Water jet, old town, museums and cruises on Lake Geneva: discover what to do in Geneva, the must-sees, the best addresses and our tips for your stay.
An international city on the shores of Lake Geneva, Geneva blends heritage, nature and the art of living. Between the famous Water Jet, the hilltop old town and the world's institutions, the city of Calvin is easy to explore on foot. This guide gathers what to do in Geneva, the must-sees and our practical tips to plan your visit.
Geneva's must-sees
- The Water Jet (Jet d'eau): the city's symbol, shooting lake water 140 metres into the air.
- The old town: the largest in Switzerland, with St. Peter's Cathedral and Place du Bourg-de-Four.
- The international district: Palais des Nations (UN), Red Cross and the Botanical Garden.
- The Bains des Pâquis: swimming, a buvette and a friendly atmosphere in the heart of the bay.
- The Flower Clock and the English Garden, by the water.
The old town and St. Peter's Cathedral
The historic heart of Geneva, the old town spreads its cobbled lanes around St. Peter's Cathedral, whose tower offers one of the finest panoramas over the city and the lake. Nearby, Place du Bourg-de-Four, the oldest square in Geneva, invites a break on a terrace. Don't miss the International Museum of the Reformation and the Maison Tavel, the city's oldest house.
By the lake and cruises
Geneva's bay is the ideal spot for a stroll. Rent a pedal boat, enjoy the Bains des Pâquis or board a cruise on Lake Geneva with the CGN company, all the way to Lausanne, Montreux or the French villages on the southern shore. In summer, the quays come alive with swimmers and open-air cafés.
Museums and culture
Geneva has over 40 museums. Among the must-sees: the Museum of Art and History, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum, the MAMCO (contemporary art) and the Patek Philippe Museum for watch lovers. Most municipal museums offer free entry to their permanent collections.
Where to eat in Geneva?
From traditional fondue to fine dining, Geneva delights food lovers. Try the longeole (Geneva sausage), the PDO cardoon or perch fillets from the lake. To find a good address, explore restaurants in Geneva, book a table via the Reservation page, or browse businesses by city.
Day trips from Geneva
Geneva is an excellent base: the Lavaux vineyards (UNESCO), Lausanne and Chillon Castle in Montreux, or Mont Salève on the French side for a sweeping view over the city. Within an hour by train, you reach more Lake Geneva treasures.
Practical tips
Geneva hotels often provide the Geneva Transport Card, which makes public transport free during your stay. The city is easy to explore on foot, by bike or by tram. Spring and summer are perfect for the quays; autumn charms with its golden light.
Plan your stay with TOP SUISSE
To go further, check our guides what to do in Switzerland, the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland and what to do in Zurich, or browse all the categories.
Frequently asked questions
What to do in Geneva in one day?
In one day, admire the Water Jet, wander the old town and climb St. Peter's Cathedral, have lunch on Place du Bourg-de-Four, then walk along the bay to the Bains des Pâquis. Finish with a museum or a short cruise on the lake.
What are the free attractions in Geneva?
The Water Jet, the old town, the Flower Clock and the English Garden are free. The permanent collections of many municipal museums (Museum of Art and History, the Red Cross in part) are also accessible at no cost.
How do you get around Geneva?
Geneva is easy to explore on foot. Public transport (trams, buses, mouettes boats on the lake) is efficient and often free for visitors thanks to the Geneva Transport Card provided by hotels.
What to eat in Geneva?
Try fondue, longeole (local sausage), PDO cardoon and perch fillets from Lake Geneva. Geneva also has many international and fine-dining restaurants.
