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

Should you visit Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a charming, historical, and less touristy city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy

Annecy is a breathtaking, quaint, and storybook alpine town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Bucharest and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Annecy?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Annecy than Bucharest, 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 Bucharest is more popular for its big city activities. Annecy is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Also, Annecy is famous for Palais de l'Isle. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Bucharest different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Bucharest and Annecy.

Bucharest offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

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 Bucharest or Annecy? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Annecy is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Annecy, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Bucharest and Annecy.

Bucharest has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

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.

Is Bucharest or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is renowned for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Annecy is one of the most recognized in 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.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is Bucharest or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Annecy is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Annecy?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Annecy and Bucharest.

Bucharest offers some nice shopping areas. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Annecy has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Bucharest or Annecy Better for Families?

Annecy is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Annecy is a very kid-friendly alpine town. 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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Annecy Better for Couples?

Annecy is renowned for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest and Annecy are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

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.

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

Bucharest 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.

Bucharest has some very good public transit options. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

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 Bucharest or Annecy a more walkable city?

Annecy is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Annecy?

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

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Bucharest. 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 Bucharest. 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bucharest. 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Annecy?

Bucharest 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 small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this alpine town has to offer. This alpine town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. 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 small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Annecy?

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

Annecy is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Annecy?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Annecy in the Summer?

Both Annecy and Bucharest during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Annecy in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Annecy in the summer. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Annecy fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Annecy, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bucharest. In the summer, Bucharest often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Annecy. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Annecy. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Annecy in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Annecy. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. 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.

In the autumn, Bucharest is around the same temperature as Annecy. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bucharest in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Annecy averages at about 14°C (56°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Annecy during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Annecy. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bucharest or Annecy in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Annecy. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, 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. Bucharest can be very cold during winter. In January, Bucharest is generally much colder than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Annecy. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Annecy. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Annecy in the Spring?

Both Annecy and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the activities around the city. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Annecy this time of year.

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Annecy in the spring. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Annecy fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Annecy during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Annecy. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Annecy and Bucharest