Visiting Geneva in 3 days: our favorite itinerary

Published on November 23, 2025

Visiting Geneva in 3 days: our favorite itinerary

Do you have three days ahead of you to discover Geneva? Perfect: that's the time it takes to start diving into the unique atmosphere of the "City at the end of the lake." Balancing culture, nature, and a pleasant pace of life, we've prepared a complete itinerary for you to savour the city, without rushing. Follow the guide!

Day 1: First Steps in the Old Town and Views of the Lake

Strolling in the Old Town and Visiting St. Pierre Cathedral

Start your stay with an immersion in the Old Town (Vieille Ville), the historic heart of Geneva. Lose yourself in its cobbled streets, discover the Place du Bourg-de-Four, one of the oldest squares in the city, and enter St. Pierre Cathedral, a symbol of Protestantism. Entry is free, and if you climb the tower, you'll be treated to a 360° view of the rooftops and Lake Geneva (Lac Léman).

Descending to the Lake via the English Garden and the Flower Clock

From the Old Town, gently make your way down to the lakeside. Stop at the English Garden (Jardin anglais), an iconic spot on the left bank, and admire the famous Flower Clock (Horloge fleurie), a poetic tribute to Swiss watchmaking tradition. Here, the pace slows down: among sculptures, flowerbeds, and shaded benches, it's the perfect spot for observing the city.

Admiring the Jet d’Eau, Geneva’s Symbol

The undeniable emblem of the city, the Jet d’Eau soars 140 meters into the air. What was originally just a hydraulic relief valve has become one of the most photographed symbols in Switzerland! You can get closer to it from the Eaux-Vives pier or simply contemplate it from the Quais du Mont-Blanc.

Day 2: Culture, Lively Districts, and Lakeside Relaxation

After this first immersion combining old stones and the lakeside, head for the cultural and creative side of Geneva.

Visit an Emblematic Museum

Geneva is home to over forty museums, but if you have to choose one, opt for the Patek Philippe Museum. This museum traces five centuries of Genevan and European watchmaking through an exceptional collection of watches, automata, and miniatures.

Another option: the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire (Art and History Museum), one of the largest in Switzerland, where fine arts, archaeology, and decorative arts coexist.

Lunch at the Plainpalais Market or a Local Bistro

For a gourmet break, head to Plainpalais. On market days (Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays for fresh produce), you'll find tempting stalls: fruits, cheeses, local specialties, and vegetarian options. Alternatively, settle into a neighbourhood bistro or one of the food trucks enlivening the square.

Explore Street Art at La Jonction

In the afternoon, set out to discover another side of Geneva: La Jonction, located between the Rhône and Arve rivers. A former industrial area that has been converted, the district is full of colourful frescoes and contemporary galleries. A free and inspiring urban walk, far from the clichés.

Day 3: Institutions, Nature, and a Final Dip

For this final day, head for international and green Geneva, before a final plunge into Lake Geneva.

Visit the Palais des Nations and the Place des Nations

It's impossible to leave Geneva without visiting its international district. The Palais des Nations, the European headquarters of the UN, is a major centre of global diplomacy. You can take a guided tour to discover the conference halls and the artworks donated by member states. Opposite, don't miss the Broken Chair sculpture, a powerful symbol of the fight against anti-personnel mines.

Stroll through the Botanical Garden

Just steps from the UN, the Botanical Garden (Jardin botanique) is a green oasis housing over 12,000 plant species. Its greenhouses, alpine garden, and small animal park make it a soothing stop to conclude the day. And best of all... access is free!

Finish at Les Bains des Pâquis

For your last evening, head to Les Bains des Pâquis. On the agenda: swimming, apéro (drinks) by the lake, or simply contemplating the sunset. It's easy to see why it's the Genevans' favourite spot: a guaranteed friendly atmosphere, with a breathtaking view of the Jet d’Eau to perfectly round off these three days.

In three days, you will have had a glimpse of Geneva's multiple facets: historical, cultural, international, and natural. Between its museums, markets, parks, and its lake, the city combines a pleasant lifestyle with intellectual curiosity, always with a cosmopolitan touch.

Written by Sophie Renassia

Issue du monde de la communication et des médias, Sophie est Responsable éditoriale chez HOURRAIL ! depuis août 2024. Elle est notamment derrière le contenu éditorial du site ainsi que La Locomissive (de l'inspiration voyage bas carbone et des bons plans, un jeudi sur deux, gratuitement dans ta boîte mail !).

Convaincue que les changements d’habitude passent par la transformation de nos imaginaires, elle s’attache à montrer qu’il est possible de voyager autrement, de manière plus consciente, plus lente et plus joyeuse. Son objectif : rendre le slow travel accessible à toutes et tous, à travers des astuces, des décryptages et surtout, de nouveaux récits.