Discover the enchanting Venetian-inspired charm of Annecy's historic center and picturesque waterways on guided tours.
Annecy's Old Town, often referred to as the "Venice of the Alps," is a captivating labyrinth of cobblestone streets, flower-adorned balconies, and glistening canals. Its charm lies in the vibrant history etched into every pastel-hued building and the gentle flow of water that weaves through its heart. These narrow waterways, fed by the crystal-clear Lake Annecy, are not just scenic backdrops; they are integral to the town's identity, shaping its architecture and its very atmosphere. From the iconic Palais de l'Isle, a medieval island prison that looks like a fairytale castle, to the lively market squares and hidden courtyards, there's a story around every corner. Exploring Annecy's Old Town and canals on a guided tour offers an unparalleled way to peel back the layers of this historic gem. Tours delve into the rich past of the Savoyard region, explaining the strategic importance of Annecy and the lives of its former inhabitants. You'll learn about the unique architectural styles, the function of the canals throughout history, and the traditions that still thrive today. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll, a more in-depth historical exploration, or even a unique perspective from a boat, these excursions are designed to immerse you in the essence of Annecy, revealing its picturesque beauty and fascinating heritage in a way that simply wandering might not achieve.
Discover our top picks for annecy old town & canals tours in Annecy

Dubbed the ‘Venice of the Alps,’ the French town of Annecy is a feast for the eyes (and all the other senses, really). Board a coach in Geneva for an easy 1-hour drive to this romantic village at the base of the snowcapped Alps. Follow your guide on a brief introduction of charming Annecy Old Town to visit iconic Palais de l'Isle, Château d’Annecy and glittering Lake Annecy, the third-largest lake in France. Afterward, you'll have 1.5 hours to spend as you please in this storybook Alpine town.

Use clues at each attraction to find your next destination and challenge yourself to use logic, imagination, observation, and team spirit to complete the game. Uncover local information and facts about the city as you explore. Discover hidden gems and narrow streets. Experience our new audio guide. Without a schedule and at your own pace, pause anytime and continue later or even another day. Work as a team or compete with each other. A unique team-building activity perfect for couples, families, companies, students and groups of friends. You will visit: Pont des Amours Jardins de l’Europe Panorama du lac Hôtel de Ville d’Annecy Église Saint-François de Sales Le Palais de I’Île Église Notre Dame de Liesse Old Town Hall Old Town Annecy Cathedral Ponts Morens

Set off on this tour of Annecy, the Venice of the Alps, to learn about it's delicious food and its importance in the history of France. You will visit the old town, the most romantic part of the city, starting at “Le Pont des Amours”. You will make 5 stops to try local wines grown on the steep mountains, enjoy a charcuterie tasting, try a tasty tartiflette made by local craftsmen, and discover the local sweets by creative artisans. You will finish on a more audacious touch, the Genepi, produced with herbs that seem to cure all evils (including sadness). As you explore the city with a local foodie, you'll also learn about Annecy's history and culture, and enjoy sightseeing along the way. Some of the landmarks include Église Saint-François de Sales, Palais de l’isle - Les vieilles prisons, Fontaine Quiberet, the house of Madame de Warens and Église Notre Dame de Liesse. Everything is included in the tour, so keep your wallet tucked away!

Discover the charm of Geneva and Annecy on this combination sightseeing tour. Start and cross the border into France to explore the enchanting Alpine town of Annecy, whose medieval Old Town is a sight to be seen. In the afternoon, come back for a 15 minutes break at the bus station, keep going with Geneva tour for 2 hours, listen to informative commentary from a knowledgeable guide. The 2-hour tour of Geneva allow you to see top attractions like the UN headquarters, the Flower Clock and Geneva Old Town. Travel by coach, mini foot or by foot with an expert guide, followed by an optional 1-hour Lake Geneva cruise.

Do Eat Better Experience Annecy Food Tour is a walking tour around the old town. You will be guided by a Local Expert who's able to explain every detail of the selected restaurants, their preparations, and any other relevant curiosities. You will be able to discover local wines, grown on the steep mountains, with local products. Have a taste of a generous and tasty tartiflette, prepared thanks to the know-how of passionate local craftsmen with a character as strong as their cheese. Discover also local cheese and sweets, put in shape by creative and passionate artisans. The Savoyard gastronomy will surprise you, and the beauty of the city, let yourself be amazed by the hidden delicacy of this area and its cuisine!

Indulge in a truly bespoke Annecy experience with your private concierge, where our team of experts tailors every moment to your unique preferences. Begin your journey with a leisurely stroll tour through the charming old town and picturesque parks, immersing yourself in the city's rich history and natural beauty. Then, step aboard a private boat for an exclusive lake tour, allowing you to soak in Annecy's stunning vistas at your pace. Discover fine dining in the best restaurants and embark on scenics roads between lakes and mountain. Your private concierge will organise the best experience so you can discover the best of Annecy. Don't hesitate to contact us if you need assistant to plan your whole stay from hotels, villas, experiences, transfers or any other services our team help you create your dream holiday. All experiences, activities and services will have extra cost. The Luxury Host

A tour to discover the pleasure of a ride on a Segway. Ride a circuit with a moderate pace that is perfect to discover the Segway TP in all its forms: an urban hike through the lake, the old town, and an off-road experience along the Thiou river. An ideal way to get off the beaten track on this 2-hour, guided, small-group tour. Maximum group size is 8 people.

You will discover the magnificent Semnoz forest, a veritable "green flow" which starts at an altitude of 1,700m and ends at the edge of the old town of Annecy. In addition to being the scene of many mountain biking competitions, this forest offers some unique views of Lake Annecy! During this outing, you will test the 2020 hanging Lapierre eBikes, among the best electric bikes on the market today.

Discover the charm of Pérouges and Annecy on this day trip. Explore the heart of the French Alps and experience the best of the region. Step back in time in Pérouges, a medieval village, and enjoy the beauty of Dombes, before heading to Annecy, where lake and mountains create a breathtaking setting. Your journey begins with a scenic drive to Dombes, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the medieval town with its 15th and 16th-century architecture, and take at the Hostellerie du Vieux Pérouges. Here, you’ll taste the famous galette, a local pastry, paired with a glass of refreshing cider Next, continue to Annecy for a free lunch in the charming old town. Spend the afternoon wandering through this historic city, where you’ll find traces of its past under the influence of the Savoy family and Switzerland. For an extra special experience, consider adding a lake cruise or a cheese tasting to your tour. Contact us for more information and to book your adventure!

Visit one of the cutest cities of the Rhône-Alpes region of France: Annecy. It's situated in the Alps, so if you love skiing this is the place for you. Today, you can enjoy a private walking tour of Annecy with a private guide who will take you to all the spots that interest you most! Also known as the "Second Venice," Annecy has plenty of beauty in store. See the Palais de l'Isle, which was a prison in the 12th century, and for something completely different, move on to cross the bridge of lovers. Another must-see is the gleaming lake of Annecy, inarguably a city highlight. Before you end your day in Annecy, you are also recommended to visit the Old Town, a lovely area full of quaint cafés to keep visitors well-fueled and busy. If there is any place in particular you would like to go but it is not mentioned in the tour description, just ask your guide and he or she will be happy to take you wherever you want to go.

Enjoy this private 2 hour walking tour of Annecy. Get to know the best sites of this beautiful location. Have our private official tour guide guide you on this unique experience. We will arrange a meeting point with your private guide to start this private walking tour of Annecy. Amongst others, here are some sites that you will enjoy: Lac d’Annecy Vieille Ville Jardins de l’Europe Pont des Amours Palais de l’Île Cathedral and Basilica Chateau d’Annecy Much more! At the end of the tour, your private official tour guide will drop you off in a central place in Annecy.

Explore Annecy's stunning landscape with a professional photographer as your guide. I will create a personalised photo tour depending on where you would like to discover and what you would love as your photo backdrop. Whether it be mountains, lakes, parks or the stunning old town. I can't wait to show it off to you. Take home a piece of Annecy's natural beauty with stunning photos of your trip.

Annecy is referred to as Venice of the Alps - the jewel of the Haute-Savoie. The old town is infused with antique charm, from its small cobbled streets to colourful pastel houses or even its transverse canals. There is a fascinating story associated with each house of the town and it still has various 16th- and 17th-century buildings, now painted in hues of peach and rose and housing restaurants. Admire the magnificent Catholic churches worth visiting, where you’ll find impressive stained-glass windows, beautiful grand organs, and Medieval paintings.

You will also discover the city of Annecy, in France. Nicknamed the "Venice of the Alps", Annecy offers a harmonious and romantic atmosphere. Surrounded by mountains, the city offers amazing views of the purest lake of Europe.

After leaving Lyon, your first destination will be the medieval town of Perouges. Upon arrival, you will appreciate the medieval buildings with wooden facades preserved over time, walking through its narrow streets your guide will tell you about the stories of its streets and we will help you visit the main square, its 1792 Freedom Tree and the Old Perouges. We will take a break and taste the best culinary dishes offered by the town in a small restaurant. Later we continue to the city of Annecy where you will meet your official tour guide for a 2 hours guided tour. You will visit the most important monuments of the town, such as the Island Palace located over the Thiou River. Among many other places to visit, you can enjoy: The High Door Princes Street Tilo Square The Old Pérouges Museum The Dombes Plateau Lower Gate of Perouges Perouges Town Hall The Island Palace (Palais de l’Isle) Château d’Annecy And much more! At the end, your private driver will take you back Lyon.
Guides share fascinating stories and historical context often missed when exploring independently.
Navigate the charming but sometimes winding streets with confidence, letting a local guide lead the way.
Discover the best vantage points for iconic photos of the Palais de l'Isle and the canals.
Gain a deeper understanding of Savoyard culture and traditions from knowledgeable local experts.
Maximize your time by covering key highlights and points of interest within a structured itinerary.
Experience the canals from a different angle, often including boat trips for a unique view.
These are the most common tours, focusing on the history, architecture, and key landmarks of Annecy's Old Town. Expect to learn about the Dukes of Savoy, the town's medieval past, and its picturesque canals.
See Annecy's beauty from the water with guided boat tours. These offer a unique perspective of the Old Town, gliding through the canals and potentially venturing onto Lake Annecy. They are a relaxing way to see the city.
Combine sightseeing with culinary exploration. These tours often include stops at local markets and artisan food shops, sampling regional specialties and learning about Annecy's gastronomic traditions.
For a more personalized experience, private tours cater to your specific interests and pace. You can tailor the itinerary to focus on particular historical periods, architectural details, or even a specific theme.
Tours typically range from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the type of tour and the depth of exploration.
Annecy can experience varied weather. Tours generally operate rain or shine, so bringing layers and a compact umbrella is advisable. Boat tours may be weather-dependent.
Group sizes can vary significantly, from intimate private tours of a few people to larger walking groups of up to 20-30 participants.
Most walking tours include the guide's commentary and insights. Boat tours include the cruise. Food tours will often include several tastings. Entrance fees to specific attractions are usually not included unless specified.
Meeting points are usually in central, easily accessible locations within the Old Town, such as near the Palais de l'Isle or in one of the main squares.
Be prepared for potential additional costs for snacks, souvenirs, optional entrance fees, or food purchases if not on a dedicated food tour.
Book in advance, especially during peak season (summer and holidays), as popular tours can fill up quickly.
Wear comfortable walking shoes; the Old Town is characterized by cobblestone streets which can be uneven.
Check the tour itinerary to understand if it includes any specific tastings or entry fees, so you can budget accordingly.
Don't be afraid to ask your guide questions! They are a wealth of local knowledge.
Consider a morning tour to experience the vibrant market atmosphere or an evening tour for a different perspective as the lights come on.
If you're interested in photography, look for tours that emphasize scenic viewpoints and allow time for photos.
Be aware of the difference between tours that go *on* Lake Annecy and those that focus *within* the canals of the Old Town.
If you have mobility issues, look for tours specifically advertised as accessible or opt for a canal boat cruise which is generally easier.
A: A guided tour is highly recommended. Whether it's a walking tour to learn the history or a boat cruise for scenic views, it allows you to appreciate the charm and significance of the area more deeply than exploring alone.
A: Many walking tours are suitable for children, especially those with engaging stories or shorter durations. Some boat tours can also be enjoyable for younger visitors. It's always best to check the specific tour details for age recommendations.
A: Prices vary depending on the duration, type, and operator. You can generally find walking tours starting from around $28 USD (or €25 EUR), with more specialized or private tours costing more.
A: Yes, it's strongly advised to book your tours in advance, particularly if you're traveling during peak tourist seasons (summer, Easter, Christmas). This ensures availability for your preferred date and time.
A: Most walking tours will include commentary and photo opportunities of the Palais de l'Isle from the outside, as it's a central landmark. Some tours might mention it as part of a broader historical context, but actual interior visits are often separate activities.
A: Canal tours focus specifically on the waterways within the historic Old Town, offering close-up views of the bridges and buildings. Lake Annecy tours typically venture onto the larger lake for panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains.
A: Yes, Annecy is a popular destination, so many tour operators offer guided tours in multiple languages, including French, Spanish, German, and Italian. Check the specific tour listings for language options.
Wander through the fairytale Old Town, known as Venice of the Alps, for charming canals and floral balconies.
Experience the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy, perfect for swimming, boating, and breathtaking alpine views.
Savor exquisite Savoyard cuisine in intimate bistros, a delightful culinary journey you won't forget.
Explore the medieval Palais de l'Isle, a former prison and courthouse right in the heart of the Thiou canal.
Soak in the relaxed French Alpine atmosphere, enjoying local markets and friendly lakeside strolls.
Discover a picturesque lakeside gem where vibrant history meets stunning natural beauty, truly unforgettable.
France experiences a predominantly temperate climate, with variations across its diverse regions. Expect mild, wet winters and warm summers in the north and west, while the south enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters.
May, June, and September offer the most pleasant weather across much of France, with warm temperatures, lower rainfall, and fewer crowds than the peak summer months.
July and August are the busiest months, characterized by warm to hot weather, long daylight hours, and a vibrant atmosphere, especially in coastal and tourist hotspots.
The winter months (November to March) are generally cooler and wetter, with fewer tourists and lower prices, making it ideal for city breaks and experiencing local culture without the crowds.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Immerse yourself in Annecy's vibrant culture, from its famed market to authentic culinary traditions, on expertly guided local life tours.
Step back in time with guided tours exploring Annecy's enchanting medieval past, from its iconic château to its charming canals and cobbled streets.
Discover breathtaking trails and scenic routes around Lake Annecy with expertly guided hiking and cycling tours.
Discover the pristine beauty of Lake Annecy with a wide range of boat trips and water activities from guided tours to private charters.
Savor Annecy's Alpine Flavors: Explore Authentic Savoyard Cuisine and Wines on Guided Tours.
Getting around Annecy is quite straightforward. The compact Old Town is best explored on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate its charming canals and narrow streets. For longer distances, especially to reach lakeside beaches or surrounding villages, the local bus network (Sibra) is efficient and affordable. Cycling is also hugely popular, with many dedicated paths around Lake Annecy, and bike rental shops are readily available. Taxis are an option for convenience, though pricier. Overall, Annecy is a very walkable and bike-friendly city.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
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