Annecy, often called the “Venice of the Alps,” is a postcard-perfect town on the edge of Lake Annecy in southeastern France. With pastel-painted buildings, winding canals, and a backdrop of snowcapped mountains, it’s as charming as they come.

But beyond the scenery, Annecy is also a fantastic place for locally made souvenirs—from Alpine cheeses and regional wines to traditional crafts and gourmet sweets.

Whether you’re browsing the weekly markets or popping into a tucked-away boutique, here are 10 souvenir ideas that reflect the charm, history, and flavor of Annecy and the surrounding Savoy region.

If you’re just in Annecy for a day check our itinerary suggestions!

Top 10 Souvenirs from Annecy

1. Savoy Cheeses

Annecy is in the heart of cheese country. Reblochon and Tomme de Savoie are two local favorites, often featured in traditional dishes like tartiflette. Based on local recommendations, they’re best bought at the town’s farmers’ markets, where vendors offer vacuum-sealed options for travel.

2. Saucisson Sec (Savoyard Dry Sausage)

These cured sausages are seasoned with herbs, nuts, or local wine and commonly found at Annecy’s food markets. A favorite among visitors looking for rustic picnic snacks, they travel well and pair perfectly with cheese and wine.

3. Local Wines

The Savoy region is known for crisp whites like Apremont and Roussette, and light reds like Mondeuse. These wines are not widely available outside of the region, making them a truly special find. Wine shops and local delis often carry gift sets for easy packing.

4. Génépi Liqueur

This traditional Alpine liqueur is made from wormwood flowers that grow in the mountains. It’s herbaceous, lightly sweet, and often enjoyed as a post-hike digestif. You can find bottled génépi or even DIY kits in specialty shops.

5. Roseaux du Lac Chocolates

These long chocolate sticks with a sugar and liqueur-filled center are a local Annecy creation dating back to the 1920s. You’ll find them in chocolate shops throughout the Old Town, with flavors like raspberry, coffee, and génépi.

6. Alpine Honey and Jams

Mountain honey and jams made with wild blueberries, raspberries, or lavender are commonly found at Annecy’s farmers’ markets. These sweet treats are often sold in reusable jars and make excellent gifts or breakfast souvenirs.

7. Opinel Pocket Knife

Originally made in the Savoy region, the Opinel knife is a classic French folding knife, perfect for picnics or outdoor adventures. Available in many shops around Annecy, some versions are engraved with Alpine designs or the Savoie cross.

8. La Grolle (Savoyard Friendship Cup)

This carved wooden cup with multiple spouts is traditionally used to share warm spiced coffee liqueur among friends. It’s a unique souvenir often sold in gift shops and artisan stalls—both decorative and deeply rooted in Alpine tradition.

9. Savoyard Home Decor and Crafts

You’ll find wooden cowbells, hand-carved figurines, pottery, and rustic kitchen tools at artisan shops and flea markets. These handcrafted items reflect daily life in the Alps and are full of character.

10. Alpine Textiles

Annecy’s shops carry cozy wool scarves, table linens, and cushions featuring red-and-white patterns, edelweiss flowers, or rustic check prints. These items add a mountain-lodge feel to any home and are practical souvenirs that last.

Where to Shop in Annecy

Old Town Markets (Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays):

Food, crafts, and local specialties fill the streets around Rue Sainte-Claire. Go early for the best selection.

Rue Sainte-Claire and Rue Royale:

Great for independent boutiques, wine shops, cheese stores, and bakeries. The arcades on Rue Sainte-Claire are especially picturesque.

Monthly Brocante (Flea Market):

Held once a month along the Thiou River. This is the place to find antiques, vintage cowbells, old postcards, and local artwork.

Specialty Shops:

Look for delicatessens like La Fermette for jams and tapenades, or chocolate shops for Roseaux du Lac. Cheese shops like La Fromagerie offer expert advice and packaging for travel.

Shopping Tips for Annecy

• Visit on market days for the full local experience. Tuesdays are food-focused, while Fridays and Sundays include crafts and gifts.
• Ask questions and sample before buying. Vendors often offer tastings and helpful tips.
• Pack breakables carefully. Wine, cheese, and glass items should be padded in checked luggage. Many shops offer travel-friendly packaging.
• Check customs rules. Some countries have restrictions on meats, dairy, and alcohol.
• Buy local. Look for labels like “Produit de Savoie” or buy directly from artisans to ensure authenticity.

Final Thoughts

Souvenir shopping in Annecy is about more than just buying something to take home—it’s about connecting with the region’s culture and traditions. Whether it’s a slice of Reblochon, a handcrafted grolle, or a bar of lavender soap, each item carries a bit of the Alps with it. With its storybook streets, mountain flavors, and artisan goods, Annecy makes it easy to bring home a memory that lasts long after the trip ends.