Things to do in Geneva! Our selection of must-see attractions!

A must-see: the Jet d’Eau

Everyone will tell you this — you simply can’t visit Geneva without seeing the Jet d’Eau! Built in 1891, this landmark of the city of Geneva reaches a height of 140 metres and is a tourist attraction not to be missed. Do bear in mind, though, that the Jet d’Eau is sometimes switched off depending on the weather — for example, if it’s too windy.

Our tip: to reach the Jet d’Eau pier, walk through the English Garden. There you’ll find the floral clock, a few souvenir stalls, and bars where you can enjoy a drink with a view over the lake.

On Lake Geneva, you can also take a boat trip from Geneva, hire a small boat or a pedalo. Make the most of the calm waters and go for a swim in the lake.

Ideas for those on a tight budget

Spending a few days in Geneva without breaking the bank is entirely possible! Here are the activities we recommend if you’re working with a smaller budget.

Les Bains des Pâquis

Les Bains des Pâquis, on the right bank of the lake, is a great spot for a swim, a drink, or even a fondue — in summer as much as in winter.

Floating down the Rhône

Floating down the Rhône on a rubber ring is one of the highlights of summer — all you need is a rubber ring or an inflatable boat, both of which can be hired on site. Let the current carry you along and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. The route starts at La Jonction, with several stopping points along the way. Just make sure to check the route in advance.

The Geneva Botanical Garden

At the Geneva Conservatory and Botanical Garden, with its magnificent greenhouses and expansive green spaces, you’ll find a peaceful spot for a family stroll.

Challandes Park

Challandes Wildlife Park offers free tours where you can spot lynxes, monkeys, and a wide variety of birds.

Discover the rich history of Geneva watchmaking

As Geneva is the capital of luxury watchmaking, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of the watch industry. In the city centre, you can admire genuine treasures of Swiss watchmaking in the many boutique windows. Take a look at watches from Rolex, Piguet, Omega, Longines, Cartier, Patek Philippe, Tissot and many more.

The Patek Philippe Museum invites you to explore the history of watchmaking. With an adult ticket priced at CHF 10.00, you’ll gain access to major collections spanning Geneva, Swiss and European watchmaking.

The Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie occasionally runs introductory watchmaking workshops. So does Initium, which offers a range of courses at different price points, letting you step into the shoes of an apprentice watchmaker for a little while.

Visit the Franck Muller factory — tours are available on request, simply fill in the contact form on their website. You’ll enjoy a guided tour offering a behind-the-scenes look at Swiss watchmaking.

Between history and science

At the foot of Geneva’s Old Town, take a walk through the Parc des Bastions, where you’ll find the Reformation Wall and some giant chess sets. Head up into the Old Town afterwards to admire St Pierre’s Cathedral and wander through its narrow streets.

There are plenty of museums to visit, including the Natural History Museum, the Museum of Art and History, the Geneva Museum of Ethnography and many more.

Good to know: most of the city’s museums are free on the first Sunday of the month.

Make the most of your stay in Geneva to visit CERN — on the guided tour, discover the technological journey from the first particle accelerator to the LHC, today the largest and most powerful particle accelerator in the world.

Geneva is a city full of activities — cultural, scientific, culinary and more. We hope the list we’ve put together helps you plan your visit, and that you enjoy our recommendations.

Feel free to share your favourite spots in Geneva in the comments!