Geneva
LET GENEVA SURPRISE YOU!
Kayaking in the city? Diving into turquoise waters?
Discover what makes Geneva such an unexpectedly amazing summer destination. Share your favourite activities with us and win a surprise-filled weekend for two!
COME FOR THE WATCHES,
STAY FOR THE WATER
HAD YOU IMAGINED SUCH COLOURS?
The Caribbean blue of the lake matches the emerald green of the parks, while two mighty rivers entwine their blue and green waters, creating turquoise currents to paddle, kayak or raft on. The expression “nature in the city” is especially appropriate for Geneva, which offers a vibrant variety of outdoor activities in summer.
COME FOR THE CITY,
STAY FOR THE COUNTRY
AN UNEXPECTED CULTURAL SHOT
Have you heard the great and unusual stories that have made Geneva the surprising city it has become today? Whether they relate to science, music, diplomacy or master craftsmanship, learn about unsuspected events and places throughout your stay.
Ready to be bedazzled this summer?
CREATE YOUR OWN UNEXPECTED WEEKEND
AND TRY YOUR LUCK!
WIN A WEEKEND FOR TWO!
HOW CAN YOU PARTICIPATE? EASY!
- Select your favourite experience for each category by clicking on the heart at the top right.
- Submit your selection, and good luck!
- The experiences in each category have been validated by our local insiders who are lucky enough to enjoy Geneva all summer!
- @lespetitsgenevois
- @colormygeneva
SELECT ONE WATER ACTIVITY
Walk on water!
Try your hand at stand-up paddling while enjoying a breathtaking view of Geneva Harbour and the Old Town!
Climb on a Mouette!
Cross the lake on board Geneva’s shuttle boats, the Mouettes genevoises! Free of charge with the Transport Card that is offered when you stay in a hotel, or with a simple bus ticket.
Paddle between buildings!
The Arve River comes from the Mont Blanc glacier and flows through Geneva to end its course in the Rhône. Embark on a rafting or kayaking adventure!
Dive in the city!
A must for locals, Bains des Pâquis features a gorgeous swimming spot in the heart of the city centre. Will you dare to jump off the 10-metre diving board?
Watch two rivers embrace!
The Arve and Rhone rivers meet in Geneva to form a single river before flowing through south-eastern France. A superb photo can be taken from the Jonction viaduct.
Take to the skies!
Fly over the lake with a wake foil for a magical gliding experience, with the added bonus of a breathtaking view of the city centre, the mountains and the famous Jet d’eau!
SELECT ONE GOURMET ACTIVITY
Lunch on the water!
Have lunch on board a large vintage steamboat while discovering the shores of Lake Geneva.
Drink sparkling water at will!
Fill your flask for free. Since June 2022, a fountain of sparkling water has been installed in the town centre, the first in Switzerland!
Toast with a winegrower!
With close to 1,500 hectares of vineyards, Geneva is now the 3rd largest wine-producing region in Switzerland. Meet the winemakers and sample some unique wines!
Eat a dustbin!
In Geneva, a chocolate factory has been famous since 1970 for its delicious chocolates in the shape of… a dustbin! Head to Rohr’s to try it out.
Drink a cocktail in a fridge!
Enter Bleu Nuit, the iconic restaurant in the Bains district and push open the fridge door to discover a well-hidden and groovy speakeasy.
Eat a fondue in a Tuk-tuk!
Enjoy a traditional Swiss fondue on board a Tuk-tuk, as your guide takes you around the city.
SELECT ONE CULTURAL ACTIVITY
Sit 40 on a bench!
The longest wooden bench in the world – 120 metres long! – stretches along Promenade de la Treille in the Old Town. Fancy taking a break to admire the view?
Read the time in a flowerbed!
The Flower Clock features thousands of seasonal flowers and tells the time with Swiss precision; its 2.5-metre second hand is the largest in the world!
Meet giants!
In the heart of Parc des Bastions, come face to face with the major actors of the Reformation in the form of giant statues.
Travel around the world!
Place des Nations is a major symbol of International Geneva. Opposite the esplanade, admire the entrance to the Palais des Nations and its famous avenue of flags.
Take a stroll in Italy!
The architecture in Carouge is surprising and the town’s Mediterranean atmosphere will have you indulging in a little dolce vita in the heart of Geneva!
Take a monstrous selfie!
Did you know that the first sci-fi book was written in Geneva? Contemplate the frightening statue of Frankenstein on the eastern side of Plaine de Plainpalais!
Experience a concert at dawn!
Start the day in an unexpected way! Every year in August, concerts take place on the lakefront at sunrise. How about a little swim while you’re there?
Watch a film with a view of the lake!
During the summer, Geneva features a couple of wonderful open-air cinemas. Enjoy a film with the glittering waves of Lake Geneva in the background!
Unravel the mystery of the web!
CERN is a major scientific research centre in the world. This is actually where the world wide web was born!