‘Venice of France’ with lake and mountain backdrop is 2026 must-visit | Europe | Travel
If you’re still pondering over your holiday destinations for 2026 and fancy a French getaway with a twist, then this travel influencer’s recommendation might just pique your interest.
A travel enthusiast has taken to Instagram to sing the praises of a picturesque city nestled in the French Alps, likening it to ‘walking through a fairytale’. The enchanting destination in question? None other than Annecy.
Often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Alps’, Annecy is a stunning lakeside city situated in southeastern France‘s Haute-Savoie region. Just a 45-minute drive south from Geneva, it’s famed for its vibrant turquoise glacial lake, majestic snow-capped mountains, and intricate network of medieval canals.
Wendy, known to her 100,000 followers as @nomadicfare on Instagram, shared a captivating reel showcasing some of the city’s most beautiful sights. In her caption, she wrote: “Walking through a fairytale.”
She continued: “A dreamy sunset-to-night wander in Annecy. We started golden hour along the lakefront, then grabbed gelato while crossing the many flower-covered bridges of the old town. The perfect summer night.”
She concluded by asking her followers: “Is this town on your bucket list?”
The video was met with an overwhelmingly positive response, amassing more than 195,000 likes.
One follower gushed: “Great photo-tour. Makes me dream of visiting Annecy.”
Another reminisced: “Annecy is so beautiful! Visited the town as a side trip from Geneva, Switzerland.”
A third praised Wendy’s ability to capture the essence of the place, saying: “Love how you capture not just the place, but the feeling of being there.”
Best way to travel to Annecy
Travellers can journey from London to Annecy via air (swiftest and frequently most economical), railway (picturesque and relaxing), or coach (most budget-friendly yet lengthiest).
By air
The most practical option involves departing from a London terminal (Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, or City) bound for Geneva Airport (GVA). The actual flight duration is roughly 1 hour 40 minutes.
Upon arrival in Geneva, passengers can board a coach service to Annecy, requiring approximately 70 minutes. Currently, no direct services operate to the smaller Annecy Airport (NCY).
Train
One option is to take the Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord, then transfer to Paris Gare de Lyon and catch a high-speed TGV train to Annecy. The journey typically takes between 7-10 hours.
While not as fast as flying, it offers a scenic journey through the French countryside.
Optimal time of year to visit Annecy
The perfect time to visit Annecy really depends on your personal preferences and the activities you’re keen to partake in.
Summer (July to August): This is the height of the tourist season, providing the optimal weather for swimming, boating, and cycling around Lake Annecy. The city comes alive with various festivals, including the spectacular Fête du Lac fireworks display in August.
However, be prepared for larger crowds and increased prices.
Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October): These transitional seasons offer a more tranquil experience with mild weather and fewer tourists. Springtime brings beautiful blossoms, while autumn presents stunning fall foliage around the lake.
Winter (December to March): Annecy exudes charm during the winter months, with Christmas markets and a festive atmosphere. Its close proximity to several ski resorts makes it an ideal base for those passionate about winter sports.
