A Travel Price Comparison for France Strasbourg vs. Annecy for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg and Annecy can help you decide which place is right for you.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a impressive, quaint, and historic 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 storybook, charming, and stunning alpine town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Strasbourg and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Strasbourg or Annecy?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Annecy. Although Strasbourg and Annecy are popular destinations, Annecy has more sights and attractions for tourists. Annecy is very popular for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Strasbourg attracts visitors for its museums and shopping. Annecy is more touristy than Strasbourg and is known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also well known for Palais de l'Isle. Strasbourg is famous for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses.

How is Strasbourg different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Strasbourg is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Strasbourg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

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 Strasbourg or Annecy? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Annecy is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Is Strasbourg or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find nice options in both Strasbourg and Annecy.

If you're looking for night time activities Strasbourg has a few options to choose from. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

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 Strasbourg or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Strasbourg and Annecy are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

The historic old town of Strasbourg is revered around the world. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

With a famous historical old-town, Annecy offers plenty to see. 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.

Is Strasbourg or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Annecy is a great alpine town for hiking. However, Strasbourg is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Annecy for the hiking trails. 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.

Strasbourg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Strasbourg or Annecy?

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

Strasbourg is well-known for its shopping. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

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 Strasbourg or Annecy Better for Families?

Annecy is a great alpine town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Annecy is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Strasbourg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Strasbourg or Annecy Better for Couples?

Annecy is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Annecy has plenty to offer. 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.

Strasbourg is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

Is Strasbourg or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Strasbourg and Annecy are nice places to visit.

Strasbourg is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

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 Strasbourg or Annecy Better for Students?

Strasbourg is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Strasbourg. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

Annecy is not popular with students.

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

Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg has some very good public transit options. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

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 Strasbourg or Annecy a more walkable city?

Strasbourg and Annecy are very good when it comes to walkability.

Strasbourg is very walkable. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Strasbourg?

How long in Strasbourg or Annecy?

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

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

One day in Strasbourg or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Strasbourg. 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Strasbourg or Annecy?

Strasbourg 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.

Even though Annecy is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this alpine town.

Five days in Strasbourg or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Strasbourg. 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, a popular alpine town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Strasbourg or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Strasbourg. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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 Strasbourg and Annecy, we can see that Annecy is more expensive. And not only is Strasbourg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Strasbourg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg.

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

Which is Bigger, Strasbourg or Annecy?

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

Both Annecy and Strasbourg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Annecy this time of year.

In the summer, Strasbourg is around the same temperature as Annecy. Typically, the summer temperatures in Strasbourg in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Annecy averages at about 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Annecy. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Strasbourg. Strasbourg usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during summer. Strasbourg gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Strasbourg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Annecy. Strasbourg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Annecy in the Autumn?

Both Annecy and Strasbourg during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Strasbourg 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 October, Strasbourg is generally cooler than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Strasbourg average around 12°C (53°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Strasbourg often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Strasbourg gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun.

Strasbourg usually gets less rain in October than Annecy. Strasbourg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Annecy in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Strasbourg and Annecy. Many travelers come to Strasbourg for the museums, the shopping scene, 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. Be prepared for some very cold days in Strasbourg. Strasbourg is much colder than Annecy in the winter. The daily temperature in Strasbourg averages around 2°C (35°F) in January, and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Strasbourg usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during winter. Strasbourg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Strasbourg usually receives less rain than Annecy. Strasbourg gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Annecy in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Strasbourg as well as Annecy. Many visitors come to Strasbourg in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Strasbourg is around the same temperature as Annecy. Typically, the spring temperatures in Strasbourg in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Annecy averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Strasbourg often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Strasbourg gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun.

Strasbourg usually gets less rain in April than Annecy. Strasbourg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Annecy and Strasbourg