Thonon Les Bains is a charming town on the southern shores of Lake Geneva, known for its thermal baths, lively festivals, and stunning lakeside scenery. What makes it especially appealing for travelers is the variety of tours and experiences that allow you to explore beyond the town itself—whether it’s relaxing at a thermal spa, enjoying a lively beach festival, or discovering dramatic gorges. Among the options, the XNV Beach Festival stands out for its party atmosphere, while the two-day Lake Geneva tour offers a more relaxed, scenic escape. We particularly like the private Thonon-les-Bains thermal spa day trip for its combination of local relaxation and scenic views, and the Les Gorges du Pont du Diable tour for nature lovers. These experiences showcase why Thonon is a versatile destination for different travel styles.
Quick Overview
Our top picks cover a broad spectrum of what Thonon Les Bains offers. From the lively XNV Beach Festival with transport from Geneva, perfect for those looking to dance and enjoy Swiss and French lakeside summer vibes, to the Pearl of Lake Geneva 2Days/1Nights, ideal for travelers wanting an immersive two-day experience. For a relaxing spa day, the private Geneva to Thonon-les-Bains thermal spa trip combines scenic funicular rides and soothing thermal baths. Lastly, nature lovers will appreciate the breathtaking Les Gorges du Pont du Diable and Yvoire, which includes charming Yvoire and impressive canyon views.
1. XNV BEACH FESTIVAL With transport from Geneva
At number 1 on our list is the XNV Beach Festival, a lively event that captures the spirit of summer on Lake Geneva. This experience is perfect if you want a full day of fun, dancing, and soaking up the sun. The tour includes private transportation from Geneva, making the logistics hassle-free, and drops you right at the festival site for six hours of dance shows and vibrant atmosphere. The festival itself features high-energy reagent performances and a festive vibe that’s hard to beat.
What makes this tour stand out is the seamless combination of transportation and the event—no worrying about parking or navigation. The private driver ensures comfort and flexibility, so you can relax and focus on enjoying the party. The reviews emphasize the smooth trip, with one traveler praising the “super ambiance and a great day in beautiful weather.” The price of $104 per person offers excellent value for a memorable day out.
Bottom line: If you’re in Geneva and want to experience a lively lakeside party with minimal fuss, this is a top pick. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy music, dancing, and a festive atmosphere.
2. The pearl of Lake Geneva 2Days/1Nights from Geneva
For travelers craving a deeper dive into Lake Geneva’s beauty, the Pearl of Lake Geneva tour offers a two-day journey that’s filled with scenic sights and cultural stops. This tour is led by a French-speaking, private guide, ensuring personalized attention and richer insights into the region. The itinerary includes exploring charming lakeside villages, enjoying picturesque views, and experiencing local culture—perfect for those who want more than just a quick day trip.
This experience is distinguished by its private excursion setup, providing flexibility and comfort. Guests rave about the “impeccable explanations and breathtaking scenery,” making this not just a sightseeing trip but a memorable experience. The cost of $317 per person reflects the value of exclusive access, private transport, and personalized service.
If you’re interested in capturing the essence of Lake Geneva, this tour offers a perfect balance of relaxation and exploration. It’s best suited for those who want a taste of the region at a leisurely pace with in-depth commentary.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want comprehensive sightseeing with the comfort of private guiding, especially if they appreciate detailed stories and scenic stops.
3. Private day trip: Geneva>Thonon-les-Bains-thermal spa town
At number 3, this private day trip from Geneva to Thonon-les-Bains offers a perfect blend of relaxation and scenic beauty. For around $309, you get a long-distance, English-speaking driver who takes you directly to this thermal spa town on the French side of Lake Geneva. The trip includes a funicular scenic ride with panoramic views of the lake and the Alps, which alone offers a memorable experience.
Once there, you can unwind at the thermal baths, enjoying soothing treatments that have been a local tradition for centuries. The tour also provides time for a local lunch, giving you a taste of regional cuisine while soaking in the atmosphere of this elegant spa town. The itinerary is flexible, with around 3 hours of free time for sightseeing, shopping, or simply relaxing.
Guests love the stress-free nature of this trip, especially the convenience of pickup and drop-off at their hotel or location in Geneva. The reviews highlight the “enchanting scenic ride and relaxing thermal baths” as major highlights. This option is suited for those who want a relaxing day without the hassle of organizing transportation or activities.
Bottom line: Perfect for spa lovers and those wanting a scenic escape with personalized service, ideal for a relaxing day on the lake’s French shores.
4. Les Gorges du Pont du Diable and Yvoire with transport
Rounding out our list is the Les Gorges du Pont du Diable and Yvoire tour, a 6.5-hour excursion that combines natural wonder with medieval charm. This tour offers private transportation from Geneva, Thonon, or Évian-les-Bains, giving flexibility depending on where you’re staying. The highlight is a visit to the stunning Gorges du Pont du Diable, a dramatic canyon that’s perfect for photography and nature walks.
Afterward, you’ll enjoy free time in Yvoire, a beautifully preserved medieval village on the lake, with roughly two hours to explore narrow alleys, shops, or simply enjoy lakeside views. The tour also includes a visit (about 1.5 hours), making it a well-rounded day for those interested in both nature and culture.
The value lies in the breathtaking scenery and the chance to experience two distinct environments—from rugged gorges to fairy-tale villages. Reviews are positive, emphasizing the “spectacular views and not-to-miss scenery.” The tour is great for nature lovers and those looking to see a different side of the region without a full-day commitment.
Bottom line: A fantastic, scenic adventure that’s suitable for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone wanting to see the rugged beauty of the area with ease.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your perfect experience in Thonon Les Bains, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If you’re after a lively, social vibe, the XNV Beach Festival offers a fun, energetic day. For a more immersive, scenic journey, the Pearl of Lake Geneva two-day trip provides detailed sightseeing with a private guide. If relaxation is your goal, the private thermal spa day combines scenic funicular rides and soothing baths. For nature lovers, the Gorges du Pont du Diable excursion delivers breathtaking landscapes and charming villages.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular trips like the Lake Geneva tour or the beach festival during peak summer months. Think about what type of experience suits your travel style—are you more about relaxing, exploring, or partying? Each of these options has something unique to offer.
Final Thoughts
Thonon Les Bains is a surprisingly versatile destination with plenty of ways to enjoy your time—whether it’s celebrating at a beach festival, relaxing at thermal baths, or exploring dramatic gorges and lakeside villages. For a lively, fun-filled day, the XNV Beach Festival is hard to beat. If you prefer a scenic, leisurely experience, the Pearl of Lake Geneva tour provides a memorable two-day adventure. For those wanting relaxation and spa treatments, the private Geneva to Thonon-les-Bains thermal spa trip is perfect.
No matter which experience you choose, booking early and considering your interests will ensure you get the most out of your time in this charming lakeside town. Each tour offers a different window into what makes Thonon Les Bains special—so pick what excites you most and enjoy your trip.