4 Star Hotel in Vicenza

In the heart of Veneto, the beautiful city of Vicenza shares a special bond with Annecy, a picturesque town in France. The two cities forged a twinning agreement in 1995, creating a partnership based on shared values, cultural exchange, and close collaboration.

In 2025, this connection reaches its 30-year milestone, and Vicenza will honour the anniversary with a rich programme of events, making the city’s spring even more special.

An enduring friendship between Italy and France

The twinning between Vicenza and Annecy was born out of a desire to build a cultural bridge between two seemingly distant places, yet both characterised by breathtaking landscapes, artistic heritage, and deep-rooted culinary traditions. Over the past three decades, the two cities have strengthened their relationship through school exchange programmes, institutional collaborations, and cultural initiatives that have engaged citizens of all ages.

Over the years, Vicenza has warmly welcomed visitors and delegations from Annecy, offering them the chance to discover the wonders of Palladian architecture, the exquisite flavours of Venetian cuisine, and the city’s genuine hospitality. On the other side of the Alps, Annecy has captivated the people of Vicenza with its enchanting historic centre, its stunning lake, and its rich Savoyard traditions.

Upcoming celabrations

On 5 April 2025, the mayors of Annecy, Francois Astorg, and Vicenza, Giacomo Possamai, will mark the 30th anniversary of this partnership with an official ceremony. The event will bring together citizens and institutions, including the two associations dedicated to promoting the twinning: Amici di Annecy and Amis de Vicenza. For this special occasion, a commemorative logo has been designed, symbolising the union between the two cities with an embrace between a cat, representing Vicenza, and a fish, symbolising Annecy.

From 4 to 6 April, a series of free public events will take place in Vicenza to celebrate this enduring friendship. Among them, a harpsichord concert by Binyamin Greilsammer will be held at Gallerie d'Italia, housed within the stunning Palazzo Leoni Montanari. Additionally, themed guided tours will highlight the historical connections between Vicenza and France, with a particular focus on Napoleon’s passage through the city.

At the Istituto Rezzara, a documentary screening will shed light on the exploration of a shipwreck in Lake Annecy, filmed by the diving club Carpe Diem Diving. To commemorate the anniversary, a tree will be planted at Parco Querini, symbolising the lasting bond between the two cities.

The Stamperia Busato will host illustrator Cécile Bonnet Emin, who will lead creative activities open to the public. Meanwhile, Punto Focale will launch an open call for photographers, inviting professionals and enthusiasts to capture the essence of Vicenza and Annecy through the theme of water. The selected images will be exhibited at the end of the year. During the summer, the "Aperò" art festival will explore the aperitivo culture in both cities, thanks to a collaboration between Ale Giorgini and Art By Friends of Annecy.

A special welcome at Hotel Viest

To celebrate this special anniversary, Hotel Viest in Vicenza has prepared an exclusive offer for visitors from Annecy. Guests who choose to stay at our  hotel can enjoy a 15% discount on their room rate by using the promo code ANVI30 when booking.

Ideally located just a few minutes from Vicenza’s historic centre, Hotel Viest offers a blend of comfort and elegance, featuring a cosy wellness centre and an excellent restaurant where guests can savour local delicacies.

If you are planning a visit to Vicenza to take part in the twinning celebrations with Annecy, this is the perfect opportunity to experience an unforgettable stay. Vicenza welcomes you to celebrate 30 years of friendship with Annecy through culture, events, and outstanding hospitality.