Palais de l'Isle
A 12th-century stone building on a boat-shaped island in the Thiou River. It once served as a prison and courthouse and is Annecy's most iconic postcard view.
The Palais de l'Isle was built in the 12th century. It is shaped like a stone boat moored in the river. It has served as a lord's residence, a mint, a courthouse and a prison, and it remained a prison until the mid-20th century. Today it houses an exhibition on Annecy's architecture and heritage, and visitors can see the old cells and a small chapel. The classic photo spots are on Perrière Bridge and on the bridge south of the Palais, where the soft morning and evening light is best. Admission costs a few euros, and you can buy a combined ticket with Annecy Castle.
Opening hours
Approx. 10:30–18:00 (closed Tuesdays outside summer)
Nearby sights
- Annecy Old Town
- Château d'Annecy
- Annecy Cathedral (Saint-Pierre)
- Jardins de l'Europe
- Pont des Amours
- Le Pâquier
- Basilica of the Visitation
- Lake Annecy Greenway (Voie Verte)