Hello, everyone! Today, I am thrilled to share my much-anticipated travelogue of my trip to southeastern France. We rented a car in Lyon, took a one-day trip to Annecy, and then stayed overnight in Chamonix. The stunning scenery made for an enriching Annecy trip experience. 😍
I did the Lyon – Annecy – Chamonix trip, and I took a day trip from Annecy to Chamonix on the way, and I was very happy with it.
Annecy is a peaceful and beautiful city that many French people dream of retiring to, and it’s easy to see why.
Car Rental Information and Travel Preparations
We rented a car at Lyon Airport. There are many car rental companies near the airport, and we booked ours with OK Mobility through Rentalcars.com.
Tips for Rent-a-car for Annecy trip
Pro Tip 1: When renting a car abroad (especially in Europe), always get comprehensive insurance! Even if you book the car online, it’s best to purchase the insurance directly at the rental location. It’s much easier to handle claims locally than through an online process.
Pro Tip 2: Be sure to check information such as the type of vehicle (automatic or manual).
Aside from car rentals, you can also use BlaBlaBus or trains for transportation. Since we were heading to Chamonix, we opted for the convenience of a rental car. The roads were beautiful and easy to drive, even for beginners!
Departing from Lyon to Annecy Trip
On the first day, it rained in Lyon, but the weather cleared up as we set off. The toll for the Lyon-Annecy highway was around €17.30, and the scenery along the way was breathtaking, especially since the route runs close to Geneva, Switzerland.
Arriving in Annecy and Parking Information
As soon as we arrived in Annecy, we were amazed by the view. We parked at Parking de l’Hôtel de Ville, which cost €1.1 per hour – quite affordable. Stepping out of the parking garage felt like entering a fairy tale, especially with the sun coming out after the rain.
Parking Information (including Google map Links)
We also explored other parking options and recommend these two:
- 1 Espl. de l’Hôtel de Ville, 74000 Annecy, France
- ★★★★☆ · Parking garage
- Rue Guillaume Fichet, 74000 Annecy, France
- ★★★★☆ · Parking lot
Exploring Annecy’s Old Town
Our first stop on our Annecy trip journey was Le Palais de l’Île, a historical site now used as an art and history museum. Arriving early in the morning allowed us to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The Old Town, with its medieval castle and prison located in the middle of the Thiou canal, was very impressive. Wandering through the narrow, cobbled streets, we felt as though we had stepped back in time.
Sandwich Delight at a Local Eatery
After wandering around the Old Town, taking photos, and exploring the quaint village, we headed to a sandwich shop.
The raclette sandwich was incredible.
Please, do yourself a favor and try it – it’s absolutely delicious!
We highly recommend buying a sandwich and taking it to the lake!
Google map Links Below!
- 12 Rue du Pont Morens, 74000 Annecy, France
- ★★★★★ · Takeout restaurant
Annecy Trip Highlight: Lake and Lover’s Bridge
After brunch, we visited Annecy Lake. Being the third-largest lake in France, it’s fed by glacial melt, making the water exceptionally clear and refreshing. We strolled along the lakeside paths, soaking in the lake’s beauty. You can also rent boats or take a cruise, and swimming is allowed in the summer.
Annecy is known as the top city where French people want to retire, and it’s easy to see why. Surrounded by the Alps, with its charming old town and the clear, fresh lake, it’s like living in a fairy tale. There are many people riding bicycles, and summer offers even more activities to enjoy.
Unique Attractions in Annecy
Hidden Artisans and Markets
While the Old Town is the heart of Annecy, make sure to explore the small alleyways where hidden artisans’ shops and local markets can be found. These spots offer unique souvenirs and a chance to interact with the local craftsmen.
The Little Venice of the Alps
Annecy is often called “The Little Venice of the Alps” due to its intricate network of canals. A boat ride through these canals provides a unique perspective of the city, showcasing its charming bridges and beautifully preserved architecture.
Local Cuisine: Beyond the Sandwich
While the raclette sandwich is a must-try, don’t miss out on other local delicacies. Head to a local patisserie for some sweet treats or enjoy a traditional Savoyard meal, which often includes fondue or tartiflette.
Moving on from Annecy Trip to Chamonix
After a day in Annecy, we headed to Chamonix. The journey was filled with stunning landscapes, and we were excited for what awaited us in Chamonix.
I’ll cover Chamonix travel tips, itinerary, and more in another post
Conclusion of Our Annecy Trip
This wraps up our one-day trip from Lyon to Annecy and our journey to Chamonix. Stay tuned for my upcoming travelogue on Chamonix! If you’re planning a trip to southern France, definitely consider a one-day trip to Annecy – you won’t regret it.
I hope you found this Annecy trip information and these tips helpful. I’ll be back with more travel stories. Thank you for reading!
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