Geneva to Annecy: 5 BEST Options for 2024
Planning a trip from Geneva to Annecy?
You’re in the right place! As full-time travelers, we’ve explored this route firsthand and have personally visited Annecy from Geneva.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the five best ways to make the journey, whether you’re looking for convenience, cost-effectiveness, or a personalized experience.
We’ll cover everything from guided tours and train rides to the quickest bus routes and car rental tips.
Plus, we’ll share our insights on what to expect and how to make the most of your trip. Let us help you choose the best option for your adventure from Geneva to Annecy!
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Overview of Getting from Geneva to Annecy
Traveling from Geneva to Annecy offers five main options: Group Tour, Private Tour, Train, Bus, or Car. Each option has its own benefits, and we’ll explore them in more detail below.
No matter which option you chose, you’ll be crossing the border from Switzerland into France, so carrying your passport is recommended.
Switzerland is not part of the European Union (EU) but is a member of the Schengen Area, which allows for mostly passport-free travel. While border checks are rare, they can still happen occasionally.
The journey from Geneva to Annecy takes you through beautiful landscapes, including views of the Alps, Lake Annecy, and cute towns.
Geneva to Annecy Distance
The distance from Geneva, Switzerland, to Annecy, France, is about 40 kilometers (25 miles).
By car, the drive typically takes around 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
For those taking a bus or train, travel times are usually between one and one and a half hours. This makes Annecy a convenient and popular day trip from Geneva.
Geneva to Annecy Tour
Our favorite way to travel from Geneva to Annecy is by tour. Why is this, you might wonder?
First, the expert tour guides provide fantastic information that brings the sites to life, sharing insights you’ll probably miss on your own.
Second, the travel logistics are simple, with everything from transportation to timing taken care of, so you can relax and enjoy the journey.
Now, let’s explore the two main types of tours: Group Tours and Private Tours.
Group Tour from Geneva to Annecy
This half-day group tour from Geneva to Annecy is our #1 pick. The tour starts with a comfortable bus ride through the French countryside. Along the way, your guide will share interesting insights about the region.
In Annecy, you’ll enjoy a guided walking tour of the old town. You’ll visit all the highlights like Château d’Annecy, Palais de l’Isle, and Lake Annecy.
The guides in Annecy are awesome! You will learn a ton about Annecy’s history and culture.
After the tour, you’ll have some free time to explore on your own, shop, or relax at a café.
The 2 things we don’t prefer about this tour are the bus ride (we don’t love buses) and that your free time can get cut short if the tour takes longer or there is traffic.
That being said, we still think this is a standout tour and highly recommend it!
Private Tour from Geneva to Annecy
We’ve taken this private tour from Geneva to Annecy, and it’s easily our top choice for a more personalized experience.
From the moment we were picked up at our hotel in a comfortable, private vehicle, we knew we were in for a special day. The best part? The itinerary was entirely flexible, and tailored to our interests and pace.
Our guide was not only knowledgeable but also passionate about Annecy. As we drove through the stunning French countryside, they shared stories that made the journey even more enjoyable.
Once we arrived in Annecy, we had a personalized walking tour, which allowed us to ask questions to learn about the town’s rich history and culture.
We visited the must-see spots like Château d’Annecy and Palais de l’Isle, but also had time to explore some hidden gems that we might have missed on our own.
We appreciated the recommendations from our guide on the best places to eat and shop.
The only downside? Private tours like this one are pricier than group tours, but we felt it was well worth the investment for the experience and flexibility.
Picking a reputable company is so important! Below is the company we trust to give you the best experience:
AlpExcursion
Geneva to Annecy by Train
We usually prefer taking the train when traveling between cities, but in this case, it’s actually the longest of the five options.
The train ride from Geneva to Annecy takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Despite being the longest option, it’s comfortable and free of any worry of traffic or border stops.
You can board the train at several stations in Geneva, including Genève, Lancy-Pont-Rouge, Lancy-Bachet, Genève-Champel, Genève-Eaux-Vives, and Chêne-Bourg.
The train arrives at the main station in Annecy, Gare d’Annecy, which is just a 10-minute walk from the center of town.
Tickets typically cost around 20 CHF each way. It’s important to note that this route is not covered by the Swiss Travel Pass since it crosses into France.
You can purchase tickets on the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) website or app, and we highly recommend booking in advance, especially during the busy season, as tickets can sell out quickly.
While the train takes a bit longer, it’s a reliable option with no risk of delays due to traffic or border checks, making it a solid choice for a relaxed and straightforward journey.
Geneva to Annecy by Bus
Taking the bus from Geneva to Annecy is the cheapest and fastest option available.
The journey typically takes about 55 minutes and the buses are reliable and typically on schedule.
In Geneva, you’ll board the bus at Genève, Gare Routière, which is located by the Brunswick Monument near the water—not at the train station.
The bus will drop you off at Gare Routière in Annecy, conveniently located at the main train station, just a short walk from the town center.
BlaBlaCar Bus and Flixbus are the main bus companies operating this route.
The easiest way to check the full schedule and book your tickets is through Omio. We personally book through Omio and have always had a great experience!
If you book a month or two in advance, you can snag tickets for around 10 CHF each way. However, if you book closer to your travel date, expect to pay around 20 CHF each way.
Overall, the bus is an excellent choice if you want to save time and money while still enjoying a comfortable ride between Geneva and Annecy.
Geneva to Annecy by Car
Driving from Geneva to Annecy gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace, but it’s not necessarily the best option for a day trip.
If you do decide to rent a car, we recommend doing so in Switzerland through DiscoverCars. Renting in Switzerland guarantees that your car will have the required Swiss vignette, which is necessary for driving on Swiss highways.
Most rental car companies allow you to drive between Switzerland and France, but it’s always a good idea to confirm this when booking.
Renting a car for the day will typically cost around 90 CHF, plus fuel and any parking fees.
While having a car offers the freedom to stop along the way and explore more of the region, we generally don’t think it’s worth the cost and effort for a day trip from Geneva to Annecy.
The other options—tours, buses, or trains—are more convenient and cost-effective for this route.
Is Annecy worth going to from Geneva?
Absolutely! Annecy is often called the “Venice of the Alps” for a reason, and it’s well worth the trip from Geneva.
The town is known for its picturesque canals, charming old town, and stunning views of Lake Annecy, which is one of the cleanest lakes in Europe.
The trip from Geneva to Annacy itself is scenic, taking you through the beautiful French countryside with views of the Alps.
Once you arrive, you can explore historical sites like the Château d’Annecy, stroll along the lake, or enjoy a meal at one of the many cafes lining the cobblestone streets.
Annecy is also a great spot for outdoor activities, from boating on the lake to hiking in the surrounding mountains.
In short, Annecy is definitely worth the visit. It’s a charming destination that is likely to be one of your favorite days — it is definitely one of ours!
10 Tips for Visiting Annecy from Geneva
Based on our experience, here are our top recommendations to make the most of your from Geneva to Annecy:
1 – Book in Advance:
Whether you’re taking a train, bus, or tour, it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance, especially during the busy season (June – August). This ensures you get the best prices and don’t risk tickets selling out.
2 – Timing is Key:
Aim to arrive in Annecy early in the day. The town gets busier as the day goes on, especially in summer. Early arrival gives you the chance to explore before the crowds.
3 – Check the Weather:
The weather in Annecy can vary, so check the forecast before your trip. If you’re planning outdoor activities like boating or hiking, you’ll want to be prepared.
4 – Wear Comfortable Shoes:
Annecy’s old town is full of cobblestone streets, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. You’ll be doing a lot of exploring on foot.
5 – Bring Your Passport:
Even though border checks are rare between Switzerland and France, it’s always wise to carry your passport when crossing the border.
6 – Currency:
Annecy is in France, so the currency is the Euro. Make sure to have some Euros on hand for small purchases, as not all places accept cards.
7 – Enjoy the Local Cuisine:
Annecy is known for its *delicious* food. Don’t miss out on trying local specialties like tartiflette, a hearty dish made with potatoes, cheese, and bacon.
8 – Take Your Time:
While a day trip is plenty to see the highlights, Annecy is a really enjoyable location. If possible, consider staying overnight to enjoy the town when it’s less crowded in the evening and early morning.
If you do decide to stay the night, we recommend staying at Allobroges Park Hôtel! 💎 🌟
9 – Plan Your Return:
Make sure to plan your return trip to Geneva, especially if you’re not on a tour. Check train or bus schedules in advance to avoid any last-minute stress.
10 – Try to avoid visiting on Tuesday:
It’s best to avoid visiting Annecy on Tuesdays, as both the Château d’Annecy and Le Palais de l’Île are closed, limiting your access to two of the town’s main attractions.
FAQs for Geneva to Annecy
How do I get the train from Geneva to Annecy?
To get the train from Geneva to Annecy, head to Geneva Cornavin station or any of the other main stations in the city, like Genève-Eaux-Vives or Lancy-Bachet.
Purchase your ticket on the SBB website, app, or at the station. Trains are direct, taking about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and arrive at Gare d’Annecy, just a short walk from the town center.
Do you need a passport from Geneva to Annecy?
Yes, you should carry your passport when traveling from Geneva to Annecy.
Although Switzerland and France are both part of the Schengen Area, which allows for mostly passport-free travel, occasional border checks can occur. It’s best to have your passport with you just in case.
Can you Uber from Annecy to Geneva?
Yes, you can use Uber to travel from Annecy to Geneva, but availability may be limited, and the cost can be high due to the international nature of the trip.
We recommend checking the app for availability and pricing before planning to use Uber for this route.
How far is Annecy from Geneva?
Annecy is about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Geneva. The drive typically takes around 40 to 50 minutes by car, while the train takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
It’s a short and scenic journey, making Annecy an ideal day trip from Geneva.
In Conclusion: Geneva to Annecy
No matter how you choose to get from Geneva to Annecy, we’ve got you covered with the best options.
You can trust our recommendations to fit your travel style and budget. Whether you’re hopping on a tour, catching the train, or taking the bus, getting to Annecy from Geneva is a breeze.
We hope this guide helps you plan your perfect day trip (or longer stay!) to this beautiful town. Enjoy your trip!
We wish you the best travels and don’t forget to set your “Out of Office!”
🌟 Loving our content? Support the journey — buy us a coffee! ☕️
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Switzerland Travel Planning Guide
🚙🚄 Is renting a car or public transportation better in Switzerland?
For traveling in Switzerland, we recommend using public transportation. Switzerland’s train system and other public transportation options are some of the best in the world.
We always buy the Swiss Travel Pass, which provides access to trains, funiculars, boats, lifts, and buses. It also gives you free access to over 500 museums.
Renting a car in Switzerland has its pros and cons. Pro: You get the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit remote areas. Con: Parking can be expensive and challenging in cities. When we rent a car, we always use Discover Cars for reliable service.
📲 Will my phone work in Switzerland?
Maybe, but it will be expensive— Depending on your provider, plans can charge you $10 per day while in Europe.
To use your phone in Switzerland and save money, we recommend an eSim with Airalo. Airalo simplifies the steps and provides you with all the necessary data for convenient travel.
There is not a lot of free WIFI in Switzerland, so you’ll need your phone for navigating.
🌐 Do I need a VPN when on the internet in Switzerland?
While abroad, we consistently prioritize our online security by using a VPN to appear as if we’re streaming from the US and protect ourselves from cybercrime.
NordVPN serves as an incredibly convenient solution for both mobile phones and laptops, effortlessly ensuring our safety while browsing or streaming.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Switzerland accommodations?
Our go-to for Switzerland hotels is Booking.com. They offer the widest range of choices, and their filtering system simplifies the process of discovering the perfect accommodation for your needs.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy flights to Switzerland?
For finding cheap flights to Switzerland, we recommend Kayak. Their awesome multi-city flight search and handy price notifications help us save big, allowing us to splurge on other adventures once we arrive.
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) is usually our airline of choice while in Switzerland.
🚐 Should I book tours in Switzerland? Do the guides speak English?
We LOVE taking tours in Switzerland.
We prefer to book our tours on Viator and GetYourGuide for easy searching, trusted reviews, and transparent pricing. We always filter for the tours that are offered in English.
For free walking tours in English, we always book through GuruWalk.
🚑 Should I buy Switzerland travel insurance?
100% YES! — Switzerland has a publicly funded healthcare system known as the LAMal (L’Assurance Maladie Obligatoire), also known as the Swiss Health Insurance Law, which provides basic health insurance to all Swiss citizens and legal residents!
Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. We recommend Safety Wing – they provide general travel coverage as well as medical!
💧Can you drink the water in Switzerland?
Drinking water in Switzerland is exceptionally safe and clean. You can drink tap water anywhere, and it’s often better than bottled water.
There are many public fountains in cities and towns where you can fill your water bottle. If a fountain is not safe to drink from, there will be a sign indicating this. Generally, no sign means the water is safe to drink.
For an extra layer of protection, we recommend always using a LifeStraw Go Series to stay safe and hydrated.
🎫 Do I need a visa for Switzerland?
Citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries do not need a visa for short stays.
For travelers from many other countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, no visa is required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, always check the latest visa requirements before you travel, as rules can change.
💸 What currency is used in Switzerland?
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some cash for smaller purchases.
🗣️ What languages are spoken in Switzerland?
Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
