Annecy by rail - discovering the Venice of the Alps
Back then, working with the French Travel Service, I organised train adventures across France for clients, often sending them into the Alps. Curiously, I’d never found my own way there—until now. The journey may have changed (no more overnight runs direct from Calais) but the magic of travelling by rail through France remains as delightful as ever.
Effortless Rail Travel with a Parisian Pause My adventure began at St Pancras, boarding the ever-smooth Eurostar to Paris. Rather than rush, I chose to linger for a night in the City of Light—a wonderful way to break up the journey and indulge in some Parisian ambience before venturing onward. The next day, I caught the direct train from Gare de Lyon to Annecy. In under three hours, I was stepping off the train and into the heart of Haute-Savoie.
Old Town Charms: Where to Stay and Explore Annecy’s Old Town is, in my view, the ideal place to stay. Just a ten-minute stroll from the station, you’ll find yourself surrounded by cobbled streets, flower-lined canals, and centuries-old facades. There’s a reason Annecy is lovingly called “the Venice of the Alps”—the tangle of bridges and waterways is endlessly photogenic and leads you gently towards the shimmering lake.
The town itself is larger and more dynamic than you might expect. You’ll discover a vibrant weekly antiques market on Saturdays and a bustling food market on Sundays, where the historic squares overflow with local flavours and treasures. There are countless restaurants, cafés, and terraces to choose from: perfect for lazy lunches, people-watching, or evening apéros.
Lakeside Pleasures & Local Flavour Annecy’s iconic lake might steal the show, but it’s more than just a stunning photo opportunity. We hired a small boat for an afternoon on the water, soaking up the mountain views and crystalline calm. Excursions are available too—ideal if you’d rather sit back and let someone else take the helm.
What really captured my heart, though, is how Annecy truly belongs to its locals. The lakeside parks were filled with families picnicking and enjoying the summer sun, and the whole city is incredibly dog-friendly. There’s a lively, lived-in feel that goes far beyond the typical resort town.
Final Thoughts After all these years, Annecy surpassed every expectation—rich history, intoxicating scenery, and that special sense of authenticity that’s becoming rare in so many destinations. If your clients are seeking a French escape that blends beauty, culture, and a slice of local life, I can’t recommend Annecy highly enough.
Ready to plan an adventure to Annecy for your clients, or want to know more about enchanting rail journeys through France? Get in touch today and let’s start designing something unforgettable.