Annecy France The Venice of the Alps Private Tour via Geneva
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Annecy France The Venice of the Alps Private Tour via Geneva

Active
12h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Come along on this private tour to Annecy in France, the Venice of the Alps.

Discover, while on this private tour with guide, the hidden gems of this French medieval city. No worries about public transport or navigating yourself.

Stay as long as you like in Annecy, up to 6 hours, if you need more time, let us know. Your guide will wait for you until you are completely enchanted by Annecy.

All is taken care of. You may customize the trip by being dropped off at any hotel in the nearby Annecy area or on the way back to your original pickup location.

Choose the transport option that suits you best:

Transport Option A (Cheapest)
2 Door Eco Car.
Alcohol fuel made from grass. Be assured you are going green, staying CO2 neutral, and supporting clean tech projects.

Transport Option B
4 Door Eco Car.

Transport Option C
8 Person Eco Van.

Available options

Transport Option C

8 Person Eco Van<br/>Pickup included

Transport Option A (Cheapest)

2 Door Eco Car/Alcahol Fuel: Car runs on alcohol fuel crafted from grass grown in Europe, primarily France, and blended with bio-waste like wood + leaves.<br/>Pickup included

Transport Option B

4 Passenger Compact Eco Car: 4 doors, AC, all seats have electric windows, recent model, low kilometers.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
All CO2 taxes
Expert guide/Knows the hidden gems
All Fees and Taxes
All parking fees

Detailed itinerary

1

Geneva: We exit Switzerland via Geneva for Annecy in France by the quickest route, so you have maximum time in Annecy, France.

Annecy is renowned for its crystal-clear lake and charming canals. We pass by without stopping.

2

Annecy: Often called the "Venice of the Alps," is a charming town in southeastern France known for its stunning lake, medieval architecture, and picturesque canals.

Wander through the cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, canals, and flower boxes. It’s a great spot for photos, shopping, or enjoying local cuisine.

3
Stop 3

Palais de l'Ile: A 12th-century fortified house in the middle of the Thiou River, now a museum showcasing Annecy’s history. Its unique triangular shape makes it an iconic landmark.

Note: No admission is required as long you stay outside the house. There is no public access to the inside.

4
Stop 4

Chateau d'Annecy: Perched on a hill, this medieval castle offers panoramic views of the town and lake. It houses a museum with exhibits on local art and history.

Note: No admission required as long you stay outside the castle.

5
Stop 5

Pont des Amours: A romantic iron bridge over the Vassé Canal, offering scenic views and a legend that lovers who kiss here will stay together forever.

6

Le Thiou: Annecy is often referred to as the "Venice of the Alps" due to its picturesque canals that wind through the old town, reminiscent of the iconic waterways of Venice, Italy.

7
Stop 7

Lake Annecy: One of the cleanest lakes in Europe, perfect for swimming, boating, paddleboarding, or simply strolling along its shores. The turquoise waters and surrounding mountains are breathtaking.

8

Annecy: If you're hungry after an extensive day in Annecy, you might try one of its restaurants with authentic French food.

9

Jardins de l'Europe: A peaceful lakeside park with shady trees, perfect for a picnic or a relaxing walk while enjoying views of the lake and mountains.

10

La Turbine Sciences: A modern science museum great for families or curious minds, with interactive exhibits on technology and the environment.

11

Basilique de la Visitation: A 20th-century church on a hilltop with stunning views of Annecy. The architecture and serene atmosphere make it worth the climb.

12

St. Pierre Cathedral: St. Pierre Cathedral in Annecy, France, is a 16th-century Roman Catholic cathedral blending Gothic and Renaissance styles. Built as a Franciscan chapel, it became the Diocese of Annecy’s seat in 1822. Notable for its neoclassical choir, stained glass, and a massive 1842 organ, it sits in the Old Town near the Thiou River. Open daily, it’s a understated gem worth a visit.

13

Geneva: Optionally, you may be dropped off at any hotel in Annecy or a nearby area, free of charge, or on the way back towards Geneva. Either way, you may rest while being brought to your final destination

What's not included

Coffee and/or Tea
Any restaurant visits
Optional: Admission fee Chateau d'Annecy, 12 euros
Bottled water
Meals
Snacks

Available languages

Guide guide
DE EN FR

Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If you bring a pet, specify its type and size
Unless absolutely necessary, take only belongings with you on the trip that will stay on you. The goal is to not leave any items in the car while parked in Annecy. Although it’s very safe in Annecy, it’s wise to maintain a discreet presence
Advise on any disability, such as back problems, diabetes, allergies, walking problems, fear of heights etc. The earlier this is communicated, the better
Trip can exceed 10 hours
Advise us as soon as possible, if you have plans after the tour, as it may run longer, ensuring nothing jeopardizes your later plans
Sports shoes with good grip recommended (Rain, slippery pavement)
Happy Tour Switzerland uses WhatsApp as a communication tool. Have this tool available. In certain situations, live location sharing is used, to ease coordination
All guides are local born natives with global views mindset, know the hidden gems, have vast experience on the activity, are safety alert, have themselves traveled extensively globally. Each guide undergoes health, safety, anti-routine, and performance checks every 90 days to ensure your safety and well-being.
Longer trip
Walking involved

Important notes

Password: United States of Europe

About Interlaken

Interlaken is a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. It's renowned for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and as a gateway to the Jungfrau region, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town offers a mix of relaxation and adrenaline-pumping activities, making it a favorite among travelers seeking both tranquility and excitement.

Top Attractions

Jungfraujoch

Known as the 'Top of Europe,' Jungfraujoch is a glacial saddle at 3,454 meters (11,332 feet) above sea level. It offers breathtaking views, an ice palace, and various winter sports.

Nature Full day Expensive (CHF 180-200 round trip)

Harder Kulm

A viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views of Interlaken, Lake Thun, and Lake Brienz. Accessible by a funicular ride from the town center.

Nature 1-2 hours Moderate (CHF 27 round trip)

Lauterbrunnen Valley

A stunning valley surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Falls. It's a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

Nature Half day to full day Free (some activities may have fees)

Grindelwald

A charming mountain village known as the 'Beverly Hills of the Alps.' It's a hub for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and paragliding.

Adventure Full day Moderate to expensive (depending on activities)

Staubbach Falls

One of the highest waterfalls in Europe, plunging 297 meters (974 feet) from an overhanging rock into the Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fondue

A traditional Swiss dish made of melted cheese served in a communal pot, dipped with bread.

Dinner Contains dairy, not suitable for vegetarians with lactose intolerance.

Rösti

A crispy potato pancake, often served as a side dish or with various toppings.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian, can be made vegan.

Raclette

Melted cheese scraped onto boiled potatoes, pickles, and other accompaniments.

Dinner Contains dairy, not suitable for vegetarians with lactose intolerance.

Älplermagronen

A hearty dish of macaroni, potatoes, onions, and cheese, often served with applesauce.

Dinner Contains dairy, can be made vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Paragliding Skydiving Hiking Skiing Snowboarding Mountain biking Boat tours on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz Spa treatments

Best Time to Visit

June to August, December to February

Summer offers the best weather for hiking, paragliding, and lake activities, while winter is ideal for skiing and snowboarding. The town is busiest during these periods, with vibrant atmospheres and numerous events.

15-25°C (summer), -5-5°C (winter) 59-77°F (summer), 23-41°F (winter)

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: German, French, Italian, Romansh
  • Widely spoken: English, Swiss German
  • English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Swiss Franc (CHF)

Time Zone

CET (GMT+1), CEST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Interlaken is a very safe destination with low crime rates. The main safety concerns are related to outdoor activities and the Alpine environment.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
  • • Use licensed taxis and reputable tour operators
  • • Be cautious of scams targeting tourists

Getting there

By air
  • Bern Airport • 40 km (25 miles)
  • Zurich Airport • 120 km (75 miles)
By train

Interlaken Ost, Interlaken West

By bus

Interlaken Ost, Interlaken West

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are efficient and cover most of the town and surrounding areas. They are integrated with the Swiss Travel System.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi App, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Interlaken Town Center Interlaken West Interlaken Ost

Day trips

Grindelwald
30 km (19 miles) • Full day

A charming mountain village known for its stunning Alpine scenery and outdoor activities.

Lauterbrunnen Valley
15 km (9 miles) • Half day to full day

A stunning valley surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Falls.

Thun
25 km (16 miles) • Half day

A picturesque town on the shores of Lake Thun, known for its medieval old town and castle.

Festivals

Interlaken Snowfest • January Jungfrau Marathon • September Interlaken Music Festival • July

Pro tips

  • Book the Jungfraujoch train tickets in advance, as they can sell out, especially during peak season
  • Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network
  • Pack layers and be prepared for variable weather, even in the summer
  • Try local specialties like fondue, raclette, and Swiss chocolate
  • Explore the surrounding valleys and towns, such as Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Brienz
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 0-120
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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