10 Best Walking Tours In Annecy (2024)

Walking tours in Annecy cut straight to the heart of this enchanting Alpine town. The most rewarding routes wind through the compact medieval center, where local guides share stories of the Venice of the Alps while navigating cobblestone streets and canal-side paths.

The 2-hour Old Town historical walks are consistently engaging, especially those crossing the Lovers’ Bridge and exploring the 12th-century Palais de l’Isle.

For foodies, the morning market tours (Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays) offer tastings of local cheeses, charcuterie, and freshly baked pastries. The lakeside promenades are particularly memorable, combining magnificent mountain views with insights into Annecy’s evolution from medieval trading post to modern tourist destination.

We especially love the small-group tours (8 people max) through the ancient arcaded streets – they’re intimate enough for questions and include hidden courtyards most visitors miss.

The early evening “Lakes and Legends” walk is another favorite, offering golden-hour photo opportunities and fewer crowds.

Let’s explore the most essential walking tours in Annecy:

Key Points

• Annecy offers a variety of private guided walking tours, ranging from 2-hour historical overviews to 3.5-hour culinary experiences exploring the city’s traditional food scene.
• The First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour provide affordable 1-1.5 hour and 2-hour options respectively, covering key landmarks and the historical center with high-rated guides.
• Scenic walking tours showcase Annecy’s picturesque canals, bridges, lakeside paths, and mountain views, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s natural beauty.
• Historical walking tours highlight Annecy’s well-preserved medieval architecture, including landmarks like the Palais de l’Isle and Château d’Annecy, and provide insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
• Customizable private walking tours offer a personalized exploration of Annecy’s art galleries, festivals, traditional music and dance performances, and artisanal crafts, providing a deeper cultural understanding of the city.

Annecy: Traditional Food Group Walking Tour

This 3.5-hour walking tour takes participants on a delicious journey through Annecy’s traditional food scene.

Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour visits at least four historic eateries and trendy restaurants, offering a tasting menu of regional specialties.

Highlights include charcuterie with local wine, tartiflette, award-winning apple tart, chocolates, and Genepi.

The tour meets at Pont des Amours at 10:30 AM and can accommodate groups of various sizes, though a minimum is required.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, and children under 5 join for free.

While the tour isn’t suitable for the lactose intolerant, it’s an excellent way to explore Annecy’s vibrant food culture.

Read our full review: Annecy: Traditional Food Group Walking Tour Review
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Private 2-Hour Walking Tour of Annecy With Official Tour Guide

A private 2-hour walking tour of Annecy with an official tour guide offers visitors an immersive exploration of the charming French city.

Operated by Tour Travel & More, the tour starts from $245.70 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are available for centrally located accommodations, or guests can meet at the église Notre Dame de Liesse.

The tour includes an official guide, local taxes, and private transportation during the 2-hour experience.

While food, drinks, and entrance fees aren’t included, reviewers praise the guide’s insightful commentary on Annecy’s history and architecture, making it suitable for first-time visitors of all ages.

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ANNECY Private Walking Tour of Annecys Historical Center

Immersing visitors in the captivating history and picturesque ambiance of Annecy’s historical center, the ANNECY Private Walking Tour offers a customizable exploration of this charming French city.

Led by expert guides, the private tour allows guests to soak up the unique atmosphere as they stroll through the Old Town and along the shores of Lake Annecy.

With convenient start times from morning to evening, the tour showcases the city’s mountain views, waterfront scenery, and centuries-old landmarks.

Priced from $201.47 per person, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but welcomes service animals.

Travellers can easily access the meeting point near public transportation and enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Read our full review: ANNECY Private Walking Tour of Annecys Historical Center Review
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Private Walking Food Tour in Annecy

The Private Walking Food Tour in Annecy by Agence 1786 offers visitors a chance to indulge in the city’s culinary delights.

This private experience allows participants to taste 8 local savory, sweet, or beverage specialties. The tour is available year-round and includes a cultural guide, alcoholic beverages (or local fruit juices for those under 18), and snacks.

The meeting point is at the Hôtel de Ville d’Annecy, and the tour returns to the same location. Confirmation is received at booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Prices start from $333.06, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed. Dietary restrictions should be communicated to the guide beforehand.

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Annecy Private Guided Walking Tour

Offered by Global Guide Services, the Annecy Private Guided Walking Tour provides visitors an intimate exploration of the charming city’s highlights.

Priced from $373.57 per group of up to 15 participants, the tour features a dedicated local guide and customizable options.

The meeting point is at the Église Notre Dame de Liesse, and the tour concludes back at the same location.

Inclusions comprise gratuities and entrance fees.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s near public transportation, and most travelers can participate.

Confirmation is provided upon booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Read our full review: Annecy Private Guided Walking Tour Review
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Annecy: Private Guided Walking Tour

Exploring the charming old town of Annecy, often referred to as the “Venice of the Alps,” this private guided walking tour provides visitors an intimate look at the city’s captivating Roman origins and medieval heritage.

The 1.5-hour tour, accommodating up to 15 participants, showcases the town’s cobbled streets, pastel houses, and tranquil canals. Guided in English, the experience highlights the magnificent Catholic churches featuring stained-glass windows and medieval paintings.

Priced at K£7,919 per group, the tour offers flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. With a 5/5 rating based on positive traveler feedback, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an immersive encounter with Annecy’s rich history and architecture.

Read our full review: Annecy Private Guided Walking Tour Review
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Private 2-Hour Walking Tour of Annecy With Official Guide

For those seeking an intimate encounter with Annecy’s picturesque streets, the Private 2-Hour Walking Tour with an official guide offers an immersive experience.

Priced at $213.13 per person, this private tour allows visitors to explore the “jewel of Haute-Savoie” at their own pace. The tour covers key landmarks like Lac d’Annecy, the historic Vieille Ville, and the iconic Palais de l’u00île.

Throughout the 2-hour journey, the private guide provides insights into local history and culture. Offered in English, French, and Spanish, the tour can be easily tailored to suit individual interests.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this experience promises a memorable exploration of Annecy’s enchanting charm.

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Private Walking Tour of Annecy’s Historical Center

Nestled in the enchanting Rhône-Alpes region, Annecy’s historical center beckons visitors on a Private Walking Tour that unveils its picturesque streets and landmarks.

Lasting 2 hours, the tour departs from the Espl. de l’Hôtel de ville, exploring key sites like the Palais de l’Isle and the bridge of lovers.

Flexible to personal interests, a knowledgeable private guide shares the history of the Savoie region in English, French, German, Italian, or Spanish.

With an overall rating of 4.4/5 from 27 reviews, the tour offers excellent value and service, showcasing Annecy’s charms as the “Second Venice.”

Guests can reserve easily, taking advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Read our full review: Private Walking Tour of Annecy’s Historical Center Review
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Annecy: First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour

Annecy’s First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour provide visitors with an engaging and immersive introduction to the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

The First Discovery Walk is a 1 to 1.5-hour tour led by a knowledgeable local guide, offering an overview of Annecy’s key landmarks and attractions.

The Reading Walking Tour, on the other hand, is a 2-hour exploration of the historical center, with stops at significant sites and buildings.

Both tours come highly recommended, boasting impressive ratings of 4.8 and 4.4 respectively based on dozens of reviews.

Priced affordably from $72.66 per person, these walking tours are a fantastic way to get acquainted with Annecy’s charm and distinctive character.

Read our full review: Annecy: First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour Review
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Annecy Gourmet Food Walking Tour

The Annecy Gourmet Food Walking Tour offers a delectable exploration of the city’s vibrant culinary scene.

Lasting 3.5 hours, this top-rated tour (5 out of 5 stars from 15 reviews) provides an immersive experience where participants can discover the traditional foods and flavors that make Annecy a gastronomic destination.

Priced at $100.04 per person, the tour takes visitors on a guided journey through the historic Old Town, stopping at local bakeries, cheese shops, and other specialty food purveyors.

Guests can savor regional delicacies, learn about the city’s food culture, and gain insider knowledge from a knowledgeable local guide.

Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking to explore Annecy’s charming streets, this walking tour is an excellent way to indulge your senses.

Read our full review: Annecy Gourmet Food Walking Tour Review
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Break Down

Annecy offers a variety of walking tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s historical center, indulge in traditional cuisine, and discover its unique charm. Whether you choose a private guided tour or a self-guided exploration, these walking experiences provide an immersive way to appreciate Annecy’s rich cultural heritage and picturesque surroundings. With options catering to different interests and durations, there’s a walking tour to suit every traveler’s needs.