A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Howth vs. Annecy for Food, Couples, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Howth or Annecy?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Howth or Annecy? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Howth

Howth is a coastal, beautiful, and picturesque fishing village. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the museums, food, and beaches. See Howth travel costs.

Annecy

Annecy is a quaint, storybook, and charming alpine town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of Annecy is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Annecy travel costs.

Howth and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Howth or Annecy?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Annecy than Howth, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Annecy is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Howth is more popular for its beaches. Annecy is more touristy than Howth and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Also, Annecy is famous for Palais de l'Isle. Howth is well known for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin.

How is Howth different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Annecy and Howth. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Howth or Annecy?

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Howth and Annecy.

Howth offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The surrounding coastline is the main draw to this picturesque town but there is also a nice harbor, pier, and lighthouse that you can visit.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Annecy. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

Is the Food Better in Howth or Annecy? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Annecy is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

Howth is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

Is Howth or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Annecy is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Howth is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Annecy has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Howth doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a few pubs around town but if you're looking for a real nightlife scene then your best bet is to head into Dublin.

Is Howth or Annecy Better for Beaches?

Howth is a great fishing village for the beach. However, Annecy is not a beach destination.

Howth is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Many people head to this coastal town specifically to hang out on the beach. There's also the Howth Cliff Path which is fun to explore. Some of the top beaches in the area include Red Rock Beach, Claremont Beach, and Balscadden Bay Beach. The beaches can be rocky and rough so make sure you understand the water conditions before heading to the beach.

Annecy is not a beach destination.

Is Howth or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for its old town. However, Howth does not have a historic old town.

Annecy offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

Howth does not have a historic old town.

Is Howth or Annecy Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Howth and Annecy both have great trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Howth. The best way to experience Howth is to explore the The Howth Cliff Walk. There are several versions of the hike that cater to different experience and skill levels.

Many visitors go to Annecy for the hiking trails. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Is the Shopping Better in Howth or Annecy?

Annecy is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Annecy offers some nice shopping areas. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Howth or Annecy More Beautiful?

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Howth is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Annecy is one of the main draws. A mix of natural beauty and small town charm make this a scenic and beautiful destination.

Howth is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Howth or Annecy Better for Families?

Annecy is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Annecy is a very kid-friendly alpine town. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Howth offers lots of family activities. It has a beach where kids can run around. There are also playgrounds, a lighthouse, and a pier to explore.

Is Howth or Annecy Better for Couples?

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Annecy makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Howth is a good fishing village for couples to visit. The small fishing village has some great seafood restaurants and a beach where couples can pass the time.

Is Howth or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Annecy is a popular place for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

Howth is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It a small village outside of Dublin so most backpackers don't make it this way.

Is Howth or Annecy Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Howth and Annecy.

You'll find some public transit in Howth, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.

While Annecy offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Is Howth or Annecy a more walkable city?

Howth and Annecy both are great when exploring on foot.

Howth is a very walkable fishing village. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot. There are also many walks through the cliffs.

Annecy is a very walkable destination. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Howth Worth Visiting? and Is Annecy Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Howth?

How long in Howth or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Howth or Annecy. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Annecy due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Howth, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Howth. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Annecy, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Annecy than Howth. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Annecy that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Annecy than Howth if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Annecy.

One day in Howth or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Howth. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Even though Annecy is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This alpine town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Howth or Annecy?

Howth is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Howth or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Howth. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Annecy is a fun place to experience. Annecy is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Howth or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the peaceful destination of Howth. This fishing village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Annecy is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Howth and Annecy, we can see that Annecy is more expensive. And not only is Howth much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Howth would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Howth and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Annecy would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Annecy than you might in Howth.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Howth Expensive? and Is Annecy Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Howth or Annecy?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Howth or Annecy in the Summer?

Both Annecy and Howth during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Howth this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Annecy for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Howth is cooler than Annecy in the summer. The daily temperature in Howth averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and Annecy fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Annecy, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Howth often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Howth gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Howth usually gets less rain in July than Annecy. Howth gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Howth or Annecy in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Howth and Annecy. Many travelers come to Howth for the hiking trails and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, many visitors come to Annecy in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Howth is cooler than Annecy. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Howth in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Annecy averages at about 14°C (56°F).

Howth usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during autumn. Howth gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Howth usually receives less rain than Annecy. Howth gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Howth or Annecy in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Howth as well as Annecy. Many visitors come to Howth in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Annecy for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Annecy can be very cold during winter. In January, Howth is generally much warmer than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Howth average around 6°C (42°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Howth often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Howth gets 56 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Howth usually gets more rain in January than Annecy. Howth gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Howth or Annecy in the Spring?

Both Annecy and Howth are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Howth for the beaches and the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Annecy because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Howth is cooler than Annecy in the spring. The daily temperature in Howth averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Annecy fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Howth usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during spring. Howth gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Howth usually receives less rain than Annecy. Howth gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Annecy and Howth