Sightseeing in France

From lakeside strolls and flower-filled canals to historic castles and alpine villages, France is made for exploring on foot. Whether you are wandering through the medieval streets of Annecy or breathing in the mountain air of La Clusaz and Samoëns, there is something beautiful around every corner.

Discover the best sightseeing spots in our French resorts and get inspired for your next walking holiday.

Top France sightseeing places

• Lake Annecy and its historic old town

• The Palais de l’Isle and Château d’Annecy

• The lakeside village of Talloires

• La Clusaz and nearby alpine villages

• Waterfalls and nature trails around Samoëns

Sightseeing in Lake Annecy

Visit Annecy for a day of canals, culture and incredible lake views. Small and easy to explore on foot, it is known as the "Venice of the Alps" thanks to its pastel houses,  cobbled streets and sparkling waterways.

The main sights include the Palais de l’Isle, a 12th-century riverside fortress, and the Basilique de la Visitation, which looks over the old town. Between museums, gardens and picture-perfect viewpoints, it is the kind of place where you can stroll all day and still discover something new.

Palais de l’Isle

Annecy’s most photographed landmark looks like a stone boat floating on the river. Over the centuries it has been a residence, a mint, a courthouse and even a prison. Today it holds a small museum and remains one of the city’s most iconic viewpoints.

Château d’Annecy

Sitting above the town, this 13th-century castle once belonged to the Counts of Geneva. Now a museum, it showcases regional art, traditional furniture and exhibits on Alpine life. The courtyard offers sweeping views over Annecy and the lake.

Annecy’s Canals

The canals are the heart of the town’s charm. The Thiou River, one of the shortest in France, once powered the local mills. Today it reflects the colourful houses and makes Annecy one of the prettiest towns in the region.

Pont des Amours (Lovers’ Bridge)

This elegant 1907 iron bridge connects Le Pâquier with the Jardins de l’Europe. It is also one of the city’s most romantic spots. Legend has it that couples who share a kiss here will stay together forever, making it one of the city’s most cherished landmarks.

Pause in the middle for views of Lake Annecy on one side and the tree-lined Canal du Vassé on the other.

Le Pâquier

Right in the heart of Annecy, Le Pâquier is a wide open park that stretches along the lakefront. Its name means "pasture" thanks to its farming past, and today it is Annecy’s favourite green space with views of the surrounding peaks.

Locals come to stroll, picnic or simply enjoy the mountain views. There’s even an orientation table to help you name the surrounding peaks, and swans gliding across the water add a touch of magic to the scene.

Jardins de l’Europe 

Just a short walk from the Old Town, the Jardins de l’Europe is a peaceful park filled with century-old trees and lakeside views. Once a group of small islands in the Middle Ages, it was turned into an English-style garden that’s perfect for a picnic or a shady stroll. 

The Five Bell Towers District

Each tower represents a different chapter of the city’s past, from the pilgrimage site of the Basilica of the Visitation to the 15th-century Church of Saint-Maurice, once used by Dominican friars. Step inside to admire the stained glass and centuries of craftsmanship. 

Place Sainte-Claire

In the heart of the Old Town, Place Sainte-Claire is one of Annecy’s prettiest squares. Once home to a bustling 19th-century cotton factory, it’s now a lively area filled with cafés, shops and historic architecture. 

Look for the Gallo House, an elegant 18th-century building designed by its namesake architect, and the Quiberet Fountain, which dates back to 1635 and still bears the city’s coat of arms. 

Visit Talloires

Talloires is a lovely lakeside village next to the Lake of Annecy. This peaceful lakeside village is known for its 9th-century abbey and links to artists like Cézanne. Its cobbled streets, calm bays and mountain backdrop make it perfect for a slow wander or a lakeside lunch. Nearby you can visit the castles of Menthon-Saint-Bernard, Montrottier and Annecy.

For incredible views, walk or take the bus to Les Confins, a peaceful plateau with a small lake and restaurants along the way. During selected summer months, local buses also run to Annecy for an easy day trip.  

Experience local markets and food

Every Monday morning, the village square in La Clusaz fills with colour and local flavour. The market is a must for food lovers, offering Reblochon cheese, Savoy ham, local honey, fruit, vegetables and even ready-to-eat alpine dishes. It’s the perfect way to experience village life.

Botanical Garden Jaysinia

Just above the village centre, the Alpine Botanical Garden Jaysinia is a peaceful escape. There are over 2,400 species of alpine plants to discover along winding paths and shady terraces. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll. 

Go in search of waterfalls

Samoëns sits at a lower altitude than many alpine resorts, which means easy access to some spectacular waterfalls. They’re best seen between May and September, with June usually offering the most dramatic displays.