Annecy, France is not the type of town where you will see and experience a lot of famous sights like museums and statues. Even so, it is still one of the prettiest cities in France, with plenty of breathtaking views and good places to visit. It’s a small town, with a total area of 66.9 square kilometres (25.8 square miles), but there is one thing you will surely love about this place – its many Instagrammable spots! Yep, that’s right. This town has a lot in store for photo and video lovers, alike! So without further ado, here are the best things to do in Annecy:
1. Cruise on Lake Annecy
This is the third largest lake in France and is billed as “Europe’s cleanest lake”, known for its swimming and water sports. You can ride a bike and roam around the perimeter of this attraction and feel like you are dreaming, at this surreal lake. If you are tired, hire a paddleboat and take photos of the beautiful scenery and stunning view of the mountains. Time to take out your camera adventurous people!
Lake Annecy
Address: 2 clos du verger les teppes vertes | Chapeiry, 74540, Annecy, France
2. Pose like royalty at the Château d'Annecy
Explore your inner blue blood as you take photos in this beautiful castle. It was believed to be the home of the Counts of Geneva and the Dukes of Genevois-Nemours, during 12th and 16th centuries, before it was damaged by a fire and abandoned. It was later acquired by the town of Annecy in 1953 and then restored, with an added museum. With its stunning view, this is surely one of the best spots to take a souvenir photo!
Château d'Annecy
Address: 1 Place du Château, 74000 Annecy, France
3. Take a prenup shot at Pont des Amours (Bridge of the Amours)
Annecy, France is known for its stunning canal and lake views. One of these is found at the Pont des Amours, a footbridge on beautiful Lake Annecy, at the entrance of the Canal du Vassé, which is said to be crossed by many lovers in the past, who found refuge and tranquillity. Formerly known as the “Gateway to the Public Garden”, it is believed that if two lovers kiss in the middle of the bridge, they will be united for life. Pack your bag with your lover and head to this place. Time to take a very romantic shot!
Pont des Amours
Address: 74000 Annecy, France
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4. Take a photo of the fascinating Annecy Cathedral
This Roman Catholic church is the national monument of Annecy, France. It is said that this church was used as a temple to the Goddess of Reason, during the French revolution. The organ, inside the church, was built by none other than Nicolas-Antoine Lété, the organ builder for the French king, during the 19th century. Don’t miss a photo with this church that was built in the 16th century!
Annecy Cathedral
Address: 8 Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau, 74000 Annecy, France
5. Take a nature shot at Semnoz
This may be a bit far from the city of Annecy but like the saying goes, it is truly worth the wait! Not only can you come here during the summer, this place is also a great place to visit if you are exploring the city of Annecy during the winter. Be mesmerized by this mountain, where they also offer a ski resort. A GoPro camera is a must!
Semnoz
Address: 74540 Viuz-la-Chiésaz, France
Website: Semnoz Ski Resort (in French)
6. Hike the mountain of La Tournette
This mountain, like Semnoz, is a spot with beautiful scenery. It is the highest of the mountains surrounding Lake Annecy, qualifying it as an ultra-prominent peak. Enjoy the view and take a beautiful panoramic picture in the mountains of La Tournette.
La Tournette
Address: Haute-Savoie, France
7. Take a shot of Palais de I’Isle
Also called as “Les Vieilles Prisons”, or the Old Prisons, Palais de I’Isle is located in the heart of the Thiou River and is now an art and history museum. It used to be a prison, a courthouse and an administrative centre, dating back to the 12th century. Take a snap while exploring the beauty of the canal which Annecy is known for, plus it’s just 100 meters (328.1 feet) away from Annecy Castle. And, if you plan on visiting the canal and Annecy Castle from October to May, be sure to drop by the first Sunday of each month, when entrance is free and so is taking photos!
Palais de I’Isle
Address: 3 passage de l'Ile 74000 Annecy
Website: Palais de I’Isle
8. Have a photo op at Jardins de I’Europe
This place is one of the crowning glories of Annecy, France. If you want to relax from all your walking, you can just sit back and relax here, or take photos of this stunning garden, which is surrounded by giant redwood trees, imported from California. This beautiful garden is situated on the shores of Lake Annecy. If you are done with all the water sports activities on the lake, try appreciating the beauty this garden has to offer.
Jardins de I’Europe
Address: Quai Napoleon III, 74000, Annecy, France
Tranquility in a picturesque city
When I was young, I used to look at pictures of different countries and beautiful places. It was important to me because that was where I imagined myself to be and it inspired me to work harder to fulfil my dream of visiting the location of each and every picture I saw and take my own photos.
We have to admit that when we travel, bringing a camera is a must. We want everyone to be able to experience all the beauty we see in different places, even if it’s not in person. That’s how, for me, just by seeing photos, my desire to travel increased, even more. So, please take some stunning pictures if you visit this delightful city, it may be just a picture to you but it can be an inspiration to someone else. Have a great time visiting the picturesque city of Annecy, France!
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