A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Annecy vs. Bratislava for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Annecy or Bratislava?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Annecy and Bratislava can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a quaint, storybook, and charming alpine town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Bratislava

Bratislava is a genuine, cultural, and laid-back city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy and Bratislava: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Annecy or Bratislava?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Annecy. Although Annecy and Bratislava are popular destinations, Annecy has more sights and attractions for tourists. Annecy is very popular for its food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Bratislava attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and quaint atmosphere. Annecy is more touristy than Bratislava and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also well known for Palais de l'Isle. Bratislava is famous for its local beer, charming old town, and scenic mountain setting.

How is Annecy different from Bratislava?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bratislava and Annecy. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Annecy or Bratislava?

Annecy
Bratislava

Bratislava is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Bratislava specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Despite its small size, the city is packed with interesting sights and attractions. A highlight of a visit is exploring the Bratislava Castle. Other notable sights include Michael's Gate, the Slovak National Theatre, Grassalkovich Palace, and Primate's Palace & Hall of Mirrors.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Annecy. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.


Is the Food Better in Annecy or Bratislava? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Annecy
Bratislava

Annecy is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bratislava is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Annecy is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

Bratislava has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Slovakian food is hearty and uses a few staple ingredients like cheese and dumplings. The dishes are warm and filling on a cool day, so it's nice to step into a cozy restaurant and rest after a day of exploring. Popular local dishes include bryndzové halušky (sheep's cheese gnocchi), kapustnica (cabbage soup), and goulash.

Is Annecy or Bratislava Better for Nightlife?

Annecy
Bratislava

Bratislava is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Bratislava has something for everybody. The city has grown in popularity as a center for nightlife with many people visiting from nearby Vienna. There are a growing number of stag and hen parties around town, but you'll also find sophisticated wine bars and a refined social scene. Many of the city's clubs are found in old town around Michalská, Obchodná and Ventúrska streets as well as Hviezdoslavovo and SNP squares.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Annecy. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Is Annecy or Bratislava Better for its Old Town?

Annecy
Bratislava

Annecy is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Bratislava is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Annecy is one of the most recognized in the world. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Bratislava. The old town is filled with diverse architecture as well as traditional and upscale restaurants.


Is Annecy or Bratislava Better for Hiking?

Annecy
Bratislava

Annecy is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Bratislava is not a hiking destination.

Annecy is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Bratislava is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Annecy or Bratislava?

Annecy
Bratislava

If you're looking to go shopping, Annecy and Bratislava both offer plenty of nice spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Annecy. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Many visitors go to Bratislava to go shopping. Shopping has come to life here, with three large shopping malls and many shopping streets where you'll find local boutiques. The city has both global brands as well as more traditional shops where you can buy local items. Popular things to purchase while you're in town include traditional clothing, wooden crosses, corn husk dolls, and local alcohol such as slivovica.

Is Annecy or Bratislava Better for Families?

Annecy
Bratislava

Annecy is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bratislava is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Annecy is a very family-friendly place to visit. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Bratislava is a family-friendly alpine town. Kids and adults alike will appreciate the lack of tourist crowds when compared to other European cities, even during school holidays. You can explore the city and enjoy a laid back vibe without the chaos of navigating through tour groups and large crowds. There's also a nice old town as well as gardens, playgrounds, palaces, and the Bratislava Castle.


Is Annecy or Bratislava Better for Couples?

Annecy
Bratislava

Annecy is renowned for romance. Also, Bratislava is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Annecy makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Bratislava makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples that enjoy stepping away from tourist crowds will appreciate this relaxed city. There is the beautiful Janko Kráľ Park as well as the Bratislava Castle that you can explore. It's enjoyable to simply walk around the old town and soak up the atmosphere as well. There are also many great restaurants and wine bars where you can enjoy a night out.

Is Annecy or Bratislava Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Annecy
Bratislava

Bratislava is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Bratislava. The city offers an affordable and unique alternative to some of the larger and well known cities that are nearby. There are a couple of hostels and some affordable hotels that will help you keep your expenses down.

It's common for backpackers to visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

Is Annecy or Bratislava Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Annecy
Bratislava

Bratislava is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its public transit.

Bratislava has some very good public transit options. There are trams, buses, and trolleybuses.

Annecy has a few public transit options. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.


Is Annecy or Bratislava a more walkable city?

Annecy
Bratislava

Bratislava is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its ease of walking around.

Bratislava is a very easy city to get around on foot. One of the best ways to experience the city is to walk around. The old town is also a large pedestrian zone.

Annecy is a very walkable destination. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Annecy Worth Visiting? and Is Bratislava Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bratislava or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or Bratislava?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Annecy and Bratislava. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Annecy than in Bratislava. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Annecy, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bratislava.

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Bratislava. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Annecy, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Annecy than Bratislava. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Annecy that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bratislava than Annecy if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bratislava.


  • How many days in Annecy or Bratislava? Ideal Length of Stay
    Annecy 2-4 
    Bratislava 1-3

One day in Annecy or Bratislava?

Annecy might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Bratislava. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Annecy or Bratislava?

Even though Annecy is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this alpine town.

Bratislava is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Annecy or Bratislava?

Annecy, a popular alpine town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bratislava. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Annecy or Bratislava?

Annecy is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the genuine destination of Bratislava. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Slovakia, and The Best River Cruises in Slovakia.


Which place is cheaper, Bratislava or Annecy?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Annecy is €178, while the average daily cost in Bratislava is €122. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Annecy and Bratislava in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Annecy 92
    Bratislava 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Annecy 184
    Bratislava 98
Compare Hotels in Annecy and Bratislava

Looking for a hotel in Annecy or Bratislava? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Annecy


Hotels in Bratislava


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Annecy Hotel Prices and Bratislava Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Annecy 37
    Bratislava 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Annecy

Also for Annecy, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private transfer from Geneva airport to Annecy: $295
  • Lyon : Luxury private transfer to Annecy in Van: $374

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bratislava

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bratislava:

  • Bratislava-Budapest One-Way Sightseeing Transfer: $295
  • Private transfer from Bratislava to Vienna: $263
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava to Budapest with 2h of Sightseeing: $202
  • Bratislava - Budapest Transfer: $199
  • Vienna Airport VIE to Bojnice Resorts Round Trip Private Transfer: $131
  • Bratislava Airport (BTS) to Bojnice Resorts - Round Trip Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava City to Vienna City: $98
  • Bratislava Airport BTS to Piestany Round Trip Private Transfer: $94
  • Private Direct Transfer From Bratislava to Vienna City Center: $87
  • Bratislava Airport to Bojnice Resorts - Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Bratislava Airport to Turčianske Teplice Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Airport to Hotel Private Transfer Service: $24

Is it cheaper to fly into Annecy or Bratislava?

Prices for flights to both Bratislava and Annecy change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Annecy 58
    Bratislava 45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Annecy

For Annecy, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Annecy Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Annecy Old Town with Local Guide: $148
  • Private Market Tour and Modern French Cooking and Meal with a Local in Annecy: $188
  • Private Walking Food Tour: $348

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bratislava

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bratislava.

  • Local Beer & Food Tour: $142
  • Bratislava Traditional Food Tour: $169

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Annecy 41
    Bratislava 30

Tours and Activities in Annecy

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Annecy.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour with Smartphone App: $12
  • Yakapedaler : bike rental tour with the Annecy lac: $21
  • Full-day private tour from Geneva to Annecy: $40
  • 1-Hour Segway Discovery Tour: $43
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h: $44
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h30: $55
  • Annecy 2-Hour Segway Tour: $64
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 2h: $66
  • Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102

Tours and Activities in Bratislava

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bratislava are as follows:

  • Bratislava Premium Private Walking Tour, 4 hours: $224
  • Magic Christmas tour in Komarno: $234
  • Banska Stiavnica from Bratislava, UNESCO Day Tour: $229
  • Beautiful Bratislava Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Beer Factory Tour with Beer Tasting in Banska Bystrica: $158
  • Bratislava - Bike Tour: $53
  • Bratislava - Grand City Tour: $84
  • Bratislava Big Castle Tour by Presporacik: $18
  • Bratislava Brunch Tour: $93
  • Bratislava Card with Public Transport Option & Walking Tour: $25
  • Bratislava Castle: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • Bratislava City Private Walking Tour: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Annecy 34
    Bratislava 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Annecy

Also in Annecy, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tour with private driver: $850

Sample the Local Flavors in Bratislava

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bratislava:

  • Quick Wine Tasting in Michalská: $11
  • Quick Wine Tasting in Michalská: $11
  • Wine Tasting with Sommelier in Bratislava: $14
  • Wine Tasting with Sommelier: $15
  • Wine Tasting IN THE DARK!: $16
  • Wine Tasting IN THE DARK!: $21
  • Bratislava 3-Hour Wine Tasting: $104
  • Devin Castle Tour with Currant Wine Tasting: $144
  • Devin Castle Tour with Wine Tasting: $158
  • Bratislava Food and Wine Tour: $180
  • Little Carpathian Wine Tour: $201
  • 6-Hour Carpathian Wine Tour and Tasting: $209


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Annecy and Bratislava, we can see that Annecy is more expensive. And not only is Bratislava much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bratislava would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bratislava and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Annecy would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Annecy than you might in Bratislava.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Annecy Expensive? and Is Bratislava Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Annecy or Bratislava?

Bratislava has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Annecy and Bratislava, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Annecy or Bratislava?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Annecy or Bratislava in the Summer?

Both Bratislava and Annecy during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bratislava because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Annecy is generally around the same temperature as Bratislava. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 22°C (71°F), and Bratislava fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Bratislava, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Annecy. In the summer, Annecy often gets more sunshine than Bratislava. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bratislava receives 255 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Bratislava. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Annecy 22°C (71°F) 
    Bratislava 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Bratislava in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Bratislava. The autumn months attract visitors to Annecy because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bratislava this time of year.

Annecy is around the same temperature as Bratislava in the autumn. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Bratislava fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Bratislava during autumn. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Bratislava receives 140 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Annecy usually receives more rain than Bratislava. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Annecy 14°C (56°F) 
    Bratislava 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Bratislava in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Bratislava. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Annecy this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bratislava for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bratislava. It's quite cold in Annecy in the winter. In the winter, Annecy is much warmer than Bratislava. Typically, the winter temperatures in Annecy in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Bratislava averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Annecy often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bratislava. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bratislava receives 65 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets more rain in January than Bratislava. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Annecy 4°C (39°F) 
    Bratislava 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Bratislava in the Spring?

Both Bratislava and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bratislava in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Annecy is generally around the same temperature as Bratislava. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 11°C (53°F), and Bratislava fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Bratislava. Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Bratislava during spring. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Bratislava receives 202 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Annecy usually receives more rain than Bratislava. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Annecy 11°C (53°F) 
    Bratislava 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bratislava and Annecy

Annecy Bratislava
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (38°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (69°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 18°C (64°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)