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The Venice of the Alps, embraced by turquoise waters and majestic peaks.

Three Ways to Rediscover Annecy

A first taste of the best stories the city has to offer. Many more tours are waiting for you.

Shadows & Saints: The Dual Crown of the Alps – Annecy Audio-Tour
Tour 01
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Pic by Silveresay on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Shadows & Saints: The Dual Crown of the Alps

Discover the hidden paradox of Annecy. Beyond the picturesque canals and alpine charm lies a fierce, centuries-old battleground for absolute control. This is the story of how a rugged military stronghold of the Dukes of Savoy transformed into the 'Rome of the Alps'—a sophisticated weapon of the Catholic Counter-Reformation. Join us as we unravel the brilliant, sometimes ruthless strategies of saints and lords who fought not with swords, but with architecture, education, and the human soul.

6 Stops
103 Min
The Crystal Miracle: How Annecy Saved Its Lake – Annecy Audio-Tour
Tour 02
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Pic by Tiia Monto on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

The Crystal Miracle: How Annecy Saved Its Lake

Discover the incredible, hidden story of Lac d'Annecy. Today, it sparkles as Europe's cleanest lake, but in the 1950s, it was a dying, foul-smelling biological dead zone. Join an urban planner and a local environmental historian as they guide you through the political miracles, the scientific awakenings, and the massive, invisible engineering feats that resurrected these alpine waters. This is a story of civic courage, ecological stewardship, and the power of a community that refused to let its natural heritage slip away.

6 Stops
100 Min
The Rome of the Alps: Shadows of Power and Piety in Annecy – Annecy Audio-Tour
Tour 03
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Pic by Silveresay on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

The Rome of the Alps: Shadows of Power and Piety in Annecy

Discover the hidden battle for the soul of Annecy. Beyond its fairy-tale canals and alpine charm lies a gripping saga of brutal secular lords and radical spiritual revolutionaries. Trace the dramatic shift from the iron-fisted Dukes of Savoy to the gentle yet politically brilliant Saint Francis de Sales. This immersive journey reveals how a catastrophic defeat transformed a quiet town into the 'Rome of the Alps'.

6 Stops
78 Min

Discover Annecy – Stories Worth Hearing

Red Thread is an iOS and Android app with over 1,500 guided audio tours through cities worldwide - including in Annecy.

Wander through the winding alleys of Annecy's Old Town, where every corner whispers a tale. Let the sparkling Lac d'Annecy captivate you, framed by the majestic Alps – a dreamlike setting that truly touches the soul.

From the medieval stronghold of Château d'Annecy to the shaded paths along the Thiou, leading to the iconic Palais de l'Isle, the city unveils its secrets. Our tours reveal the stories of saints and power that shaped this 'Rome of the Alps', inviting you to delve deeper into its captivating layers.

Annecy Highlights
  • Picturesque Canals & Flowered Bridges of the Old Town
  • The Crystal-Clear Lake Annecy with Alpine views
  • The iconic Palais de l'Isle in the city's heart
  • Fascinating insights for visitors & locals alike

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Learn more about Red Thread

Frequently Asked Questions about Annecy

General questions about the app, pricing and features are answered in our full FAQ on the main page.

What highlights should I not miss in Annecy?
Focus on the Old Town with the iconic Palais de l'Isle, explore the Château d'Annecy, and spend time by the shores of Lake Annecy. Our tours guide you to these essential spots and narrate their compelling histories.
How much time should I plan for an audio tour in Annecy?
Our tours range from 78 to 103 minutes. Plan about 1.5 to 2 hours per tour to fully enjoy the stops and soak in the atmosphere.
Can I create my own tours in Annecy?
Yes, with the XL or Unlimited subscription you can use our AI-powered tour creator to build your own personalized tour in Annecy on a topic of your choice.
Can I use the Annecy tours offline?
Yes, with an XL or Unlimited subscription you can download tours for offline use.
Can I do Annecy tours together with friends?
Yes – with Together Mode (from XL plan) the whole group listens in sync on their own devices. Up to 4 people on XL, up to 10 on Unlimited.
In which other cities does Red Thread offer tours?
Further tours are available in nearby cities like Bern, Dijon, or international destinations like Hong Kong, Paris, Cape Town and many more. All cities can be found here.
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