Les Baigneurs is a local go-to café, known for serving one of the best lattes in town. The morning pastries arrive fresh-baked daily in time for breakfast, while the tartine of tomato and balsamic on properly toasted house bread is the standout lunchtime choice – though the croque-monsieur earns an honourable mention. Two small but notable advantages in an otherwise busy town: proper air conditioning, and an interior calm that feels genuinely local rather than touristic. Pair it with a swim at Plage d'Albigny for an easy, well-paced afternoon.

We would call it the prettiest concept store in town. Sitting on Rue de la Poste, come to Biutiful for its curated selection of beauty, home decor, and lovely jewellery – think of Aesop and Astier de Villatte – from all around the world.

Tucked away in the charming streets of la vieille ville (the old town), Jasmin has been serving Annecy’s most mouth-watering dim sum in steaming bamboo baskets. Book ahead –  as it gets full pretty quickly – and wash down homemade baos with some piping hot jasmine tea.

Small, stylish and brilliantly located, La Cour du 6 sits just minutes from the lake, the old town and the station. Its 21 thoughtfully designed rooms showcase the work of local artisans through marble, ceramics and handcrafted ironwork, while the lively brasserie downstairs is reason enough to drop by, whether you're staying overnight or not.