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

Should you visit Athens or Annecy?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Annecy. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a energetic, historic, and ancient city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy

Annecy is a breathtaking, quaint, and storybook alpine town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Athens and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Annecy?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Annecy are both popular with visitors, Athens has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Athens is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Annecy is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Annecy is more touristy than Athens and is known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Athens is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Athens 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 Athens are world-renowned. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

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 Athens or Annecy? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Athens and Annecy can be an enjoyable experience.

Eat your way through Athens, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

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.

Is Athens or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

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

Athens is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

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 Athens or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the first-rate old town areas in both Athens and Annecy.

With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

The rich history of Annecy can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Is Athens or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Annecy is great for hiking. However, Athens 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.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Annecy?

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

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Annecy is a great destination for shopping. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Athens or Annecy Better for Families?

Both Athens and Annecy are high quality family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

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.

Is Athens or Annecy Better for Couples?

Annecy is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Annecy is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens 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, Athens is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

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 Athens or Annecy Better for Students?

Athens is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

Athens is very popular with students. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Annecy is not popular with students.

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

Athens 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.

Athens has some very good public transit options. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

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 Athens or Annecy a more walkable city?

Athens and Annecy are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Athens?

How long in Athens or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Athens or Annecy. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Athens due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

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

Couples should spend more time in Annecy than Athens. 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 Athens 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Annecy?

Athens is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

Annecy might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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.

A weekend in Athens or Annecy?

Athens is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Annecy is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Annecy?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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.

A week in Athens or Annecy?

Athens is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

Annecy is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This alpine 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.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Annecy?

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

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 Athens or Annecy in the Summer?

Both Annecy and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Annecy in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Athens is generally a little warmer than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Annecy. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Annecy during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Annecy. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Annecy in the Autumn?

Both Annecy and Athens during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Athens is a little warmer than Annecy in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Annecy fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than Annecy. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in October than Annecy. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Annecy in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Annecy. Most visitors come to Athens for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Annecy because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Annecy can be very cold. In the winter, Athens is much warmer than Annecy. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Annecy averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Athens usually receives more sunshine than Annecy during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Annecy. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Annecy in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Athens as well as Annecy. The spring months attract visitors to Athens because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Annecy this time of year.

In April, Athens is generally a little warmer than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the spring, Athens often gets more sunshine than Annecy. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in April than Annecy. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Annecy and Athens