Making the Most of a Half-Day Trip from Geneva to Annecy

If you’re visiting the city of Geneva and are looking for an exciting way to spend your afternoon, then a half-day trip to Annecy is an excellent way to do it! Geneva to Annecy by train is just over 90 minutes away, and this gorgeous old town, with its cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and medieval castle, make for an unforgettable half-day experience. Whether for the wonderful scenery and beautiful sights, or for the delicious food available in Annecy’s many cafes, a half-day trip to Annecy is definitely worth considering.

How to Get from Geneva to Annecy

The best—and most convenient—way to get from Geneva to Annecy is by train. Getting there by train means no worries about traffic, navigating unfamiliar roads, or finding car parking. It’s definitely the quickest, most straightforward way to get there. The two cities are just under 100km apart via the A40 highway, and there’s a direct train line that makes the journey in around 95 minutes.

For more detailed information and to buy tickets, head to the Swiss Federal Railways’ (SBB) website. There are also public buses that go from Geneva to Annecy, but we strongly recommend taking the train instead, as it is much quicker and more convenient.

What to Do During a Half-Day Trip from Geneva to Annecy

Annecy is a spectacularly beautiful area with plenty of interesting activities and sights that you can experience in just a few hours. Here is a list of some of the best things that you can do in Annecy on your half-day trip:

1. Relax and Unwind at Lac d’Annecy

Lac d’Annecy is a large lake located in the city of Annecy. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, sailing, kayaking and fishing, and it also has several beach clubs that you can visit. Enjoy beautiful views of the lake from any of the many lakeside restaurants or from the top of Point du Vue de Talloires, a small mountain that overlooks the lake.

2. Wander through Vieille-Ville

Vieille-Ville is an old historic district in the centre of the city. Its cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, old churches and medieval castle are a must-see attraction—they look as if they were straight out of a fairytale! Stroll around and take in the sights before stopping at one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area to sample some local specialities.

3. Take a Boat Tour

Annecy is set amidst spectacular mountain scenery and serenely peaceful countryside, so why not take a boat tour and explore the area? There are all sorts of boats ranging from rowboats to peddle boats and even traditional gondolas available for hire at several places around Lac d’Annecy.

4. Visit the Hautecombe Abbey

If culture is more your thing, then be sure to take a trip to Hautecombe Abbey. This 11th century abbey sits on the edge of Lake Bourget and was founded by Count Guigues IV of Albon. It features beautiful grounds surrounded by ancient walls, galleries filled with exquisite stained glass windows, and intricately decorated chapels worth seeing.

5. Do Some Shopping in Annecy

No sightseeing trip to Annecy would be complete without some shopping! There are several malls in the city as well as plenty of small boutique stores where you can pick up souvenirs or clothes—all at great prices too!

Booking Activities in Annecy

Getting from Geneva to Annecy is very easy, but booking activities can be trickier—especially if you don’t speak French! For that reason, we recommend booking activities through GetYourGuide, which offers English-language tours and activities in over 65 countries around the world (including France).

Conclusion

A half-day trip from Geneva to Annecy is an excellent way to make the most of your time in this beautiful city. Whether you want to relax on the shore of Lac d’Annecy, wander through Vieille-Ville’s cobblestone streets and discover its many cafes, or take a boat tour and explore the surrounding area, this wonderful old town has plenty to offer visitors in only a few hours. Book your activities in advance through GetYourGuide today and make sure you don’t miss out on all that Annecy has to offer during your half-day trip!

A Local’s Guide to Exploring the Hidden Gems of Annecy

Annecy, also known as the ‘Venice of the Alps’, is located just an hour’s drive from Geneva and is one of the most picturesque and romantic places in France. The cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and crystal clear waters of Lake Annecy make it an ideal destination for a half-day trip. But instead of sticking to the usual tourist spots, let’s explore some hidden gems that only locals would know.

Local Attractions Worth Exploring

If you look beyond the usual tourist spots and go slightly off the beaten path, you’ll find many hidden gems in Annecy. For instance, ‘Les Passerelles du Roc’ is a trail that will take you to a stunning viewpoint of the old town and the lake. Another great attraction is the ‘Jardins de l’Europe’, a tranquil garden right in the heart of the city that is perfect for a relaxing picnic.

Indulge in Local Delicacies

One of the most delightful experiences in Annecy is enjoying the local cuisine. Take a stroll through the old town and visit ‘La Fromagerie de Savoie’ for some delicious cheese. Don’t forget to try ‘Tartiflette’, the most famous cheese dish that is no less than heaven on a plate. For dessert, head to ‘Maison des Têtes’, a beautiful 17th-century mansion that serves delicious cakes and pastries.

Dive into Local Culture

While visiting Annecy, immerse yourself in local culture by attending the ‘Fete du Lac’ festival in August. It’s a spectacular fireworks display that attracts thousands of visitors every year. If you’re an art lover, head to the ‘Palais de l’Isle’ museum, a former prison that now showcases local art and history.

Discover the City’s Fascinating History

Apart from being a visually stunning destination, Annecy is also rich in history. Visit ‘Château d’Annecy’, a 14th-century castle that now houses a museum detailing the history of the region. Another fascinating landmark is the ‘Pont des Amours’, a historic bridge that has a beautiful legend attached to it.

Unconventional Tips and Tricks

Finally, for those who want to experience something unique, head to ‘Grotte et Cascade de Seythenex’, a hidden waterfall and cave system that is sure to take your breath away. Another unconventional suggestion is to rent a bike and take a ride around the lake, and if you’re feeling adventurous, rent a paddleboat or go for a swim in the chilly waters.

In conclusion, Annecy isn’t just a beautiful city, but it’s also a place where you can explore, experience, and indulge in the local culture. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax and soak in the beauty of the city, Annecy won’t disappoint.