Tour
2 km
1h15
14 audios
Text version
Picture a place where snow-capped peaks are mirrored in the waters of France’s largest natural lake, where Belle Époque elegance meets untamed nature… Welcome to Aix-les-Bains. Nestled between Lake Bourget and the foothills of the Alps, this Savoy gem has been winning hearts since ancient times. The Romans were already drawn here for its thermal waters, but it was during the Belle Époque that Aix-les-Bains truly came into its own. Lavish palaces, a glittering casino, romantic lakeside strolls, Europe’s high society turned it into their playground of choice. Today, the town still embraces that distinctive art of living. Between spa treatments and walks along the lake, between architectural treasures and the surrounding mountains, Aix-les-Bains offers countless ways to savor life’s gentler pace in the heart of the Alps. Stroll through this spa town where every street corner tells a story and every glance toward the lake reveals a fresh panorama. Aix-les-Bains promises an unforgettable escape, where history, nature, and wellbeing come together in perfect harmony.
Here you are in front of Aix-les-Bains’Town Hall… but in reality, you’re looking at a former seigneurial castle! Long before it housed the offices of the local administration, this was the residence of an influential family: the Marquises of Aix. Read more
Right next to the Town Hall stands a true treasure that’s easy to overlook: the Temple of Diana, a Roman building nearly 2,000 years old! It’s one of only three fully preserved Roman temples in France, making it an exceptionally rare site. Read more
You’re now standing in Place Carnot, the oldest square in Aix-les-Bains, but this large paved plaza holds more stories than you might think. Since medieval times, it was known as the “Grande-Place” and sat between the city’s two fortified gates, marking a strategic spot on the road linking Chambéry to Geneva. Read more
Right in front of you stands one of Aix-les-Bains’ oldest, and perhaps most mysterious, monuments: the Campanus Arch, which has been here for nearly two thousand years. Read more
You’re now on Montée des Moulins, a place steeped in history that reveals a lesser-known side of Aix-les-Bains’ past. Beneath your feet flows an invisible stream, a witness to a fascinating story. Read more
Welcome to Notre-Dame-des-Eaux Church in Aix-les-Bains, a stunning Romanesque-Byzantine jewel right in the heart of this spa town! Its striking green steeple, colored by the natural patina of oxidized metal, has been a landmark here for over a century. Read more
You’re standing in front of Saint Swithun’s Church, which tells a surprising story about the English who made Aix-les-Bains their second home in the 19th century. Read more
You’re standing in front of one of France’s most prestigious casinos: the Grand Cercle of Aix-les-Bains. Behind this elegant façade lies a fascinating story that takes us back to the golden age of European spa culture. Read more
You might be wondering about those colorful statues standing right in front of the Casino, strikingly contrasting with the building’s pristine white façade. Read more
Take a moment to really appreciate the stunning façade of the Grand Hôtel standing just across the street. This building tells a story from the golden age of French spa culture. Read more
You’re now in the heart of Aix-les-Bains’ most beloved green space: the Floral Park of the Thermes. This was once the garden of the Marquises of Aix, whose château stood right next door. Read more
Here’s a small, discreet staircase, almost hidden, but rich with history. You’re standing before the Rossignoli Passage, created in the 1880s to connect the town center with the grand palaces that once towered over Aix-les-Bains: the Splendide, the Royal, and the Excelsior. Read more
This striking bronze sculpture of a large cat, unveiled in 2020, is the work of artist Michel Bassompierre. Its name, “La Dent du Chat,” might seem puzzling if you’re not familiar with the area, but it simply references the famous mountain overlooking Lake Bourget, whose jagged profile resembles a tooth. Read more
You’re standing before one of France’s most iconic spa complexes: the National Baths of Aix-les-Bains. Here, over two thousand years of history unfold at a glance, blending ancient traditions, Belle Époque architecture, and visions for the future. Read more
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An interactive guide through the most beautiful streets, squares, and districts
14 fun audioguides full of historical facts, anecdotes, and legends
Do you crave adventure, striking landscapes and unique experiences? This 2-hour Segway tour is made for you!
Spectacular Views over Lake Bourget Famous for its sharp silhouette, the Cat’s Tooth rises to 1,390 meters in the Savoyard Jura mountains, on the west shore of Lake Bourget. From the Col du Chat, a beautiful—sometimes steep—hike leads to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the lake, Aix-les-Bains, and the Alps. For thrill-seekers, an aerial via ferrata also allows a safe climb up the cliffs of the Cat’s Tooth, offering dizzying, stunning views. A sporty and unforgettable outing for mountain lovers.
Just 20 minutes from Aix-les-Bains, the Royal Abbey of Hautecombe immerses you in the history of the House of Savoy. Nestled between lake and mountain, this Gothic abbey houses the tombs of many sovereigns.
Embark on a peaceful cruise on Lake Bourget, the largest natural lake in France. From the port of Aix-les-Bains, several routes are offered: guided tours, lunch cruises, sunset crossings… The highlight? Arriving at the charming Canal de Savières, a bucolic waterway lined with reeds that winds its way to the village of Chanaz. Along the way, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, the lake’s wild shores, and the approaches to Hautecombe Abbey. A gentle escape, perfect for combining relaxation, nature, and heritage.
Nicknamed the “Little Venice of Savoy,” Chanaz charms visitors with its authentic character and passionate artisans. Stroll along the canal, visit the oil mill, discover the craft brewery, or enjoy a tasty break on a terrace. A perfect half-day getaway.
Set off to discover the wines of Savoie across the sun-kissed hillsides around Jongieux, Yenne, or Lucey. Several estates welcome visitors for friendly tastings. Don’t miss typical grape varieties like Roussette and Mondeuse.
Just 20 minutes by car, Mont Revard rises over 1,500 meters and offers one of the finest views of Mont Blanc on clear days. In summer, it’s a kingdom for mountain biking and hiking. In winter, it’s a popular Nordic ski resort favored by families.
A little further than Lake Bourget, Lake Aiguebelette is an emerald gem nestled at the foot of the Chartreuse mountains. Its calm, warm waters make it an ideal spot for swimming, canoeing, or a relaxing family day out.
Looking for a city day trip? The old town of Annecy awaits you with its colorful streets, flower-lined canals, local market, and famous lake. Perfect for a romantic or cultural escape less than an hour’s drive from Aix-les-Bains.
Explore the unspoiled nature of Aix-les-Bains and discover activities that make you come alive between lake and mountains.
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