A Travel Price Comparison for France Rouen vs. Annecy for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Rouen or Annecy?

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

Should I visit Rouen or Annecy? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Rouen

Rouen is a compact, impressive, and relaxing city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy

Annecy is a quaint, storybook, and charming 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 hiking, shopping, and museums.

Rouen and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rouen or Annecy?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Annecy than Rouen, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Annecy is more touristy than Rouen and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Also, Annecy is famous for Palais de l'Isle. Rouen is well known for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

How is Rouen different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Rouen and Annecy.

Rouen offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

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.

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

Annecy is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Annecy is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Rouen has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

Is Rouen or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both Rouen and Annecy.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

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.

Is Rouen or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Rouen has an old town worth visiting. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

Is Rouen or Annecy Better for Hiking?

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

Rouen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rouen or Annecy?

Both Rouen and Annecy are notable shopping destinations.

Rouen offers some nice shopping areas. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

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.

Is Rouen or Annecy Better for Families?

Annecy is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Rouen is a family-friendly city. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

Is Rouen or Annecy Better for Couples?

Annecy is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Annecy makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Rouen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

Is Rouen or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Annecy is a popular place for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

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

Rouen 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.

Rouen has some very good public transit options. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

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 Rouen or Annecy a more walkable city?

Rouen and Annecy both are great when exploring on foot.

Rouen is a very walkable city. There are many parts of town that can easily be 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 Rouen Worth Visiting? and Is Annecy Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Rouen?

How long in Rouen or Annecy?

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

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Rouen. 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 Rouen. 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 Rouen 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 Rouen or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Rouen. 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 Rouen or Annecy?

Rouen 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 Rouen or Annecy?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Rouen. 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 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France, and The Best Luxury Tours to France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Rouen or Annecy?

Rouen has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Rouen 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 Rouen 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 Rouen or Annecy in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Rouen as well as Annecy. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rouen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Annecy for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Rouen is cooler than Annecy in the summer. The daily temperature in Rouen 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 Rouen this time of the year. In the summer, Rouen often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Rouen gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Rouen usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Annecy. Rouen gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rouen or Annecy in the Autumn?

Both Annecy and Rouen are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Rouen for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Annecy in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Rouen is cooler than Annecy. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rouen in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Annecy averages at about 14°C (56°F).

Rouen usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Annecy during autumn. Rouen gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Rouen usually receives less rain than Annecy. Rouen gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rouen or Annecy in the Winter?

Both Annecy and Rouen during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Rouen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Annecy for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Annecy can be very cold during winter. Rouen can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Rouen is generally around the same temperature as Annecy. Daily temperatures in Rouen average around 4°C (39°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Rouen often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Annecy. Rouen gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Rouen usually gets more rain in January than Annecy. Rouen 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 Rouen or Annecy in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Rouen and Annecy. Most visitors come to Rouen for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Annecy because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Rouen is cooler than Annecy in the spring. The daily temperature in Rouen averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Annecy fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Rouen usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Annecy during spring. Rouen gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rouen usually receives less rain than Annecy. Rouen gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Annecy and Rouen