Jardins de l'Europe
A picturesque lakeside park in Annecy, perfect for picnics, strolls, and enjoying stunning mountain and lake views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Jardins de l'Europe
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque lakeside park in Annecy, perfect for picnics, strolls, and enjoying stunning mountain and lake views.
"This is a lovely park right between the old town and the lake. You are right by the lake with plenty of water sport options available."
🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket
Locals and visitors love picnicking here! Grab local cheese, bread, and wine for a perfect afternoon.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll want to explore the entire park and its surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lakeside Promenade
Along the shores of Lake Annecy
Stroll along the water's edge with breathtaking views of the lake and mountains. Perfect for photos and relaxation.
Picnic Paradise
Open grassy areas
Find a shady spot under the trees or a sunny patch of grass for a delightful picnic. A favorite local pastime.
Mountain Vistas
Various viewpoints within the park
Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Alps, especially stunning during sunrise or sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Lakeside Charm
Getting Around Annecy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket
Locals and visitors love picnicking here! Grab local cheese, bread, and wine for a perfect afternoon. 
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll want to explore the entire park and its surroundings.
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Cycling along the lake is a fantastic way to see the area.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
The light during sunrise and sunset is magical for capturing stunning photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket
Locals and visitors love picnicking here! Grab local cheese, bread, and wine for a perfect afternoon.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll want to explore the entire park and its surroundings.
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Cycling along the lake is a fantastic way to see the area.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
The light during sunrise and sunset is magical for capturing stunning photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Jardins de l'Europe for its stunning lakeside location, offering breathtaking views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains. It's lauded as a perfect spot for relaxing picnics, leisurely strolls, and enjoying the natural beauty of Annecy. The park is described as well-maintained, calm, and suitable for all ages.
"We absolutely loved our trip to Annecy! I highly recommend taking a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and exploring this charming park. The views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains are absolutely stunning, and the gardens themselves are beautifully maintained and wonderfully inviting. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty of this picturesque French town."
Kelly M.
"This is a lovely park right between the old town and the lake. It is large with a range of options from shady treed areas to open spaces. There is a kids playground that is fenced off. You are right by the lake with plenty of water sport options available. A nice place to eat lunch, exercise or just relax."
Craig Coffey
"Incredible place which is founded from just one family with a mixture of oriental arts and architecture an very lovely gardens in between. Absolute must have if you visite the Annecy region!"
Stefan Remensperger
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jardins de l'Europe is a pleasant walk from the Annecy train station, approximately 15-20 minutes. You can also take a local bus; check the local transit schedules for the most convenient route.
Yes, it's very accessible without a car. The park is located right by the lake and is within walking distance of the old town.
Absolutely! Annecy is very bike-friendly, and there are dedicated paths along the lake that lead directly to the park.
There are several parking lots near the park, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early or using public transport is recommended.
Local buses are a good option. Look for routes that stop near the lakefront or the old town, as the park is adjacent to both.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Jardins de l'Europe is a public park and is free to enter. You can enjoy its beauty and amenities without any cost.
The park is generally open from dawn until dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy it throughout the day and into the evening.
Dogs are generally allowed in the park, but they must be kept on a leash. Please be mindful of other visitors and clean up after your pet.
While the park is quite open, it's best to avoid disruptive activities. Picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying the scenery are encouraged.
No advance booking is necessary for general visits to Jardins de l'Europe. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy.
📸 📸 Photography
The lakeside promenade offers stunning reflections and mountain backdrops. The tree-lined paths and open lawns are also picturesque.
Early morning and late afternoon, especially during the 'golden hour,' provide the most beautiful light for photography.
While primarily a natural park, the charming boat moorings and the distant views of Annecy's old town architecture add to the photographic appeal.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and mountain views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the distance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the park itself doesn't have dedicated restaurants, there are numerous cafes and eateries along the lakefront and in the nearby old town where you can grab food to enjoy in the park.
Local bakeries offer fresh baguettes and pastries, while cheese shops provide delicious regional cheeses. Grab some charcuterie and a bottle of wine for a perfect picnic.
Yes, there are several ice cream vendors along the lakefront, perfect for a treat on a warm day.
There are some picnic tables scattered throughout the park, but they are not abundant. Bringing a blanket is a good idea.
Look for Savoyard specialties like fondue and raclette in nearby restaurants, or enjoy simpler fare like quiches and sandwiches from local bakeries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
🚴♀️ Active Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Lakeside Picnics
+1The atmosphere is consistently described as calm and inviting, making it an ideal escape from the bustling old town. Whether you're with friends, family, or enjoying a solo moment, the simple act of picnicking here becomes a memorable part of the Annecy experience. The proximity to the lake adds to the charm, allowing for a refreshing dip or a leisurely stroll before or after your meal.
Exploring Annecy by Bike
Bike rentals are readily available in Annecy, making it easy for visitors to embark on their cycling adventures. Many travelers find that biking allows them to discover hidden coves, charming lakeside villages, and enjoy the natural beauty at their own pace. The relatively flat terrain around the lake makes it accessible for most fitness levels, and the park itself provides a lovely place to pause and rest during your ride.
Capturing the Beauty: Photography Tips
Key vantage points include the lakeside promenade, where you can capture reflections of the mountains on the water, and the open grassy areas that offer unobstructed views. Don't forget to photograph the charming boat moorings and the distant silhouette of Annecy's old town. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the grandeur of the scenery, while a telephoto lens can bring distant details into focus. The park's natural beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset, is a frequent subject of stunning photos shared online.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit