5 free activities to enjoy in Geneva

Who said Geneva was too expensive? Known for its luxury boutiques and hotels or its banks, Geneva has the reputation of being an expensive city. And yet, it is possible to enjoy Geneva without blowing the budget! Put yourself into the shoes of a true Genevan and discover our top 5 free activities to do in Geneva. Don’t forget that during your stay at the Residence, you have a free pass to the Geneva public transport. Practical to get around the city!

Have a good time at the Bains des Pâquis

Situated in the city centre and on the shores of Lake Geneva, the Bains des Pâquis is a must-do for a successful stay in Geneva.

In the summer, mix with the local population at Les Pâquis, the perfect spot to swim, sunbathe and have a good time over a drink and refreshing dishes. Admission for swimming is only Sfr 2.00 per adult from 16 years old, Sfr 1.00 for children and free for children under 6 years old. In winter, the place is just as lively for enjoying a delicious fondue at a very affordable price (from Sfr 23 per fondue). Other activities, sauna, massages, hammam and Turkish baths are also available.

Recharge your batteries at the Botanical Garden

The perfect place to breathe and recharge your batteries…in the heart of Geneva!

The Botanical Garden is a place to relax and travel, not far from the International Organizations district. It has an incredible collection of more than 15,000 species from the five continents. Three-hundred-year-old trees, heaps of rock gardens, greenhouses of tropical plants, horticultural beds, ethnobotanical gardens… In the heart of 28 hectares of greenery far from the noise and bustle of the city, take a break from the noise and bustle of the city and let yourself be carried away on a real journey through plants. Its herbarium of 6 million samples is one of the largest in the world. As a family, take a break at the animal park and enjoy an outdoor picnic in the garden’s landscaped areas.

Walking along the water

Are you ready for a walk of several kilometres on the shores of Lake Geneva? Whether you are on foot or by bike, this walk is an opportunity to discover the beauty of the lake in its different facets and to stop on your way in places worth seeing.

Take a short walk to the Parc des Eaux-Vives, one of the oldest parks in Geneva, home to the very good restaurant hotel of the Parc des Eaux-Vives. Then stop at the Parc de la Grange, which has the largest rose garden in Geneva, including the Théâtre de Verdure, which offers free concerts in the summer.

Here you are in front of the symbol of Geneva, the jet d’eau (140 meters high!). Continue your stroll along the lakeside to the Jardin Anglais and the highly photographed Horloge Fleurie (with the jet d’eau), a nod to Swiss watchmaking expertise.

Then take the Pont des Bergues and head towards Ile Rousseau, a small garden ideal for a break with a splendid view of the city and the façades of both sides of the lake.

Finish this beautiful stroll at the Parc de la Perle du Lac, a veritable oasis of greenery where cyclists and walkers love to escape before arriving at the Botanical Garden, as mentioned earlier in this article.

Walking through the Old Town

The Old Town is home to many wonders… The Saint-Pierre Protestant cathedral with its 157 steps to climb to admire a unique panorama of Geneva is worth the detour! Wandering on the cobblestones of the old town will allow you to discover the Reformers’ Wall, the town hall with its 15th-century tower, but also many charming places such as the Grand’ Rue with its antique shops, bookshops and art galleries. At the end of this street, you will find the longest wooden bench in the world stretching along the Promenade de la Treille. This promenade, shaded by an avenue of chestnut trees, offers a spectacular view of the parks and monuments of the Old Town.

Visit the Museum of Natural History

A bit of culture to close this article! The Museum of Natural History is one of the top free museums in Geneva. The largest natural history museum in Switzerland presents a beautiful collection of very well represented animal species and minerals. It is also a place for scientific research or inventories of fauna, work on taxonomy and systematics are carried out. A perfect visit to make with the family and which will interest children with clear and playful explanations! Temporary exhibitions complete the picture. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.

You now have all the cards in hand for an excellent stay in Geneva!

Don’t forget that you have a free transport card to make your journeys with complete peace of mind.

Desire to extend your stay or come back very soon?

Take advantage of our exclusive offer by booking your studio on our website with a 10% discount from your 2nd night.

Enjoy your stay with us