A travel influencer has shared a viral video of one city in France which is described as like ‘walking through a fairytale’, with followers calling the lakeside city ‘so beautiful’
If you’re still mulling over your holiday plans for 2026 and fancy a French escape with a difference, then this travel blogger’s suggestion might just catch your eye. A globetrotting enthusiast has turned to Instagram to rave about a charming city tucked away in the French Alps, describing it as akin to ‘walking through a fairytale’. The magical spot she’s championing? The delightful Annecy.
Dubbed the ‘Venice of the Alps’, Annecy is a breathtaking lakeside town located in France‘s southeastern Haute-Savoie department. Sitting just 45 minutes south of Geneva by car, it’s celebrated for its dazzling turquoise alpine lake, towering snow-dusted peaks, and elaborate system of historic waterways.
Wendy, who boasts 100,000 Instagram followers under the handle @nomadicfare, posted a mesmerising video highlighting the town’s most spectacular attractions. Her accompanying post read: “Walking through a fairytale.”
She went on to explain: “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.”
Wrapping up, she posed the question to her audience: “Is this town on your bucket list?”
The clip proved a massive hit, racking up over 195,000 likes from impressed viewers.
One admirer enthused: “Great photo-tour. Makes me dream of visiting Annecy.”
Meanwhile, another shared their memories: “Annecy is so beautiful! Visited the town as a side trip from Geneva, Switzerland.”
A third commended Wendy’s talent for capturing the spirit of the location, remarking: “Love how you capture not just the place, but the feeling of being there.”
Annecy’s key sights and attractions
- Vieille Ville (Old Town): A pedestrianised maze of cobbled streets and pastel-coloured houses lined with flower boxes.
- Palais de l’Isle: This iconic 12th-century “ship-shaped” castle sits in the middle of the Thiou Canal. It has served as a lord’s residence, courthouse, and prison, and now houses a local history museum.
- Lake Annecy: Widely considered one of the purest urban lakes in Europe, it offers activities like boating, swimming, and paddleboarding.
- Pont des Amours (Lovers’ Bridge): A romantic iron bridge connecting the Jardins de l’Europe to the Pâquier esplanade, offering stunning views of the lake and mountains.
- Château d’Annecy: A restored medieval fortress overlooking the city that served as the home of the Counts of Geneva; it now features a museum of regional history and art.
Best way to travel to Annecy
Visitors can reach Annecy from London by plane (quickest and often most affordable), train (scenic and comfortable), or bus (cheapest but longest).
By air
The most convenient choice means flying from a London airport (Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, or City) to Geneva Airport (GVA). The flight time is around 1 hour 40 minutes.
Once in Geneva, travellers can take a bus service to Annecy, taking about 70 minutes. At present, no direct flights operate to the smaller Annecy Airport (NCY).
Train
One alternative is catching the Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord, then changing to Paris Gare de Lyon and boarding a high-speed TGV train to Annecy. The journey typically takes between 7-10 hours.
Though slower than flying, it provides a beautiful trip through the French countryside.
Optimal time of year to visit Annecy
The ideal 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 when Lake Annecy truly comes alive, offering perfect conditions for swimming, boating, and cycling.
The city buzzes with various festivals, including the spectacular Fête du Lac fireworks display in August.
However, be ready for larger crowds and a spike in prices.
Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October): These are the seasons for those seeking a more peaceful experience, with mild weather and fewer tourists. Spring brings beautiful blossoms, while autumn showcases stunning fall foliage around the lake.
Winter (December to March): Annecy oozes 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 winter sports enthusiasts.