Visiting Annecy

One of my favourite things about studying and living in Lyon is the amazing transport links to nearby cities. There are flixbuses that go all over Europe for very low prices. Recently, I took a trip to Annecy with my boyfriend and for both of us the round trip bus costs were 20 euros altogether. The bus itself was two hours long.

Annecy is a beautiful French city that is also very close to Switzerland, therefore the architecture and cultural experience is very much a mix of the two. We stayed in a beautiful airbnb that was right in the heart of Annecy for 60 euros per night. We were fortunate that our hosts were very lovely and ensured that we were equipped with all the best recommendations in terms of dining out.

The first night we went to the highest ranked raclette restaurant in the region, which was called "Le Freti". If you are not here to eat cheese you need to go somewhere else. When you walk in almost every one's tables are harboring a gigantic bowl made from bread that is filled to the brim with cheese fondu, and comes accompanied with potatoes, cured meats and more bread!

Of course, following the steps of the locals we ordered the same, it is 25 euros per person for one of these cheese feasts! Whilst everyone around us was polishing off their bread buckets of cheese with ease, we began to struggle when the cheese was only a fifth gone. So, it must be said this is not for the faint hearted and go on a very empty stomach to really make the most of this experience! 

Annecy itself is an overwhelmingly beautiful and quaint city. If you stay in the centre, your feet will be the only transport link you will need. The main attraction of course, is the big and beautiful lake in the heart of the city which is home to beautiful mountain views! If you go in the summer time, there are numerous water sports you can do on this lake, but if you go in the winter as we did, make sure you take many layers with you as it is very cold and there might even be snow!

This lake feeds into little canals that vein through the entire city and make for several stunning photo stops. 

There are, just like Lyon, many many places to eat, which for us, was the prime reason we chose to visit the city. There are several michelin star restaurants that are surprisingly affordable and many of the other restaurants have even refused micheling stars in order to retain the homely vibe they cultivate inside. We ate a first class meal on our last night, comprising of fish from the lake, brought in that morning followed by a gigantic macaroon to finish.

Definitely a romantic spot that is perfect for anniversaries or a little getaway but also a must-visit for everyone! There isn't loads to do in terms of cultural sites, so if you want to save money and just go for the day then you will still be able to do everything you want to do.