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

Should you visit Hannover 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 Hannover 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.

Hannover

Hannover is a diverse, vibrant, and cultural 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. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Hannover and Annecy: Pros and Cons

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

Both Annecy and Hannover have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Hannover is very popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Annecy attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Annecy is more touristy than Hannover and is known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Hannover is famous for its many parks and gardens as well as its accessibility to the German train system.

How is Hannover different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hannover
Annecy

Spend time exploring the nice sights and museums in either Hannover or Annecy.

Hannover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll see many of the city's sights along the Red Thread Trail in the city center. Make sure you check out the New Town Hall, the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen, and the Lower Saxony State Museum as well.

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 Hannover or Annecy? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hannover
Annecy

Annecy is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Hannover. You'll find classic tearooms, food halls, fine dining restaurants, and markets. Try all of the classic German sausages or sample international dishes in this dynamic city.

Is Hannover or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Hannover
Annecy

Hannover is a great city 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 Hannover has something for everybody. There are many students who keep the nightlife scene active. From beer halls to jazz venues, you'll find a diversity of options around town.

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 Hannover or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Hannover
Annecy

Annecy is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

Annecy has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Many people head to Hannover to see the old town. Check out the half-timbered buildings, the old churches, and the charming streets around old town.


Is Hannover or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Hannover
Annecy

Annecy is a great alpine town for hiking. However, Hannover 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.

Hannover is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hannover or Annecy?

Hannover
Annecy

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Hannover. Head to the 14th-century Market Church (Marktkirche) and wander around the nearby streets for some of the city's best shopping. Also make sure you check out the city flea market. In addition to boutiques and independent shops, there are also major department stores and large shopping malls in the area.

Annecy offers some nice shopping areas. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Hannover or Annecy Better for Families?

Hannover
Annecy

Annecy is a great alpine town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Annecy is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hannover is a family-friendly place to visit. Like many German cities, there are a number of activities geared specifically to kids. Check out the Sea Life Center or the Hannover Zoo. If you're willing to get out of town a bit, there's also Serengeti Park Hodenhagen or Rasti-Land theme park, which has rides and games.


Is Hannover or Annecy Better for Couples?

Hannover
Annecy

Annecy is very popular for romance. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Hannover makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic settings around town include Herrenhäuser Gärten, Berggarten, and Maschpark.

Is Hannover or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hannover
Annecy

For backpackers, both Hannover and Annecy are nice places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hannover. Some people use the city to split up longer train trips. There are a couple of hostels in town if you decide to stay a night or two.

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 Hannover or Annecy Better for Students?

Hannover
Annecy

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

Hannover is very popular with students. There are a few great universities in town including Leibniz University, which attract international students. There's also a nice nightlife and easy accessibility to the rest of Germany.

Annecy is not popular with students.


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

Hannover
Annecy

Hannover 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.

Hannover has some very good public transit options. The city has 12 city trains and 38 bus 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 Hannover or Annecy a more walkable city?

Hannover
Annecy

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

Hannover is very walkable. There are some nice walkable parts to the city.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Hannover?

How long in Hannover or Annecy?

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

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Hannover. 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 Hannover. 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.


  • How many days in Hannover or Annecy? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hannover 1-2 
    Annecy 2-4

One day in Hannover or Annecy?

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

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 Hannover or Annecy?

Hannover 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 Hannover or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hannover. 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 Hannover or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the dynamic destination of Hannover. 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 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 Germany, The Best Oktoberfest Tours in Germany, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Annecy or Hannover?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hannover is €155, 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 Hannover and Annecy in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hannover 85
    Annecy 92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hannover 170
    Annecy 184
Compare Hotels in Hannover and Annecy

Looking for a hotel in Hannover 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 Hannover


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: Hannover Hotel Prices and Annecy Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hannover 23
    Annecy 37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hannover

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

  • Private Direct Transfer From Wolfsburg to Hamburg; English Speaking Driver: $289
  • Private Transfer From Hannover to Hamburg With Sightseeing Stops: $271
  • Private Transfer From Hannover to Hamburg, English Speaking Driver: $212
  • Private Transfer From Hanover City to Bremen City: $94

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 Hannover or Annecy?

Prices for flights to both Annecy and Hannover 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
    Hannover 49
    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.
    Hannover 35
    Annecy 41

Tours and Activities in Hannover

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hannover.

  • Culinary bike tour: $41
  • Fritz Haarmann murder tour through Hanover's old town: $33
  • Guided tour of the New Town Hall in Hanover: $11
  • Guided tour of the Royal Herrenhausen Gardens: $13
  • Hamelin Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $257
  • Hanno(ver)nascht Culinary city tour: $40
  • Hanover Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $252
  • Hanover: Private Walking tour with A Guide (Private Tour): $120
  • Hanover: SEA LIFE Entry Ticket: $20
  • Hop-on hop-off tour in Hanover in a double-decker bus: $22
  • On the trail of crime - Hannover's Crime Tour: $19
  • Personal Travel & Vacation Photography Walking Tour in Hannover: $186

Tours and Activities in Annecy

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Annecy.

  • ANNECY | Private Walking Tour of Annecy's Historical Center: $191
  • Annecy 2-Hour Segway Tour: $64
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h: $44
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h30: $55
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 2h: $66
  • 1-Hour Segway Discovery Tour: $43
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $334
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour with Smartphone App: $12
  • Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hannover 34
    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 comparing the travel costs between Hannover 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 Hannover Expensive? and Is Annecy Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hannover or Annecy?

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

Both Annecy and Hannover are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hannover 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 the summer, Hannover is cooler than Annecy. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hannover in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Annecy averages at about 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Annecy. Hannover usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during summer. Hannover gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hannover usually receives around the same amount of rain as Annecy. Hannover gets 62 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hannover 18°C (64°F) 
    Annecy 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Hannover or Annecy in the Autumn?

Both Annecy and Hannover during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hannover in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, 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 October, Hannover is generally cooler than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Hannover average around 10°C (51°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Hannover often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Hannover gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun.

Hannover usually gets less rain in October than Annecy. Hannover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hannover 10°C (51°F) 
    Annecy 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Hannover or Annecy in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hannover and Annecy. Most visitors come to Hannover for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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. Hannover can be very cold during winter. Hannover is much colder than Annecy in the winter. The daily temperature in Hannover averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Hannover usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during winter. Hannover gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hannover usually receives around the same amount of rain as Annecy. Hannover gets 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hannover 1°C (33°F) 
    Annecy 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Hannover or Annecy in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hannover as well as Annecy. The spring months attract visitors to Hannover 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.

In the spring, Hannover is cooler than Annecy. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hannover in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Annecy averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Hannover often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Hannover gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun.

Hannover usually gets less rain in April than Annecy. Hannover gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hannover 8°C (47°F) 
    Annecy 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Annecy and Hannover

Hannover Annecy
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 1°C (35°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)


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