Annecy

The Palais de l'Isle is probably the most famous building in Annecy and, without any doubts, one of the most photographed sights in France. The palace, built in the 12th century, was once a prison, and today hosts exhibits about local architecture and history.

Annecy Castle was the residence of the Counts of Geneva and the Dukes of Genevois-Nemours, andit's also listed as a historic monument by the French Ministry of Culture. Today, its walls contain the Regional Observatory of the Alpine Lakes and the museum of modern art.You can enjoy a great view of both the city and the lake from the terrace.

Legend says that if two persons kiss on the middle of the bridge, their love will never end. Built around 1906 to replace an older bridge, Pont des Amours links the European Gardens to the Pâquier park. It offers a viewthat hasthe lake on one side and the town on the other.

Despite its small size, the Vieille Ville (literally "Old Town") is still worth a walk, especially during summer. The gates and arches, as well as the backdoors to small and secret streets, make for excellent photographs, and every corner can hide surprises.

This church was built in the late 14th century and definitely worth a visit. After paying a visit to the garden, take some time to admire its architecture, characterized by the huge marble columns, and intricate stained-glass window designs. You will find it in the city center, very close to the Annecy Cathedral.

Every year, the first weekend of August, around 200,000 visitors gather in Annecy to enjoy one of the biggest pyrotechnic shows in Europe, the "Fête du lac", which includes 70 minutes of fireworks in rhythm with music, lights and special effects over the lake.

This bridge links two parts of the old town and is right in front of the Palais de l'Île. Pont Perrière is a perfect spot for taking pictures, both when there are flowers on it and when it's decorated with Christmas lights.

The Saint-Francis of Sales Church, listed as a historical monument, is located near the Palais de l'Île, across the Thiou river. Even if the facade seems a bit austere, the interior of the church is luxurious: the baroque style is expressed through an organ, paintings and a magnificent altar. This church used to host religious relics, such as the graves of Saint Francis and Saint Joan of Chantal, which were there before being transported to the Visitation Basilica.

The Cathédrale Saint-Pierre is a Roman Catholic cathedral also listed as a national monument by the French government. It houses an organ that was built between 1840 and 1842 by Nicolas-Antoine Lété, an organ builder of the French king. A lot of concerts are organised there, especially in summer.

The Venice of the Alps has its own festival. Every year, between the end of February and the beginning of March, masked persons wander into the city and pose on the streets, parades are organised and costumes are displayed around the city and along the canals.

Every year, in June, several countries compete to elect the best animation film, in several categories. At this festival, which often paves the way to the Oscars and the Palms for animated movies, you can enjoy premieres and benefit from open air showings on the Pâquier lawn.