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Through the seasons

Geneva in winter

10 good reasons to enjoy Geneva in winter

As the morning sky shines with fresh colours, the icy blue of the lake reflecting the pink sunrise, it’s time to take your softest scarves out of your wardrobe and stroll in museums at the weekend or enjoy hot chocolate and mulled wine in the Old Town.

Wellness and relaxation in the city’s finest spas, visits to the best chocolate factories, unique exhibitions, fine dining and daytrips to the Alps, Geneva is a real winter gem for an authentically delightful stay.

1. An enchanted Christmas Market by the lake

Experience the magic of the season along the shores of Lake Geneva, where the city’s Christmas market transforms the lakeside into a cozy, illuminated village. Stroll among wooden chalets filled with local crafts and festive treats, as the sparkling lake and snow-capped mountains create an enchanting backdrop.

Discover the Christmas Market

2. Fine dining gems to warm you up

Geneva has taste and in the field of gastronomy, it’s a city that is constantly renewing itself. With its high concentration of starred restaurants and its international outlook on cuisine and the world, Geneva attracts foodies and winter is a delicious season to indulge.

Zoom on Geneva's restaurants

The time has come for fondue evenings by the lake!

3. Unique winter activities

Are you more of a winter swimmer followed by a restorative sauna or more of a chocolate lover? Watch-making workshop or brunch at the Grand Théâtre? You can do it all! Geneva offers a wide range of activities to warm your heart and senses. Cultural, fine dining and sporting discoveries, the city welcomes you to the rhythm of winter.

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4. Culture on the agenda

Geneva’s museums reflect its energy and know-how. The International Red Cross Museum plunges you into the heart of International Geneva, while CERN carries the voice of science, and the Patek Philippe Museum unfolds its historical expertise in watchmaking. Something to delight the curious soul!

Discover Geneva's museums

5. The Choco Pass for a gourmet winter

What if a pass allowed you to discover the city through its greatest chocolate makers? The Choco Pass Geneva gives you access to numerous tastings at Geneva’s master chocolatiers. You’ll discover different specialities such as the truffle or the pavé genevois. A Choco Pass for children is also available so the whole family can enjoy it together.

Buy your Choco Pass

6. The magic of the Old Town

The medieval atmosphere of Geneva’s Old Town transports us back in history. The Cathedral of St. Peter, a major site of the Reformation, dominates the old streets with their cobblestones trodden by the people of the time. Several guided tours will allow you to discover its secrets.

All about the Old Town

7. The cosiest cafés

Winter is synonymous with delicate cappuccino foam and tasty snacks to warm your soul! Geneva reveals its best small cafés that you’ll love, hidden on a street corner with their comfortable sofas and armchairs to welcome the cool winter days. 

Find your favourite café 

8. Events not to be missed

Find all of Geneva’s major events on the online calendar. Exhibitions, performances, fairs, meetings, the city brings together cultural nuggets from all over the world.

See the online calendar

9. The City Pass to multiply adventures

The Geneva City Pass is a smart pass that gives you access to more than 30 free or discounted activities in Geneva. Lake cruises, guided tours, museums, outdoor activities, find all the activities available with your online pass and enjoy an unforgettable stay.

Discover the Geneva City Pass

10. Beautiful wellness venues

Winter is a great time to relax, and Geneva has a lot to offer spa lovers. High-end spas, unique winter baths and dream treatments are available for all tastes and budgets. Discover the most beautiful wellness venues in Geneva and enjoy the most delicate winter stay.

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EXPLORE WINTER IN GENEVA

The Fête de l'Escalade