A Travel Price Comparison for France Lille vs. Annecy for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Lille or Annecy?

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

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

Lille

Lille is a under-rated, fascinating, and cultural city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Annecy

Annecy is a charming, stunning, and breathtaking alpine town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lille and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lille or Annecy?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Annecy than Lille, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Annecy is better known for its museums, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Lille is more popular for its nightlife and shopping. Annecy is more touristy than Lille and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Also, Annecy is famous for Palais de l'Isle. Lille is well known for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene.

How is Lille different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Annecy is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Lille specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

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

Both Lille and Annecy offer terrific local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lille is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

Many restaurants in Annecy have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Is Lille or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Lille 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 Lille has something for everybody. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

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 Lille or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is very popular for its old town. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Lille is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

Is Lille or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Annecy is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Lille 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.

Lille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lille or Annecy?

Lille is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Lille draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

Many visitors go to Annecy to go shopping. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Lille or Annecy Better for Families?

Annecy is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Lille is a mediocre city 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.

Lille is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Lille or Annecy Better for Couples?

Annecy is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Lille is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

Is Lille or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Lille and Annecy are notable destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Lille. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Annecy is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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 Lille or Annecy Better for Students?

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

Lille is very popular with students. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

Annecy is not popular with students.

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

Lille 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.

Lille has some very good public transit options. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

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 Lille or Annecy a more walkable city?

Lille is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its ease of walking around.

Lille is a very easy city to get around on foot. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Lille?

How long in Lille or Annecy?

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

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

One day in Lille or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Lille. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This alpine town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Lille or Annecy?

Lille 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Lille or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lille. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 fun place to experience. Annecy is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lille or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fascinating destination of Lille. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Annecy is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to France, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lille or Annecy?

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

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

Lille is cooler than Annecy in the summer. The daily temperature in Lille averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Annecy fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Annecy. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lille this time of the year. In the summer, Lille often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Lille gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Lille usually gets more rain in July than Annecy. Lille gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lille or Annecy in the Autumn?

Both Annecy and Lille are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Lille because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. 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 the autumn, Lille is cooler than Annecy. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lille in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Annecy averages at about 14°C (56°F).

Lille usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during autumn. Lille gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lille usually receives around the same amount of rain as Annecy. Lille gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lille or Annecy in the Winter?

Both Annecy and Lille during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lille this time of year. Furthermore, 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 Lille in the winter. In January, Lille is generally cooler than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Lille average around 3°C (38°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Lille often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Lille gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Lille usually gets more rain in January than Annecy. Lille gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lille or Annecy in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lille and Annecy. Many travelers come to Lille for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Annecy in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Lille is cooler than Annecy in the spring. The daily temperature in Lille averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Annecy fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Lille usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during spring. Lille gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lille usually receives less rain than Annecy. Lille gets 45 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 Lille