The city of Vichy, known as the "Queen of Spas", made a major contribution to the development of the European spa culture of the 19th century, in which France played a leading role.

It is the most prestigious and best-known spa resort in France, a spa town that served as a model both within France and throughout its colonies.

Situated on a plain along the Allier River, Vichy combines the principles of Parisian urban planning with spa promenades integrated into the town. Napoleon III supported the construction of this new spa destination with its parks and boulevards, this cosmopolitan "Little Paris" featuring grand spa complexes and drinking halls connected by covered promenades, as well as a casino, theater, hotels, and villas.

Vichy’s success continued even after the hardships of World War II, and its bottled water – "reine des villes d’eaux" ("queen of spa towns") – continued to be distributed worldwide in large quantities. It became the foundation for the production of branded cosmetics and full-body skincare products developed in the Vichy laboratories. Today, this cosmetics brand holds a leading position in pharmacies throughout Europe.