Travel Budget for Annecy Visit Annecy on a Budget or Travel in Style

Annecy, Rhone-Alpes, France

Annecy is a charming alpine town known for Château d'Annecy, Jardins de l'Europe, and Basilique de la Visitation. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. Whether you're eating the delicious cuisine, hiking in nature, or taking in the beauty, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Annecy that stays within your budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Annecy?

You should plan to spend around $230 (€220) per day on your vacation in Annecy. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $105 (€100) on meals
  • $39 (€37) on local transportation
  • $192 (€183) on hotels

A one week trip to Annecy for two people costs, on average, $3,223 (€3,080). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $230
    220
  • One Week Per person
    $1,611
    1,540
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $3,223
    3,080
  • One Month Per person
    $6,906
    6,600
  • One Week For a couple
    $3,223
    3,080
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $6,446
    6,160
  • One Month For a couple
    $13,812
    13,200
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Annecy cost?

A one week trip to Annecy usually costs around $1,611 (€1,540) for one person and $3,223 (€3,080) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Annecy on average costs around $3,223 (€3,080) for one person and $6,446 (€6,160) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Annecy will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Annecy on average costs around $6,906 (€6,600) for one person and $13,812 (€13,200) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Annecy expensive to visit?

Annecy is a popular alpine town that attracts many visitors who have various travel styles and spending habits. Affordable hotel choices are available, but luxury hotels also cater to the more affluent clientele, along with mid-range accommodations that are perfect for families and couples.

Annecy can certainly rack up expenses, but there are strategies to minimize costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.

On average, budget travelers spend $100 (€97) per day, mid-range travelers spend $227 (€220) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $430 (€417) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Annecy.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Annecy is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Playa del Ingles or Naxos.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Annecy Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Annecy?

The average Annecy trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Annecy travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Annecy cost?

Annecy on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$42
(41)
$96
(92)
$176
(168)
Local Transportation 1 $17
(16)
$39
(37)
$74
(71)
Food 2 $46
(44)
$105
(100)
$203
(194)
Entertainment 1 $19
(18)
$43
(41)
$81
(78)
Alcohol 2 $8-24
(8-23)
$18-54
(17-51)
$34-103
(33-98)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people assume they can visit Annecy on a minimal budget, but most find that style of travel to be uncomfortable. Think about what makes a vacation enjoyable for you. Do you like staying in budget hostels, regular hotels, or high-end resorts? Do you want to experience the local attractions? Do you enjoy dining out? Your budget and itinerary will be determined by your answers to these questions.

Annecy on a Shoestring Budget?

While you might think you're a budget traveler, without giving up many of your usual comforts, you'll likely need to spend more than the $100 per day that backpackers often spend.

Backpackers often work within this tight budget by staying in hostel dorms, eating fast food or street food, using public transit, and mainly visiting free attractions.

For many travelers to Annecy, food is a key attraction, yet budget-conscious visitors often stick to street food or hostel cooking, missing out on the delicious local dining experiences.

Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?

Couples and families enjoying a vacation will probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular dining spots, and explore the key museums and attractions that have entry fees. When visiting Annecy, you'll want to see Château d'Annecy, Jardins de l'Europe, or Basilique de la Visitation. Keep in mind that most activities cost money. Thus, it's reasonable to expect your daily budget to be around $227 per person, per day.

There are plenty of hotels and vacation rentals available in Annecy. If you're traveling with companions, sharing a hotel with a partner, friend, or kids can help lower costs. Families should seek out hotels and dining options that are suitable for children. Splendid Hotel Annecy is a wonderful family-friendly hotel, and Imperial Palace is another excellent choice. During your visit to Annecy, don't forget to book a romantic stay at Hotel des Marquisats. For more family and couple-oriented hotels, visit our hotel cost guide for Annecy here.

Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?

If you're looking for a luxurious getaway that offers top-notch amenities and exceptional service, you should budget around $430 per day. To enjoy a nicer hotel, dine at renowned restaurants, indulge in extravagant activities, and use taxis or private drivers to explore the alpine town, prepare for a luxury price tag. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private Market Tour and Cooking Class in Annecy with a Local - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Annecy

Annecy offers a broad range of hotel prices, from budget to luxury. Higher-end hotels come with more amenities and higher prices, particularly during peak season. Off-season, you'll find average rates around $149, but during peak summer season, they can average $278. Prices range from $88 to $627, and hostels tend to be much cheaper. Save money by visiting during the low season or by taking advantage of early booking and special promotions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Annecy for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $192 (€183). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $96 (€92) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $96
    92
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $192
    183

Hotels in Annecy

Looking for a hotel in Annecy? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Annecy

The average hotel room price in Annecy based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $149 in the low season and $278 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Annecy include:

  • Alery Hotel starting at $168
  • Imperial Palace starting at $160
  • Le Pre Carre starting at $188
  • Splendid Hotel Annecy starting at $98
  • Au Faisan Dore Annecy starting at $120
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Annecy

Annecy's good public transit system can help keep accommodation costs low by staying farther out, but the extra transportation expenses and inconvenience may not be worth it if you're short on time.

Annecy is family-friendly, so finding a larger apartment or more spacious accommodation is ideal when traveling with children.

Heading to Annecy for your honeymoon? Treat yourselves to a luxury hotel stay, with top picks such as Hotel des Marquisats and Les Tresoms Lake and Spa Resort.

Choosing to travel outside of summer and in the low or shoulder season will give you lower hotel prices and less tourist congestion.

Though Annecy is a popular tourist spot, its small size means hotels can sell out fast. To avoid any issues during summer, make your reservations well in advance.

Walking is a favored way to experience Annecy, so finding a central accommodation is a great idea. Just remember, this might come with a steeper price tag.

The alpine town's historic old town is a significant draw for tourists. Hotels here may be more expensive, but they often feature a lot of character and a prime location for easy access to attractions.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Annecy

Annecy's public transit system connects to several major sights. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way. To save money and travel efficiently, public transport is a good option if it's near your location, but taxis and rideshares are always around for convenience.

Anyone who likes to wander around on foot will appreciate their time here. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (good)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (great)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $39 (€37) per person, per day, on local transportation in Annecy. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Annecy is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $39
    37

Transportation Tips

Check that your hotel has convenient parking if you're planning on driving.

Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:

  • Private transfer from Geneva airport to Annecy for $283 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Annecy
How much does it cost to go to Annecy? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Annecy
The price of renting a car in Annecy will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Annecy

The cuisine available in Annecy is nothing short of world-class, so don't miss it. Take the time to visit local restaurants and sample some specialty dishes. 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.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Annecy can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Annecy is $105 (€100) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $105
    100

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Annecy is around $103 (€100) per person, with previous travelers spending from $45 to $200. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Annecy are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $10 to $31
  • Lunch: $15 to $41
  • Dinner: $31 to $72
  • Coffee: $8
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $15

The cuisine is a remarkable French meets Swiss infusion, and is known for the gastronomic selections from the Haute-Savoie region. It is here that French mountain cooking thrives most vigorously. The raw materials are rich and varied-cheese and other dairy products; apples, pears, plums, and cherries; mountain berries, and wild mushrooms; as well as wild game and fresh fish-not just trout but perch, pike, and the sublime omble-chevalier. Fondue Savoyarde is the region's most famous dish, but hearty soups and stews (among them the famous Potee), civets of game, potato dishes, and glorious fruit tarts all appear on the Annecy table as well.

Food in Annecy

Food & Dining Tips

When you're out with kids, seek restaurants that provide a kids' menu. This can help you save a good chunk of change, as these meals are usually priced lower. Remember, some places may not display their kids' options, so be sure to ask the server before ordering.

Many accommodations throw in breakfast at no extra cost, though others might charge you for it. The price and quality can greatly vary by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you figure out if you need to spend more money. You might find the hotel's buffet is worth it, or you may prefer to grab a cheaper bite at a local bakery or cafe.

Save money while enjoying the scenery by planning a picnic. Visit a local grocery store or market, gather some fresh treats, and find a lovely park or scenic spot to relish your meal.

Bring a water bottle along to avoid the need to buy drinks. It's also good for Mother Earth.

Before you head out on a tour, be sure to find out which meals are included. You could end up paying for some meals out of pocket, which can impact your budget.

Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Annecy. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • Annecy Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience for $100 details
  • Private Market Tour and Cooking Class in Annecy with a Local for $179 details
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Annecy Old Town with Local Guide for $142 details

Recommended


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Annecy

It's not surprising that visitors come to Annecy, as it offers food, historical sights, romance, and hiking.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Annecy typically cost an average of $43 (€41) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $43
    41

Some of the most popular sights include:

  • Château d'Annecy for €8
  • Jardins de l'Europe (Free)
  • Basilique de la Visitation (Free)
  • Pont des Amours (Free)
  • Palais de l'Isle for €4

The Palais de l'Isle is a 12th century castle on an island in the river Thiou in Annecy's administrative headquarters. It mostly served as a prison and courthouse until the French Revolution. It again was a prison during World War II. The Palais de l'Ile was classified as a Historical Monument in 1900, and today houses a local history museum.

The Chateau d'Annecy (Annecy Castle) was the home of the Counts of Geneva and the Dukes of Genevois-Nemours. The imposing Castle is majestically placed atop one of the last promontories of the Semnoz Mountain overlooking the lake with the old town of Annecy nestled at its foot. Its silhouette can be seen from various parts of the town as a beacon of the medieval past of Annecy. After being abandoned in the 17th century, the castle was then occupied by a garrison until 1947. In 1902, it was listed as a Historical Monument by the French State. Today, the castle houses the museum of regional art and the Alpine Lakes Regional Observatory.

Saint-Pierre is a lovely renaissance building, constructed in the 1500s, and if it seems a bit subtle for a cathedral that's because it wasn't made one until 1825. Saint-Pierre Cathedral is also admired for the way it interacts with the water, and is partly built over the canals.

Make the steep walk up to the Basilique de la Visitation, high to the south of Annecy. The tower of this 19th-century church can be seen for miles around and possesses one of the best local views of the city. Inside are the tombs of two saints, Francis de Sales and Jane Frances de Chantal.

See the Gorges du Fier. Minutes west of the city is a marvelous river canyon cut by the Fier River. Even in the French Alps, which are famous for their natural wonders, the gorge is a must-visit. There's a series of walkway suspended 25 meters above the river letting you marvel at the odd shapes create by many years of erosion. In places the gorge is so narrow that the cliffs almost meet overhead, and you'll be able to touch the rock face on the other side. There's also a free path delivering you to a natural pool where people come to sunbathe and swim in the summer.



Get on a boat. For the best way to discover the lake and surrounding mountains, visitors can take a trip on tourist boats or hire pedalos and small motor boats. Take the tour around the lake and enjoy the magical beauty, the endless colors, and the runoff from the snow-capped mountains that surround you on every side, providing some of the cleanest waters in the world.

Another wonderful day trip is taking the bus or renting a car to go up to the top of the mountain nearby called Le Semnoz and stopping by the luge d'ete center to go for a ride. If you take a bus ride up there, one free luge pass is included. Along the mountainside there are cows roaming free and the views go for miles. Also on this mountain you can hike at the very top or you can sit down and watch hang gliders take off.

Spend time walking around the shops in Annecy and get a cultural taste for this unique region of France. Stop and take a picture on the iconic bridge that overlooks the Palais de L'Isle. Walk up the cobblestone streets to Chateau d'Annecy.

A different way to discover the area is to choose a Segway stroll, a nice activity to do on Lake Annecy shore. Even if you have never tried before, it's a great place to start as the area around the lake is a pedestrian only area.

For a more active option, do a bike ride around Lake Annecy. There is around 42km of bike path, it's really a great way to discover the surroundings. You will of course need to stop a few times to admire the view.

Discover Annecy from the sky. For those with an adventurous spirit and big thrills enthusiasts, you can book a paragliding session above Lake Annecy. The view is just crazy, no wonder why Annecy is the most famous paragliding site in Europe, and one of the best in the world!

Enjoying other nautical activities is also a good option here. From pedal boat to water-skiing and wakeboarding, everyone will for sure find a nautical activity that suits them on lake Annecy.

Sightseeing Tips

Historical Sights:
Old Town in AnnecyThe historic old town welcomes many guests each year. 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.

Hiking:
Hiking in AnnecyThe hiking opportunities around Annecy are outstanding. 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.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Annecy. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Annecy Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour for $8 details
  • Luxury Private Concierge - Annecy Bespoke Experience for $52 details
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h for $42 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Annecy

For nightlife seekers, Annecy has some activities, but it lacks the vibrancy of other more favored destinations. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $36 (€34) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Annecy per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $36
    34
Nightlife Tips

While nightlife can be a blast, skipping a few rounds can significantly lower your travel expenses.

When enjoying the nightlife, stay alert and cautious, as you may attract the attention of pickpockets or other criminals. It's best to stay with a group of people you trust.

Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Annecy. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:

  • Wine Tour with private driver for $821 details

Recommended


Travel cost data last updated: Dec 27, 2024

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Annecy

  • Take advantage of free attractions and activities, such as:
    • Jardins de l'Europe
    • Basilique de la Visitation
    • Pont des Amours
  • Prices in the alpine town rise and crowds swell during the peak summer season. For a more budget-friendly and less crowded experience, consider visiting in the shoulder or low seasons.
  • By opting for a more leisurely travel pace, you can save money while enjoying the area's beauty. If you try to squeeze too many activities into your schedule, expenses can climb quickly. On the other hand, slowing down often allows for a more enjoyable and cost-effective experience.

Budgeting Challenges

  • When traveling with young kids, opting for a private vehicle or taxi is likely on your agenda. It's often easier to avoid the headaches of public transportation, though it may cost you a little extra.
  • If you're thinking Annecy will have plenty of hostel options, you might be in for a surprise. Instead of relying on cheap dorms, it's better to seek out an inexpensive hotel or an apartment rental.
Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Annecy.

Why would you recommend Annecy to budget travelers? Or, why not?

We visited during the early spring when prices were lower and crowds were less.

Tina
-
Apr 26 2024

This town has one of the most charming old towns that we've seen in Europe! It's an absolute must see!

Debbie
-
Mar 25 2024

What makes Annecy a budget-friendly destination? Or not?

We hired a boat for a few hours to get out on the lake and it was surprisingly affordable.

beth and dave
-
Jan 10 2024

I found that our hotel was kindof high in price, but most other things here were either free or really cheap. The town itself is like the main thing to see, and you can walk around all day for free and see a lot of beautiful places with amazing views along the river and at the lake. The castle and church up on the hill weren't very expensive to get in to. I found the boat tour to be amazing, but also high in price so that's something you could cut out if you need to save money. Instead take the public bus around the lake for more views.

Chris
-
Sep 8 2023
Traveling in Annecy
Annecy Annecy, France

Annecy is an alpine town in southeastern France, where Lake Annecy feeds into the Thiou River. It's known for its Vieille Ville (old town), with cobbled streets, winding canals and pastel-colored houses. Annecy is situated on a stunning aqua clear lake between the Northern alps of France. Only thirty minutes away from Geneva, Switzerland, this French-Swiss town is unlike any other. Another nickname for this city is the Venice of France because the small center of the city is filled with water passages lined with beautiful flower boxes. The city is romantic because the waterways filled with lights that illuminate the bricks and you feel as if you are in a whole other world with no one around you. The purity of the lake and the beauty of its setting compels Anneciens outdoors - in good weather it seems everyone is hanging out in pavement cafes, mountain-gazing along the lakefront, swimming in the lake, or just aimlessly cycling around it.



Neighborhoods & Around

Old Town

Walking around Annecy old town is a real delight. With its charming canals, its flower-bedecked banks, and its beautiful houses with colorful facades, Annecy carries really well its nickname of Savoyard Venice. How pleasant it is to stroll along its canals or walk around the lovely narrow pedestrian streets packed with terraced cafes, and medieval buildings and bridges dripping with history. A little further exploration will find you in more modern parts of the city, with high street stores and boutiques, a train and bus station and, of course, more cafes and restaurants.

Lake Annecy

The gorgeous old town itself would be enough to convince anyone to visit Annecy, but the real highlight is the lake, just steps from the old town, and a veritable playground for young and old alike. Pedal boats, available to hire by the hour, scatter the lake's blue surface; speedboats cut across the panoramic backdrop of mountains and turquoise water; sun-seekers sprawl in parks and 'plages', sections of grass that serve as public beaches with showers, ice cream vendors and life savers; roller bladers, cyclists, runners and walkers utilize the footpaths and bike lanes that wind around sections of the lake.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.