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

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park or Annecy?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Snowdonia National Park and Annecy can help you decide which place is right for you.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a scenic, rugged, and stunning national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Annecy

Annecy is a storybook, charming, and stunning 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Snowdonia National Park and Annecy: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Snowdonia National Park or Annecy?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Annecy than Snowdonia National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Annecy is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Snowdonia National Park is more popular for its skiing, beaches, and hiking. Annecy is more touristy than Snowdonia National Park and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Also, Annecy is famous for Palais de l'Isle. Snowdonia National Park is well known for its beautiful mountain landscape.

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Annecy Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park
Annecy

Snowdonia National Park is adequate for skiing. However, Annecy is not a skiing destination.

Snowdonia National Park is a fun local destination for snow skiers. The mountains in the area are a bit rugged and coastal, making them not ideal for skiing. But if the weather's right and you are up for the steep terrain, there may be opportunities to ski at times between the months of November and April.

Annecy is not a skiing destination.


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

Snowdonia National Park
Annecy

Annecy is very good for its sights and museums. However, Snowdonia National Park 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.

Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Annecy

Annecy is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Snowdonia National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its restaurants.

Annecy has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Snowdonia National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a variety of restaurants in the area that serve up local Welsh flavors. You'll build up your appetite hiking and then head into town to enjoy a quick bite at a cafe or a nice meal at a 5 star hotel.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Snowdonia National Park
Annecy

Annecy is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Annecy Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park
Annecy

Snowdonia National Park is very good for the beache. However, Annecy is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Snowdonia National Park to enjoy the beach. The white sandy beaches offer spectacular views of the mountains. There are holiday cottages near the beaches that make it a nice vacation spot between the months of September and April. Several of the best beaches in the area include Porthdinllaen, Porth O'er, Llanbedrog, and Harlech Beach.

Annecy is not a beach destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Snowdonia National Park
Annecy

Annecy is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Annecy can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park
Annecy

Snowdonia 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 Snowdonia National Park specifically for its hiking. There are approximately 1,500 miles of walking paths and hiking trails in the area. You can hike to waterfalls, along beaches, or to the top of Mt. Snowden. Aber Falls is a popular trail or you could explore lakes and try to see wild ponies along the Llyn Idwal Trail. For a particularly strenuous and adventurous trail, head to Glyder Fawr or The Snowdon Horseshoe Circular Walk.

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 Snowdonia National Park or Annecy?

Snowdonia National Park
Annecy

Annecy is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Annecy offers some nice shopping areas. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Annecy Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park
Annecy

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Snowdonia National Park or Annecy.

Snowdonia National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. Kids will enjoy exploring the outdoors. You can also check out Conwy Castle or wander the medieval walls around Conwy. If you're interested in taking a walk, you wander along Newborough Beach or head to the top of Mount Snowdon and enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery. Llechwedd Slate Caverns is also particularly fun for kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Annecy. 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 Snowdonia National Park or Annecy Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park
Annecy

Both Snowdonia National Park and Annecy are fantastic destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Snowdonia National Park has plenty to offer. Explore the beautiful outdoor scenery by taking one of the many hikes in the park. There are many diverse walking routes or you can head to the top of Mt. Snowden. There are also waterfalls and castles that couples can explore.

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.


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

Snowdonia National Park
Annecy

Snowdonia National Park is a great national park for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Snowdonia National Park. Camping and hiking is the best way to experience this park. You can explore the stunning natural beauty without spending a fortune on a hotel.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Annecy

Both Snowdonia National Park and Annecy offer notable public transit options.

Snowdonia National Park has a few public transit options. During the peak season you can travel to some areas by bus. Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus operates in part of the park. Train options include The Cambrian and Conwy Valley train lines as well as the Welsh Highland Railway and the Ffestiniog Railway.

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.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Annecy a more walkable city?

Snowdonia National Park
Annecy

Annecy is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.


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

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Snowdonia National Park?

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Annecy?

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

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Snowdonia 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 Snowdonia 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 Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park.


  • How many days in Snowdonia National Park or Annecy? Ideal Length of Stay
    Snowdonia National Park 3-7 
    Annecy 2-4

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Snowdonia 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. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Snowdonia National Park or Annecy?

Snowdonia 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.

Annecy is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Five days in Snowdonia National Park or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Snowdonia 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.

Annecy is a great place to explore. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


A week in Snowdonia National Park or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the natural destination of Snowdonia 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. Most people head to the area for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Annecy or Snowdonia National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Snowdonia National Park is £75, 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 Snowdonia National Park and Annecy in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Snowdonia National Park £29
    Annecy £78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Snowdonia National Park £58
    Annecy £156
Compare Hotels in Snowdonia National Park and Annecy

Looking for a hotel in Snowdonia 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 Snowdonia 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.
    Snowdonia National Park £46
    Annecy £32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Snowdonia National Park:

  • Private Transfer from Caernarfon to Manchester Airport (MAN): $250

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 Snowdonia National Park or Annecy?

Prices for flights to both Annecy and Snowdonia 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
    Snowdonia National Park £19
    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.
    Snowdonia National Park £18
    Annecy £35

Tours and Activities in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Snowdonia National Park are as follows:

  • 2 Hours Historical Tour of Caernarfon: $33
  • Anglesey Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Snowdon Kayak Adventure on Llyn Padarn: $56

Tours and Activities in Annecy

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Annecy.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour with Smartphone App: $12
  • Yakapedaler : bike rental tour with the Annecy lac: $21
  • Full-day private tour from Geneva to Annecy: $40
  • 1-Hour Segway Discovery Tour: $43
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h: $44
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h30: $55
  • Annecy 2-Hour Segway Tour: $64
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 2h: $66
  • Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Snowdonia National Park £4.86
    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 Snowdonia National Park and Annecy, we can see that Annecy is more expensive. And not only is Snowdonia National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Snowdonia National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Snowdonia 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 Snowdonia National Park.

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



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

The summer brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Annecy. The summer months attract visitors to Snowdonia National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Annecy this time of year.

Snowdonia National Park is cooler than Annecy in the summer. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 15°C (60°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 Snowdonia National Park this time of the year. In the summer, Snowdonia National Park often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets less rain in July than Annecy. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Snowdonia National Park 15°C (60°F) 
    Annecy 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Annecy in the Autumn?

Both Annecy and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Snowdonia National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Annecy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Snowdonia National Park usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during autumn. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Snowdonia National Park usually receives more rain than Annecy. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Snowdonia National Park 12°C (53°F) 
    Annecy 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Annecy in the Winter?

Both Annecy and Snowdonia National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Snowdonia National Park for the skiing and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Annecy in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Annecy can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Snowdonia National Park is generally a little warmer than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 5°C (42°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Snowdonia National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Annecy. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Snowdonia National Park 5°C (42°F) 
    Annecy 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Annecy in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Annecy. Many visitors come to Snowdonia National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

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

Snowdonia National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Annecy during spring. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Snowdonia National Park usually receives less rain than Annecy. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Snowdonia National Park 8°C (47°F) 
    Annecy 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Annecy and Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park Annecy
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 101 mm (4 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)


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