How to Get to Annecy - Ultimate Travel Guide

Annecy’s history dates back to the Roman era, but it truly flourished during the medieval period under the Counts of Geneva. Today, the mesmerising town attracts visitors from all over the world. Nicknamed the 'Venice of the Alps', the scenery of Annecy appears to be straight out of a movie set, home to picturesque bridges, cobble-stoned streets, pastel-coloured houses and a winding river. Not to mention Lake Annecy, one of the cleanest and most beautiful lakes in Europe. With the lake and the surrounding mountains, Annecy is a popular destination for many outdoor activities, such as kayaking, boating, hiking and paragliding. If you want to visit Annecy, this ultimate guide will provide you with the best tips and tricks for reaching the coveted destination!

Montgolfières du Mont-Blanc

How to Get to Annecy

By Plane

The fastest and easiest way to reach Annecy is by plane.

1. Geneva Airport (GVA)

Geneva Airport is the closest airport to Annecy, located 45 kilometres (28 miles) away. This international airport welcomes flights from many destinations across the world. Regular shuttle services operate from Geneva Airport to Annecy, the journey takes approximately 1-1.5 hours. There are also taxi ranks and areas for ridesharing services such as Uber available at the airport. If you prefer to rent a car, the trip to Annecy takes about 45 minutes on the A41 Alpine autoroute.

2. Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS)

Situated approximately 125 kilometres (78 miles) from Annecy, Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is another international airport and a good option for reaching the town. Direct buses service Annecy from the airport, a journey of 1.5-2 hours. You could also take the train from Lyon Part-Dieu station to Annecy, which takes about 2.5-3 hours in total from the airport.

3. Chambéry Airport (CMF)

Chambéry Airport is located just 50 kilometres (31 miles) from Annecy, though it has fewer international flights. There are limited bus options available from Chambéry to Annecy. The best way to travel from the airport is to rent a car. The scenic drive to Annecy will take approximately 45 minutes.

By Train

Annecy is well connected to France's extensive railway system, and the train is a quick and convenient way to travel. We recommend booking your tickets in advance for the best options.

1. From Paris

You can take a direct TGV train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Annecy. The journey takes approximately 3.5-4 hours, with beautiful views along the way. Gare d’Annecy station is situated directly in the Old Town.

2. From Lyon

Direct trains from Lyon Part-Dieu to Annecy are very fast, taking approximately 2 hours.

3. Geneva

The direct regional train from Geneva in Switzerland to Annecy also takes around 2 hours.

You can take a train from other cities across France with a connection from Paris or Lyon to Annecy.

By Car

Driving to Annecy is a great option to enjoy the stunning scenery. You can journey across the Alps, make random pitstops and transport your luggage easily. It also allows you more freedom when visiting the town to explore the surroundings at your own pace. Rental cars are available to purchase at major airports and city centres. Travelling by car is best if your point of departure is in the southeast of France. You will arrive in Annecy within 2 hours from Lyon, 4 from Montpellier and Marseille, and around 5.5 from Paris and Nice.

By Bus

Travelling by bus to Annecy could be one of the cheapest options; however, it will take longer than driving or taking trains. Budget companies such as Flixbus and BlaBlaCar bus operate from major cities like Paris and Lyon in France, and neighbouring countries. If you are travelling from other cities in France, you may need to transfer at Paris or Lyon.

Outside Bike

Tips for Travelling Within Annecy

Once you have arrived in the pearl of the French Alps, you'll need some ways of travelling around the town. There are many different transport options in Annecy.

Public Transport

SIBRA is the Public Transport operator of Annecy in Haute-Savoie. The local public transport system in Annecy is an efficient bus service. The bus network serves Annecy and the surrounding towns, regularly running around Lake Annecy. You can purchase tickets from the town's main office and several kiosks throughout Annency. The timetables can be found on the SIBRA website.

Taxis

Many taxi companies are operating in Annecy, you can call one ahead of time or hail them on the street. Uber is the main rideshare app running in Annecy, which usually has cheaper fares than standard taxis. You can download the app in advance and use it throughout your trip.

Bike Rentals

Bike rentals in Annecy are really popular, due to the amazing scenery and bike-friendly routes. There are plenty of independent companies with bike rentals throughout the town. At the train station, over 200 classic pedal, electric, and folding bikes are available to rent daily, weekly or monthly. Cycling is a great way to explore the old town and the lake.

Walking

Annecy Old Town and Lake Annecy are very walkable locations. If you want to explore the town at a leisurely pace, you can stroll past the canals and the pretty streets lined with boutiques and cafés. Walking along the lakeside also offers breathtaking views of the sparkling blue waters and the backdrop of towering mountains.

Annecy’s idyllic setting and charming atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in France. Travelling to Annecy can be an enjoyable experience, due to its beautiful location in the French Alps. The town's proximity to other cities such as Lyon, Geneva and even Paris also makes it a perfect stop for a broader European holiday.

If you're looking for some inspiration on what to do in Annecy, check out our top 10 outdoor activities around Annecy!