About Annecy
Nestled in the French Alps at the northern tip of Lake Annecy, the city often called the Venice of the Alps for its winding canals makes a serene backdrop for academic exchange.
Annecy combines a rich medieval heritage, headlined by the Palais de l'Isle, with modern conference facilities and close connections to the scientific hubs of Geneva and Grenoble. Between sessions, participants can enjoy one of Europe's cleanest lakes, alpine views in every direction and a lively local culture — a setting that balances rigorous discussion with somewhere worth spending four days.
The city sits 40 km from Geneva International Airport and is served by a direct TGV from Paris — see Getting there for journey times and operators.
Annecy at a glance
The venue sits on the lakefront at the eastern end of Avenue d'Albigny, with the old town, the gardens and the beaches all along the same shoreline walk. Select a marker for details, or use the filters below the map — the Mountains filter pulls back to show the peaks around the city.
Scroll zoom is disabled until you select the map · pinch and drag to explore
While you are here
On the lake
- Free public beaches along the shore Albigny is a few minutes' walk from the venue · Marquisats and Impérial are on the same lakefront path
- Boat trips from the Thiou canal Round-the-lake cruises and small self-drive boats
- A cycle path runs the whole way round the lake Roughly 40 km for the full circuit · bikes for hire in the city centre
In the old town
- Palais de l'Isle, the twelfth-century prison set in mid-canal
- Château d'Annecy, above the old quarter Museum and views over the rooftops
- Open-air market in the old streets Tuesday, Friday and Sunday mornings
In the mountains
- Le Semnoz, the ridge directly above the city Panorama over the lake and towards Mont Blanc
- Mont Veyrier, on the opposite side of the lake A steep walk straight up from Annecy-le-Vieux
- Col de la Forclaz, one of Europe's best-known paragliding sites
- The Aravis range and Chamonix within a short drive See the Office de Tourisme du Lac d'Annecy for ideas
Accommodation
Hotels
- Adjacent to the venue — around 100 rooms Impérial Palace, four star
- City centre, 10–15 minutes on foot — 400+ rooms Mercure 39 · Ibis Centre 85 · Ibis Styles 74 · Campanile 54 · Bonlieu 49 · Novotel · Best Western, among others
Budget and student options
- Auberge de Jeunesse HI Annecy — around 50 beds Rooms of four to five · from around €25 per night
- Annecy Hostel — 36 beds Dormitories and private rooms · central location
Annecy is busy in early summer · booking accommodation well in advance is advised