4.1(10 reviews)
Private Annecy Day Trip from Geneva
FromCHF 359
5 hours
Geneva, Switzerland
About this activity
Enjoy a private day trip from Geneva to Annecy, exploring its charming Old Town, serene lake, and local shops, all with a knowledgeable guide.
Highlights
- Explore Annecy's picturesque Old Town
- Stroll along the serene Lake Annecy
- Discover local shops and boutiques
- Enjoy scenic views of the French Alps
- Experience Annecy's rich history and culture
Full description
Discover the enchanting city of Annecy, often referred to as the 'Venice of the Alps,' on this private day trip from Geneva. Your journey begins with comfortable transportation to Annecy, where you'll be greeted by a local guide eager to share the city's rich history and culture. Wander through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, admire the colorful facades of the buildings, and visit the iconic Château d'Annecy. Take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Annecy, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning alpine backdrop. During your free time, explore the local shops and boutiques, offering unique souvenirs and artisanal products. This personalized experience ensures a memorable and immersive visit to one of France's most picturesque destinations.
Included / Excluded
- Private transportation from Geneva to Annecy
- Guided tour of Annecy's Old Town and Lake
- Free time for shopping and dining in Annecy
- Meals and beverages during the tour
Itinerary
1
Step aboard our comfortable vehicle and prepare to enjoy a scenic ride to Annecy, one of the most picturesque destinations in France. Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Annecy is renowned for its crystal-clear lake, charming canals, and medieval architecture. As you travel through stunning landscapes, our experienced guides will share fascinating stories and insights about the region, enriching your journey with historical and cultural context. Upon arrival, you'll have the opportunity to explore the enchanting old town with its quaint cobblestone streets, visit the iconic Annecy Castle, and perhaps even indulge in a delightful boat ride on Lake Annecy. This carefully curated tour ensures you experience the very best of Annecy's natural beauty and historical significance. Join us for an unforgettable adventure where every moment is designed to captivate and inspire. Book your seat today and get ready to discover the timeless charm of Annecy.
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2
Enjoy a free time in Annecy to discover the city & follow your guide to discover the secrets of the old town
Duration: 5 minAdmission: NO
3
Discover the oldest building of Annecy which became its symbol. small island in the Thiou River, is a stunning example of medieval architecture and a must-see for any visitor. As you approach the Palais de l'Île, you'll be captivated by its distinctive triangular shape and charming stone façade, which have made it one of the most photographed monuments in France. Originally built in the 12th century, this historic building has served various purposes over the centuries, including a courthouse, mint, and prison. Today, the Palais de l'Île houses a local history museum, offering visitors an insightful journey through Annecy's past.
Duration: 5 minAdmission: NO
4
Admire Annecy castle Perched majestically above the charming town of Annecy, the Annecy Castle is a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the French Alps. This architectural marvel, dating back to the 12th century, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the past. As you approach the castle, you'll be enchanted by its stunning blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture. The robust stone walls and elegant towers stand as silent witnesses to centuries of history, from feudal lords to Renaissance nobility. Once inside, explore the beautifully restored rooms that house the Musée-Château d'Annecy, where you can admire an impressive collection of art, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of the region's evolution.
Duration: 5 minAdmission: NO
5
In the heart of Annecy, where the serene waters of Lake Annecy meet the Thiou River, lies the Pont des Amours, or Lovers' Bridge. This picturesque footbridge is more than just a crossing; it's a symbol of romance and an iconic spot that embodies the charm and beauty of the city. The Pont des Amours offers one of the most breathtaking views in Annecy. On one side, you'll gaze upon the tranquil lake, with its crystal-clear waters and the majestic Alps in the background. On the other, you'll see the lush greenery of the Pâquier Esplanade and the vibrant flowers that line the canals. This idyllic setting makes the bridge a favorite spot for both locals and visitors, especially couples looking to capture a perfect moment. Steeped in legend, the Pont des Amours is said to bless lovers who kiss in the middle of the bridge with eternal love. Whether or not you believe in the legend, the bridge's romantic ambiance is undeniable, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Annecy.
Duration: 5 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6
Annecy is often referred to as the "Venice of the Alps" due to its picturesque canals that wind through the old town, reminiscent of the iconic waterways of Venice, Italy. Annecy boasts several charming bridges that span its canals, much like Venice. The most famous of these is the Pont des Amours (Lovers' Bridge), which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas. These bridges add to the romantic and picturesque nature of the town.
Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7
Enjoy a free time by the lake. While not a lagoon like Venice, Lake Annecy's pristine waters and the scenic landscape provide a stunning backdrop to the city, enhancing its overall beauty and adding to the "Venice of the Alps" ambiance.
Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8
Enjoy some free time for shopping. Annecy's old town is brimming with charming boutiques and artisan shops. These stores offer unique, locally-made products, including handmade jewelry, ceramics, and traditional Savoyard crafts. Strolling through the cobblestone streets, you'll discover an array of one-of-a-kind items perfect for souvenirs or gifts. Annecy has a range of fashion boutiques that cater to various tastes and budgets. You’ll find everything from trendy, contemporary clothing stores to high-end designer boutiques. The Rue Royale and the Courier Shopping Center are popular spots for fashion shopping.
Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
9
Drive back to Geneva after your free time
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
Important information
Know before you book
- Private tours are available in English, French, and Spanish
- Tour duration is approximately 5 hours
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from Geneva are included
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city
- Bring a camera to capture the scenic views
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Infant Seats Available
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
- Duration: 5 hours
Traveler reviews
4.110 reviews
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Annecy with David
We had a wonderful tour from Geneva to Annecy in a lovely sky-top small bus. The tour itinerary was great, but the very best part was our driver/guide David. His insightful and interesting and entertaining dialogue was greatly appreciated. We increased our knowledge about the area and the city of Annecy. It was the best tour i have ever taken.
Barton_GApr 27, 2026VIATOR
Unforgettable moments in Annecy
I and my wife had unforgettable moments in Annect. Our Guide My mom and I had an amazing day in Annecy. Our guide, David and the driver, Tom, were wonderful and very helpful. This is a great tour. We recommended it.
Rohadi_TNov 13, 2024VIATOR
Disappointing
To be honest, we felt a bit cheated. We were advised that the tour would be for 5 hours, but were not aware that the 5 hours would include transport time which left us really with about 3+ hours for the tour. Before you know it, we had to leave. Secondly, we asked for a guide (English) but only the driver arrived to get us, and while he spoke good English, he was NOT a tour guide. So we really completed the tour simply by using our own observations (information provided at the various locations) and Google. For the amount we paid US$700 for two, there was absolutely zero value. Our driver was friendly and sociable but that hardly made up for the experience. So make sure you know beforehand, what you’re signing up for. Overall this was a disappointment.
WLLS1967Jul 8, 2024TRIPADVISOR
Great trip!!!
Great guide, Thomas!!! City was beautiful, but a bit crowded/very touristy. Happy that we included in our stay in Geneva.
SoniaV178Sep 20, 2023TRIPADVISOR
An amazing day in Annecy
My mom and I had an amazing day in Annecy. Our guide and driver, Hector and Thomas, were wonderful and so nice. We took a boat ride with incredible views. This is a great tour. Highly recommend.
Alex_SAug 20, 2023VIATOR
Additional information
Children must be accompanied by an adult
A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
Duration: 5 hours