Annecy Castle

Annecy Castle
Choose two or more items and save on your trip:
It won’t be hard to take a good photo of the gorgeous views across Lake Annecy from this ancient castle, which also houses a fascinating museum.

Standing on the bank of the strikingly beautiful Lake Annecy, Annecy Castle (Château d’Annecy) is a dramatic sight as well as an important historic building. Step inside to discover an engaging museum that hosts temporary exhibitions spanning a wide range of topics.

Note the 13th-century features that make up the castle’s oldest part, the Tour de la Reine. At 98 feet (30 meters) high, this defensive structure offers exceptional views. In the 13th and 14th centuries, the castle served as a home for the Counts of Geneva. From the 17th century, the castle was unoccupied for many years, before becoming a military barracks. In 1953, it was bought by the city of Annecy and transformed into the museum it is today.

Admire the many different styles of architecture that make up the castle. As it was built over many years, with additions being made and certain areas being restored, the styles vary enormously. In addition to the fort-like features dating from the 13th century, the castle features refined Renaissance design, which can be seen in the additions made in later centuries.

The castle’s living areas are particularly clear examples of this kind of architecture. The Logis Nemous and Logis Neuf lodging houses were built in the 16th century. See how their large windows allow the rooms to be flooded with light, in contrast with the Tour de la Reine, which has smaller windows in order to prioritize defense over livability. Make sure you take the time to look at the wall paintings that adorn some of the rooms.

Give yourself enough time to enjoy the museum’s temporary exhibits. Learn about anything from underwater archeology to medieval sculpture, or even see a display of contemporary art. The museum has hosted exhibits relating to many different subjects, and is not limited to regional history.

Find Annecy Castle just to the south of the town’s busiest area. Note that opening times vary seasonally, so check before you visit. There is an admission charge, with free entry for children under the age of 12.

Reviews of Annecy Castle

4.5
Top destination
5 - Excellent
23
" "5 - Excellent 57.5%
4 - Good
15
" "4 - Good 37.5%
3 - Okay
2
" "3 - Okay 5%
2 - Disappointing
0
" "2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
" "1 - Terrible 0%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller
27 Apr 2019

Beware that it closes for a long lunch!

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Hôtel ibis Annecy Centre Vieille Ville
Hôtel ibis Annecy Centre Vieille Ville
3 out of 5
12, Rue de la Gare, Annecy, Haute-Savoie
Hôtel ibis Annecy Centre Vieille Ville
Les Tresoms Lake and Spa Resort
Les Tresoms Lake and Spa Resort
4 out of 5
15, Boulevard de la Corniche, Annecy, Haute-Savoie
Les Tresoms Lake and Spa Resort
Novotel Annecy Centre
Novotel Annecy Centre
4 out of 5
1 Place Marie Curie, ancienne 1 avenue Berthollet, Annecy, Haute-Savoie
Novotel Annecy Centre
Allobroges Park Hotel
Allobroges Park Hotel
3 out of 5
11 Rue Sommeiller, Annecy, Haute-Savoie
Allobroges Park Hotel
Aparthotel Adagio Annecy Centre
Aparthotel Adagio Annecy Centre
4 out of 5
2, place Marie Curie, Annecy
Aparthotel Adagio Annecy Centre
Best Western Plus Hotel Carlton
Best Western Plus Hotel Carlton
4 out of 5
5 Rue Des Glieres, Annecy, Haute-Savoie
Best Western Plus Hotel Carlton
Hôtel du Palais de l'Isle
Hôtel du Palais de l'Isle
3 out of 5
13 Rue Perriere, Annecy, Haute-savoie
Hôtel du Palais de l'Isle
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.