Église Notre Dame de Liesse, Annecy

Attraction, Church and Religious Building in Annecy

Eglise Notre Dame Liesse Annecy 2
Eglise Notre Dame Liesse Annecy 2
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Chabe01

Église Notre Dame de Liesse sits right in the historic center of Annecy, tucked beside the Old Town's lanes and within easy reach of the canals and lakeside promenades. It's the kind of place you naturally pass on a first-time stroll through town, and it rewards even a short stop with a sense of quiet, scale, and craftsmanship.

If you're exploring Annecy on a walking tour, this church is one of the most convenient “step inside for 10 minutes” highlights, especially between Old Town viewpoints, the canal bridges, and the nearby historic monuments. It's also a good reset point when the streets outside feel busy.

History and Significance of the Église Notre Dame de Liesse

The story of Notre Dame de Liesse is closely tied to Annecy’s medieval past. Tradition places its origins in the 14th century, when the Counts of Geneva established a religious presence here, on a site already associated with devotion and care for travelers and the sick.

Over time, the church became an important spiritual landmark for the town and a place of memory for local elites. Like many religious buildings in France, it also went through periods of upheaval, including disruption during the French Revolution.

Much of what you see today reflects later rebuilding and reorientation, giving the church a layered identity: older roots, later architectural choices, and a continuing role as a living place of worship in the center of Annecy.

Things to See and Do in the Église Notre Dame de Liesse

Start by taking in the overall interior volume: the arches, the long lines of the nave, and the way the space draws your eye toward the altar. Visitors often note the contrast between the church’s calm atmosphere and the lively streets just outside.

Spend time with the details. Look for wall art and statuary, and pause to notice the stained glass and decorative elements that add color and texture, especially when daylight is strong. Even if you’re not planning a long visit, a slow loop around the side areas helps you appreciate how the church is laid out.

If the crypt or lower areas are accessible during your visit, they can feel like a second, more intimate church experience. Access can vary, so treat it as a bonus rather than a guarantee.

How to Get to the Église Notre Dame de Liesse

The nearest major airports are Geneva Airport (GVA) and Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS), with Geneva typically the quickest for reaching Annecy. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Annecy on Booking.com.

Annecy is well connected by rail, and arriving by train is one of the easiest ways to start a car-free visit since the station is walkable to the Old Town. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place..

If you’re traveling by car, plan to park outside the tight Old Town streets and walk the last stretch into the center. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Église Notre Dame de Liesse

  • Official website: https://www.diocese-annecy.fr/ste-jeanne-de-chantal
  • Entrance fee: Free; donations appreciated.
  • Opening hours: Daily: 09:00–18:00.
  • Best time to visit: Go in the morning or late afternoon for softer light and a quieter interior. Aim to avoid service times if you want to wander slowly.
  • How long to spend: Plan for 15–30 minutes for a relaxed look inside, or up to 45 minutes if you like architectural details and side chapels.
  • Accessibility: The Old Town approach includes cobblestones and narrow pedestrian streets, which can be uneven underfoot. Entry conditions can vary, so wheelchair users may want to confirm door access on arrival.
  • Facilities: This is a working church, so expect limited visitor facilities inside. For restrooms, cafés, and seating breaks, rely on nearby Old Town businesses.

Where to Stay Close to the Église Notre Dame de Liesse

Base yourself in Annecy Old Town (Vieille Ville) for the most walkable stay, especially if you want to see the canals, markets, and landmarks early and late in the day.

Hôtel du Palais de l’Isle A classic Old Town pick with an unbeatable location for dawn and evening strolls, ideal if you want to be steps from the canals and the church.

Hôtel des Alpes A practical, comfortable option near the train station for travelers who value easy arrivals and departures while still being close to the historic center.

Le Splendid Hotel Lac d’Annecy Chosen for its lakeside setting and quick access to both the Old Town and the promenade, great if you want a scenic base with a polished feel.

Hôtel Le Pré Carré A solid mid-to-upscale stay that balances calm interiors with a central location, convenient for walking to the church and dining spots.

Best Western Plus Hotel Carlton Annecy Included for dependable comfort and a location that works well for short stays, especially if you’re mixing Old Town sightseeing with day trips.

Is the Église Notre Dame de Liesse Worth Visiting?

Yes, it’s worth visiting, especially because it’s right on the natural walking routes through Annecy’s Old Town and offers a peaceful contrast to the busy streets outside. Even a brief stop delivers a strong sense of place: architecture, atmosphere, and a living connection to the town’s history.

Honest Pivot: If you’re short on time and mainly want outdoor scenery, you could skip going inside and focus on the canals, bridges, and lakefront viewpoints instead. It’s also less compelling if you’re specifically seeking a “museum-style” visit with extensive signage and curated exhibits.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (705)

Google reviewers rate Église Notre Dame de Liesse very highly overall, describing it as a memorable stop in central Annecy. Common highlights include the impressive interior architecture (especially the arches), a serene atmosphere with simple pews, and rich decorative details like statues, artwork, and stained glass. A few visitors mention practical downsides such as inconsistent access or unclear visiting hours, and occasional notes about areas needing maintenance or refurbishment.

Wisanu Tuntawiroon
7 months ago
"Founded in the 14th century by the Counts of Geneva, the church was constructed on the site of an ancient oratory and a medieval square, near amedieval hospice, underscoring the area’s long-standing religious significance. It served as a necropolis for the comital family. During the French Revolution in 1793, the church suffered significant damage, with its choir destroyed and the building repurposed. Restoration efforts between 1846 and 1851 led to the reconstruction of the church, preserving elements like the 16th-century bell tower and a Gothic window on the south wall ...."
Aidan Murphy
a year ago
"Simply an amazing church in the heart of A ecy , the Architecture is simply mind blowing with its massive arches throughout the church and sidealcoves . It is a special place , the alter in huge , the statues and art on the walls fantastic . As always there are simple wood pews that add to the serenity of this special place . Definitely well worth a visit when your in town ...."
Vincenzo Tieri
a year ago
"Amazing place to see. The crypt is a whole other church. Quite the walk up if you dare it. Very decorated which surprised given its younger thanexpected. Great views from there as well. There is a nice winding path you can take coming down. You are also very close to the Roman theatre and museum..."

For Different Travelers

Notre Dame de Liesse fits easily into most Annecy itineraries because it's central, quick to visit, and naturally pairs with nearby Old Town sights. The experience is more about atmosphere and architecture than an activity schedule, which can be a plus or a drawback depending on your travel style.

Families with Kids

For families, it works best as a short, calm stop between more energetic activities like canal walks and lakeside playtime. Kids who enjoy big spaces and “spot the details” challenges (arches, windows, statues) will get more out of it.

If your children are very young or restless, keep expectations simple: a quick look inside, a quiet moment, then back out to the pedestrian streets and treats nearby.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

Couples will appreciate the quiet, reflective mood, especially as a pause during a slow Old Town wander. It’s a good “reset” stop before a lakeside sunset walk or a dinner reservation nearby.

If you like photography and architecture, visiting when the light is angled through the windows can feel especially atmospheric, even without spending a long time.

Budget Travelers

This is an easy win for budget travelers because it’s typically free to enter and doesn’t require advance planning. It also adds depth to an Old Town day that might otherwise be mostly scenic strolling.

Pair it with other no-cost highlights nearby, like canal viewpoints and public squares, to build a full, low-spend afternoon.

History Buffs

History lovers will enjoy the site’s long timeline and how it reflects Annecy’s shifting eras, from medieval roots to later rebuilding. It’s also a useful anchor point for understanding how religious and civic life overlapped in the historic center.

To get more context, combine the visit with nearby historic buildings and museums so you can connect what you see inside the church to the broader story of the town.

FAQs for Visiting Église Notre Dame de Liesse

Getting There

Yes, it’s right in the historic center and naturally falls on most Old Town walking routes. If you’re already exploring the canals and central streets, you’ll be very close.
It’s close enough to walk, making it a convenient first stop after arriving in town. The route is straightforward, though parts of the Old Town have cobblestones.
Yes, local buses serve central Annecy and you can walk the final minutes into the pedestrian area. Once you’re in the center, walking is usually fastest.

Tickets & Entry

Typically no, as it functions as a church rather than a ticketed attraction. If any special areas are restricted, access may depend on the day.
There’s no strict tourist dress code posted in most cases, but modest attire is recommended out of respect. If a service is underway, keep movement and noise minimal.
Yes, closures can happen for services, events, or operational reasons. If it’s important to you, build flexibility into your schedule.

Visiting Experience

Most visitors come away impressed by the scale of the interior and the architectural lines leading toward the altar. The decorative elements and artwork add to the sense of richness.
It can be either: a fast 10-minute look or a slower half-hour if you enjoy details. It’s easy to fit into a packed day.
Usually yes, and that calm is part of the appeal. Expect a quieter mood than the streets outside.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, it’s one of the easiest interior stops to add without detouring. It pairs well with canal bridges, Old Town lanes, and nearby historic landmarks.
Continue toward the canals and the iconic Old Town viewpoints, then head to the lakefront promenade. This creates a nice mix of interior calm and outdoor scenery.
Many Old Town tours pass nearby, and some include a brief stop depending on timing and access. If you’re on a tour, ask your guide whether entry is planned.

Photography

Often yes for personal use, but be respectful and avoid disrupting worship. If signage indicates restrictions, follow them.
When daylight filters through the windows and the interior feels more dramatic. Late afternoon can be especially flattering.
Usually not ideal in active religious spaces and may be restricted. If you need one, visit at a quiet time and be prepared to put it away.

Accessibility & Facilities

The surrounding Old Town streets can be uneven due to cobblestones and tight pedestrian lanes. Access at the entrance can vary, so it’s best to assess on arrival.
Typically not for visitors. Plan to use nearby cafés or public facilities in the center.
Yes, churches generally have pews, which can be helpful for a quiet break. Be mindful if a service is in progress.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, the church is surrounded by Old Town streets with plenty of cafés and bakeries. It’s easy to plan a coffee stop before or after.
Yes, it’s quick to visit and puts you right near dining options. It works well as a “starter” before a longer meal.
For a picnic, you’re better off heading toward the lakefront or a nearby green space. The immediate area is more pedestrian streets than lawns.

Safety & Timing

The central area is generally lively and well-trafficked, but the church itself may be closed later. Keep an eye on your belongings in busy pedestrian zones.
If you want to explore freely, yes, because movement may feel intrusive. If you do enter during a service, stay quiet and keep to the back.
That’s exactly when it can be nice to step inside for a calmer moment. Just remember that access can depend on church activities.

Nearby Attractions to the Église Notre Dame de Liesse

  • Palais de l'Île: Annecy's iconic canal-side landmark, perfect for photos and a quick history stop.
  • Château d'Annecy: A hilltop castle with museum spaces and views over the rooftops and lake.
  • Pont des Amours: A famous bridge viewpoint that frames the lake and gardens beautifully.
  • Jardins de l'Europe: A lakeside park ideal for a relaxed walk after exploring the Old Town.
  • Cathédrale Saint-Pierre d'Annecy: Another atmospheric religious site nearby, worth comparing for style and mood.

The Église Notre Dame de Liesse appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Annecy!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Daily: 09:00-18:00.

Price:

Free; donations appreciated.

Address: Passage Notre Dame, 74000 Annecy, France
Annecy: 0 km
Telephone: +33 4 50 52 37 00
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

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