A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Annecy for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a scenic, picturesque, and stunning island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Isle of Skye and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Annecy?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Annecy. Although Isle of Skye and Annecy are popular destinations, Annecy has more sights and attractions for tourists. Annecy is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Isle of Skye attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Annecy is more touristy than Isle of Skye and is known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also well known for Palais de l'Isle. Isle of Skye is famous for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles.

How is Isle of Skye different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Annecy?

Annecy is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Annecy? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Annecy is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Isle of Skye. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

Is Isle of Skye or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Annecy is a good destination for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Annecy Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye is a great island for the beache. However, Annecy is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Annecy is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is terrific for its historic old town. However, Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Annecy has a unique history which comes to life in its historic 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.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Isle of Skye or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is renowned for hiking. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Annecy?

Annecy is a good destination for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Annecy. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Annecy Better for Families?

Annecy is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

Is Isle of Skye or Annecy Better for Couples?

Annecy is terrific for romance. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Isle of Skye frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

Is Isle of Skye or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Isle of Skye. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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

Annecy is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Annecy has some 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 limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Annecy a more walkable city?

Annecy is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Annecy Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Isle of Skye or Annecy. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Isle of Skye due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Isle of Skye. 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.

Annecy is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Annecy?

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, 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.

Annecy is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Annecy is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isle of Skye or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the diverse destination of Isle of Skye. This island 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.

Annecy is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Annecy?

Annecy has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Annecy in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Annecy. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, 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.

In the summer, Isle of Skye is much colder than Annecy. Typically, the summer temperatures in Isle of Skye in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Annecy averages at about 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Annecy this time of the year. Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during summer. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Annecy. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Annecy in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Annecy. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, 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, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 9°C (49°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in October than Annecy. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Annecy in the Winter?

Both Annecy and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for 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. Isle of Skye can be very cold during winter. Isle of Skye is a little warmer than Annecy in the winter. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during winter. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Isle of Skye. In January, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Annecy. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Annecy in the Spring?

Both Annecy and Isle of Skye during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Annecy this time of year.

In the spring, Isle of Skye is much colder than Annecy. Typically, the spring temperatures in Isle of Skye in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Annecy averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Annecy. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets less rain in April than Annecy. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Annecy and Isle of Skye