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

Should you visit Annecy or San Remo?

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 San Remo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a quaint, storybook, and charming alpine town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

San Remo

San Remo is a beautiful, scenic, and authentic coastal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Annecy and San Remo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Annecy or San Remo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Annecy. Although Annecy and San Remo are both popular with visitors, Annecy has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Annecy is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while San Remo is known for its beaches. Annecy is more touristy than San Remo and is known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also home to Palais de l'Isle. San Remo is popular for its olives, lemons, and flower market.

How is Annecy different from San Remo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Annecy is a popular place for its museums and history. However, San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Annecy is terrific for its restaurants. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, San Remo makes for a great culinary experience. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

Is Annecy or San Remo Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Annecy and San Remo.

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 San Remo. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

Is Annecy or San Remo Better for Beaches?

San Remo is a great coastal city for the beache. However, Annecy is not a beach destination.

San Remo is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

Annecy is not a beach destination.

Is Annecy or San Remo Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Annecy has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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 San Remo. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

Is Annecy or San Remo Better for Hiking?

Annecy is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, San Remo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

San Remo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Annecy or San Remo?

If you're looking to go shopping, Annecy and San Remo both offer plenty of good 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 San Remo to go shopping. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Annecy or San Remo Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Annecy or San Remo.

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.

San Remo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

Is Annecy or San Remo Better for Couples?

Annecy is terrific for couples. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Couples visit San Remo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

Is Annecy or San Remo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Annecy is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.

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

Annecy and San Remo both offer good 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.

San Remo has a few public transit options. There are local buses around town.

Is Annecy or San Remo a more walkable city?

Annecy and San Remo are great when it comes to walkability.

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

San Remo is a very walkable destination. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.

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

Should I spend more time in San Remo or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or San Remo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Annecy or San Remo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Annecy than San Remo 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 San Remo.

Families should spend more time in Annecy than San Remo. 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 San Remo. 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 San Remo 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.

One day in Annecy or San Remo?

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 food and shopping when visiting the destination of San Remo. 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 San Remo?

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.

San Remo 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 San Remo?

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 San Remo. 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 San Remo?

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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of San Remo. This coastal 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Annecy or San Remo?

San Remo has a larger population, and is about 3% larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Annecy and San Remo, 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 San Remo?

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 San Remo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and San Remo. Most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to San Remo because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Annecy is around the same temperature as San Remo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Annecy in July average around 22°C (71°F), and San Remo averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Remo this time of the year. In Annecy, it's very sunny this time of the year. Annecy usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Remo during summer. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Annecy usually receives more rain than San Remo. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Annecy or San Remo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Annecy as well as San Remo. 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. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Remo this time of year.

In October, Annecy is generally cooler than San Remo. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 14°C (56°F), and San Remo fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Annecy often gets less sunshine than San Remo. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 183 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Remo. Annecy usually gets less rain in October than San Remo. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Annecy or San Remo in the Winter?

Both San Remo and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Annecy this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Remo for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Annecy in the winter. Annecy is much colder than San Remo in the winter. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and San Remo fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Annecy usually receives less sunshine than San Remo during winter. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Annecy usually receives less rain than San Remo. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Annecy or San Remo in the Spring?

Both San Remo and Annecy during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Remo in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Annecy is cooler than San Remo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Annecy in April average around 11°C (53°F), and San Remo averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, Annecy often gets less sunshine than San Remo. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 198 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as San Remo. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Remo and Annecy