Aix-les-Bains is a beautiful city in the south of France that is worth a visit. Here are some things to do and places to visit in Aix-les-Bains.
What Are Aix-les-Bains and Why Should Visit It
Aix-les-Bains is a commune in the Savoie department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in southeastern France. It is located on the shores of Lake Bourget, Europe’s largest natural lake. The town is a popular tourist destination, with many spas and casinos.
The town has a long history as a health resort, dating back to Roman times. In the 18th century, Aix-les-Bains became a popular destination for the wealthy, and many grand hotels were built in the town. The town was founded in 1854 by Napoleon III, who was seeking a suitable site for a new spa. The location was chosen for its temperate climate and its proximity to the Alpine passes.
Today, Aix-les-Bains remains a popular tourist destination, with its hot springs, casinos, and parks. It is also home to the Musée de la Bonneterie, a museum dedicated to the history of the textile industry. Today, Aix-les-Bains is a thriving resort town, with a rich past and a bright future.
When is the best time to visit it?
The best time to visit Aix-les-Bains is from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town can also be busy during this time, so it may be worth considering a visit during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) when crowds are smaller but the weather is still pleasant. Whichever time of year you visit, Aix-les-Bains is sure to offer a memorable experience.
Why visit Aix-les-Bains?
Aix-les-Bains is a picturesque town located in the southeastern corner of France. Surrounded by mountains and forests, the town offers a wealth of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and kayaking. In addition, the town is home to several thermal baths, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to relax and rejuvenate.
Aix-les-Bains also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums and galleries to explore. And of course, no visit to France would be complete without sampling the local cuisine, which includes mouthwatering dishes such as quiche Lorraine and coq au vin. With its natural beauty, rich history, and delicious food, Aix-les-Bains is sure to please everyone in the family.
How To Get There
Aix-les-Bains is a small city located in southeastern France, about 30 miles from Lyon. Visitors come to Aix-les-Bains for its natural hot springs, which have been used for therapeutic purposes since Roman times. The city is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and golf. Getting to Aix-les-Bains is easy, whether you’re coming by car, train, or plane. Here are some helpful tips:
If you’re driving to Aix-les-Bains, the best route is to take the Autoroute du Soleil (A7) from Lyon. The journey takes about an hour and a half. Alternatively, if you’re coming from Geneva, you can take Route Bleue (N201), which takes around two hours.
There are several trains that run from Lyon to Aix-les-Bains every day. The journey takes just over an hour on the TGV high-speed train. If you’re coming from Geneva, there are also regular trains that make the two-hour journey.
If you’re flying into Lyon Saint Exupery Airport, you can take a direct shuttle bus to Aix-les-Bains. The journey takes around an hour and a half. There are also several car rental companies at the airport if you prefer to drive.
Things To Do There
Aix-les-Bains is a charming town in the south of France that offers plenty of things to do for tourists. From its beautiful parks and gardens to its interesting historical sites, there is something for everyone in Aix-les-Bains. Here are some of the best things to do in this lovely town.
1. Hike in the surrounding mountains
Aix-les-Bains is a beautiful town in the French Alps, and it’s surrounded by some of the most stunning mountain scenery in all of Europe. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore in the area, and no matter what your level of fitness, you’ll be able to find a route that’s perfect for you. The views from the top of the mountains are simply breathtaking, and you’ll get to experience some truly unique vegetation and wildlife.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot a rare alpine flower or two. So whether you’re looking for a stroll or a challenging hike, head to the mountains surrounding Aix-les-Bains for an unforgettable experience.
2. Relax in one of the thermal baths
Aix-les-Bains is a popular destination for tourists seeking to relax in one of the many thermal baths. The town is located in the eastern part of France, near the Swiss border. It is home to several large lakes, including Lake Geneva, and is surrounded by mountains. This makes for a stunning setting in which to enjoy the benefits of the thermal baths.
Aix-les-Bains has a long history of using thermal baths for healing and relaxation. The Roman baths, built in the first century AD, are some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in France. The thermal springs were also popular with the aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Today, there are several different types of thermal baths available in Aix-les-Bains. These include pools with massage jets, saunas, and steam rooms. There are also a number of Thermal Spas, which offer a variety of treatments such as mud wraps and body scrubs. With so many options available, it is easy to find the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate in Aix-les-Bains.
3. Visit the Musée de la Bonneterie
The Musée de la Bonneterie is a must-see for anyone visiting Aix-les-Bains, France. The museum houses an extensive collection of knitwear and hosiery, dating back to the 18th century. It is also home to the world’s largest knitting needle, measuring over three meters in length.
The Musée de la Bonneterie provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of knitting and the role it has played in the economic development of Aix-les-Bains. Knitting was once a vital industry in the town, and the museum tells the story of how the craft emerged and evolved over time. Today, the Musée de la Bonneterie continues to promote the traditions of knitting and hosiery-making through its exhibitions and programs.
Address: 10 boulevard des Cotes, 73100, Aix-les-Bains France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
4. Sample the local cuisine
Aix-les-Bains is a town in southeastern France, located in the Rhône-Alpes region. The town is situated on the shores of Lake Bourget, the largest natural lake in France. It is also surrounded by mountains, which makes it a popular destination for hiking and skiing.
The town is best known for its spa culture and therapeutic springs, but it also has a thriving culinary scene. Local specialties include quenelles (a type of dumpling), gratons (fried pork cracklings), and fondue savoyarde (a cheese-based fondue). There are also many bakeries and patisseries in the town, serving up fresh bread and pastries. Aix-les-Bains is an ideal place to sample the best of French cuisine.
5. Enjoy a concert or show at the Grand Théâtre
The Grand Théâtre of Aix-les-Bains is a must-see for any visitor to the French Alps. Originally built in 1852, the theatre has been beautifully restored and now plays host to a variety of concerts and shows throughout the year. The acoustics are excellent, and there is not a bad seat in the house.
Whether you enjoy classical music, jazz, or pop, you are sure to find a performance to suit your taste at the Grand Théâtre of Aix-les-Bains. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this unique venue while you are in town.
Address: Centre Culturel et des Congrès – Rue Jean Monard, Aix-les-Bains, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Places to Visit
Aix-les-Bains is a popular tourist destination in the south of France. The city has a rich history and is home to many beautiful landmarks and attractions. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and experiences in Aix-les-Bains, from exploring the city’s ancient ruins to swimming in its thermal baths.
Here are some of the best places to visit while in Aix-les-Bains.
1. The Musée de la Bonneterie
The Musée de la Bonneterie is a museum in Aix-les-Bains, France that is dedicated to the history of the textile industry. The museum was founded in 1877 by François Blanc, a local businessman and politician. The Blanc family had been involved in the textile industry for several generations, and François Blanc wanted to preserve the history of this important part of the local economy.
The museum is housed in a former wool mill, and it features a wide variety of exhibits on the history of textile production. The Musée de la Bonneterie is one of the most important museums in France dedicated to the industrial heritage of the country.
Address: 10 boulevard des Cotes, 73100, Aix-les-Bains France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
2. The Grand Théâtre
The Grand Théâtre in Aix-les-Bains, France is a beautiful and historic building that is well worth a visit. Built-in the early 1800s, the theatre has been painstakingly restored to its former glory. Today, it is home to a variety of performance venues, including an opera house and a ballet school. Visitors can take a guided tour of the theatre or simply enjoy the architectural beauty of the building. Either way, a visit to the Grand Théâtre is sure to be an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Address: Centre Culturel et des Congrès – Rue Jean Monard, Aix-les-Bains, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
3. The Roman Baths
Aix-les-Bains is a commune in the Rhône department in southeastern France. It is located on the south shore of Lac du Bourget, Europe’s largest natural lake. The Roman Baths are the remains of a large Roman spa built in the 1st century AD.
The baths were supplied with water by an aqueduct from a nearby hot spring. The water was diverted into a series of tanks and then led into the frigidarium or cooling room. The baths were used for both bathing and socializing, and could accommodate up to 1,800 people at once.
Today, the Roman Baths are a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can still see the remains of the cooling room, as well as the aqueduct that supplied it with water.
4. Lake Bourget
Aix-les-Bains is a commune in the southeastern French department of Savoie. It is on the shore of Lake Bourget, the largest natural lake in France. The town is a popular tourist destination, with several casinos, golf courses, and spas.
The lakeside setting offers stunning views of the Alps, and the clear waters are perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. Aix-les-Bains is also a great base for exploring the surrounding region, with numerous hiking and mountain biking trails in the nearby mountains. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, Aix-les-Bains is an ideal destination.
Address: 73101, Aix-les-Bains France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
5. The Swiss border
Aix-les-Bains is a beautiful town in southeastern France, situated at the foot of the French Alps. The town is best known for its spa and thermal baths, but it also has a lot to offer visitors in terms of history and culture. One of the most interesting things about Aix-les-Bains is its location on the Swiss border.
The town was actually founded by the Swiss, and much of its architecture and culture have a distinctly Swiss influence. Today, visitors can explore the old town center, with its charming cobbled streets and traditional cafes, or take a walk along the promenade to enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the snow-capped Alps beyond. Whether you’re interested in history or just looking to relax in a beautiful setting, Aix-les-Bains is well worth a visit.
Address: Av. A.-F.- Dubois 50, 1217 Meyrin, Switzerland
What To Eat In Aix-les-Bains
Aix-les-Bains is a commune in the Savoie department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in southeastern France. It is a sub-prefecture of and seat of the Grand Chambéry Arrondissement, with which it forms a metropolitan area. The town is located at the south end of Lac du Bourget, the largest natural lake in France.
The food of Aix-les-Bains is as varied as its people and visitors. The restaurants range from Michelin-starred dining to homely bistros and cafes. There are also many bakeries and patisseries as well as food stalls modeling themselves on those found in Parisian markets.
Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, is only an hour away by train and its influence can be seen in the types of food available. Dishes such as quenelles, gratins, and pike orders are all popular in Aix-les-Bains restaurants. For those who prefer lighter meals, there are many salads containing local ingredients such as tomatoes, aubergines, and peppers as well as goat’s cheese which is produced in the nearby village of Cusy.
A wide variety of seafood is also available due to the proximity of Lac du Bourget. Trout, perch, and crucian carp can all be found on menus along with more exotic fare such as sardines, squid, and sea urchins. All of these dishes can be washed down with locally produced white wines such as Apremont or Roussette de Savoie.
For those with a sweet tooth, there are many enticing desserts on offer including tarts made with seasonal fruits, meringues, and rich chocolate cakes. With so much to choose from, it is no wonder that Aix-les-Bains has become a firm favorite with food lovers from all over the world.
Additional Tips for Visitors
When visiting Aix-les-Bains, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind in order to make the most of your trip. First, be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes as there is a lot of exploring to be done. The city is full of charming narrow streets and alleyways lined with shops and cafes – perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Additionally, many of the attractions are located within walking distance of each other, so you won’t have to go too far to find something new to see. And speaking of attractions, don’t miss out on the chance to visit the Thermal Baths – one of the most popular tourist spots in Aix-les-Bains. The baths are open year-round and offer a great way to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of sightseeing.
So whether you’re looking to shop, sightsee, or just relax, Aix-les-Bains has something for everyone. Bon, voyage!
In conclusion
Aix-les-Bains is a charming town in southeastern France that offers visitors a mix of traditional culture and modern amenities. Situated on the Swiss border, the town was founded by the Swiss and retains much of their architectural influence to this day.
Visitors can explore the old town center with its cobbled streets and traditional cafes, or take a walk along the lakeside promenade for beautiful views of Lake Geneva and the Alps beyond. Aix-les-Bains is also home to many excellent restaurants serving French cuisine with a local twist, as well as bakeries, patisseries, and food stalls modeled after those found in Parisian markets.
For those interested in history or just looking to relax in a beautiful setting, Aix-les-Bains is well worth a visit. And be sure not to miss out on trying some of the delicious local dishes – you won’t regret it!
