City-guide Annecy and Montpellier: our family-friendly addresses

Day 2 in Annecy

To start your second day, explore the Gorges du Fier, just a few kilometers from Annecy. This narrow gorge, crossed by a suspended footbridge, offers a unique experience for young and old alike. To be done in the morning with a picnic. After lunch, head to the Chozal farm to discover the animals. The farm also offers a barefoot sensory trail through the forest.

24 hours in Annecy with Lilly and the Frenchie

Day 1 in Annecy

Start by strolling through Annecy's old town, with its cobbled pedestrian streets, canals and colorful medieval houses. Take time to stroll along Lake Annecy, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. We love to take the kids out on bikes, scooters or rollerblades. Finally, explore the Réserve Naturelle du Bout du Lac, just a few kilometers from Annecy, where you can admire a wide variety of birds and plants.

Bonus: places to brunch:

• Haven, 5 rue Filaterie, 74000 Annecy
• Le barrouxdheure: very kid-friendly with games for children.
  >6-8 Rue Filaterie, 74000 Annecy
• Les halles de Saint Martin Bellevue: a new must-see place for families, with local produce and games for children)
  >60 Rte des Sauts, 74370 Fillière

24 hours in Montpellier with your family

The pretty town of Montpellier has a charming singing accent, as well as being a welcoming city. Discover our ideal itinerary for a family weekend in Montpellier.

Day 1 in Montpellier

Start with a visit to the Place de la Comédie and admire its Haussmann-style architecture. Then explore the historic Ecusson district, with its cobblestone streets and 18th-century townhouses. Head up Avenue Foch, then take a stroll along the Promenade du Peyrou. Admire the view and wave at the Pic Saint Loup in the distance. Time for lunch! Stop off at the Broc Café for a gourmet break, then head for the Jardin des Plantes where the kids can take a nap in the stroller while you observe the plants. In the afternoon, do a little shopping for the kids. Head for rue de l'Ancien Courrier and the Saint Roch district, where you'll find Les Petites Choses children's boutique and Serendipity for pretty decorations. In the evening, stay in the old town for dinner.

Bonus: our gourmet addresses in Montpellier:

• The Little Italy Shop, 4bis Cours Gambetta, 34000 Montpellier
• Blend, 3 rue du Bras de Fer, 34000 Montpellier
• Faune, 13 rue de la République, 34000 Montpellier
• Napoléon Dynamite, 5 place de la Carnougue, 34000 Montpellier

Day 2 in Montpellier

Today, we suggest you explore the surrounding area. Think of Carnon beach in the morning, when it's not too crowded and the sun isn't beating down too hard... Fancy a visit to a historic citadel? Head for the town of Aigues-Morte for lunch and its salt marshes (book the little train in advance). Back in Montpellier, take another trip to the old town for dinner and a well-deserved ice cream. Our favorite ice cream shops: La Banquise and Padova.