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

Should you visit Nice or Annecy?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nice and Annecy can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nice

Nice is a opulent, trendy, and chic seaside destination. Many visitors also come to Nice because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Nice travel costs.

Annecy

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

Nice and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nice or Annecy?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nice than Annecy, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nice is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Annecy is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Nice is well known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Also, Nice is famous for The Promenade des Anglais. Annecy is well known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting.

How is Nice different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Annecy is a alpine town with good options for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at amazing restaurants in both Nice and Annecy.

Many restaurants in Nice have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

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.

Is Nice or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Nice is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its evening party scene.

Nice is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice or Annecy Better for Resorts?

Nice is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Annecy is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Nice is a perfect choice. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Annecy is not a resort destination.

Is Nice or Annecy Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Annecy is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Annecy is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nice or Annecy Better for Beaches?

Nice is a great seaside destination for the beach. However, Annecy is not a beach destination.

Nice is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

Annecy is not a beach destination.

Is Nice or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is renowned for its old town. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Nice. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

Is Nice or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Annecy is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Nice 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.

Nice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or Annecy?

Nice is a great seaside destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its shopping areas.

Nice is well-known for its shopping. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

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 Nice or Annecy More Beautiful?

Nice and Annecy are somewhat similar when it comes to the amazing scenery.

You'll find world class beauty in Nice as well. A premiere destination in the French Riviera, this town is known for it's luxury, glitz, charm, and personality.

Annecy is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. A mix of natural beauty and small town charm make this a scenic and beautiful destination.

Is Nice or Annecy Better for Families?

Annecy is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit 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.

Nice is a family-friendly seaside destination. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Is Nice or Annecy Better for Couples?

Both Nice and Annecy are amazing destinations for a couple's getaway.

Nice is a great seaside destination for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

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.

Is Nice or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Nice and Annecy are notable destinations for backpackers.

Nice is a good seaside destination to visit for backpackers. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

Plenty of backpackers 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 Nice or Annecy Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nice is a great seaside destination 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.

Nice has some very good public transit options. There are both buses and trams.

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 Nice or Annecy a more walkable city?

Nice 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.

Nice is a very easy seaside destination to get around on foot. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice Worth Visiting? and Is Annecy Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Nice?

How long in Nice or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Nice or Annecy. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nice due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Nice, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Nice. 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 Nice than Annecy. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nice that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nice 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 Nice.

One day in Nice or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Nice. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Nice or Annecy?

Nice is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Annecy is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Nice or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nice. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. This alpine town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nice or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the chic destination of Nice. This seaside destination 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.

Because Annecy is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours in France, and The Best River Cruises in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nice or Annecy?

Nice has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Nice 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 Nice 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 Nice or Annecy in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nice as well as Annecy. Many visitors come to Nice in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

Nice usually gets less rain in July than Annecy. Nice gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Annecy in the Autumn?

Both Annecy and Nice are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Annecy because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nice is a little warmer than Annecy. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nice in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Annecy averages at about 14°C (56°F).

It's quite rainy in Nice. In October, Nice usually receives more rain than Annecy. Nice gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nice or Annecy in the Winter?

Both Annecy and Nice during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Nice because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Annecy this time of year.

It's quite cold in Annecy in the winter. In January, Nice is generally much warmer than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 9°C (48°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Nice usually gets more rain in January than Annecy. Nice gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Annecy in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nice and Annecy. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nice this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Nice is a little warmer than Annecy in the spring. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Annecy fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In April, Nice usually receives around the same amount of rain as Annecy. Nice gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Annecy and Nice