Basilique de la Visitation, Annecy Travel Guide

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Discover Annecy's spiritual heart at the Basilique de la Visitation, a stunning neo-Gothic basilica with panoramic views and rich history.

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Basilique de la Visitation

The Basilique de la Visitation, built between 1922 and 1930, stands as a beacon of faith and architectural beauty, dominating the skyline of Annecy. This neo-Gothic basilica honors Saint François de Sales and Jeanne de Chantal, founders of the Order of the Visitation, whose remains are enshrined within its walls. Visitors can admire the stunning mosaics, stained glass windows, and the carillon with 36 bells, while also experiencing a sense of peace and reflection.

A brief summary to Basilique de la Visitation

11 Av. de la Visitation, Annecy, 74000, FR
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Monday 7:15 am-6:30 pm
Tuesday 7:15 am-6:30 pm
Wednesday 7:15 am-6:30 pm
Thursday 7:15 am-6:30 pm
Friday 7:15 am-6:30 pm
Saturday 7:15 am-6:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Basilique de la Visitation.

Visit the Salesian Museum in the monastery annex to learn about St. François de Sales and St. Jeanne de Chantal.
Check the opening times of the bell tower in advance if you wish to climb it for stunning views.
Take time to admire the mosaics and stained-glass windows inside the basilica.
Combine your visit with a walk or hike on the Crêt du Maure for even more panoramic views.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Le Palais de I'Île

Musée-Château d'Annecy

Porte Notre-Dame

Jardins de l'Europe

A Saint François de Sales

Explore Basilique de la Visitation on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Basilique de la Visitation, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Annecy Old Town, walk south towards the Basilique de la Visitation. The walk is uphill and takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Follow the signs and be prepared for some stairs. No costs involved.
Public Transport

Take the SIBRA bus line 14 to the bus stop "La Basilique", which is right in front of the Basilica. Alternatively, take lines 3, 14, 15, or K to "Paradis", a 5-minute walk away. A single ticket costs €1.50.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Annecy. A taxi ride from the Annecy train station to the Basilique de la Visitation will take approximately 10 minutes and cost around €11-€15. Taxi companies include Taxi cab Annecy (+33 (0)4 50 45 05 67) and Taxi cab Grand Annecy (+33 (0)7 55 63 00 62).
Car

Drive south from the center of Annecy. There is a free parking lot in front of the basilica. If it's full, there are additional spots within a 2-5 minute walk. Parking is free.

Discover more about Basilique de la Visitation

Rising above Annecy on the Crêt du Maure, the Basilique de la Visitation is a prominent landmark and a testament to the city's rich religious heritage. Constructed between 1922 and 1930, the basilica was consecrated in 1949 and quickly became a symbol of Annecy. Its neo-Gothic style, designed by architect Alfred-Henri Recoura, blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, offering panoramic views of the town, Lake Annecy, and the Alps.The basilica's origins trace back to the early 17th century when Saint François de Sales and Saint Jeanne de Chantal founded the Order of the Visitation in Annecy. The basilica was built to honor these saints, and their bronze coffins are displayed inside. The interior is adorned with magnificent mosaics and stained glass windows that depict the lives of the two saints. The basilica also features a carillon with 36 bells, a masterpiece from the Paccard foundry.The Basilique de la Visitation is not only a historical site but also a place of worship and spiritual retreat. A community of Visitation nuns resides in the monastery adjacent to the basilica, living a life of prayer and welcoming visitors. Visitors can explore the Salesian Museum, located in an annex of the monastery, which showcases the life and work of Saint François de Sales and Saint Jeanne de Chantal. The basilica is open to the public daily with free admission.