroma! In a friendly atmosphere, surrounded by connoisseurs, you’ll be able to feast on the best Savoyard specialities!

4. Take to the skies in Annecy with a paraglider

Category: €€€ / Sensations / Unusual / Sporty

Description: Spread your wings over the lake and near the town of Annecy. Paragliding is the best way to discover Lake Annecy in a sensational way. From the sky, the lake surrounded by clear, green mountains will reveal itself to you in the most beautiful of ways. Don’t worry about safety: you’ll be accompanied by qualified instructors. They’re just waiting for you to come and take the plunge.

5. Taking to the open sea on a stand-up paddle

Category: €€ / Unusual / Sporty

Description: One of the best ways to discover the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy is by stand-up paddle! Treat yourself to a change of scenery as you float on the calm eddies of the lake. Stand-up paddling is becoming increasingly popular, thanks to its no-holds-barred, zen-like philosophy. Stand-up paddling in Annecy allows you to admire the beauty of the landscape on your own, without the noise or robustness of a mechanical device. You’ll see, you’ll quickly become a fan.

6. Take a segway ride around the lake

photo credit funbooker

Category: €€ / Unusual / Cultural

Description: Look at the sun shining down on the shores of Lake Annecy. The lake’s landscaped quays and pedestrian areas are an invitation to go segwaying. Yes, thanks to the large, safe areas, you’ll avoid any risk of accidents from other vehicles. As you’ll see, it doesn’t take long to learn how to handle a Segway. Take your family on a segway tour of the city to make your visit even more fun!

Good to know: Segways are popular in Annecy, so we recommend that you book your tour in advance. That way, you won’t be disappointed when you arrive.

7. Museum of Animated Film

Category: Free / Cultural

Description: This cultural activity will bring out your childlike soul! Just two minutes from Annecy Castle, the Musée du film d’animation exhibition will take you back through the history of this art of wonder. This fun tour, based on the animated film collection of the Annecy Museums, is an enrichment for young and old alike. You’ll be propelled to the heart of the animated image creation process. Cameras, original creations and authors’ worlds… It’s all there for you to enjoy.