Annemasse
Annemasse is a major French city in the Haute-Savoie region, located directly on the Swiss border, just east of Geneva. It functions as the main French hub for the cross-border metropolitan area known as "Grand Genève" (Greater Geneva). Historically a small town, Annemasse's growth was sparked by the arrival of the railway in 1880, turning it into a key transport and industrial center. During WWII, its border location made it a crucial passage for resistance networks helping refugees escape into Switzerland.
Today, Annemasse's identity is shaped by its close relationship with Geneva. A large portion of its residents are frontaliers (cross-border commuters) who work in Switzerland while living in France. The city is a bustling urban center undergoing significant modernization, highlighted by the Léman Express rail network which provides a fast connection to Geneva.
While primarily a functional and commercial hub, Annemasse serves as a practical and affordable base for exploring the region. It offers easy access to the Alps (including Chamonix), the shores of Lake Geneva, and the historic city of Annecy.