Hotels in Annecy

Annecy sits at the northern tip of Lac d'Annecy in the French Alps, 35 km south of Geneva. The old town — Vieille Ville — dates to the medieval period and centers on the Palais de l'Isle, a 12th-century prison built on a small island in the Thiou canal. The lake itself is fed by underground springs and consistently ranks among the cleanest in Europe, with water temperatures reaching 22 °C in summer. The surrounding peaks, including La Tournette at 2,351 m, are visible from the lakeside promenades.

Visitors arrive for a clear mix of reasons. In summer, the lake draws swimmers, paddleboarders, and paragliders launching from Col de la Forclaz. In winter, ski resorts at La Clusaz and Le Grand-Bornand sit within 30 km. The International Animated Film Festival — held each June since 1960 — brings industry professionals from across the world and fills hotels weeks in advance. Cyclists use Annecy as a base for Alpine cols featured in the Tour de France, including Col de la Colombière.

The city has a permanent population of around 130,000 in the greater urban area. The train from Paris Gare de Lyon takes roughly 3 hours 40 minutes via Lyon. Geneva Airport is approximately 45 minutes by road, making Annecy accessible for short stays from international hubs.