The charming French town of Annecy combines traditional shopping with delightful outdoor activities. Two standout experiences make this destination special: the morning market tour with cooking class, where you’ll learn local recipes while practicing French, and the lakeside shopping routes that mix boutique browsing with stunning Alpine views. Local guides ensure you get the best deals and tax refunds at premium stores while discovering hidden shops in the Old Town’s winding streets.

We especially love the market-to-kitchen experience – it’s practical, fun, and ends with a memorable meal. The guided shopping walks are also worthwhile, offering insider access to both famous brands and family-owned boutiques.

Let’s explore the best shopping tours Annecy has to offer.

Key Points

  • Annecy offers premium shopping opportunities at Courier Mall, with a 13% tax refund and exclusive tourist pass for non-EU nationals.
  • The Stand-Up Paddle and Shopping tour combines a 1-hour paddle on Lake Annecy with discounted shopping at Courier Mall.
  • The Semnoz Mountain Biking Descent tour includes shopping benefits like discounts, tourist pass, and 13% tax refund.
  • The Electric Mountain Bike Ride around Lake Annecy also provides shopping perks such as store reductions and 13% tax refund.
  • Annecy’s activities seamlessly integrate adventure and shopping, enhancing the overall visitor experience with accessible transportation options.

Market Tour and French Cooking Class in Annecy With a Local

Market Tour and French Cooking Class in Annecy With a Local

For those seeking a truly authentic taste of Annecy, the Market Tour and French Cooking Class with local chef Alexia is a must-try experience. With a rating of 4.9 from 25 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, this intimate tour promises to immerse visitors in the local culinary culture.

The menu highlights include a starter of herbed local ricotta or beet spread, a main course of local trout or stuffed zucchini, and a seasonal fruit cake for dessert. The tour includes a private market tour, cooking demonstration, home-cooked lunch, and wine, providing a well-rounded culinary adventure.

Accessible by public transportation, the tour caters to various dietary needs, including lactose-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Guests consistently praise Alexia’s hospitality, culinary skills, and local insights, creating a personalized and memorable experience.

At $179 per person, the Market Tour and French Cooking Class offers an exceptional value, inviting visitors to savor the flavors of Annecy while exploring its vibrant local market.

Read our full review: Market Tour and French Cooking Class in Annecy With a Local Review
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Annecy – Stand up Paddle and Shopping at Courier

Annecy - Stand up Paddle and Shopping at Courier

This activity offers a unique combination of outdoor adventure and premium shopping in Annecy. For Kč 453 per person, you can enjoy a 1-hour classic stand-up paddle on the picturesque Lake Annecy, followed by a premium shopping experience at the Courier Mall.

The paddle session is led by a French and English-speaking guide and isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year.

After the paddling adventure, you can explore the Courier Mall, where you’ll receive a premium welcome, an exclusive tourist pass for discounts, a practical shopping bag, a 13% tax refund (for non-EU nationals), and a surprise gift.

You can choose to shop before or after the paddle session, or on another day, depending on your preference. With a 5/5 rating based on a verified booking, this activity promises a satisfactory customer experience.

While transportation and meals aren’t included, the meeting point is provided, and you can easily schedule the paddle session by contacting NCY paddle.

This activity is a great way to combine an outdoor activity with a premium shopping experience in the beautiful city of Annecy.

Read our full review: Annecy – Stand up Paddle and Shopping at Courier Review
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Annecy: Semnoz Descent Confirmed and Premium Shopping

Annecy: Semnoz Descent Confirmed and Premium Shopping

Adrenaline-seeking adventurers can now look forward to a thrilling mountain biking descent on the Semnoz, just north of Annecy. This 3-hour, intermediate-level experience promises a 1200-meter altitude drop through varied terrain, guided by French and English-speaking experts.

Priced at $120.87 per person, the small-group tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

After the guided descent, visitors can indulge in premium shopping at the Courier Mall. Benefits include store discounts, a shopping bag, a 13% tax refund for non-EU nationals, and a surprise gift. A tourist pass further enhances the shopping experience.

However, it’s important to note that meals and transportation aren’t included, and sports shoes, sunglasses, and sportswear aren’t allowed.

A minimum of 4 participants is required for the tour, and Guidon reserves the right to cancel if this isn’t met. Interested parties can contact Guidon for scheduling and availability.

Read our full review: Annecy: Semnoz Descent Confirmed and Premium Shopping Review
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Electric Mountain Bike Ride & Home Shopping Premium Courier

Electric Mountain Bike Ride & Home Shopping Premium Courier

Adventurous travelers can embark on a thrilling 3-hour electric mountain bike ride around the picturesque Lake Annecy. Priced from $120.87 per person, this beginner-level experience allows riders to discover the “Venice of the Alps” on scenic paths, with safety-focused instruction from a guide in English or French.

The electric motors and full suspension bikes make for an enjoyable uphill and downhill ride, while the group size is limited to 8 participants.

After the bike ride, visitors can indulge in a premium shopping experience at Courier Mall. This offers benefits such as reductions at stores, a 13% tax refund for non-EU nationals, and a surprise gift.

Guests can explore the beauty of Annecy while taking advantage of these exclusive shopping perks. The activity isn’t suitable for individuals under 5 ft 1 in (155 cm), and riders should bring water, sunglasses, sportswear, and sports shoes.

Bookings can be made with Guidon, with a minimum of 4 and maximum of 8 participants required for groups.

Read our full review: Electric Mountain Bike Ride & Home Shopping Premium Courier Review
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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Annecy for Shopping?

The best time to visit Annecy for shopping is during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early fall. This is when the town’s charming outdoor markets and boutiques are in full swing, offering visitors a delightful shopping experience.

Are There Any Special Events or Festivals During the Shopping Season?

There are several festivals and events throughout the year in Annecy, some of which coincide with the popular shopping season. The renowned Annecy International Animation Film Festival in June and the Venetian Carnival in February are two notable events that attract many visitors.

Can I Find Unique, Locally-Made Products in the Shops in Annecy?

Yes, shoppers can find a variety of unique, locally-made products in Annecy’s shops. The town is known for its artisanal crafts, from hand-crafted ceramics to locally-sourced textiles, providing visitors with an excellent opportunity to discover authentic Savoyard goods.

Are There Any Hidden Gem Stores or Boutiques That Locals Recommend?

Locals recommend visiting the artisanal shops and boutiques tucked away in Annecy’s charming old town. You’ll find unique, locally-made products like handcrafted pottery, textiles, and gourmet foods that showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Are There Any Discounts or Sales Offered at the Shops in Annecy?

Many Annecy shops offer discounts and sales, especially during peak tourist seasons. Some local boutiques may have loyalty programs or seasonal promotions to entice shoppers. Visitors should inquire about any special offers when visiting the stores.

Recap

Annecy offers a variety of shopping tours that cater to different interests. Visitors can enjoy a market tour and cooking class, stand-up paddle and shopping at Courier, a premium shopping experience, or an electric mountain bike ride with home shopping. These tours provide a unique blend of sightseeing, local cuisine, and retail therapy, making Annecy a premier destination for shopping enthusiasts.