The history of the thermal baths, pink sandstone and lace-making offer several tangible cultural points of interest for a trip to Luxeuil-les-Bains. You can focus your stay on architecture and archaeology, or add art, crafts and regional cuisine; the night markets provide a seasonal reason to visit.

Thermal Baths, Basilica and the City’s History

The present-day thermal baths were rebuilt in the 18th century and remain among the oldest thermal baths still in operation in France. During restoration work in the 1930s, the interior acquired its Art Deco style, characterised by numerous mosaics. The thermal baths therefore tell two distinct chapters of history: their 18th-century reconstruction and their later Art Deco design.

The Basilica of Saint-Pierre de Luxeuil-les-Bains is the former abbey church of the Benedictine monastery of Saint Colomban. Romanesque and Gothic styles meet here, and the walls are made of pink Vosges sandstone. A 17th-century organ with 3,137 pipes adds to its architectural features.

The Tour des Echevins was built in the 15th century, stands 33 metres tall and houses one of France’s oldest museums. It also has a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Luxeuil-les-Bains and the surrounding area. For an archaeological perspective, the Ecclesia site, with the remains of the Church of Saint-Martin, traces 2,000 years of Luxeuil-les-Bains’ history. The city’s 380 tombs, including 150 Merovingian sarcophagi, also bear witness to 2,000 years of history.

Lace and Art from Luxeuil

Luxeuil lace owes its renown above all to its widespread popularity during the Second Empire. At the Conservatoire de la Dentelle, visitors can watch lacemakers at work; introductory and advanced lace-making courses are also offered. This brings both the history of lace and the craft itself into focus.

The Jules-Adler Museum displays paintings, sketches and personal belongings from the painter’s artistic circle and private life. Its collection is organised around three themes: Jules Adler as a painter of ordinary people, his childhood in Luxeuil and artistic training, and the diversity of his work. This arrangement combines biographical milestones with an overview of his art.

On Foot: Heritage Trail or Walking Circuit

The Sentier du patrimoine is a heritage trail with 14 stops through Luxeuil-les-Bains. It takes visitors to monuments, some of which are among the 17 sites classified as historic monuments. An audio guide can be borrowed from the tourist office reception for €2. Prices and availability may change; check these details before your visit.

The Circuit du Haut-Bois offers another walking option: an easy, 6-kilometre circular route that starts and ends in Luxeuil-les-Bains and takes about two hours. The two routes therefore differ in their focus: the Sentier du patrimoine leads to monuments and the city’s history, while the Circuit du Haut-Bois has an approximate duration and distance specified. Check trail conditions before setting out.

Jambon de Luxeuil and Summer Evenings

Jambon de Luxeuil is part of the Comtois tradition of cured and smoked products. With Arnaud, visitors can tour a ham-drying room and enjoy a tasting at the end. Bookings and dates may change; confirm the details for your planned visit.

In July and August, the Luxeuil-les-Bains night markets take place every Tuesday evening in the town centre. Exact dates and the programme may change. If you are planning to visit a market, check the events calendar for your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: La Neuvelle-Lès-Scey, Dampierre-Sur-Salon, Traves, La Proiseliere Et Langle, Saulx, Écromagny, Belfahy, Saint-Bresson.

For the regional travel overview: Haute-Saône.