Annecy in 3 days? Just long enough to fall in love!

Now you're ready to follow me. Here, everything is both familiar and magical. The lake with its ever-changing reflections, the mountains that keep watch, the cobbled streets full of life... And if I had to show you around for the first time, these are my must-sees!

In the morning, I'll take you for a stroll through the old town: its arcades, pastel facades, little bridges spanning the canals, terraces where it's good to linger. Stop off at a local cheesemaker or a passionate chocolatier, and let the smells and sounds guide you. Here, every street has something to tell. Then it's on to the lake. I recommend a boat trip to admire Annecy from the water. It's another way of discovering the city, peaceful and enchanting, with the peaks as a backdrop. You can breathe and slow down. Then take a gourmet break with a raclette sandwich or a fresh salad, depending on the season. And if you like panoramic views, my little secret: climb the côte Saint-Maurice, then push on to the Pont des Amours. Cliché? Perhaps. But still magical. And to round off the day, head to the little port (Annecy-le-Vieux) for an aperitif as the sun sets over the old town's bell towers.

I promise you, even after ten visits, you'll never tire of it.

Looking for culture? Then follow me into the old town for a guided tour full of history. We'll stroll through the medieval streets, discover the Roman remains hidden beneath our feet, and stop in front of the Palais de l'Isle, Annecy's emblem standing on the canals. Once a prison, now a museum, this monument has a thousand lives to tell.
Then climb up to the Musée-Château, perched on the heights. Once the residence of the Counts of Geneva, it now houses collections combining art, heritage and Alpine traditions. Thursday's little secret: at the Musée Paccard, you can watch the bells being poured. A rare and impressive moment.

More of a nature lover? I'll leave that to my friend Flora. With a stage of the Tour, a crossing of the lake and an ascent of Mont-Blanc under her belt, she knows all the good spots. With her, it's hike, bike around the lake, paddle, water ski or paraglide. Get ready to sweat and take in the sights! More confidential: an introduction to apnea on the lake or a diving baptism to discover the mysterious wreck of the France.

Gastronomy ? I'll reserve the last day for you with Mathilde. We start with the Sunday market: a veritable concentration of local produce. Stop off at the Panier à Café. Fabien will have you tasting rare coffees from the four corners of the world - and maybe inspire you for your next trip! Last but not least? An iced sweet or a comforting tartiflette, depending on the season.

Living in Annecy with children is a real pleasure... and if you come for a weekend or a few days, you'll see just how family-friendly the town is!

For starters, head for the Paquier, the large lakeside esplanade where kids can run, play or ride their bikes. The merry-go-round is a ritual not to be missed: a short ride before snack time, bright eyes and lots of laughter. And right next door, why not hire a pedalo? With the little ones, you can stay close to the shore; with the older ones, you can set off on an adventure on the turquoise waters of the lake.

If the weather is warm, a break on one of the small family beaches is a must: Marquisats, Albigny or the more intimate Sévrier beach. The lake is calm, the water clear, and children love splashing about.

And if it rains? No worries: head for La Turbine in Cran-Gevrier, a cultural and scientific center with captivating temporary exhibitions. Right now, there's an exhibition on illusion - stunning and perfect for the whole family. Children love to manipulate, test and understand... and parents too, let's face it. For the more curious, I recommend a visit to the Observatoire régional des lacs alpins, a small interactive museum to better understand how the lake functions and its biodiversity. Fun and instructive!

To round off the day, a snack is in order: hot chocolate and pastries, or why not a crêpe on the terrace if the sun is back.

Around the lake, each season offers a different setting, a unique atmosphere.
In spring, the voie verte comes to life under blossoming trees, as cyclists ride along the peaceful banks, bathed in a thousand shades of green.
In summer, on the heights of the Semnoz, hikers sometimes come across three generations together, still marvelling at a night under the stars and a few toasted marshmallows.
In autumn, the Bout du Lac nature reserve takes on a reddish hue, guides watch for beavers, and leaves swirl around walkers.
In winter, despite the snow, we still come across brave swimmers in the icy water. The Christmas market perfumes the old town, and the desire for a hot chocolate or mulled wine arises.

Events not to be missed:
Spring: The town becomes a tableau for the Venetian Carnival. Masks, costumes and mystery... Annecy takes on an air of Venice, between lake and mountains.
Summer: In early August, the Fête du Lac lights up Annecy. A magical pyrotechnic show on the water, punctuated by music, lights and the magic of the lake. A once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Autumn: In October, the Descente des Alpages brings the old town to life. Herds, alphorns, brass bands, craftsmen and local specialities... a true moment of tradition and sharing.
Winter: Annecy sparkles under the lights of the Christmas market. The alleyways come alive with the scent of spices, mulled wine, sweets... and a touch of magic.

Bonus? The International Animation Film Festival. For a few days in June, Annecy becomes the capital of animated dreams.