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

Should you visit Annecy or Florence?

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

Annecy

Annecy is a charming, stunning, and breathtaking alpine town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Florence

Florence is a iconic, alluring, and historical city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Annecy or Florence?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Florence than Annecy, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Florence is better known for its museums and shopping, while Annecy is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Annecy is well known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Florence is well known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore).

How is Annecy different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums and tourist attractions in Florence are world-renowned. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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 Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at terrific restaurants in both Annecy and Florence.

Annecy has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Florence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Is Annecy or Florence Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Annecy or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Annecy and Florence are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

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.

Florence offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Is Annecy or Florence Better for Hiking?

Annecy is a great alpine town for hiking. However, Florence is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Annecy for the hiking trails. 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.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Annecy or Florence?

Florence 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.

Florence is well-known for its shopping. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

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 Florence Better for Families?

Annecy is a great alpine town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Annecy is very family-friendly. 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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Annecy or Florence Better for Couples?

Both Annecy and Florence are terrific destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Annecy has plenty to offer. 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.

Florence has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Is Annecy or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Florence is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young 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.

Is Annecy or Florence Better for Students?

Florence is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Annecy is not popular with students.

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

Annecy and Florence both offer notable 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.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Annecy or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence 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.

Florence is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

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 Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or Florence?

Both Annecy and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Annecy. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Annecy, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence 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 Florence.

One day in Annecy or Florence?

Annecy is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Florence. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Annecy or Florence?

Annecy is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this alpine town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Annecy, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Florence 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 Florence?

Annecy is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Annecy or Florence?

Annecy is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This alpine town offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the iconic destination of Florence. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Annecy and Florence, we can see that Annecy is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Annecy or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Annecy and Florence, 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 Florence?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Annecy or Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Florence for the family-friendly experiences.

Annecy is cooler than Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Florence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Annecy. Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Florence during summer. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Annecy usually receives more rain than Florence. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Annecy or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Annecy during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Florence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Annecy is cooler than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Annecy in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Florence. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets less rain in October than Florence. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Annecy or Florence in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Florence. Many visitors come to Annecy in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Annecy can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Annecy is generally much colder than Florence. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 4°C (39°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Florence during winter. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Annecy usually receives less rain than Florence. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Annecy or Florence in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Florence. Most visitors come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Florence because of the natural beauty.

Annecy is cooler than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Florence. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets less rain in April than Florence. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and Annecy