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

Should you visit Basel or Annecy?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Basel 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.

Basel

Basel is a vibrant, historic, and cultural city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy

Annecy is a charming, stunning, and breathtaking alpine town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Basel and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Basel or Annecy?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Annecy than Basel, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Annecy is better known for its food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Basel is more popular for its museums and shopping. Annecy is more touristy than Basel and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Also, Annecy is famous for Palais de l'Isle. Basel is well known for its many museums and its nice old town.

How is Basel different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Basel specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

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 Basel or Annecy? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Annecy is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Basel or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both Basel and Annecy.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Annecy. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Is Basel or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Annecy is revered around 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.

Basel is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Is Basel or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Annecy is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Basel is not a hiking destination.

Annecy is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Basel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Basel or Annecy?

Basel 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.

Basel is well-known for its shopping. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

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 Basel or Annecy Better for Families?

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

Basel is a very kid-friendly city. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Annecy. 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 Basel or Annecy Better for Couples?

Annecy is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Basel is a good city for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Basel or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Basel and Annecy are notable destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Basel. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Annecy is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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 Basel or Annecy Better for Students?

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

Basel is very popular with students. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Annecy is not popular with students.

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

Basel 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.

Basel has some very good public transit options. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Basel or Annecy a more walkable city?

Basel 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.

Basel is a very easy city to get around on foot. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible 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 Basel Worth Visiting? and Is Annecy Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Basel?

How long in Basel or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Basel or Annecy. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Annecy due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Basel, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

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

One day in Basel or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Basel. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Even though Annecy is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This alpine town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Basel or Annecy?

Basel 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Basel or Annecy?

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

Annecy is a fun place to experience. Annecy is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Basel or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Basel. This 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.

Annecy is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Basel and Annecy, we can see that Basel is more expensive. And not only is Annecy much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Annecy would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Annecy 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 Basel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Basel than you might in Annecy.

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

Which is Bigger, Basel or Annecy?

Basel has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Basel 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 Basel 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 Basel or Annecy in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Basel as well as Annecy. Most visitors come to Basel for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Annecy because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Basel is around the same temperature as Annecy in the summer. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Annecy fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Annecy. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Basel this time of the year. In the summer, Basel often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in July than Annecy. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Basel or Annecy in the Autumn?

Both Annecy and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Basel because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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 the autumn, Basel is around the same temperature as Annecy. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Basel in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Annecy averages at about 14°C (56°F).

Basel usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Annecy during autumn. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Basel usually receives less rain than Annecy. Basel gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Basel or Annecy in the Winter?

Both Annecy and Basel during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Basel this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Annecy for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Annecy. It's quite cold in Basel in the winter. In January, Basel is generally cooler than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 3°C (37°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Basel often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in January than Annecy. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Basel or Annecy in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Annecy. Many travelers come to Basel for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Annecy in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Basel is around the same temperature as Annecy in the spring. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Annecy fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Basel usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during spring. Basel gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Basel usually receives more rain than Annecy. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Annecy and Basel