Fun things to do on weekends in Geneva

Geneva may be a small city, but there are still some great ways to spend your weekend. Whether you prefer to relax by the lake, explore the mountains, or dive into the city’s cultural offerings, you can easily fill your weekend with fun and memorable experiences. Here are a few ideas to make the most of your time in Geneva:

Visit the Jet d’Eau and lakeside promenades

The Jet d’Eau, Geneva’s iconic water fountain, is an essential stop when exploring the city. You can stroll along the lakeside promenades, enjoy the view of the Alps, and take in the fresh air. On a warm weekend, it’s a perfect spot to relax, have a picnic, or enjoy a drink or ice cream at one of the nearby stands or cafés.

Hike or take the cable car up to Mont Salève

Mont Salève is located just across the border in France and is easily accessible by public transport. You can take a bus from Geneva to the base of the mountain, then ride the cable car to the top. Once there, enjoy panoramic views of Geneva, go for a short hike, or simply have a drink or a bite to eat at the restaurant overlooking the city. If you’re looking for something more relaxed, there’s an option just a 30-minute walk from there.

Visit the Museum of Art and History

This museum is one of Geneva’s most important cultural institutions, with collections ranging from archaeology and applied arts to paintings and sculptures. It’s also free to visit, making it a great weekend activity if you’re looking for something both enriching and budget-friendly.

Explore the Museum of Natural History

A great option for families or anyone curious about the natural world, this museum offers exhibits on animals, geology, and more. The displays are particularly engaging for children.

Visit CERN

For something a bit different, you can visit CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research. It’s home to the world’s largest particle physics laboratory and located just outside Geneva, near the border with France. Entry to the permanent exhibitions is free, but guided tours and certain activities usually require advance booking. It’s a unique way to learn about cutting-edge science and spend a few hours indoors if the weather isn’t ideal. Fun fact: the world wide web was invented at CERN (more info).

Take a boat tour on Lake Geneva

Cruises on Lake Geneva offer a unique way to see the city and its surroundings from the water. The CGN (Compagnie Générale de Navigation) operates several routes, including short city tours and longer trips to nearby towns. If you’re affiliated with an international organization, keep an eye on offers from CAGI, which sometimes provides discounted tickets for cultural outings like this.

Discover the Old Town (Vieille Ville)

Geneva’s Old Town is full of charm, with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and small squares. Start at St. Pierre Cathedral and consider climbing the tower for a panoramic view. There’s a small fee to access the tower, which must be paid in cash (less than 10 CHF per person). The walk through the old streets is a pleasant way to explore the city’s history at your own pace.

Ride a bike in the Geneva countryside

Geneva’s cycling paths make it easy to explore the city and nearby nature (such as the vineyards around Satigny). You can rent a bike from Genève Roule, which offers both standard and electric bikes, or use the Donkey Republic app to pick up a bike from various self-service locations around the city. A ride in the countryside offers a peaceful way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of spots to stop for a break.

Go snowshoeing in the nearby mountains

During the colder months, snowshoeing is a peaceful and scenic way to experience the surrounding Alps and Jura. There are many marked trails a short drive (or train trip) away from Geneva, with equipment rentals available in mountain towns. It’s especially nice to combine your outing with a fondue or raclette in a cozy chalet after a day in the snow (here is a good option in Saint-Cergue, near Geneva).

Enjoy fondue at Bains des Pâquis

For a truly local experience, head to Bains des Pâquis for a casual fondue by the lake. Popular with locals year-round, it offers a warm and inviting setting with views of the Jet d’Eau. It’s an especially enjoyable place to end the day after a walk, a swim, a sauna, or just watching the sunset. I recommend making a reservation a few days before, especially for larger groups.