Annecy

Annecy Castle was the residence of the Counts of Geneva and the Dukes of Genevois-Nemours, andit's also listed as a historic monument by the French Ministry of Culture. Today, its walls contain the Regional Observatory of the Alpine Lakes and the museum of modern art.You can enjoy a great view of both the city and the lake from the terrace.

Legend says that if two persons kiss on the middle of the bridge, their love will never end. Built around 1906 to replace an older bridge, Pont des Amours links the European Gardens to the Pâquier park. It offers a viewthat hasthe lake on one side and the town on the other.

Despite its small size, the Vieille Ville (literally "Old Town") is still worth a walk, especially during summer. The gates and arches, as well as the backdoors to small and secret streets, make for excellent photographs, and every corner can hide surprises.

Around 250 trees, such as a tulip tree, pines and giant sequoia trees, are found in the lovely Gardens of Europe, where you can enjoy a walk by the lake in a sunny afternoon. This romantic English garden, designed by Henri Porreaux in 1863, is a heavenly spot in town where children are free to play from a walking distance to the old town, while you sit on one of the benches in front of the lake.

This bridge links two parts of the old town and is right in front of the Palais de l'Île. Pont Perrière is a perfect spot for taking pictures, both when there are flowers on it and when it's decorated with Christmas lights.

The Saint-Francis of Sales Church, listed as a historical monument, is located near the Palais de l'Île, across the Thiou river. Even if the facade seems a bit austere, the interior of the church is luxurious: the baroque style is expressed through an organ, paintings and a magnificent altar. This church used to host religious relics, such as the graves of Saint Francis and Saint Joan of Chantal, which were there before being transported to the Visitation Basilica.

The Lac d'Annecy is the second largest lake in France. Take a long walk along it, or rent a bike if you're up for a longer tour, and admire the scenery of the Alps. It has been an inspiration for many artists, such as Paul Cézanne, who made several paintings of it. Don't miss the Lake Festival, a fireworks show who takes place every year in August.

The Cathédrale Saint-Pierre is a Roman Catholic cathedral also listed as a national monument by the French government. It houses an organ that was built between 1840 and 1842 by Nicolas-Antoine Lété, an organ builder of the French king. A lot of concerts are organised there, especially in summer.

This museum presents a wide collection of documents concerning the history of animation: it includes drawings, paintings, sculptures, photographs, videos and several cinematographic artefacts. The entry to the permanent exhibition is free and the the collection is very interactive, in order to attract children too.

Every year, in July, Annecy rules over the night: during 4 evenings, some 60 representations involving magic, poetry, theatre, street shows and humour which bring laughter and smiles. The Noctibules festival is free of access and children will particularly appreciate some shows which are designed for them.