A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lake District National Park vs. Annecy for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a enjoyable, unique, and beautiful national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food and hiking.

Annecy

Annecy is a breathtaking, quaint, and storybook alpine town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Lake District National Park and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lake District National Park or Annecy?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Annecy. Although Lake District National Park and Annecy are both popular with visitors, Annecy has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Annecy is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Lake District National Park is known for its hiking. Annecy is more touristy than Lake District National Park and is known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also home to Palais de l'Isle. Lake District National Park is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes.

How is Lake District National Park different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Annecy?

Lake District National Park
Annecy

Annecy is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Annecy? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Annecy

Annecy is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Lake District National Park 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lake District National Park makes for a great culinary experience. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

Is Lake District National Park or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Annecy

Annecy is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Lake District National Park
Annecy

Annecy is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

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.

Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Lake District National Park or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Annecy

Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park specifically for its hiking. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

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 Lake District National Park or Annecy?

Lake District National Park
Annecy

Annecy is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Annecy Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Annecy

Both Lake District National Park and Annecy are high quality family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lake District National Park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

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.


Is Lake District National Park or Annecy Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Annecy

Annecy is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Lake District National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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 Lake District National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

Is Lake District National Park or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Annecy

Lake District National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lake District National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

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 Lake District National Park or Annecy Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Annecy

Annecy is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in 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 generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.


Is Lake District National Park or Annecy a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Annecy

Annecy is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Annecy Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Lake District National Park or Annecy. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Lake District National Park. 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 Lake District National Park. 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 Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Annecy? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Annecy 2-4

One day in Lake District National Park or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Lake District National Park. 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 with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This alpine town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Annecy?

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people visit Annecy for a weekend. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in Lake District National Park or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. 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.

Because Annecy is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Lake District National Park or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the enjoyable destination of Lake District National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Annecy, a popular alpine town, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Annecy or Lake District National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, 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 Lake District National Park and Annecy in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Annecy £78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Annecy £156
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Annecy

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park


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: Annecy Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Annecy £32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44
  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33

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 Lake District National Park or Annecy?

Prices for flights to both Annecy and Lake District National Park 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
    Lake District National Park £21
    Annecy £49

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.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Annecy £35

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89

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
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Annecy £29

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

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



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Annecy in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Annecy. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the hiking 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 July, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 15°C (59°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Annecy this time of the year. Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during summer. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Annecy. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Annecy 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Annecy in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Annecy. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. 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.

Lake District National Park is cooler than Annecy in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Annecy fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in October than Annecy. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Annecy 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Annecy in the Winter?

Both Annecy and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park 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. Lake District National Park can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Lake District National Park is cooler than Annecy. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lake District National Park in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Annecy averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during winter. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Lake District National Park. In January, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Annecy. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Annecy 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Annecy in the Spring?

Both Annecy and Lake District National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Annecy this time of year.

In April, Lake District National Park is generally much colder than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 7°C (45°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in April than Annecy. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Annecy 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Annecy and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Annecy
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)