What not to miss in Annecy
This is a city that ’ s made for flaneurs – that French word which has no real equivalent in English but is often translated as to wander . It means so much more . It means to wander in a leisurely way , to soak up the ambiance , to see the sights – Annecy is a flaneur ’ s dream town . And , it is the best way to get to know this place , simply wander , get lost in its flower-filled streets , take a break at a café , enjoy a leisurely lunch , walk some more , stop for aperitifs , walk some more , relax over dinner and fall in love with this pretty city .
Get up early to see the Pont d ’ Amour at its best . There is a myth that says that if two lovers kiss on the bridge , they will stay together forever . That aside , you have the most beautiful views over the lake and into the city as the water flows gently under the bridge . Watch the sun come up and light up the water , it ’ s rays spiking over the tree lined quays , stroking the rooftops of the city and through the stained glass windows of the 14th century church of Saint-Maurice , the oldest in Annecy .
You can ’ t miss the 12th century Palais de L ’ Île in the middle of the Thiou Canal which has recently undergone a restoration . It is now an interesting museum you can visit to discover its history as a fort , prison , school …
Climb a small mountain to reach the medieval Château d ’ Annecy , now a museum and exhibition venue . There are marvellous views over the town from the castle ramparts .