Things to do in Annecy

Standing on the bank of the strikingly beautiful Lake Annecy, Annecy Castle (Château d’Annecy) is a dramatic sight as well as an important historic building. Step inside to discover an engaging museum that hosts temporary exhibitions spanning a wide range of topics.

When you have a few hours to spare while in Annecy, the Centre Commercial Courier is a fantastic place to spend them. Shop for clothes for yourself or presents to bring back from your vacation. Stop for a coffee or a bite to eat at one of the on-site restaurants or cafés. Most of all, enjoy the unusual feeling of being outdoors while indoors, which is created by the fact the shopping mall is designed in the style of a street with glass over the top of it.

During your explorations of Annecy’s Old Town, you’ll soon come across the Palais de l’Île, instantly recognizable due to its location. Take photos of this interesting building set on an island then step through its gates and head to the museum to learn about the history of the site.

The Église Notre-Dame-de-Liesse, or Notre-Dame-de-Liesse Church, is one of several beautiful churches in the picturesque old town of Annecy. Come to this Catholic place of worship to attend a Mass, to take a look at its impressive architecture or simply to enjoy some peace and quiet in its sunlit interior.

Standing in an elevated location in the picturesque foothills of Semnoz, the Basilique de la Visitation is one of the most prominent landmarks in the town of Annecy. As you approach Annecy, the tall spire of this pretty white building is one of the first things you are likely to see. Visit the basilica to admire its beautiful architecture and learn about the community of nuns who still live here today.

L’église Saint-François de Sales, or the Church of St. Francis, is a fine example of Baroque architecture as well as an active place of worship. Visit this Catholic church to admire its design, enjoy the tranquility offered by its lovely interior, or get to know the members of the local Italian community, for whom the church is a hub.

Visit the Church of St. Maurice to get a sense of the long religious history of the picturesque Alpine town of Annecy. Located in the heart of Annecy, this beautiful Catholic church is close to many other sites of historic interest.