How to Get Around Annecy in Summer: Top 5 Practical, Eco-Friendly Options 🚶♀️🚌🚲🚤
Summer in Annecy means sunshine, a turquoise lake, and, let’s be honest, heavy traffic! To make the most of the Venice of the Alps without the stress, it’s best to stick to transport options that are gentle, practical, and kind to the environment. The good news: the city and its partners offer plenty of alternatives to the car.
Here’s our top 5 best ways to get around Annecy in summer, featuring the Navibus, the all-electric boat-bus that lets you see the lake in a whole new way 🌊⚡.
1. 🚤 The Navibus: An All-Electric Bus on the Water
This is THE new thing in Annecy this summer!
The Navibus is a special cruise service that returns every year, but this year’s big news is an all-electric boat. Le Savoie now serves as the bus on the water, linking the lake’s main ports: Annecy, Sévrier, Saint-Jorioz, Duingt, Doussard, Angon, Talloires, Menthon-Saint-Bernard, and Veyrier. It’s a fun, practical, and eco-friendly way to get around while taking in the lake’s stunning scenery. Don’t hesitate to ask the captains for tips about the lake and the surrounding area during your ride!
Why we love it:
- Zero emissions, zero noise: an eco-responsible way to travel 🌱
- A one-of-a-kind view of the mountains and lakeside villages
- No traffic jams, no hunting for parking
- Direct access to beaches, hiking trails, and local markets
Good to know: Book your tickets in advance on the Compagnie des Bateaux website here.
2. 🚌 Free Buses from 1 July
Once again this year, Grand Annecy is making the bus network free in July and August! A great excuse to leave the car at home.
The perks:
- Over 20 lines serving Annecy and the surrounding area
- Ideal for reaching beaches, the town centre, train stations, and campsites
- Air-conditioned, frequent, and accessible buses
Good to know: Check timetables on the SIBRA website (Annecy’s public transport network).
3. 🚲 Cycling (Regular or Electric)
Annecy is a true paradise for cyclists. The greenway that circles the lake is one of the most beautiful cycle paths in France, perfect for a ride between the town and the great outdoors.
Good to know:
- Regular and electric bike rentals available all over town
- Secure bike parking
- Some beaches and restaurants are directly accessible by bike
Tip: combine cycling with the Navibus for a fun, seamless way to explore the lake! Bikes are welcome on board the Navibus.
4. 🚶♂️ On Foot
Annecy’s town centre is best discovered on foot: cobbled streets, canals, gardens, beaches, and open-air markets are all within easy walking distance!
Not to be missed on foot:
- The old town and its canals
- Le Pâquier and the Jardins de l’Europe
- The lakeside path to Albigny or Sévrier
- The Sentier des Roselières
5. 🚗 Carpooling or Shuttle from Park & Ride Car Parks
If you’re arriving by car, head for one of the park & ride car parks (P+R) at the edge of town. They’re often free and connected to the centre by regular shuttles, which are also free in summer.
Other options:
- Local carpooling via BlaBlaCar Daily or Mov’ici
- Electric taxis or private drivers for one-off trips
In Short: Go Green and Discover Annecy Differently
Between the electric boat-buses, the free buses, the lakeside cycle paths, and the handy shuttles, it’s never been easier, or more enjoyable, to get around Annecy without a car.
👉 This summer, let the wind carry you, on board the Navibus!
