Home › Itineraries › 7 Days

A Perfect Week in Geneva

Alpine Beauty Meets International Elegance

Trip Overview

Experience Geneva's unique blend of Swiss charm and cosmopolitan sophistication in this week-long journey through one of Europe's most beautiful cities. From the iconic Jet d'Eau fountain to the historic Old Town's cobblestone streets, from world-class museums to serene lakeside parks, this itinerary balances Geneva's international heritage with its natural Alpine setting. You'll explore UN headquarters, discover watchmaking excellence, stroll through botanical gardens, and enjoy the city's multicultural dining scene. The pace allows for leisurely mornings, comprehensive afternoon explorations, and relaxed evenings by Lake Geneva. With efficient public transport and compact distances, you'll maximize your time while maintaining a comfortable rhythm that captures Geneva's refined lifestyle.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$180-250 per day
Best Seasons
April to October for best weather; December for Christmas markets
Ideal For
First-time visitors, Culture enthusiasts, History buffs, Couples seeking romance, Solo travelers, Museum lovers

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Lakeside Icons & Old Town Charm

Geneva City Center & Waterfront
Begin your Geneva adventure with the city's most iconic landmarks along Lake Geneva, then explore the atmospheric medieval Old Town.
Morning
Jet d'Eau de Genève and Lakefront Promenade
Start at Geneva's most famous symbol, the Jet d'Eau, shooting water 140 meters into the air. Walk along the lakefront promenade, passing the Brunswick Monument and enjoying stunning Alpine views. Visit L'Horloge Fleurie in Jardin Anglais, the famous flower clock with over 6,500 plants. The lakeside atmosphere provides a perfect introduction to Geneva's elegance and natural beauty.
2-3 hours $0 (free attractions)
Lunch
A lakeside café near Jardin Anglais serving Swiss specialties
Swiss Mid-range
Afternoon
Old Town Exploration with Cathédrale Saint-Pierre
Climb to the Old Town and explore Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, where John Calvin preached during the Reformation. Climb the tower for panoramic city views. Wander through Place du Bourg-de-Four, Geneva's oldest square, and stroll along Promenade de la Treille, home to the world's longest wooden bench. Discover the charming medieval streets, artisan shops, and hidden courtyards of this historic quarter.
3-4 hours $8-12 (cathedral tower entry)
Evening
Dinner in the Old Town and evening stroll
Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant in the Old Town serving fondue or raclette, then take an evening walk back to the lakefront to see the illuminated Jet d'Eau

Where to Stay Tonight

Eaux-Vives or City Center (Mid-range hotel near the lake)

Central location provides easy access to both lakefront attractions and Old Town, with excellent public transport connections for the week ahead

The Jet d'Eau operates daily but may be turned off during strong winds or freezing temperatures. Visit in the morning for the best light for photographs.
Day 1 Budget: $180-220
2

International Geneva & Botanical Beauty

International District & Botanical Gardens
Discover Geneva's role as a global diplomatic hub and explore one of Europe's finest botanical collections.
Morning
Palais des Nations and Broken Chair
Visit the European headquarters of the United Nations at Palais des Nations, the world's second-largest UN complex. Guided tours showcase the Assembly Hall, Council Chamber, and artworks donated by member states. Outside, photograph the powerful Broken Chair sculpture, a monument against cluster bombs and landmines. The surrounding Ariana Park offers beautiful grounds with peacocks roaming freely.
2-3 hours $15-18 (guided tour)
Book UN tours online in advance; bring valid ID/passport for security
Lunch
A café in the International District with global cuisine options
International Mid-range
Afternoon
Conservatoire et Jardin botaniques de Genève
Explore 28 hectares of botanical paradise featuring over 14,000 plant species from around the world. Wander through themed gardens including Mediterranean, Alpine, and tropical greenhouses. The arboretum showcases magnificent trees, while specialized gardens display medicinal plants, rock gardens, and protected species. The peaceful setting offers respite from city exploration with benches, ponds, and shaded pathways perfect for relaxation.
2-3 hours $0 (free entry)
Evening
Dinner in Pâquis neighborhood
Explore the multicultural Pâquis district with its diverse restaurants offering cuisine from around the world, reflecting Geneva's international character

Where to Stay Tonight

Eaux-Vives or City Center (Same hotel as Day 1)

Maintain your base in the central area for convenience

The Musée Ariana (ceramics and glass museum) is adjacent to Palais des Nations and offers free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
Day 2 Budget: $190-230
3

Museums & Cultural Treasures

Museum Quarter & Old Town
Immerse yourself in Geneva's rich cultural heritage through world-class museums showcasing art, history, and humanitarian values.
Morning
International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent
Experience one of Geneva's most moving museums, documenting humanitarian action from 1863 to present day. Interactive exhibits explore themes of defending human dignity, restoring family links, and reducing natural risks. Personal testimonies, multimedia installations, and historical artifacts create powerful emotional connections. The museum honors Geneva's role as birthplace of the Red Cross and its ongoing humanitarian mission worldwide.
2-3 hours $18-20
Lunch
A bistro in the museum district or Old Town
French-Swiss Mid-range
Afternoon
Musée d'Art et d'Histoire and Tavel House
Explore Geneva's largest museum featuring fine arts from ancient to modern times, archaeological finds, and applied arts collections. Highlights include Swiss and European paintings, ancient Egyptian artifacts, and medieval weapons. Nearby, visit Tavel House, Geneva's oldest private residence (14th century), now a museum showcasing Geneva's urban history through models, prints, and reconstructed interiors.
3-4 hours $0 (both museums offer free permanent collections)
Evening
Dinner and evening in Carouge
Take the tram to Carouge, Geneva's bohemian neighborhood with Italian-influenced architecture, artisan workshops, and lively restaurants with outdoor terraces

Where to Stay Tonight

Eaux-Vives or City Center (Same hotel)

Continue from your established base

Many Geneva museums offer free entry to permanent collections. The Museum Pass Geneva provides access to multiple museums and can be worthwhile if visiting several paid exhibitions.
Day 3 Budget: $170-210
4

Watchmaking Heritage & Lakeside Leisure

Plainpalais & Lake Geneva
Discover Geneva's legendary watchmaking tradition and enjoy the city's beautiful lakeside parks and public baths.
Morning
Patek Philippe Museum
Delve into five centuries of watchmaking artistry at this exceptional museum housed in an Art Deco building. The collection includes antique timepieces from the 16th century, Patek Philippe watches from 1839 onward, enamel miniatures, and automata. Watch craftsmen demonstrate traditional techniques in the working atelier. The museum beautifully illustrates Geneva's reputation as the world's watchmaking capital and Swiss precision engineering.
2-3 hours $12-15
The museum is closed Sundays and Mondays; reservations recommended on Saturdays
Lunch
A contemporary restaurant in the Plainpalais district
Modern European Mid-range
Afternoon
Parc La Grange and Bains des Pâquis
Relax in Parc La Grange, Geneva's largest park featuring the city's most beautiful rose garden with over 200 varieties (blooming June-September). The 18th-century mansion, ancient trees, and lakefront location create an idyllic setting. Later, visit Bains des Pâquis, Geneva's beloved public baths and beach area. Swim in Lake Geneva, sunbathe on the wooden decks, or simply enjoy the local atmosphere at this community gathering spot.
3-4 hours $2-3 (Bains des Pâquis entry)
Evening
Sunset at Bains des Pâquis and dinner
Stay for the famous fondue dinner at the restaurant within Bains des Pâquis, watching the sunset over the lake and Mont Blanc in the distance

Where to Stay Tonight

Eaux-Vives or City Center (Same hotel)

Maintain your central location

Bains des Pâquis is open year-round. In winter, locals enjoy the sauna and plunge into the cold lake water. Summer evenings feature a relaxed, social atmosphere.
Day 4 Budget: $160-200
5

Hidden Gems & Local Perspectives

Various Geneva neighborhoods
Discover lesser-known corners of Geneva through a guided walking tour and explore charming local areas.
Morning
Free Walk Geneva Tour
Join a guided walking tour to gain deeper insights into Geneva's history, culture, and hidden stories. Knowledgeable local guides share anecdotes about the Reformation, Geneva's banking history, famous residents, and secret passages. Tours typically cover the Old Town, Reformation Wall, university area, and local neighborhoods, providing context that enriches your understanding of the city beyond guidebook facts.
2-3 hours $15-25 (tip-based, suggested amount)
Tours typically depart from central meeting points; check schedules and book online to secure your spot
Lunch
A neighborhood café in Champel or Florissant
Casual Swiss-French Budget
Afternoon
Tour de Champel area and National Monument
Explore the elegant Champel neighborhood with its Belle Époque architecture and residential charm. Visit the National Monument commemorating Geneva's integration into the Swiss Confederation. The monument features allegorical statues and provides insights into Geneva's unique history as an independent republic before joining Switzerland in 1815. Wander through quiet streets lined with beautiful buildings and small parks.
2-3 hours $0 (free exploration)
Evening
Dinner and drinks in Les Pâquis
Experience Geneva's most diverse neighborhood with international restaurants, cozy bars, and authentic local atmosphere away from tourist crowds

Where to Stay Tonight

Eaux-Vives or City Center (Same hotel)

Continue from your base

Geneva has numerous public drinking fountains throughout the city with fresh, safe Alpine water. Carry a reusable bottle to stay hydrated while saving money and reducing plastic waste.
Day 5 Budget: $150-190
6

Art, Ceramics & Lakeside Relaxation

International District & Parks
Explore specialized museums and enjoy Geneva's beautiful green spaces at a leisurely pace.
Morning
Musée Ariana
Visit Switzerland's only museum dedicated entirely to ceramics and glass, housed in a magnificent neo-baroque palace. The collection spans 700 years and includes 27,000 objects from Swiss, European, Middle Eastern, and Asian traditions. Admire delicate porcelain, contemporary glass art, and historic pottery. The building itself, surrounded by beautiful gardens with views of Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc, is an architectural treasure worth the visit.
2-3 hours $0 (free permanent collection)
Lunch
A garden café near the botanical gardens or Ariana park
Light Mediterranean Mid-range
Afternoon
Promenade de la Treille and Old Town revisited
Return to the Old Town for a more leisurely exploration. Sit on the world's longest wooden bench at Promenade de la Treille, traditionally where Geneva's official chestnut tree signals spring's arrival. Browse antique shops, art galleries, and boutiques along Grand-Rue and surrounding streets. Visit small courtyards and hidden passages. Enjoy the slower pace and discover details you might have missed on your first visit.
2-3 hours $0-20 (shopping optional)
Evening
Farewell dinner with lake views
Choose an upscale restaurant along the lakefront for a memorable final dinner, celebrating your week in Geneva with views of the illuminated city and lake

Where to Stay Tonight

Eaux-Vives or City Center (Same hotel)

Final night in your established location

The official chestnut tree at Promenade de la Treille has marked spring's arrival since 1818. The date is recorded annually and has become a quirky Geneva tradition.
Day 6 Budget: $200-260
7

Departure Day Discoveries

Geneva Center
Make the most of your final hours with last-minute explorations and souvenir shopping before departure.
Morning
Final lakeside walk and Place du Bourg-de-Four
Enjoy a leisurely final morning strolling along the lake, perhaps revisiting favorite spots or discovering a corner you missed. Return to Place du Bourg-de-Four for morning coffee at a terrace café, soaking in the Old Town atmosphere one last time. Browse nearby shops for Swiss chocolates, watches, or local crafts as souvenirs. Take final photographs of the charming streets and architectural details.
2-3 hours $30-80 (souvenirs and coffee)
Lunch
A convenient restaurant near your accommodation or the train station
Swiss favorites Mid-range
Afternoon
Departure preparations and travel to airport
Check out from your hotel and make your way to Geneva Airport. The airport is exceptionally close to the city center, typically just 15-20 minutes by train or bus. If time permits before your flight, the airport offers good shopping and dining options. Alternatively, store luggage and squeeze in one final lakeside walk or museum visit if your departure is in the evening.
Varies by flight time $3-5 (public transport to airport)
Geneva Airport is very accessible; arrive 2 hours before European flights, 3 hours for intercontinental
Evening
Departure
Depart Geneva with memories of Alpine beauty, cultural richness, and Swiss elegance

Where to Stay Tonight

N/A (Departure day)

End of itinerary

Your Geneva public transport ticket is valid for 90 minutes including transfers. Hotels typically provide guests with a free Geneva Transport Card for unlimited public transport during their stay.
Day 7 Budget: $100-150

Practical Information

Getting Around

Geneva's public transport system is excellent, efficient, and punctual. Trams, buses, and boats connect all major attractions. Most hotels provide guests with a free Geneva Transport Card offering unlimited public transport during your stay. The compact city center is highly walkable, with most Old Town attractions reachable on foot. Rent bikes through the public bike-sharing system for lakeside rides. Taxis are available but expensive and rarely necessary. The airport is just 15 minutes from the center by train. Purchase individual tickets from machines at stops if not using the transport card.

Book Ahead

Book Palais des Nations tours 2-3 weeks in advance online. Patek Philippe Museum requires reservations for Saturday visits. Consider booking hotels early, especially during major events like the Geneva International Motor Show (March) or international conferences. Restaurant reservations recommended for upscale dining. Most museums and attractions accept walk-ins, though lines may form at popular times.

Packing Essentials

Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets, layered clothing for variable weather, light rain jacket year-round, sunglasses and sunscreen for lake reflections, power adapter for Swiss three-prong outlets, reusable water bottle for fountain water, modest clothing for cathedral visits, swimsuit for Bains des Pâquis, camera for stunning lake and mountain views

Total Budget

$1,150-1,560 for 7 days (excluding flights and accommodation)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in hostels or budget hotels in Pâquis or Cornavin areas ($40-60/night). Use your free Geneva Transport Card extensively. Focus on free attractions like parks, botanical gardens, lakefront, and museums with free permanent collections. Shop at Coop or Migros supermarkets for picnic lunches. Dine at casual cafeterias and kebab shops. Skip the Patek Philippe Museum or visit only your top museum choice. Drink fountain water instead of buying bottles. Total daily budget can be reduced to $100-130.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at five-star hotels like those along Quai du Mont-Blanc with lake views ($400-800/night). Book private guided tours of Palais des Nations and museums. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining experiences featuring innovative Swiss cuisine. Arrange private boat tours on Lake Geneva. Book spa treatments at luxury hotel spas. Take a helicopter tour to Mont Blanc. Shop at high-end boutiques in Rue du Rhône. Hire private drivers for comfort. Include day trips to Chamonix or Montreux with private guides. Daily budget increases to $500-800+.

Family-Friendly

Visit the Natural History Museum with its impressive dinosaur collection (free entry). Spend more time at Bains des Pâquis where children can swim safely. Explore playgrounds in Parc La Grange and other parks. Take the petit train touristique for a fun city overview. Visit during summer for outdoor activities and ice cream by the lake. Choose family-friendly restaurants with children's menus. Consider a boat cruise on Lake Geneva for a special treat. The Botanical Gardens offer space for children to explore. Many museums provide family activities and worksheets.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Geneva

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Geneva

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Geneva

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Geneva

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Geneva

Plan Your Perfect Trip

Get insider tips and travel guides delivered to your inbox

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.