Located in Haute-Savoie, less than an hour from Geneva, Annecy is known for its blue lake, mountain views, and charming old town filled with canals and bridges. A great dog-friendly destination for a day trip.
Walk along Lake Annecy
Start your day with a walk along the lake towards the old town. Follow the quays to Parc de l’Europe, one of the best dog-friendly spots in Annecy. Large green spaces, other dogs, and even a small swimming access point to the lake.
Good to know:
On Sunday, the imperial parking lot is free (+200 places)
Between July and August, some lakefront areas become beaches where dogs are not allowed, even on leash.
Visit the market
The old town hosts a market on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays until 1 pm. It includes local produce such as cheese, cured meats, fruits, flowers, and baked goods.
The area can be very crowded on Sundays, so small dogs may need to be carried through the busiest streets.
Good to know:
Some vendors only accept cash.
Take the apéro and eat local food
We stopped at Café des Arts in the Old Town for a homemade lemonade and a local terrine from Haute-Savoie. We stayed on the terrace in the sun, and Kitsune had her own little bowl of water.
One of the most well-known ice cream spots in France is located in the old town. Glacier des Alpes is the 9th best ice cream maker of France, it definitely worth a visit.
Exploring the old town
After the market, Annecy became much calmer, allowing us to explore its beauty properly.
We wandered through narrow streets, crossed small bridges, and followed the canals that give the city its charm. We also walked up to Annecy Castle (without visiting inside, as Kitsune was with us).
Enjoy the green spaces
To finish the day, we walked back along the lake and stopped at Parc Charles Bosson for a final break before heading home. A beautiful flower-filled park with the Imperial Palace in the background.
A few tips
We discovered that some natural areas, like the “Bout du Lac” reserve, do not allow dogs, even on a leash. It’s also the case in several protected areas around Mont Blanc.
It’s a little frustrating when travelling with a dog. But overall, Annecy remains a beautiful destination for a one day city-trip.
