--- title: "Aix les bains - tourism and leisure guide" url: "https://cparici.com/en/aix-les-bains/" markdown_url: "https://cparici.com/en/aix-les-bains.md" type: "post" date_published: "2024-08-26T07:06:15+00:00" date_modified: "2026-09-04T11:43:50+00:00" language: "en-US" renderer_version: "3" --- # Aix les bains - tourism and leisure guide ## Summary Aix les bains: discover the pearl of the Alps. This comprehensive guide offers advice on how to enjoy local tourism and leisure activities. ## Content ![aix les bains](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/aix-les-bains.jpg) #### Popular searches #### Categories No results [See all results](#) # **Aix-les-Bains** Are you looking for the perfect place to invigorate, relax and immerse yourself in nature? **Aix-les-Bains** is your ideal destination! Located in Savoie, in the heart of the magnificent [region](https://cparici.com/en/13-regions-of-france-the-guide/) [Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes](https://cparici.com/en/auvergne-rhone-alpes/)Aix-les-Bains lies between the [lake](https://cparici.com/en/lacs-de-france/) du Bourget - the largest natural lake in France - and the [mountains](https://cparici.com/en/mountains-and-mountain-ranges-in-france/) surrounding it. This city, rich in history and culture, has managed to preserve its heritage and unique charm. Whether your passion is [water sports](https://cparici.com/en/nautical-sports-nautical-activities-france/)hiking, golfing and [thermalism](https://cparici.com/en/spa-resorts-in-france/)the discovery of [museums](https://cparici.com/en/musees-en-france/) Aix-les-Bains has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we'll tell you all you need to know about Aix-les-Bains' must-sees, its rich culture and heritage, its sports and leisure activities, not to mention practical tips for planning your visit. ## Aix-les-Bains must-sees Discover the treasures of Aix-les-Bains, a town famous for its health benefits, cultural richness and varied pleasures. Here's a guide to not-to-be-missed experiences during your visit. ### Historic thermal baths and wellness Renowned for its thermal waters with anti-rheumatic, anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties, Aix-les-Bains is home to two major spa centers: Thermes Chevalley Valvital and Thermes du Domaine de Marlioz. These establishments offer medical cures, health programs and wellness treatments. Enjoy heated thermal pools, steam rooms, saunas, whirlpools, jet showers, massages and beauty treatments for a revitalizing experience. And don't miss a visit to the historic 19th-century thermal baths, home to figures such as Queen Victoria, Lamartine and Napoleon III. ### Lac du Bourget: water sports and relaxation Visit [**Lac du Bourget, France's largest natural lake**](https://cparici.com/en/lac-du-bourget/), offers a [landscape](https://cparici.com/en/landscapes-in-france/) An idyllic spot for relaxation and water activities. With a surface area of 44 km² and a depth of 145 m, the lake is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, or simply strolling along its [beaches](https://cparici.com/en/beaches-in-france/) with amenities. Discover Rowing Beach, Grand Port Beach, or Mémard Beach. [![Lac du Bourget near Aix-les-Bains](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/lac-du-Bourget-pres-dAix-les-Bains.jpg)](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/lac-du-Bourget-pres-dAix-les-Bains.jpg) Embark on activities such as boating, sailing and fishing. [kayak](https://cparici.com/en/kayak-canoe-kayak/)the [paddle](https://cparici.com/en/stand-up-paddle/), sailing, the [ski](https://cparici.com/en/ski-en-france-guide/) water sports, scuba diving, or [fishing](https://cparici.com/en/fishing-in-france-guide/). Admire the splendor of the lake from vantage points such as the Revard lookout, the marina, Bourdeau castle and the Savières canal linking it to the Rhône. ### Visit [Mountain](https://cparici.com/en/mountains-and-mountain-ranges-in-france-2/) Le Revard and its panoramic views The Revard mountain, a peak in the Bauges region rising to 1,538 m, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lac du Bourget, Aix-les-Bains, Mont Blanc and the [Alps](https://cparici.com/en/mountain-alps/). Accessible by car, bus or France's oldest funicular railway, Le Revard is a paradise for nature lovers and fresh air enthusiasts. [Hiking](https://cparici.com/en/the-best-hikes-in-france-guide/), [MOUNTAIN BIKING](https://cparici.com/en/mountain-biking-in-france-guide/)There's plenty to do in this exceptional setting, including skiing, paragliding, cross-country skiing and tobogganing. You can also explore the 17th-century Mont-Chat chapel, or relax in the Thermae café, located in the heart of a thermal spa. Direct Booking of Vacation Rentals in Aix-les-[Bains](https://cparici.com/en/spa-resorts-in-france/) [**Starts from 100.00€ ![Apartment at the foot of the chairlift 6 Pers - Arêches-Beaufort](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Superbe-T3-au-pied-du-telesiege-Areches-Beaufort-immeuble-scaled-1-520x397.jpg) ### Apartment at the foot of the chairlift 6 Pers - Arêches-Beaufort Arêches-Beaufort Center](https://cparici.com/en/ad/apartment-at-the-foot-of-the-telesiege-6-pers-areches-beaufort/) [**Starts from 255.00€ ![Villa overlooking Lac du Bourget - 8 pers](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Villa-8-personnes-vue-sur-le-lac-du-Bourget-Exterieur-3-scaled-1-520x397.webp) ### Villa overlooking Lac du Bourget - 8 pers Viviers-du-Lac - View of Lac du Bourget](https://cparici.com/en/ad/villa-overlooking-lac-du-bourget-8-pers/) [**Starts from 200.00€ ![12-person villa overlooking Lake Aiguebelette](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Villa-12-personnes-a-Aiguebelette-vue-sur-le-lac-Exterieur-2-scaled-1-520x397.webp) ### 12-person villa overlooking Lake Aiguebelette Saint-Alban-de-Montbel, lake view](https://cparici.com/en/ad/12-person-villa-overlooking-lake-daiguebelette/) [**Starts from 460.00€ ![Villa with heated pool and lake view - 10 Pers](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Villa-avec-vue-exceptionnelle-sur-le-Lac-piscine-chauffee-vue-drone-scaled-1-520x397.webp) ### Villa with heated pool and lake view - 10 Pers Le Bourget-du-Lac](https://cparici.com/en/ad/villa-with-heated-pool-and-lake-view-10-pers/) [**Starts from 270.00€ ![Superb air-conditioned apartment facing the Casino d'Aix-les-Bains](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Magnifique-T4-grande-terrasse-face-Casino-Aix-les-Bains-salon-exterieur-2-scaled-1-520x397.jpg) ### Superb air-conditioned apartment facing the Casino d'Aix-les-Bains Opposite the Casino d'Aix-les-Bains](https://cparici.com/en/ad/superb-air-conditioned-apartment-facing-casino-daix-les-bains-2/) [**Starts from 250.00€ ![Chalet du Bonheur with heated pool, jacuzzi and sauna - Aix-les-Bains](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Chalet-6-personnes-piscine-jacuzzi-sauna-a-Aix-les-Bains-Exterieur-2-1-scaled-3-520x397.webp) ### Chalet du Bonheur with heated pool, jacuzzi and sauna - Aix-les-Bains Aix-les-Bains](https://cparici.com/en/ad/chalet-du-bonheur-with-heated-pool-jacuzzi-and-sauna-aix-les-bains/) [**Starts from €150.00 ![Chalet with private access to Lake Aiguebelette - 4 Pers](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Chalet-4-personnes-acces-privatif-au-lac-dAiguebelette-Exterieur-4-scaled-1-520x397.webp) ### Chalet with private access to Lake Aiguebelette - 4 Pers Aiguebelette-le-Lac](https://cparici.com/en/ad/chalet-with-private-access-to-lake-daiguebelette-4-pers/) [**Starts from 230.00€ ![Villa with swimming pool lac d'Aiguebelette - 10 people](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Villa-10-personnes-avec-piscine-Lac-dAiguebelette-Piscine-5-1-520x397.webp) ### Villa with swimming pool lac d'Aiguebelette - 10 people Aiguebelette-le-Lac](https://cparici.com/en/ad/villa-with-pool-lac-daiguebelette-10-people/) [**Starts from 210.00€ ![Villa with swimming pool - 6 pers - Aix-les-Bains](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Magnifique-villa-avec-piscine-chauffee-et-clim-proche-Aix-les-Bains-Exterieur-6-scaled-1-520x397.jpg) ### Villa with swimming pool - 6 pers - Aix-les-Bains Aix-les-Bains](https://cparici.com/en/ad/villa-with-pool-6-pers-aix-les-bains/) ## Culture et patrimoine d’Aix-les-[Bains](https://cparici.com/en/spa-resorts-in-france/) Aix-les-Bains is a town rich in history, which has managed to preserve and enhance its natural environment. [heritage](https://cparici.com/en/patrimoine-de-france/) exceptional cultural heritage. Discover its treasures through its [monuments](https://cparici.com/en/historical-monuments-in-france/) emblématiques, ses musées captivants et ses visites guidées enrichissantes. Voici quelques incontournables pour plonger dans l’atmosphère unique d’Aix-les-Bains. ### The Musée Faure and its art collection The Musée Faure, housed in the elegant 19th-century Villa des Chimères, is a renowned showcase for art. It houses the precious collection donated by Jean Faure, an art-loving pharmacist, to the town of Aix-les-Bains. Among its jewels, discover the**he second largest collection of works by Auguste Rodin in France**comprising 34 sculptures, including the emblematic Thinker. [![Musée Faure Aix-les-Bains](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Musee-Faure-Aix-les-Bains.jpg)](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Musee-Faure-Aix-les-Bains.jpg) You can also admire masterpieces by [impressionist painters](https://cparici.com/en/impressionism-in-france/) such as Degas, Bonnard, Cézanne, Pissarro, Jongkind and Renoir. The museum also exhibits a fine selection of ceramics and earthenware, and recreates the bedroom of Alphonse Lamartine, the illustrious poet who took refuge in Aix-les-Bains on many occasions. Temporary exhibitions regularly enrich the museum's cultural offering, in two specially designed rooms. ### The Casino Grand Cercle and its [architecture](https://cparici.com/en/history-of-architecture-in-france/) **Le Casino Grand Cercle**the iconic building of Aix-les-Bains since 1847, was inaugurated by Victor-Emmanuel II of Sardinia, making the town his summer residence. The building is distinguished by its sumptuous neoclassical architecture, with majestic columns, pediments and statues. [![Casino Grand Cercle Aix-les-Bains](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Casino-Grand-Cercle-Aix-les-Bains.jpg)](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Casino-Grand-Cercle-Aix-les-Bains.jpg) It houses an Italian-style theater with a varied program, as well as a gaming room offering slot machines, roulette, blackjack, poker and baccarat. The casino also features a tea room, restaurant and bar for relaxing moments. The casino's interior is a true masterpiece, with its ceiling frescoes, crystal chandeliers, mosaics and stained glass windows, earning it historic monument status in 1992. ### Guided tours: in the footsteps of Lamartine Lamartine, the emblematic poet of Lac du Bourget and the Aix-les-Bains region, stayed here eight times between 1816 and 1830. His romance with Julie Charles, the inspiration for his famous poem Le Lac, can be explored through fascinating guided tours. Parcourez les lieux marquants de sa vie : la pension Perrier, où il rencontra Julie, la villa Chevalley, où il résida, le château de Châtillon, qui l’accueillit, la grotte de Lamartine, où il méditait, et la chapelle du Mont-Chat, lieu de recueillement. Admirez également les [landscape](https://cparici.com/en/landscapes-in-france/)places that captivated the poet, such as Lake Bourget, the Revard lookout, the Savières Canal, and Mont du Chat. ## Sports and leisure activities Aix-les-Bains, famous for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant lifestyle, is the ideal playground for sports and leisure enthusiasts. Whether your passion is hiking, golf or water sports, this town has everything to satisfy your desire for activity and entertainment. Discover below a selection of sports and leisure activities to try out in Aix-les-Bains. ### Nature walks and hikes Surrounded by a sumptuous natural environment, Aix-les-Bains invites you to explore through hiking and walking. Marked trails, suitable for all levels, will lead you to discover the local flora and fauna, not to mention breathtaking panoramas. Places like the Revard belvedere, with its breathtaking views of Lac du Bourget, Mont du Chat and the Dent du Chat, or the Savières canal, connecting the lake to the Rhône, are perfect for nature breaks. Cycling enthusiasts will love the 18 km greenway running alongside the lake and the 50 km cycle route linking Aix-les-Bains to Annecy. ### Where to find a vacation rental in Aix-les-Bains Opt for a **vacation rentals in Aix-les-Bains** is one of the best ways to take full advantage of the **Lac du Bourget** while enjoying a comfortable and flexible setting. This renowned spa resort offers a wide range of accommodations, from studios with lake views to upscale apartments located in the city center or on the hillside. The neighborhoods near the lakefront promenade are particularly popular for their direct access to [beaches](https://cparici.com/en/beaches-in-france/) and water sports. To find [the most beautiful vacation cottages and accommodations](https://cparici.com/en/vacation-rentals-aix-les-bains/) in Aix-les-Bains, read our dedicated article here. ### Golf d’Aix-les-Bains : entre lac et [Mountain](https://cparici.com/en/mountains-and-mountain-ranges-in-france-2/) **Aix-les-Bains golf course**located in a green setting 3 km from the town center, offers amateurs and amateurs alike an exceptional 18-hole course, stretching over 45 hectares between lake and mountain. With its varied, technical layout, it is suitable for all levels of play. [![Golf Aix les Bains](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Golf-Aix-les-Bains-300x106.jpg)](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Golf-Aix-les-Bains.jpg)Golf Aix les Bains Qualified professionals offer top-quality teaching to support each player's progress. The site also boasts all the facilities you need to play golf: driving range, putting green, pitching green, practice bunker, as well as a clubhouse with bar, restaurant and panoramic terrace. ### Local sporting events not to be missed Aix-les-Bains vibrates to the rhythm of local sporting events throughout the year, offering both entertainment and opportunities to participate. Don't miss the Lac du Bourget International Triathlon in June, the Lac du Bourget Marathon in October, the Festival de la Voile in September, and the Lac du Bourget Trail in November, for unique sporting experiences. ## Useful links for visiting Aix-les-Bains ### General information & tourism - 👉 Official tourist office : https://www.aixlesbains-rivieradesalpes.com/ (Activities, events, accommodation, calendar) - 👉 City of Aix-les-Bains : [https://www.aixlesbains.fr/](https://www.aixlesbains.fr/) (Practical information, services, local news) ### Must-see sites & activities - 👉 Lac du Bourget (info & activities) : https://www.aixlesbains-rivieradesalpes.com/decouvrir/le-lac-du-bourget/ - 👉 Hautecombe Abbey : https://www.hautecombe.org/ - 👉 Mont Revard (hiking & panorama) : https://www.savoie-mont-blanc.com/offre/activites/le-revard/ - 👉 Thermes Chevalley (spa & well-being) : https://www.valvital.fr/-aix-les-bains-chevalley- ### Sports & nature activities - 👉 Bike rental / [itineraries](https://cparici.com/en/itinerary/) : https://www.rivieradesalpes.com/a-velo/ - 👉 Hiking around Aix-les-Bains : https://www.visorando.com/randonnee-aix-les-bains.html - 👉 Water sports (Lac du Bourget) : https://www.aqualac.fr/ ### Access & transport - 👉 SNCF (trains to Aix-les-Bains) : https://www.sncf-connect.com/ - 👉 Ondéa bus (local network) : https://www.ondea-bus.fr/ ### Restaurants & outings - 👉 Restaurant guide (Tripadvisor) : https://www.tripadvisor.fr/Restaurants-g187260-Aix_les_Bains_Savoie_Auvergne_Rhone_Alpes.html - 👉 Good local addresses : https://www.petitfute.com/v36072-aix-les-bains-73100/ ### Lodgings ### Agenda & events - 👉 Official agenda : https://www.aixlesbains-rivieradesalpes.com/agenda/ - 👉 Local festivals and events : https://www.savoie-mont-blanc.com/festivals-et-evenements/ ### Maps & routes - 👉 Google Maps (city map) : https://www.google.com/maps/place/Aix-les-Bains ## Conclusion Aix-les-Bains, a [charming city](https://www.aixlesbains-rivieradesalpes.com/)With a full range of activities to satisfy all your desires, whether for relaxation, culture, nature or sport. Explore the benefits of its famous thermal baths, sail on the waters of Lac du Bourget - France's largest natural lake, climb the Revard mountain to admire breathtaking views, discover artistic treasures at the Faure museum, try your luck at the Grand Cercle casino while appreciating its remarkable architecture, follow in the footsteps of Lamartine on guided tours, play golf in an exceptional setting between lake and mountains, and don't miss the exciting local sporting events. Don't delay, plan your trip to Aix-les-Bains now and let yourself be seduced by the unique charm of this spa town. ## FAQ ### Where to go for a walk in Aix-les-Bains? In Aix-les-Bains, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to walking. Two places not to be missed are : - **Lac du Bourget:** France's largest natural lake invites you to relax with its water sports activities, fishing opportunities and walks along the cycle path. Don't miss the breathtaking view from the Chambotte lookout. - **Mount Revard:** Accessible by car or cable car, this peak offers a commanding view of Aix-les-Bains and the lake. Ideal for hiking, the [ski](https://cparici.com/en/ski-en-france-guide/), le parapente, ou simplement pour s’émerveiller devant le panorama sur les Alpes. ### Why go to Aix-les-Bains? Aix-les-Bains is a destination of choice for its natural hot springs, beneficial to health and well-being. The town is also rich in historical and cultural heritage, with must-see sites such as Hautecombe Abbey and the Grand Cercle Casino. ### What's the best beach in Aix-les-Bains? Aix beach stands out as the most beautiful in Aix-les-Bains. This vast sandy beach offers splendid views of Lac du Bourget and the surrounding mountains. Perfect for families, it offers shallow water and inflatable games for the enjoyment of young and old alike. ### What's Aix-les-Bains' speciality? Savoyard fondue is the emblematic culinary specialty of Aix-les-Bains. This convivial dish of melted cheese dipped in bread features three Savoy cheeses: Beaufort, Reblochon and Comté. [Aix les Bains ### The 10 Best Vacation Rentals Around Lake Bourget The 10 Best Vacation Rentals Around Lake Bourget: Nestled among mountains and turquoise waters...](https://cparici.com/en/les-10-meilleures-locations-de-vacances-autour-du-lac-du-bourget/) [![Mont Revard and its magnificent views](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Le-Mont-Revard-et-la-vue-magnifique-577x204.jpg)Auvergne Rhône Alpes ### Mont Revard: the complete guide to all-season enjoyment Popular searches Categories No results See all results Mont Revard: le guide...](https://cparici.com/en/mont-revard/) [![vacation rentals in Savoie Aix-les-Bains](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/location-de-vacances-Aix-les-Bains-577x204.jpg)Aix les Bains ### Aix-les-Bains vacation rentals: complete guide Popular search Categories No results See all results Vacation rental Aix-les-Bains:...](https://cparici.com/en/vacation-rentals-aix-les-bains/) This article was written by Alex Arts, [photographer](https://alexantoine-photos.weebly.com/), [content creator](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-b-arts/)and [level 6 local guide on Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/100986619723712834113/reviews/@45.8933481,-4.1449199,6z/data=!4m3!8m2!3m1!1e1?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTIwOS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA2OUgBUAM%3D) [![Picture of Alex Arts](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/photo-alex-arts-300x300.jpeg)](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-b-arts/) [#### Alex Arts](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-b-arts/) Photographer, content creator, and local guide ### **Our other articles for discovering Savoie** [Savoie](https://cparici.com/en/savoie/) [What to do in Savoie](https://cparici.com/en/what-to-do-in-savoie-25-must-see-ideas/) [Harvesting in Savoie](https://cparici.com/en/vendanges-en-savoie-la-route-des-vins-jongieux-lac-bourget/) [House Swap Savoie](https://cparici.com/en/vacation-rentals-savoie/) [Annecy](https://cparici.com/en/annecy-guide/) [Chartreuse (alcohol and massif)](https://cparici.com/en/chartreuse-liqueur-manufacturing-history/) [Arêches Beaufort](https://cparici.com/en/areches-beaufort-complete-guide/) [Visit Aix-les-Bains](https://cparici.com/en/aix-les-bains/) [Aix-les-Bains spa treatment](https://cparici.com/en/spa-treatment-in-aix-les-bains-the-complete-guide/) [House Swap Aix-les-Bains](https://cparici.com/en/vacation-rentals-aix-les-bains/) [The Aix-les-Bains Calendar of Events](https://cparici.com/en/agenda-aix-les-bains-full-calendar-of-events/)​ [Musilac, the festival of current music](https://cparici.com/en/musilac-festival-aix-les-bains/) [Chambéry](https://cparici.com/en/chambery-complete-guide/) [Lac du Bourget](https://cparici.com/en/lac-du-bourget/) [Weather at Lac du Bourget](https://cparici.com/en/meteo-lac-du-bourget-forecast/) [The best viewpoints around the lake](https://cparici.com/en/the-most-beautiful-viewpoints-around-lac-du-bourget/) [Hautecombe Abbey](https://cparici.com/en/hautecombe-abbey/) [Chanaz](https://cparici.com/en/chanaz-petite-venise-savoyarde/) [Lake Aiguebelette](https://cparici.com/en/lac-daiguebelette-the-complete-guide/) [Cycle touring around Lac du Bourget](https://cparici.com/en/cyclotourisme-lac-du-bourget/) ## Classification - **Category:** Aix les Bains, Auvergne Rhône Alpes, France, Savoie - **Tag:** lac, ville ## Images ![aix les bains](https://cparici.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/aix-les-bains.jpg)