A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Annecy vs. Brescia for Food, Couples, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Annecy or Brescia?

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 Brescia can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a charming, stunning, and breathtaking alpine town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Brescia

Brescia is a authentic, under-rated, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • 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
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Annecy or Brescia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Annecy. Although Annecy and Brescia 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 Brescia attracts visitors for its shopping. Annecy is more touristy than Brescia and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also well known for Palais de l'Isle. Brescia is famous for its historic and archeological sights.

How is Annecy different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Brescia 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 Brescia?

Annecy
Brescia

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Annecy and Brescia.

Annecy offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Brescia. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.


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

Annecy
Brescia

Annecy is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Annecy is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Brescia has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

Is Annecy or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Annecy
Brescia

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find nice options in both Annecy and Brescia.

If you're looking for night time activities Annecy has a few options to choose from. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Brescia. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

Is Annecy or Brescia Better for its Old Town?

Annecy
Brescia

Annecy is renowned for its historic old town. However, Brescia does not have a historic 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.

Brescia does not have a historic old town.


Is Annecy or Brescia Better for Hiking?

Annecy
Brescia

Annecy is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Brescia is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Annecy. 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.

Brescia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Annecy or Brescia?

Annecy
Brescia

Brescia is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its shopping areas.

Brescia is well-known for its shopping. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

Many visitors go to Annecy to go shopping. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Annecy or Brescia Better for Families?

Annecy
Brescia

Annecy is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Brescia is not particularly known 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.

For families, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.


Is Annecy or Brescia Better for Couples?

Annecy
Brescia

Annecy is renowned for romance. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Annecy has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.

Is Annecy or Brescia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Annecy
Brescia

Annecy is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Brescia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a particularly popular backpacker destination but there are some affordable guesthouses.

Is Annecy or Brescia Better for Students?

Annecy
Brescia

Brescia is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Brescia. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Annecy is not popular with students.


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

Annecy
Brescia

Annecy and Brescia both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Annecy offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Brescia has a few public transit options. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.

Is Annecy or Brescia a more walkable city?

Annecy
Brescia

Annecy is well known for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Brescia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or Brescia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Annecy or Brescia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Annecy than Brescia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Annecy, and 1-2 days is enough time in Brescia.

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Brescia. 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 Brescia. 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 Annecy than Brescia 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 Annecy.


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

One day in Annecy or Brescia?

Annecy is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This alpine town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Brescia. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Annecy or Brescia?

Annecy might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Annecy has to offer.

Brescia 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 Brescia?

Annecy is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brescia. 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 Brescia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. Since Annecy is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the under-rated destination of Brescia. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia 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 Brescia is €144. 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 Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Annecy 92
    Brescia 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Annecy 184
    Brescia 150
Compare Hotels in Annecy and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Annecy or Brescia? 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 Brescia


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 Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Annecy 37
    Brescia 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Annecy

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

Is it cheaper to fly into Annecy or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia 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
    Brescia 47

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

Typical Food Prices in Brescia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brescia:


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

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

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Annecy 41
    Brescia 31

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 Brescia

Here are a few actual costs in Brescia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $402
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $223
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114
  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Brescia’s Historic Heart: A Family Exploration Tour: $288
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $386
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $197
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Christmastime Walking Tour: $719
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $118
  • CSTRents - Brescia Segway PT Authorized Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Annecy 34
    Brescia 23

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 Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Annecy and Brescia, we can see that Annecy is more expensive. And not only is Brescia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Brescia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Brescia 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 Brescia.

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


Which is Bigger, Annecy or Brescia?

Brescia has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Annecy and Brescia, 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 Brescia?

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 Brescia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Brescia. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Annecy this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brescia for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Annecy is generally around the same temperature as Brescia. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 22°C (71°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brescia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Annecy this time of the year. In the summer, Annecy often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brescia. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 286 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets less rain in July than Brescia. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Annecy 22°C (71°F) 
    Brescia 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Brescia in the Autumn?

Both Brescia and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Annecy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Brescia in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Annecy is around the same temperature as Brescia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Brescia fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Brescia during autumn. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Annecy usually receives less rain than Brescia. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Annecy 14°C (56°F) 
    Brescia 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Brescia in the Winter?

Both Brescia and Annecy during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Annecy in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Brescia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Brescia can be very cold during winter. Annecy can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Annecy is much warmer than Brescia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Annecy in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Brescia averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Brescia. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 98 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets less rain in January than Brescia. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Annecy 4°C (39°F) 
    Brescia 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Brescia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Brescia. Most visitors come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Brescia because of the natural beauty.

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

Annecy usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brescia during spring. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Annecy usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brescia. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Brescia and Annecy

Annecy Brescia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)


Related Articles for Annecy
Related Articles for Brescia