Annecy

The town of Annecy is nestled at the confluence of the Thiou River and the Lac d'Annecy. This alpine city, one of France's most well-known destinations, reflects the heritage and glory of ancient times, particularly in its buildings, streets, meandering canals, and vibrant old town houses. The city museum houses alpine furniture, paintings, and sculptures from the Middle Ages.

Silk manufacturing fueled the city's industrial growth in the nineteenth century. The headquarters of NTN-SNR bearings, Salomon, Entremont, and Dassault Aviation are all part of its industrial legacy.

With its castle renovation and fine art museum opening in 1956, and the Animated Film Festival hosted in Bonlieu's cultural centre since 1963, Annecy developed tourism around its lake summer facilities, proximity to winter resorts, and cultural attraction. In 2015, the city was awarded the "Golden Flower," which is given to the nine most-flowered French cities, for its municipal environmental policy, which managed to keep 40.3 percent of green spaces and the city. Its educational sector has expanded since the University of Savoy was founded in 1973.

• Key attractions: Palais de L’isle, Chateau d’Annecy, Semnoz, Basilique de la Visitation, Thiou, La Tournette and Pont des Amours