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

Should you visit Arachova or Annecy?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Annecy, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

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.

Arachova and Annecy: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Arachova or Annecy?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Annecy are popular destinations, Arachova has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arachova is very popular for its skiing and nightlife, while Annecy attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Annecy is more touristy than Arachova and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Arachova is famous for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also well known for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort.

How is Arachova different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Annecy Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Annecy

Arachova is very good for skiing. However, Annecy is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Annecy is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Annecy

Both Arachova and Annecy have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Arachova is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

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.

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

Arachova
Annecy

Annecy is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arachova 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.

Arachova has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Is Arachova or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Annecy

Arachova is a great town 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 Arachova has something for everybody. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

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 Arachova or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Annecy

Annecy is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Annecy offers plenty to see. 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.

Arachova is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Is Arachova or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Annecy

Arachova and Annecy are both places where visitors can find excellent hiking trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Annecy?

Arachova
Annecy

Shopping is a popular activity in both Annecy and Arachova.

Arachova is a great destination for shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

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.


Is Arachova or Annecy Better for Families?

Arachova
Annecy

Arachova and Annecy are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Arachova is a very family-friendly place to visit. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

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.

Is Arachova or Annecy Better for Couples?

Arachova
Annecy

Annecy is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Arachova 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.

Arachova is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Arachova or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Annecy

Annecy is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Arachova 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.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


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

Arachova
Annecy

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Arachova and Annecy.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

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.

Is Arachova or Annecy a more walkable city?

Arachova
Annecy

Annecy is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova 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.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Arachova or Annecy. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Annecy due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Annecy than Arachova 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 Arachova or Annecy? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Annecy 2-4

One day in Arachova or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Arachova. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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.


A weekend in Arachova or Annecy?

Arachova 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.

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.

Five days in Arachova or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

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.

A week in Arachova or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the bustling destination of Arachova. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Annecy or Arachova?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Annecy is €178. 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 Arachova and Annecy in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Annecy 92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Annecy 184
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Annecy

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Annecy? 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 Arachova


Hotels in Annecy


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Annecy 37

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Annecy?

Prices for flights to both Annecy and Arachova 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
    Arachova 29
    Annecy 58

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Annecy 41

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Annecy 34

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


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

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


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Annecy?

Annecy has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Annecy, 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 Arachova or Annecy?

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 Arachova or Annecy in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Arachova is a little warmer than Annecy. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arachova in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Annecy averages at about 22°C (71°F).

In Annecy, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the summer, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Annecy. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in July than Annecy. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Annecy 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Annecy in the Autumn?

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

In October, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 19°C (67°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Annecy during autumn. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Arachova usually receives less rain than Annecy. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Annecy 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Annecy in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Annecy. Arachova is much warmer than Annecy in the winter. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Annecy. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Annecy. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Annecy 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Annecy in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Arachova is a little warmer than Annecy. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arachova in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Annecy averages at about 11°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Annecy during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Annecy. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Annecy 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Annecy and Arachova

Arachova Annecy
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)


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