Annecy’s charming streets, shimmering lake, and scenic mountain views make it a perfect place for a quick but memorable 2-hour tour. Whether you prefer to glide through the city on a Segway, explore on foot with a local guide, or enjoy a boat cruise, Annecy has options that suit different tastes and travel styles. We particularly like the Annecy Segway Tour, which offers a lively way to see the sights without tiring your legs, and the private walking tour that provides personalized insights into the city’s history and architecture. Both give a feel for Annecy’s beauty and charm, but in different ways—active fun versus intimate exploration.
This list features a variety of tour types to match different interests: scenic Segway rides that cover more ground faster, private guided walks focusing on history and sights, and even a lakeside cruise that combines sightseeing with dining. Whether your priority is fun, education, or relaxation, there’s something here for you.
1. Annecy Segway Tour – 2h
At number 1, the Annecy Segway Tour offers a lively way to see Annecy’s highlights in just two hours. This tour is perfect if you want to cover a lot without walking, gliding along waterfront promenades, the gardens of Lake Annecy, and the Old Town. The tour includes full instruction so even newcomers can join in with confidence, and the small group size (up to 8 people) ensures personalized attention.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of scenic views—from the lake and the Imperial Palace to the canals of Annecy—and the fun factor of riding a Segway. Reviewers love the friendly guides like Lola, who are careful and informative. Rain or shine, the company supplies raincoats when needed, and many appreciate the mix of history and humor provided during the ride. With a price of about $70, this offers good value for an active way to see the city’s highlights.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for active travelers who want to see a lot in a short time and enjoy a bit of adventure. It’s especially suited for those who don’t mind a bit of balancing on a Segway and want a memorable, fun experience.
2. Annecy 2-Hour Segway Tour
Second on our list, the Annecy 2-Hour Segway Tour offers a more relaxed ride along the lakeside, with incredible views of mountains like La Tournette and Mont Veyrier. This tour emphasizes the natural beauty of Annecy’s surroundings, taking you through forested areas and along the lake’s edge.
Like the first, it’s a Segway experience, but it leans more toward panoramic sightseeing, perfect for travelers who enjoy nature and calm, scenic rides. The tour’s reviews highlight the sensation of gliding over flat terrain with ease and the opportunity to capture excellent photos of the Alps and the lake. Priced at $71, it’s slightly more expensive but still a reasonable investment for a relaxed outdoor adventure.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a gentle, scenic ride and are interested in mountain views but prefer a slower pace. It’s a good choice for those who want to combine outdoor beauty with a fun, easy activity.
3. Private 2-hour Walking Tour of Annecy with official tour guide
Number 3, the Private 2-hour Walking Tour offers a more personal approach to discovering Annecy. Your guide meets you at your hotel and takes you through the key sights, including Lake Annecy, the Old Town, and the Palais de l’Ile. This tour is ideal if you prefer exploring on foot with an expert sharing stories about the city’s history, art, and architecture.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the ability to tailor the tour to their interests. In just two hours, you’ll see the highlights and learn about local life, with plenty of stops to take photos and ask questions. The tour costs $262.40 per person, reflecting its exclusive nature, but the depth of insight makes it a worthwhile investment for history buffs and those eager to understand Annecy’s story.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a focused, in-depth experience with a knowledgeable guide and prefer walking over riding. Ideal for small groups or couples seeking a personalized touch.
4. Private 2-hour Walking Tour of Annecy with official guide
This private tour ranks highly for its tailored approach. The Private Walking Tour takes you around Annecy’s most important landmarks, offering insights from an official guide. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing time with a local expert.
The focus is on key sights like the Château d’Annecy and the picturesque streets of the Old Town, with opportunities to enjoy the views of the lake and hear stories behind historic sites. At $234, the price might seem high, but the private aspect means you get undivided attention and an itinerary tailored to your interests. The reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and depth of knowledge, making this a rich, personalized experience.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting a private, in-depth walk with local insights, especially if you’re short on time and want to avoid crowds.
5. Déjeuner-croisière de 2h sur le lac d’Annecy – Le Libellule
For a different experience, the 2-hour lunch cruise aboard Le Libellule combines sightseeing with dining. This refined cruise offers seasonal French dishes on a fully electric boat, allowing you to relax while enjoying views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Guests rave about the culinary experience and the elegance of the boat. The cruise runs on a schedule that suits those who want a leisurely meal with scenery, rather than a fast-paced sightseeing tour. At $111 per person, it’s a good value if you’re looking to combine a scenic cruise with a sit-down meal in a stunning setting.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a relaxing, scenic meal on the water—perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or wanting to unwind with excellent food and views.
6. Annecy: 2-hour Best Intro Walking Tour with a Local
Last but not least, the Best Intro Walking Tour offers a quick but lively overview of Annecy’s most iconic sights and hidden corners. Led by a local, you’ll visit spots like the Puente de los Amores, the Palais de l’île, and the Château d’Annecy, with a taste of local specialties along the way.
While reviews are limited, the emphasis on local tips and food tasting makes it appealing for first-time visitors wanting a concise yet authentic introduction. The $151 price reflects the small-group experience designed to maximize your short stay.
Bottom line: Ideal for first-timers who want a quick, well-rounded introduction with local insights and a taste of Annecy’s flavors.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Annecy
When selecting your Annecy 2-hour adventure, consider your priorities: Are you after active sightseeing? The Segway tours are perfect for covering ground efficiently, especially if you’re not keen on walking long distances. Want a more personalized experience? The private walking tours or the private official guide offer deep dives into the city’s history and architecture. If you prefer relaxing scenery combined with a meal, the lakeside cruise provides a refined, leisurely experience, ideal for celebrating or unwinding.
Budget can also help narrow your choice: The Segway tours are around $70, offering active exploration, while private guides are more costly but provide tailored attention. Consider your fitness level, interests, and whether you want to focus on natural beauty or cultural sights. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Annecy’s small size and variety of tour options make it easy to enjoy a memorable 2-hour experience regardless of your interests. For energetic explorers, the Segway tours are a hit, offering speed and fun. For those wanting a more personal, in-depth look at the city’s stories, the private guided walks deliver a rich experience. And if you’re after a relaxing break with great lake views and dining, the cruise hits the spot.
No matter which tour you choose, Annecy’s charm will come alive in your two hours. To avoid missing out, especially in busy seasons, it’s best to book your preferred tour early. With so many options to suit different tastes and budgets, you’re sure to find a perfect fit for your visit to this picturesque lakeside town.
