A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Belfast vs. Annecy for Food, Couples, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit Belfast or Annecy?

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

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

Belfast

Belfast is a under-rated, authentic, and affordable city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife and shopping.

Annecy

Annecy is a charming, stunning, and breathtaking alpine town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Belfast and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • 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 Belfast or Annecy?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Annecy. Although Belfast and Annecy are popular destinations, Annecy has more sights and attractions for tourists. Annecy is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Belfast attracts visitors for its big city activities. Annecy is more touristy than Belfast and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also well known for Palais de l'Isle. Belfast is famous for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

How is Belfast different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Belfast
Annecy

Annecy is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Annecy is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Belfast
Annecy

Annecy is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Belfast
Annecy

Both Belfast and Annecy are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

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 Belfast or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Belfast
Annecy

Annecy is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Belfast does not have a historic 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.

Belfast does not have a historic old town.


Is Belfast or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Belfast
Annecy

Annecy is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Belfast 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.

Belfast is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Annecy?

Belfast
Annecy

Both Belfast and Annecy are nice shopping destinations.

Belfast is a great destination for shopping. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

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 Belfast or Annecy Better for Families?

Belfast
Annecy

Annecy is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Belfast is a family-friendly city. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.


Is Belfast or Annecy Better for Couples?

Belfast
Annecy

Annecy is an unbeatable place for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city 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.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.

Is Belfast or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Belfast
Annecy

Annecy is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city 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.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Belfast or Annecy Better for Students?

Belfast
Annecy

Belfast is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Belfast. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

Annecy is not popular with students.


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

Belfast
Annecy

Annecy is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Belfast or Annecy a more walkable city?

Belfast
Annecy

Annecy is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.

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

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Belfast 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 Belfast, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Belfast. 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 Belfast. 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or Annecy? Ideal Length of Stay
    Belfast 1-3 
    Annecy 2-4

One day in Belfast or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Belfast. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Annecy is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This alpine town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Belfast or Annecy?

Belfast 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Annecy has to offer.

Five days in Belfast or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Belfast. 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 great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Belfast or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the affordable destination of Belfast. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. Since Annecy is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Annecy or Belfast?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Belfast is £133, while the average daily cost in Annecy is £152. 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 Belfast and Annecy in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Belfast £68
    Annecy £78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Belfast £136
    Annecy £156
Compare Hotels in Belfast and Annecy

Looking for a hotel in Belfast 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 Belfast


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: Belfast Hotel Prices and Annecy Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Belfast £14
    Annecy £32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Belfast

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Belfast:

  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Dublin Airport: $294
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Derrygonnelly: $286
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Belcoo: $286
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Bellanaleck: $268
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Kinawley: $264
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisnarick: $259
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Ballinamallard: $248
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Castlederg: $248
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisnaskea: $243
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Maguiresbridge: $243
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Tempo: $241
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Newtownbutler: $236

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Annecy

Also for Annecy, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private transfer from Geneva airport to Annecy: $295
  • Lyon : Luxury private transfer to Annecy in Van: $374

Is it cheaper to fly into Belfast or Annecy?

Prices for flights to both Annecy and Belfast 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
    Belfast £51
    Annecy £49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Belfast

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Belfast.

  • Guided Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $81
  • Belfast Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $108

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.
    Belfast £18
    Annecy £35
Typical Entertainment Prices in Belfast

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Belfast are as follows:


  • Movie Tickets
    £8.00

Tours and Activities in Belfast

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Belfast are as follows:

  • Belfast A Music and StreetArt Experience. Small Gr Walking Tour : $25
  • Belfast The Troubles cab tour Adventure 2hrs personal guide : $113
  • Historical Private Tour in Belfast : $76
  • 2 Hour Fungi Experience in Belfast: $62
  • 2 hour Private Political History & Murals Tour Belfast: $70
  • 2 hours Belfast Original Drivers The Troubles Black Taxi Tour: $92
  • 3 Hour extended Murals Tour: $101
  • A History of Terror - Belfast City Centre Walking Tour : $28
  • Antrim Coast Carrickfergus and Gobbins Cliff Experience: $437
  • Award winners Express 2 hrs Black Taxi tours and Mural Taxi Tour: $158
  • Belfast Black Taxi Tour of Murals and Peace Walls 2 hours: $114
  • Belfast Famous Black taxi political mural peace wall tour 2 hour: $125

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
    Belfast £7.86
    Annecy £29

Sample the Local Flavors in Belfast

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Belfast:

  • Pub Crawl and Bar Walking Tour with Two Drinks: $15
  • Belfast Pub Crawl: $15
  • Explore & Taste: Distillery Tour at Titanic Distillers: $32
  • Belfast Giant's Causeway and Titanic Distillery Whiskey Tour: $69
  • VIP Skip-the Line Titanic Museum and Distillery Tasting Tour: $119

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 comparing the travel costs between Belfast and Annecy, 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 Belfast Expensive? and Is Annecy Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Belfast or Annecy?

Belfast has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Belfast 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or Annecy in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Belfast is cooler than Annecy. Typically, the summer temperatures in Belfast in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Annecy averages at about 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Annecy. In the summer, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets more rain in July than Annecy. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Belfast 15°C (59°F) 
    Annecy 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Annecy in the Autumn?

Both Annecy and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Belfast because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. 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 October, Belfast is generally much colder than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 9°C (48°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during autumn. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Belfast usually receives more rain than Annecy. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Belfast 9°C (48°F) 
    Annecy 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Annecy in the Winter?

Both Annecy and Belfast during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Belfast this time of year. Also, 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 Belfast in the winter. Belfast is around the same temperature as Annecy in the winter. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets more rain in January than Annecy. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Belfast 4°C (39°F) 
    Annecy 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Annecy in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Belfast and Annecy. Many travelers come to Belfast for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Annecy in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Belfast is cooler than Annecy. Typically, the spring temperatures in Belfast in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Annecy averages at about 11°C (53°F).

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

In April, Belfast usually receives less rain than Annecy. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Belfast 8°C (46°F) 
    Annecy 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Annecy and Belfast

Belfast Annecy
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)