With its 200,000 residents, Geneva offers plenty to do both during the week and on weekends. Its stunning surroundings provide excellent hiking opportunities, while the lakefront is perfect for relaxation any day of the week. The city also hosts a variety of activities throughout the week. Here's a selection of things you can enjoy in Geneva.
Things to do on weekdays in Geneva
Cultural activities
Looking for cultural activities during the week? Explore the variety of events listed on the city's official website. From workshops and concerts to conferences, exhibitions, and festivals, there's always something happening.
The city's museums are also worth a visit during the week. Check out the Musée d'ethnographie, Musée d'art moderne et contemporain, Musée d'histoire naturelle, and Musée Barbier-Mueller, among others.
Geneva offers a range of events throughout the year, such as the International Film Festival, the Human Rights Forum (Fifdh) in April, and the Geneva International Film Festival in November. These events are great opportunities to enjoy films and attend lectures.
For a mix of culture and relaxation, consider joining a quiz night—an activity popular among the Swiss! Regular quiz sessions are held on Mondays in various city pubs, like Mr. Pickwicks. Form a team and test your knowledge!
Shopping
To skip the Saturday crowds, try shopping during the week instead.
Geneva boasts a diverse shopping scene, from luxury boutiques and charming markets to modern malls.
Shopping malls like Balexert and La Praille offer a range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options—ideal for a full day of shopping and relaxation.
Don't miss Geneva's popular flea markets.
On Wednesdays, Saturdays, and the first Sunday of each month, the Plaine de Plainpalais hosts one of Switzerland's largest flea markets, featuring everything from second-hand items and books to clothes, jewelry, collectibles, and decorative pieces.
Enjoying the shores of Lake Geneva
Since the lake is just on the city's edge, you can easily enjoy it even on weekdays after work.
In the summer, relax with a cool aperitif and tapas at spots like La Terrasse or Bains des Pâquis.
You can also take advantage of early-morning music concerts by the lake during the summer season. Why not start your day with a melodious breakfast before heading to work?
Weekend activities in Geneva
Water sports
On weekends, make the most of Lake Geneva, located just outside the city, for both relaxation and sporty activities.
Whether you enjoy sailing, waterskiing, kayaking, or swimming, you'll find plenty of options. There are several clubs and water sports centers along the lake, and you can also rent boats from the Geneva Boat Club at the Eaux-Vives port.
Excursions
Many people in Geneva take advantage of the city's proximity to the mountains for outdoor activities. In summer, you can go hiking, mountain biking, climbing, or even paragliding. In winter, the area transforms into a paradise for skiing and snowboarding.
The Jura and the Alps are easily accessible by car or public transport and offer a variety of sports options. For hiking trails, the Monts de Genève website offers a great choice.
Vitam Parc in Saint-Julien-en-Genevois, just across the border, is perfect for family-friendly fun. It's an indoor water park with slides, a water circuit, and an adult relaxation area.
Take the historic tramway
Want to experience Geneva from a different perspective on the weekend? Hop on a historic train from the 1920s and explore the city in a unique way!
These nostalgic tours are organized by the Association Genevoise du Musée des Tramways (Geneva Tramway Museum Association) and typically run on Sundays during the summer. For schedules, click here.
Cycling in and around Geneva
Cycling is a fantastic way to explore the city on weekends when traffic is lighter.
Genèveroule offers four rental locations open 24/7 throughout Geneva. From April to October, you can rent bikes for free for one day.
Check out the city's recommended cycling routes to make the most of your ride.
Restaurants in Geneva
You'll find something to suit every taste and season in Geneva, from classic fondue to Michelin-starred restaurants, cozy neighborhood bistros, and food trucks.
Check out the city of Geneva's recommendations for restaurants that carry the "Fait Maison" label or offer local produce.
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