Switzerland

Geneva

A lakeside city of diplomacy, watches and Alpine views.

Local time: UTC+1
Population: 0.5M
Safety

Cost of a day

$$$$$

Very expensive

Food$$$$$About $115 a day: light breakfast, cheap lunch, mid-range dinner
Stay$$$$$3-star hotel about $196 a night for two
Transport$$$$$About $0.0 a day: 4 public transit rides

Exchange rate

🇨🇭 CHF =

Rates from 2026-10-23, refreshed monthly.

Getting in

GVAGeneva Cointrin International AirportMain hub, about 5 km from the centre.

How	Cost	Time
TrainGare Cornavin	CHF 3	5-10 min
Every train stops at the main station; same ticket as buses.
Bus 10Gare Cornavin area (22-Cantons stop)	CHF 3	20-30 min
Runs every 15 min from 06:00 to 23:00.
Bus 5Rue de Lausanne / UN area	CHF 3	25-35 min
Different route past the UN building.
TaxiCity centre	CHF 30-40	15-25 min
Fastest door-to-door option.
UberCity centre	CHF 25-40	15-25 min
Check app for current fares.

Estimates, checked October 2026. Wikivoyage: Geneva

Getting around

Trams and buses with a TPG ticket, or a free transport card from your hotel.

MetroNo metro. Don't plan around rail inside the city.
Bus ★TPG trams and buses cover most of the city. Buy a ticket at the stop machine before boarding: about CHF 3 for one hour, CHF 8 for a day pass.
Taxi / ride appsMetered taxis are pricey; Uber and similar apps operate in Geneva.
Rental carPossible, but parking is costly and the centre is compact. Use transit instead for city trips.
Walking ★The city is fairly flat and good for walking and bikes. Genèveroule lends bikes free in summer.
FerryYellow 'mouette' boats cross the lake and are covered by TPG tickets.

Recommended stay★ 1 night (2 days)

One night suits you: the old town, St. Pierre, the Reformation Wall and the lakefront fit one day, without an Alps day trip or long cruise.

Best for

CultureOld Town lanes, the cathedral and world-class museums.
NatureLake cruises, lakeside promenades and Alpine day trips.

Weather by month

5°0°Jan🌧 13d

8°0°Feb🌧 10d

11°3°Mar🌧 12d

15°5°Apr🌧 11d

18°10°May🌧 14d

24°15°Jun🌧 13d

27°17°Jul🌧 10d

26°17°Aug🌧 9d

21°13°Sep🌧 10d

16°9°Oct🌧 11d

10°4°Nov🌧 14d

7°1°Dec🌧 13d

Average daily high / low (°C), sea temperature and rainy days. Typical figures, not a forecast.

Climate

Temperate lakeside climate: cold, grey winters and warm, sunny summers, with rain spread across the year.

Best time: June to SeptemberHighs of 24–27°C and the most sun. Ideal for the lake, parks and boat trips.
Winter is cold (December to February)Highs of 5–8°C and lows near 0°C. Pack a warm coat, hat and gloves.
Rain all yearAbout 9–14 rain days most months. Bring a light waterproof and an umbrella.
Spring warms up slowlyMarch to May climbs from 11°C to 18°C. Pleasant but changeable; layer up.
Mild autumnSeptember and October stay around 16–21°C; good for walking before the cold sets in.
What to packLayers, a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes for cobbled lanes; sunglasses and sunscreen for summer.

Landmarks 9

Must-see · 8

1
Jet d'Eau
Geneva's most famous symbol, a huge jet of water shooting high above the lake. It is free to view from the lakeshore and best seen on a clear day; walk along the Quai du Mont-Blanc or take a short boat ride for the classic photo.
2
St. Pierre Cathedral
The city's main cathedral, known for its archaeology and its tower climb with sweeping views over the old town and lake. Go early to avoid crowds and note that the tower stairs are steep, so wear comfortable shoes.
3
United Nations Office at Geneva
One of the world's key diplomatic sites, set in the Ariana park with the famous broken chair outside. Guided visits require booking ahead and a passport for security; check opening days before you go.
4
Lake Geneva Tour
A boat trip on Lake Geneva is the best way to see the city from the water and reach the Jet d'Eau up close. Boats leave from the central piers; an hour-long cruise is an easy, scenic option.
5
Reformation Wall
A dramatic monument in the Parc des Bastions honoring the leaders of the Reformation. It is free and open, a short walk from the old town, and pairs well with a stroll through the park.
6
Jardin Anglais
A lakeside garden with the flower clock and views toward the Jet d'Eau. It is free and central, ideal for a short rest between the old town and the waterfront.
7
Musée d'Art et d'Histoire
A large museum with fine art and archaeology, free for the permanent collection. It is a good rainy-day stop and a short walk from the old town.
8
Téléphérique du Salève
A cable car up the Salève mountain for panoramic views over Geneva and the lake. Check operating days and weather before going, as it can close in poor conditions.

Cultural

Garden 1

Modern Architecture 1

Museum 1

Statue 1

Christian 1

Modern History 1

University 1

Activities

Cruise Tour 1

Cable Car 1

Day trips from Geneva

Montreux · 1 h 00 by train

★★★★★ · Full day · 94 km from Geneva

Best way: Direct IC trains reach Montreux in about an hour with frequent daily departures.

Direct IC trains run from Geneva to Montreux in about an hour along Lake Geneva.

Train ★1 h 00 · from €11
Car1 h 12 · taxi ≈ 380 CHF

What to see

Chillon Castle
Montreux lakeside promenade
Freddie Mercury statue
Rochers-de-Naye cog railway

2 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

Chillon Castle is a short bus or train ride from Montreux station
Best visited in summer for lakeside promenades and the castle

Lausanne · 35 min by train

★★★★☆ · Half day · 65 km from Geneva

Best way: Frequent direct IC trains take about 35 minutes and drop you right in the city center.

Frequent direct Swiss IC trains run from Geneva to Lausanne in under an hour along the lake.

Train ★35 min · from €8
Bus50 min · from $4-$10
Car53 min · taxi ≈ 270 CHF

What to see

Lausanne Cathedral
Olympic Museum
Ouchy lakeside
Old town and Place de la Palud

5 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

Book ahead for the best fares on Swiss IC trains
Old town and cathedral are a short walk or metro ride from the station

Times and prices are typical one-way estimates (train and bus: Omio / Rome2Rio route data; taxi: local tariff × road distance, tolls extra). Exact prices are on the booking page.

Plans

Geneva rewards visitors with a compact old town, a sparkling lakefront and easy access to the Alps. Pick how long you have and what you enjoy most. Prices checked October 2026; ≈ marks estimates.

How long?

What do you enjoy most?

Day trip · Culture

A compact culture day: Old Town first, then a museum, with a lakeside finish.

Stay: Old Town. Steps from the cathedral, museums and the lake; quiet at night but hilly cobbled lanes.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CHF 0
Taxis: ≈ CHF 75

Day 1

Old Town, cathedral and a museum

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 75

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–10:30 · Free

Old Town Walk

Start at Place du Bourg-de-Four. Lanes are quiet in the morning.

Open Always open
2

10:45–11:45 · Church free; tower climb small fee, check on the day

St. Pierre Cathedral Landmark quest

Climb the towers for the view if it is clear. Shorter hours on Sunday.

Open Open daily; shorter hours on Sunday. Check on the day.
Taxi · 282 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CHF 15
3

12:00–12:45 · Free

Parc des Bastions

Ten minutes downhill. Look for the Reformation Wall.

Open Open daily
Taxi · 498 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CHF 15
4

13:00–14:00 · Free to browse

Plainpalais Flea Market

Lunch from stalls if the market is on; often Wednesday and Saturday. Check on the day.

Open Some mornings, often Wednesday and Saturday; check on the day
Taxi · 346 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CHF 15
5

14:30–16:00 · Entry fee roughly CHF 10–15; check on the day

MAMCO Contemporary Art Museum

Closed Monday. A short walk from the park.

Open Closed Monday; check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CHF 15
6

16:30–17:30 · Free

Eaux-Vives Lakeside Promenade

Tram or a 25-minute walk to the lake. Good light late in the day.

Open Always open
Taxi back to your hotel · 1082 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CHF 15

Day trip · Nature

Lake, parks and a mountain view, all on foot and by tram.

Stay: Eaux-Vives. Leafy and local, near the lake beaches and parks; good for families and longer stays.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CHF 0
Taxis: ≈ CHF 126

Day 1

Lakeside morning, Salève afternoon

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 126

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 1050 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CHF 15
1

09:30–10:00 · Free

Jardin Anglais

See the flower clock and the Jet d'Eau from the shore.

Open Open daily
Taxi · 614 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
2

10:15–10:45 · Free to view

Jet d'Eau Landmark quest

Walk along the pier. It sprays in season; check on the day.

Open Runs daily; often daytime into evening in season. Check on the day.
Taxi · 783 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
3

11:15–12:45 · Small entry fee for swimming; check on the day

Bains des Pâquis

Swim or sit on the deck. Simple lunch here is a local favourite.

Open Open daily; seasonal hours
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CHF 37
4

14:00–17:00 · Return ticket roughly CHF 15–20; check on the day

Téléphérique du Salève Landmark quest

Bus to the cable car, then ride up. Closed some Mondays; check on the day.

Open Closed Mondays in some seasons; check on the day
Taxi · 577 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
5

15:30–16:15 · Free once at the top

Salève Ridge Viewpoint

Short walk from the top station. Clear afternoons give the best Alpine views.

Open Always open
Taxi back to your hotel · 6 km · ≈ 23 min · ≈ CHF 29

1 night · Culture ★ Recommended length

Old Town lanes, the cathedral and a museum on a short first visit.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CHF 0
Taxis: ≈ CHF 93

Day 1

Old Town and the lakefront

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 45

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–11:30 · Free

Old Town Walk

Start at Place du Bourg-de-Four. Cobbled lanes, easy to wander.

Open Always open
2

11:45–12:45 · Church free; tower climb small fee, check on the day

St. Pierre Cathedral Landmark quest

Climb the towers if the weather is clear. Shorter hours on Sunday.

Open Open daily; shorter hours on Sunday. Check on the day.
Taxi · 571 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
3

13:15–13:45 · Free

Jardin Anglais

Lunch nearby, then walk to the flower clock and lake.

Open Open daily
Taxi · 614 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
4

14:15–14:45 · Free to view

Jet d'Eau Landmark quest

Short walk along the waterfront. Best light late afternoon.

Open Runs daily; often daytime into evening in season. Check on the day.
Taxi · 1267 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CHF 15
5

15:30–16:30 · Free

Rues Basses Shopping Walk

Shopping streets. Shops closed on Sunday.

Open Shops closed on Sunday

Day 2

Museums and Pâquis

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 48

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–11:00 · Guided tour fee varies; check on the day

United Nations Office at Geneva Landmark quest

Book a weekday guided tour ahead. Bring photo ID.

Open Weekday guided tours; book ahead. Check on the day. · Source
Taxi · 1006 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CHF 15
2

11:15–11:30 · Free

Broken Chair Monument

Across the road from the UN entrance.

Open Always open
Taxi · 733 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
3

11:45–13:45 · Entry fee roughly CHF 15; check on the day

International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

Closed Monday. Check hours on the day.

Open Closed Monday; check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CHF 18
4

14:30–16:00 · Small entry fee for swimming; check on the day

Bains des Pâquis

Lunch or a swim in summer. Seasonal hours.

Open Open daily; seasonal hours

1 night · Nature ★ Recommended length

Lake views, a boat ride and a mountain panorama in one day.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CHF 0
Taxis: ≈ CHF 106

Day 1

Lake and waterfront

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 45

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–10:30 · Free

Jardin Anglais

Start by the flower clock.

Open Open daily
Taxi · 614 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
2

10:45–11:15 · Free to view

Jet d'Eau Landmark quest

Walk the pier for the spray. Often runs into the evening in season.

Open Runs daily; often daytime into evening in season. Check on the day.
Taxi · 371 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CHF 15
3

11:45–12:45 · Boat cruises roughly CHF 20–40 for short trips; check on the day

Lake Geneva Tour Landmark quest

Short cruise from the Eaux-Vives side. Seasonal timetable.

Open Departures through the day; seasonal timetable
Taxi · 822 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
4

13:30–14:30 · Free

Eaux-Vives Lakeside Promenade

Lunch by the lake, then stroll. Good at sunset too.

Open Always open

Day 2

Salève and parks

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 61

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–12:30 · Return ticket roughly CHF 15–20; check on the day

Téléphérique du Salève Landmark quest

Cable car up the Salève. Closed some Mondays; check on the day.

Open Closed Mondays in some seasons; check on the day
Taxi · 577 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
2

12:45–13:30 · Free once at the top

Salève Ridge Viewpoint

Ridge walk with city views. Bring a layer, it is cooler up top.

Open Always open
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 24 min · ≈ CHF 31
3

15:30–16:15 · Free

Parc des Bastions

Back in town. Shady park with the Reformation Wall.

Open Open daily
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CHF 15
4

16:45–18:15 · Small entry fee for swimming; check on the day

Bains des Pâquis

Swim or a lakeside drink. Seasonal hours.

Open Open daily; seasonal hours

1 night · Food ★ Recommended length

Markets, lakeside snacks and a proper fondue dinner.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CHF 0
Taxis: ≈ CHF 90

Day 1

Old Town tastes

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 45

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–11:30 · Free

Old Town Walk

Wander the lanes and note chocolate and cheese shops.

Open Always open
2

11:45–12:45 · Church free; tower climb small fee, check on the day

St. Pierre Cathedral Landmark quest

Quick look inside. Shorter hours on Sunday.

Open Open daily; shorter hours on Sunday. Check on the day.
Taxi · 706 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
3

13:00–14:00 · Free

Rues Basses Shopping Walk

Lunch in the shopping streets. Shops closed Sunday.

Open Shops closed on Sunday
Taxi · 660 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
4

14:30–15:00 · Free

Jardin Anglais

Walk off lunch by the lake.

Open Open daily
Taxi · 614 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
5

15:15–15:45 · Free to view

Jet d'Eau Landmark quest

Waterfront stroll. Late afternoon light is best.

Open Runs daily; often daytime into evening in season. Check on the day.

Day 2

Market and Pâquis

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 45

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–10:30 · Free to browse

Plainpalais Flea Market

Often Wednesday and Saturday mornings. Check on the day.

Open Some mornings, often Wednesday and Saturday; check on the day
2

10:45–11:15 · Free

Plaine de Plainpalais

Open square next to the market.

Open Open daily
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CHF 15
3

12:00–13:30 · Small entry fee for swimming; check on the day

Bains des Pâquis

Simple lakeside lunch. Seasonal hours.

Open Open daily; seasonal hours
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CHF 15
4

14:00–14:15 · Free

Broken Chair Monument

Short stop on the way to the UN area.

Open Always open
Taxi · 733 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
5

14:30–16:30 · Entry fee roughly CHF 15; check on the day

International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

Closed Monday. Check hours on the day.

Open Closed Monday; check on the day

2 nights · Culture

First-timers who want Old Town lanes, the cathedral and Geneva's best museums, with a lakefront breather.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CHF 0
Taxis: ≈ CHF 153

Day 1

Old Town on foot

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 45

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–11:00 · Free

Old Town Walk

Start at Place du Bourg-de-Four. Cobbles, so wear flat shoes.

Open Always open
2

11:15–12:15 · Church free; tower climb small fee, check on the day

St. Pierre Cathedral Landmark quest

Climb the tower for the view if it is clear. Shorter hours on Sunday.

Open Open daily; shorter hours on Sunday. Check on the day.
Taxi · 282 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CHF 15
3

12:45–13:30 · Free

Parc des Bastions

Lunch nearby, then the Reformation Wall in the park.

Open Open daily
Taxi · 663 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
4

14:30–16:00 · Entry fee roughly CHF 10–15; check on the day

MAMCO Contemporary Art Museum

Closed Monday. Check on the day.

Open Closed Monday; check on the day
Taxi · 357 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CHF 15
5

16:30–17:00 · Free

Plaine de Plainpalais

Open square; easy tram back to the centre.

Open Open daily

Day 2

International Geneva and the lake

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 63

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:15–09:30 · Free

Broken Chair Monument

Quick photo stop opposite the UN gates.

Open Always open
Taxi · 1006 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CHF 15
2

10:00–11:30 · Guided tour fee varies; check on the day

United Nations Office at Geneva Landmark quest

Weekday guided tours only; book ahead. Bring photo ID.

Open Weekday guided tours; book ahead. Check on the day. · Source
Taxi · 278 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CHF 15
3

12:15–14:15 · Entry fee roughly CHF 15; check on the day

International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

Closed Monday. Short walk from the UN.

Open Closed Monday; check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CHF 18
4

15:00–16:30 · Small entry fee for swimming; check on the day

Bains des Pâquis

Coffee or a swim, depending on the season.

Open Open daily; seasonal hours
Taxi · 783 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
5

17:30–18:00 · Free to view

Jet d'Eau Landmark quest

Walk the pier for the closest view. Often runs into the evening in season.

Open Runs daily; often daytime into evening in season. Check on the day.

Day 3

Carouge, then depart

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 45

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–11:30 · Free

Carouge Neighbourhood Walk

Shops closed Sunday. Trams run from the centre.

Open Always open; shops closed on Sunday
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CHF 15
2

12:00–13:00 · Free to browse

Plainpalais Flea Market

Often Wednesday and Saturday mornings; check on the day.

Open Some mornings, often Wednesday and Saturday; check on the day
Taxi · 503 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
3

14:00–16:00 · Entry fee roughly CHF 10–15; check on the day

Patek Philippe Museum

Closed Monday. Check on the day.

Open Closed Monday; check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CHF 15
4

16:30–17:00 · Free

Jardin Anglais

Flower clock and lake views before you go.

Open Open daily

2 nights · Nature

Travellers who want the lake, the mountains and long walks, with museums only for rainy hours.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CHF 0
Taxis: ≈ CHF 160

Day 1

Lakefront and the Jet d'Eau

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 60

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–10:30 · Free

Jardin Anglais

Start here and follow the water east.

Open Open daily
Taxi · 910 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CHF 15
2

10:45–11:45 · Free

Eaux-Vives Lakeside Promenade

Flat lakeside path; benches all along.

Open Always open
Taxi · 457 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CHF 15
3

12:00–12:30 · Free to view

Jet d'Eau Landmark quest

You will get wet if the wind turns. Check on the day.

Open Runs daily; often daytime into evening in season. Check on the day.
Taxi · 371 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CHF 15
4

14:00–15:00 · Boat cruises roughly CHF 20–40 for short trips; check on the day

Lake Geneva Tour Landmark quest

Seasonal timetable; book a slot in summer.

Open Departures through the day; seasonal timetable
Taxi · 492 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CHF 15
5

16:00–17:30 · Small entry fee for swimming; check on the day

Bains des Pâquis

Swim or just sit on the terrace. Seasonal hours.

Open Open daily; seasonal hours

Day 2

Up the Salève

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 42

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–13:00 · Return ticket roughly CHF 15–20; check on the day

Téléphérique du Salève Landmark quest

Closed Mondays in some seasons; check on the day. Bring a jacket.

Open Closed Mondays in some seasons; check on the day
Taxi · 577 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
2

13:30–14:15 · Free once at the top

Salève Ridge Viewpoint

Ridge paths above the cable car. Clear afternoons are best.

Open Always open
Taxi · 5 km · ≈ 20 min · ≈ CHF 27
3

16:30–18:00 · Free

Carouge Neighbourhood Walk

Back down via Carouge for an early dinner.

Open Always open; shops closed on Sunday

Day 3

Parks and a rainy-day backup

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 58

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–10:15 · Free

Parc des Bastions

Quiet in the morning.

Open Open daily
Taxi · 608 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CHF 15
2

10:45–11:15 · Free

Plaine de Plainpalais

Open square; trams on all sides.

Open Open daily
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 18 min · ≈ CHF 24
3

11:30–13:30 · Entry fee roughly CHF 15; check on the day

International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

Closed Monday. Good indoor option if it rains.

Open Closed Monday; check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ CHF 19
4

14:30–15:30 · Free

Rues Basses Shopping Walk

Shops closed Sunday. Last-minute gifts.

Open Shops closed on Sunday

2 nights · Food

Visitors who plan the day around markets, fondue and lakeside terraces, with light sightseeing in between.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CHF 0
Taxis: ≈ CHF 156

Day 1

Markets and the Old Town

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 45

1

09:30–10:30 · Free to browse

Plainpalais Flea Market

Often Wednesday and Saturday mornings; check on the day. Bring cash.

Open Some mornings, often Wednesday and Saturday; check on the day
Taxi · 833 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CHF 15
2

11:00–12:30 · Free

Old Town Walk

Work up an appetite through the lanes.

Open Always open
3

12:45–13:45 · Church free; tower climb small fee, check on the day

St. Pierre Cathedral Landmark quest

Short visit; the tower climb is optional.

Open Open daily; shorter hours on Sunday. Check on the day.
Taxi · 937 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CHF 15
4

14:30–16:00 · Entry fee roughly CHF 10–15; check on the day

MAMCO Contemporary Art Museum

Closed Monday. Check on the day.

Open Closed Monday; check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CHF 15
5

17:00–18:30 · Free

Carouge Neighbourhood Walk

Good dinner territory; book ahead at weekends.

Open Always open; shops closed on Sunday

Day 2

Lake day with a long lunch

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 60

1

10:00–10:30 · Free

Jardin Anglais

Easy start by the water.

Open Open daily
Taxi · 910 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CHF 15
2

10:45–11:45 · Free

Eaux-Vives Lakeside Promenade

Walk east along the lake.

Open Always open
Taxi · 1230 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CHF 15
3

12:30–14:00 · Small entry fee for swimming; check on the day

Bains des Pâquis

Canteen-style lunch on the pier. Seasonal hours.

Open Open daily; seasonal hours
Taxi · 492 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CHF 15
4

14:30–15:30 · Boat cruises roughly CHF 20–40 for short trips; check on the day

Lake Geneva Tour Landmark quest

Seasonal timetable; check sailings on the day.

Open Departures through the day; seasonal timetable
Taxi · 371 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CHF 15
5

16:00–16:30 · Free to view

Jet d'Eau Landmark quest

Five minutes from the pier.

Open Runs daily; often daytime into evening in season. Check on the day.

Day 3

Pâquis bites, then depart

Tickets ≈ CHF 0 pp · taxis ≈ CHF 51

1

10:00–10:15 · Free

Broken Chair Monument

Quick stop near the UN.

Open Always open
Taxi · 1006 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CHF 15
2

10:30–12:00 · Guided tour fee varies; check on the day

United Nations Office at Geneva Landmark quest

Weekday tours only; book ahead.

Open Weekday guided tours; book ahead. Check on the day. · Source
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 16 min · ≈ CHF 21
3

13:00–14:00 · Free

Rues Basses Shopping Walk

Chocolate and bakery stops. Shops closed Sunday.

Open Shops closed on Sunday
Taxi · 1389 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CHF 15
4

15:00–17:00 · Entry fee roughly CHF 10–15; check on the day

Patek Philippe Museum

Closed Monday. Check on the day.

Open Closed Monday; check on the day

Swap in instead

Take a boat trip on Lake Geneva (Les Mouettes or CGN cruises) to see the city and the Alps from the water.
Swap a city afternoon for a day trip to Montreux or Lausanne by train; check times and prices on the day.
Cross into France for a cheaper lunch in Annemasse or a walk along the lake shore; bring your passport.

Getting around

Trams and buses run by TPG cover most of the city; buy tickets at stop machines before boarding.
A one-hour ticket costs about CHF 3; a day pass about CHF 8.
Hotels and hostels often give a free Unireso transport card at check-in.
Taxis are metered and pricey; ride apps like Uber operate in Geneva.
The city is fairly flat and good for bikes; Genèveroule lends bikes free in summer.
Yellow 'mouette' boats cross the lake and are covered by TPG tickets.

Where to stay

Old Town · ≈ CHF 120–350 a night
Steps from the cathedral, museums and the lake; quiet at night but hilly cobbled lanes.
Pâquis · ≈ CHF 100–280 a night
Central and lively, close to the station and the lake; many budget hotels and cheap eats.
Eaux-Vives · ≈ CHF 140–400 a night
Leafy and local, near the lake beaches and parks; good for families and longer stays.
Plainpalais · ≈ CHF 110–300 a night
Student and arts quarter with a flea market; tram links to both banks, good value.

Food & drink

Try fondue or raclette in the Old Town; portions are big, so share one between two.
Lake fish (perch fillets, 'filets de perche') is a local favourite; ask for the day's catch.
Cheap eats: Pâquis has kebab shops, falafel and Asian cafeterias, roughly CHF 10–20 a meal.
Pick up bread, cheese and fruit at a market or supermarket for a picnic by the lake; it saves a lot.
Restaurant prices are high. Lunch menus ('menu du jour') cost less than dinner; book popular places ahead.

Tips

Tourists staying in hotels receive a Geneva Transport Card for free public transit during their stay
Everything is extremely expensive; dining out will cost significantly more than in neighboring France
Many shops and supermarkets are strictly closed on Sundays
The Jet d'Eau is the city's main landmark but is turned off during high winds or freezing temperatures
French is the primary language, though English is widely spoken in the international community

Sources for prices and hours

United Nations Office at Geneva

Taxi costs are estimates from straight-line distance and the metered fare. Map positions are approximate.

Tours & activities

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Lake Geneva Tour

Cruise along Lake Geneva with views of the Alps
Enjoy snacks and wine on board
1,978 reviews · 4.5 rating

Scenic cruiseSnacks & wine included

Scenic Lake Cruise with Snacks and Wine

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.5 (1,978)

$35View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

St. Pierre Cathedral

Explore Geneva's Old Town on foot
Visit St. Pierre Cathedral and taste Swiss chocolate
1,024 reviews · 4.9 rating

Award-winningChocolate tastings

Award-Winning 3-Hour Chocolate & Old Town Tour

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.9 (1,024)

$121View tour

Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

St. Pierre Cathedral

Jardin Anglais

Discover hidden gems of Geneva with a local
See top sights including the cathedral and Jardin Anglais
75 reviews · 4.9 rating

Private guidePersonalized pace

Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.9 (75)

$82View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

St. Pierre Cathedral

Wander through the historic Old Town
Learn about the city's treasures including St. Pierre Cathedral
9 reviews · 4.6 rating

Small groupOld Town focus

Guided Tour of the Old Town and Its Treasures

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.6 (9)

$30View tour

Souvenirs

Pavé de Genève chocolate

CHF 29–47150–250 g box · shop prices

A soft, square ganache chocolate named after Geneva. It is a classic local gift that Swiss confectioners have made for generations.

Where: Confiserie Arn, Place du Bourg-de-Four 12

Check the best-before date, because fresh chocolate has a short shelf life.

Swiss watch

CHF 100–20001 watch, from entry-level to luxury · estimate

Geneva is the heart of Swiss watchmaking, with many brands based here. Watches range from affordable Swatch models to high-end pieces.

Where: Boutiques on Rue du Rhône and Swatch stores

Swatch starts around 100 and Tissot around 300, so compare prices before you buy.

Flights

Hotels

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eSIM

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Compare all 5 plans · choose data and duration

Check that your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Data-use estimates are a guide; verify coverage, activation rules and the final price on Airalo.

Luggage storage

Store your bags in GenevaDrop luggage at nearby shops and hotels · Bounce

Cost of a day

Exchange rate

Getting in

Getting around

Weather by month

Climate

Landmarks 9

Must-see · 8

Jet d'Eau

St. Pierre Cathedral

United Nations Office at Geneva

Lake Geneva Tour

Reformation Wall

Jardin Anglais

Musée d'Art et d'Histoire

Téléphérique du Salève

Cultural

Garden 1

Modern Architecture 1

Museum 1

Statue 1

Christian 1

Modern History 1

University 1

Activities

Cruise Tour 1

Cable Car 1

Day trips from Geneva

Montreux · 1 h 00 by train

What to see

Good to know

Lausanne · 35 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Plans

Old Town Walk

St. Pierre Cathedral Landmark quest

Parc des Bastions

Plainpalais Flea Market

MAMCO Contemporary Art Museum

Eaux-Vives Lakeside Promenade

Jardin Anglais

Jet d'Eau Landmark quest

Bains des Pâquis

Téléphérique du Salève Landmark quest

Salève Ridge Viewpoint

Plainpalais Flea Market

Carouge Neighbourhood Walk

Bains des Pâquis

Jet d'Eau Landmark quest

Old Town Walk

Old Town Walk

St. Pierre Cathedral Landmark quest

Jardin Anglais

Jet d'Eau Landmark quest

Rues Basses Shopping Walk

United Nations Office at Geneva Landmark quest

Broken Chair Monument

International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

Bains des Pâquis

Jardin Anglais

Jet d'Eau Landmark quest

Lake Geneva Tour Landmark quest

Eaux-Vives Lakeside Promenade

Téléphérique du Salève Landmark quest

Salève Ridge Viewpoint

Parc des Bastions

Bains des Pâquis

Old Town Walk

St. Pierre Cathedral Landmark quest

Rues Basses Shopping Walk

Jardin Anglais

Jet d'Eau Landmark quest

Plainpalais Flea Market

Plaine de Plainpalais

Bains des Pâquis

Broken Chair Monument

International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

Old Town Walk

St. Pierre Cathedral Landmark quest