A must-see gem in Savoie, Aix-les-Bains is an ideal destination for a mountain vacation. There's plenty to do as a couple or as a family, promising a successful relaxing vacation. The town's rich heritage, combined with its spa activities, make it a major tourist attraction in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Your steps will lead you from beautiful viewpoints to historical tours, promising fascinating discoveries. Let yourself be enchanted by these 13 must-do activities in Aix-les-Bains, one of the 15 most beautiful places to visit in Savoie.
1. Spend the day at the Chevalley thermal baths, the temple of relaxation
Aix-les-Bains is one of France's favorite thalasso destinations, and the Chevalley thermal baths are the place to be! Specializing in rheumatological, respiratory and other ailments, they also offer spa treatments for locals and vacationers looking for a little relaxation. From wellness rituals to body and facial treatments, you can treat yourself to a few hours of relaxation at the new Aix-les-Bains thermal baths. Let yourself be pampered, for a short while or a longer stay, to regain all your vitality.
2. Strolling around Lac du Bourget, Aix-les-Bains' treasure trove
18 km long, this 19,000-year-old glacial lake is the vibrant heart of Aix-les-Bains. Labelled a "Station Nautique" in France, the town comes alive with activities on the lake in the summer months. While some people prefer to stroll around Lac du Bourget, contemplating the marvellous surrounding ecosystem, others enjoy themselves on its waters. Canoes, kayaks, wakeboards and other water sports are all available. Prefer to fish in peace? Get away from the hustle and bustle, put down your fishing rod and relax!
Did you know? It's France's largest natural lake. Even if it gets crowded in summer, there's plenty of room for everyone!
Do you like adventure, scenery and the unusual? Then this 2-hour Segway tour is for you! The first part of the tour takes you along Lac du Bourget. Then it's on to the Corsuet forest overlooking Aix-les-Bains, where you'll have an exceptional view of the town, the lake and its surroundings.
We also recommend this paragliding experience over Lac du Bourget: an unforgettable experience in Savoie, with breathtaking views of the lake, surrounding towns and mountains
3. Visit Hautecombe Abbey, a historic treasure in Savoie
Although it is actually located in the neighboring commune of Saint-Pierre-de-Curtille,Hautecombe Abbey overlooks Lac du Bourget. So, if you're contemplating it from the lakeside, you might as well take the time to visit it! Classified as a historical monument, it houses the tomb of the Counts of Savoy. A monument steeped in history, its majestic façade is a real invitation to visit. Don't resist! Ideally, book a boat trip to enjoy the tranquility of the lake, while stopping off to visit the abbey. From the surrounding green park to the mountain views beyond the lake, this will be one of the highlights of your stay.
4. Visit the Musée Faure, a tribute to Rodin
The Villa des Chimères, home to the Musée Faure, is an architectural marvel in its own right. Surrounded by greenery, the museum exhibits the largest collection of sculptures by the famous Auguste Rodin. Spread over several floors, it also showcases the finest pieces from the private collection of Doctor Faure, who donated the entire collection to the town of Aix-les-Bains. A generous gesture, which today allows everyone to contemplate works that are unique in the world. Among the treasures on display are some superb Impressionist paintings, immersing the curious in a fascinating artistic and cultural tour.
5. Dining and entertainment at the Casino Grand Cercle
A temple of entertainment in Aix-les-Bains, the Casino Grand Cercle boasts breathtaking luxury inside and out. This sense of luxury is echoed in the Théâtre du Casino, where plays, operas and other shows are regularly performed. It's the perfect way to round off an evening, after an excellent meal at the Carré d'As, the casino's sumptuously decorated baroque restaurant. Leisure, meals, shows and cocktails: there's something for everyone in this place dedicated to entertainment, as long as you're reasonable about everything!
6. Admire the Arc de Campanus, Aix-les-Bains' Roman heritage
An ancient vestige dating back to Roman times, the Arc de Campanus stands out like a historic jewel in front of the town's former thermal baths. Dating from the late Iᵉʳ century, it measures 9.15 m high and 7.10 m wide. Will you be able to see it? A partial inscription mentions a certain L. Pompeius Campanus. Various other inscriptions allow us to reconstruct part of the Campanii genealogy, without however defining who this family really was. The arch also intrigues researchers as to its function: funerary, commemorative or monumental gateway to the baths? A mystery!
To remember : the "Un peu d'Histoire" tour, starting from the Tourist Office in the former thermal baths, takes in the town's main points of interest.
7. A stroll through the Parc Floral des Thermes, a bucolic moment in Aix-les-Bains
While the Parc Floral des Thermes is one of Aix-les-Bains' most beautiful flowery promenades, it has so much more to offer. Starting with a rich history, since it was transformed into a floral park to avoid urbanization. Constantly evolving, it has gradually been adorned with a greenhouse, a bandstand, a bar and children's play areas. Your bucolic stroll finally leads you to the Théâtre de Verdure, the nugget of this superb flower-filled park. Numerous shows are performed here throughout the year, as well as a ball on summer afternoons.
8. Marvel at the belvedere at La Chambotte
The belvedere at La Chambotte is part of the wonderful natural heritage of the Aix-les-Bains area. From up there, you can enjoy one of the finest views of Lac du Bourget and Hautecombe Abbey. However, you'll need to hike for around 3 hours 30 minutes, on a ten-kilometer loop, to deserve such a panoramic view. The forest path you'll follow follows the ridge of Mont de Corsuet, offering beautiful scenery along the way. Don't fancy a hike? The viewpoint is accessible by car or bus!
A little anecdote: this 100-year-old site was visited by Queen Victoria in 1887.
For the best views of the lake, we also recommend booking the via ferrata du rocher de Cornillon, also known as the via ferrata de la dent du chat.
9. Visit the Eglise Notre-Dame d'Aix-les-Bains, in Byzantine style
As you explore the town center, push open the doors of the Notre-Dame d'Aix-les-Bains church, built by architect Arthur Bertin. Inaugurated in 1899, it features a Romanesque-Byzantine style. Illuminated by stained-glass windows by Lyon master stained-glass artist Bégule, with designs by Eugène Grasset, it also features a bold Art Nouveau style. The previous church, located in front of the Arc de Campanus, had become too small for the many inhabitants of the city of Aix, so this new church was built just 250 m away. Are you a fan of art music? The current church hosts classical music concerts, so keep an eye on the program!
10. Hiking on Mont Revard, a superb panoramic view
Aix-les-Bains is a perfect destination for hiking in France. Among them, climbing Mont Revard is a must. From Les Exertiers to Chemin de la Crémaillère, via Golet de la Pierre, you reach the Revard plateau at an altitude of 1,562 meters. Climb to the top of the Tour de l'Angle Est and you'll find the Revard lookout. All that's left to do is enjoy an exceptional view of the surrounding mountain ranges, including Mont-Blanc on a clear day.
Are you a hiker by nature? Check out our top 11 hikes in Savoie. Among them, discover the path leading from Lac de Tignes to the Aiguille Percée, mentioned in our must-do list for Tignes.
Are you on vacation with family or friends? Spend an unforgettable moment by booking this hot-air balloon ride over Lac du Bourget ! You'll have a sublime view of peaks such as the Dent du Chat and Mont Revard.
For the more adventurous, book your flight in a microlight over Lac du Bourgethere: a unique experience in Savoie!
11. Admire the Château de la Roche du Roi
Unfortunately abandoned for many years, Château de la Roche du Roi is not open to the public. Currently undergoing interior renovation (much needed!), it can nevertheless be admired from the outside, which has already been restored to its former glory. Built in the 1900s, it is now a listed building. Built at the request of Jean Archiprêtre-Dugit, it changed hands several times. Its verdant setting makes for a pleasant visit, with beautiful views over the city.
12. Fun at the Casino Poker Bowl, activities for everyone
While the Casino Poker Bowl does have a casino area, there's plenty of other entertainment for the whole family. Its 12-lane bowling alley is one of the most popular leisure venues in Aix-les-Bains. There's also an arcade for the youngsters of Aix-les-Bains and their families. Numerous events are offered throughout the year. Don't hesitate to consult the program during your visit!
13. What to do in Aix-les-Bains Savoyard specialities
You've got to admit, just thinking about this region makes your mouth water! We'll think about dieting later, because here, hearty dishes are the order of the day! Famous for its cheeses, Savoie will delight you during your stay. Among them, Abondance and Beaufort are among the must-try cheeses. But before you get to the cheese, you'll want to try some diots, small sausages seasoned with nutmeg. Tartiflette and raclette are also on the menu in many restaurants. Of course, you can't leave the region without trying a real Savoyard fondue: that would be sacrilege! Less well known, matouille also deserves a mention. This gratin is cooked with diced potatoes, garlic and Bauges tome cheese. Delicious!
A number of fish caught in the Lac du Bourget also feature prominently on the plates of Aix-les-Bains. Omble Chevalier, féra and perch are good examples.
Finish your meal with a Savoy cake. It is said to have been invented in 1358 in Chambéry for Charles IV. To win him over, the cook Pierre de Yenne created a light cake by beating egg yolks with sugar, then adding the stiffly beaten whites.
Where to stay in Aix-les-Bains?
Downtown Aix-les-Bains is a great place to stay. You'll be close to the lake, museums and various buildings to visit. As for spa therapists, they'll find refuge in the Saint-Pol district. Looking for greenery? Head for Rondeau - Bord du Lac, whose evocative name suggests a vacation with a view of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- The most relaxing
TheHôtel & Spa Marina d'Adelphia offers a relaxing setting on the shores of Lac du Bourget. Its spa, open late into the evening, promises well-deserved moments of relaxation. We've fallen in love with this high-quality, affordable address, which you can book here.
- The most original
The colorful, simple yet atypical rooms atHôtel Urban seem to have a Japanese flair. Between modernism and relaxation, treat yourself to a relaxing moment at the spa, to unwind in this establishment decidedly like no other! Click here to book this original hotel.
- The best location
Located close to the tourist office, the Musée Faure and the Arc de Campanus,Hôtel les Bains has made a name for itself in the city. The atmosphere is simple, welcoming, warm and family-friendly. Book your room in downtown Aix-les-Bains here.
What to do in Aix-les-Bains when it rains?
The first thing to do when it rains: enjoy the benefits of the Chevalley thermal baths! Aix-les-Bains is famous for its thermal baths, which are just waiting to help you feel better. On the program: thermal water pool, spa, hammam, massages and other pampering treatments.
The Musée Faure is a great place to visit when it's raining in Aix-les-Bains. Rodin sculptures and other works of art can be contemplated without restraint while waiting for the sun to return. Another museum near Lac du Bourget is Aqualis, the scientific museum with fun activities for all. Discover the world of lakes, through an exhibition that provides a better understanding of the aquatic world. A great activity for the whole family when it's raining in Aix-les-Bains!
Culture can also be found in the various religious buildings in the area. From theAbbaye de Hautecombe to theÉglise Notre-Dame-d'Aix-les-Bains, you've got the perfect complement to a rainy day.
What unusual visits can you make in Aix-les-Bains?
Let's face it, we love making unusual and surprising discoveries on vacation! How about starting your unusual discoveries at the town's municipal greenhouses? You can take a guided tour of these greenhouses, and discover what goes on behind the scenes in one of France's most flower-filled towns. Stay a little longer in the floral world at the Herbier de la Clappe, located in the Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges. The owners, as authentic as their wild plants, plunge you into the fascinating world of local plants.
In a completely different style, we invite you to discover the backstage area of the Casino du Grand Cercle theater. From the preserved décor of yesteryear to the stage machinery, the world that opens up to you is full of surprises.
Finally, dive into the heart of Savoyard heritage! Not at the corner market, no... but straight from the source. From a visit to a winery to a cheese farm, fill up on authentic vacation experiences.
Petit Futé tip
Going for a spa treatment in Aix-les-Bains? The Hôtel de Ville and Chaudanne parking lots are 50% off on presentation of your spa schedule. The spa's underground parking lot offers a preferential rate for long cures. How convenient!
Don't stop at Aix-les-Bains! As our 11 must-sees in Chambéry, less than 20 km from Aix-les-Bains, prove, the area is superb. The more you discover the surrounding area, the more you'll want to take on all the must-sees in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, a region of 1001 wonders. Let yourself be charmed by the breathtaking panoramas, historic architecture and fascinating museums in and around Aix. A wonderful vacation is just around the corner!
Tempted by our selection? Take a look at our train ticket prices and book now!
