Annecy

Overview

Gallery

Itinerary

• The Thiou River, known locally in French as Riviu00e8re du Thiou or simply Le Thiou, flows through the historic centre of Annecy. It carries the waters of Lake Annecy toward the Fier River, shaping the canals, bridges, and waterside streets of the old town. Its clear stream reflects Annecyu2019s close connection with water, alpine landscape, and urban charm.

• Porte Sainte-Claire is one of the historic gates of Annecyu2019s old town. Built into the medieval fortifications, it marked an important entrance from the southern side of the city. Its stone arch, defensive form, and connection with the surrounding streets reflect Annecyu2019s past as a fortified town shaped by trade, protection, and alpine routes.

• Annecy Castle, known locally in French as Chu00e2teau du2019Annecy, rises above the old town and the canals of the Thiou. Once the residence of the Counts of Geneva and later the Dukes of Genevois-Nemours, it combines medieval defensive elements with later residential architecture. Its towers, courtyards, and hillside position reflect Annecyu2019s noble past and strategic place in the Alpine region.

• Marchu00e9 du2019Annecy is one of the traditional markets of the old town. Set among canals, arcades, and historic streets, it brings together local produce, cheeses, charcuterie, flowers, and regional specialities. The market reflects Annecyu2019s Savoyard food culture and the lively everyday rhythm of the historic centre.

• Cathu00e9drale Saint-Pierre is the main cathedral of Annecy. Built in the 16th century as a Franciscan church, it later became the cathedral of the Diocese of Annecy. Its Renaissance fau00e7ade, calm interior, and historic organ reflect the cityu2019s religious heritage and its role as an important centre of Savoyard spiritual life.

• Pont Morens is one of Annecyu2019s historic bridges over the Thiou River. Built in stone, it forms part of the old townu2019s network of canals, passages, and waterside streets. The bridge reflects Annecyu2019s medieval urban structure and the close relationship between the town, its river, and everyday movement through the historic centre.

• Le Palais de lu2019u00cele is one of Annecyu2019s most recognizable landmarks. Set on a small island in the Thiou River, it has served over the centuries as a noble residence, courthouse, prison, and administrative building. Its stone walls, pointed shape, and waterside setting make it a symbol of Annecyu2019s medieval history and canal-lined old town.

• u00c9glise Saint-Franu00e7ois de Sales is a historic church in Annecyu2019s old town near the Thiou canals. Built in the 17th century, it is closely linked with Saint Francis de Sales and Saint Jane Frances de Chantal, major figures of Savoyard Catholic history. Its Baroque character reflects Annecyu2019s role as a centre of Counter-Reformation spirituality.

• Jardins de lu2019Europe is a landscaped park on the shore of Lake Annecy. Created in the 19th century, it reflects the elegant public garden style of the period, with lawns, old trees, waterside paths, and views toward the mountains. The park connects Annecyu2019s old town with the lake and its refined Alpine setting.

• Lake Annecy is one of the clearest and most scenic lakes in France. Surrounded by Alpine mountains, historic villages, and waterfront parks, it has shaped the identity of Annecy as a lakeside town. Its blue water, mountain reflections, and long history of leisure and navigation make it a central symbol of the region.

• The Monument to Claude Louis Berthollet stands in Annecyu2019s Jardins de lu2019Europe near the lake. Created by sculptor Carlo Marochetti in the 19th century, it honours the chemist born in nearby Talloires. The monument connects Annecyu2019s Alpine setting with the scientific legacy of the Enlightenment and Napoleonic era.

• Brother Arsenu2019s Sundial, known locally in French as Le Gnomon du Fru00e8re Arsu00e8ne or Lu2019Unique, is an unusual solar monument in Annecyu2019s Jardins de lu2019Europe. Designed in 1874 by Capuchin monk Jean-Marie Dumurgier, known as Brother Arsu00e8ne, it combines multiple sundials on a star-shaped structure. The monument reflects 19th-century curiosity about science, time, astronomy, and public space by the lake.

• Pont des Amours is an elegant footbridge in Annecy linking the Jardins de lu2019Europe with the Pu00e2quier lakeside lawns. Built in the early 20th century, it crosses the Canal du Vassu00e9 near Lake Annecy. Its romantic name, lake views, and tree-lined setting make it one of the cityu2019s most beloved symbols.

Good to know

• Public transportation options are available nearby

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

• The audio guide is available through a special mobile app for iOS and Android

• Admission tickets to the attractions are not included. Please buy them separately in advance

• The tour doesnu2019t cover all sights in Annecy

• This is a self-guided tour. You will need to download the audio guide mobile app, activate your purchase, and follow the route on the app's map. There is no human guide provided

• The audio guide is available anytime, the date and time provided for checkout are approximate

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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