Free walking tours in Évian-les-Bains and what to see

Must-sees

Évian-les-Bains looks out over the French shore of Lake Geneva, facing Lausanne, with the Chablais Alps behind it. Its fame comes from its mineral water and the spa that drew high society in the Belle Époque. The lakeside promenade, with gardens and a landing stage, is the centre of town life. Behind it stand buildings from that era, such as the Palais Lumière, a former spa building now used for exhibitions, and the Villa Lumière, which is the town hall.

Close by is the Buvette Cachat, an Art Nouveau pavilion built beside the spring that made the town famous, and a public fountain where you can still fill your bottle. To reach the upper town, the historic funicular, a listed monument, climbs between the shore and the old hotels on the hill. From above, the parks offer views over the lake. In the centre, the church of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption is of medieval origin.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no free walking tours in Évian. The tourist office runs guided tours of the town’s history and the Buvette Cachat in season, although in French. Civitatis lists a private tour of Évian-les-Bains that covers the lakeside promenade and the spa-era buildings on foot with a guide for your group. The boats across the lake also allow a trip to the Swiss shore.

How long to spend

The town can be seen in a day: the lakeside promenade, the spa buildings, the Buvette Cachat and a ride on the funicular. With two days you can take a boat across to Lausanne or visit Thonon-les-Bains and the medieval village of Yvoire, on the lakeshore. If you like the mountains, add another day for walking in the Chablais Alps.

Where to stay

The centre, between the lakeside promenade and the shopping street, is the most convenient area for getting around on foot, with hotels in several categories and apartments. On the hill above the town are the places with the best views and a quiet atmosphere, although it is best to have a car or use the funicular. Thonon-les-Bains, a few kilometres away, has more choice and a train station.