Geneva: Annecy, the Venice of the Alps and Geneva City Tour

Explore the captivating charm of Annecy, often called the "Venice of the Alps," and discover the historic landmarks of Geneva on this comprehensive tour. Beginning in Place Dorcière, you’ll learn about Annecy’s enchanting canals and medieval architecture before journeying to Geneva for a guided city tour. Whether you’re drawn to the natural beauty or cultural richness, this experience promises an unforgettable blend of stunning scenery and immersive discoveries. What awaits as you delve deeper into this renowned region?

Key Points

• This tour provides a 45-minute guided walk through Annecy’s historic center, including highlights like the Palais de l’Île and Château d’Annecy.
• Guests have 2 hours of free time to explore Annecy’s scenic canals, colorful streets, and local markets at their own pace.
• The tour includes a 75-minute guided city tour of Geneva, showcasing key landmarks like St. Peter’s Cathedral, the Flower Clock, and the International Quarter.
• The tour price starts at Kč 3,215 per person, with a duration ranging from 7 to 8.5 hours.
• The tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour from Kč 3,215 per person offers a duration of 7 – 8.5 hours, and travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour provides flexibility with the reserve now & pay later option. The starting location is Place Dorcière, where you will board the bus/coach for the 1-hour ride to Annecy.

After the guided tour and free time in Annecy, the group will travel to Geneva for a 30-minute break and a 75-minute guided city tour, with optional visits to various attractions.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at Place Dorcière, the tour begins with a 1-hour bus/coach ride to Annecy.

Upon arrival, a 45-minute guided tour allows visitors to explore the city’s scenic canals and historical sites, including the Palais de l’Île and Château d’Annecy.

Travelers then enjoy 2 hours of free time to shop, dine, and further discover the enchanting "Venice of the Alps."

The journey continues with a 1-hour drive to Geneva, where a 30-minute break is followed by a 75-minute guided city tour.

Optional visits may include:

1. International Red Cross Museum

2. United Nations office

3. Jet d’Eau

4. Geneva’s Old Town and St. Pierre Cathedral

Scenic and Cultural Attractions in Annecy

Annecy, known as the "Venice of the Alps," captivates visitors with its scenic canals and historical landmarks.

The Palais de l’Île, a medieval palace on an island in the canals, is a must-see. Château d’Annecy, a stunning lakeside castle, offers panoramic views.

Travelers can stroll the colorful streets, browse local markets, and enjoy the pristine waters of Lake Annecy, one of Europe’s cleanest lakes.

With its charming ambiance and stunning natural surroundings, Annecy provides a delightful contrast to the modern city of Geneva, offering a unique cultural experience for tour participants.

Guided Tour in Annecy

As part of the Geneva and Annecy tour, the guided walk through Annecy’s historic center provides an in-depth look at the city’s charming canals and medieval architecture.

The 45-minute tour highlights:

1. Palais de l’Île, a 12th-century castle-like structure set on an island in the Thiou River.

2. Château d’Annecy, a grand Renaissance-style castle with panoramic views of the Old Town.

3. Quaint cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses, cafés, and artisan shops.

4. The picturesque canals that earned Annecy the moniker "Venice of the Alps."

Travelers are then free to explore Annecy’s sights and attractions independently for 2 hours.

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Free Time in Annecy

After the guided tour, travelers have two hours to freely explore Annecy’s charming city center.

Strolling along the picturesque canals, visitors can discover quaint shops, cafes, and local markets. The Old Town’s cobblestone streets lead to the Palais de l’Île, a 12th-century castle on an island in the canal.

Travelers can also wander by the tranquil Lake Annecy, one of Europe’s cleanest lakes, and enjoy the serene mountain views.

This free time allows travelers to enjoy Annecy’s enchanting atmosphere and savor the local culture at their own pace.

Journey to Geneva

Once the free time in Annecy concludes, travelers then board the bus for the journey to Geneva, the next stop on the tour.

The drive takes approximately 1 hour, allowing time to admire the picturesque alpine scenery along the way.

Upon arrival in Geneva, the group is given a 30-minute break to stretch their legs and explore the city center briefly before the guided city tour begins.

The tour highlights include:

1. The International Quarter, home to global organizations like the United Nations and Red Cross.

2. The iconic Flower Clock, a symbol of Geneva’s horticulture.

3. The charming Old Town, with its historic architecture and winding streets.

4. The famous Jet d’Eau fountain, a 140-meter-high water jet.

Guided City Tour in Geneva

The guided city tour in Geneva provides visitors with an in-depth exploration of the city’s key landmarks and cultural sites.

During the 75-minute walk, a knowledgeable guide leads the group through the picturesque Old Town, showcasing St. Peter’s Cathedral, the Flower Clock, and the Jet d’Eau fountain.

Visitors learn about Geneva’s history as an international hub, home to organizations like the United Nations and the Red Cross. They can also opt to visit these sites independently after the tour.

The city tour offers an engaging and informative introduction to Geneva’s rich heritage and global significance.

Optional Visits and Activities in Geneva

Along With the guided city tour, the Geneva and Annecy excursion offers several optional activities and sites for visitors to explore.

These include:

1. The International Red Cross Museum, showcasing the organization’s humanitarian work.

2. The United Nations office, a hub of global diplomacy.

3. The iconic Jet d’Eau fountain, a symbol of Geneva.

4. The historic Old Town and St. Pierre Cathedral, providing a glimpse into the city’s rich past.

For those seeking a more leisurely experience, a 1-hour cruise on Lake Geneva is also available for an additional fee, allowing visitors to admire the city’s stunning waterfront from a different perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Discounted Tickets Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t specify any discounted ticket options for students or seniors. However, you can contact the tour provider to inquire about any available concessions or special pricing for these groups.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour guidelines allow passengers to bring personal snacks and beverages to enjoy during the journey and free time in Annecy and Geneva.

Is the Tour Accessible for People With Disabilities?

The tour is wheelchair-accessible, with provisions for travelers with disabilities. Passengers should contact the provider in advance to discuss any special needs and ensure the tour can accommodate them comfortably.

How Does the Pick-Up and Drop-Off Process Work?

The pick-up and drop-off process is straightforward. Guests meet at the Geneva Bus Station (Place Dorcière) and are dropped off at the same location after the tour. Transportation is provided by bus or coach throughout the day’s activities.

Are Multilingual Guides Available for the Tours?

The tour offers multilingual guides. Guides are available in multiple languages to provide informative and engaging commentary throughout the tours in Annecy and Geneva, catering to the diverse needs of international travelers.

Recap

This captivating tour blends stunning natural scenery and rich cultural experiences. Explore the charming canals and historic sites of Annecy, the "Venice of the Alps," before continuing to Geneva for a guided city tour showcasing landmarks like St. Peter’s Cathedral and the Flower Clock. With ample leisure time to shop and savor local cuisine, this tour offers a well-rounded and immersive experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: