Geneva in Winter – Complete Winter Travel Guide

Where to Stay to Visit Geneva in the Winter

Still in the planning stage of your Geneva winter break? Well, finding the right home base to start exploring the city is the second step to great travel after booking your way to go there, so let me help you with some good recommendations that won’t break the bank.

✅ Best Hotel – Ibis Geneve Centre Lac: Located only 300 meters away from the Old Town in the Paquis district, this mid-range hotel provides fully-equipped rooms with private bathrooms. Continental or buffet breakfast is served every day. 

💰 Best Budget – Hotel Carmen: Located in the nice Plainpalais area about 15min walk from the St. Pierre Cathedral, this place is the best value for money you can find in Geneva with comfy rooms, private or shared bathrooms, and tasty breakfast.

The 10 Best Things to do in Geneva in Winter

Wondering what to do in Geneva in winter? Well, you’re in the right place.

With the help of fellow experienced travelers, I’ve put together for you the 10 best activities and places to visit in Geneva in winter, to help you make the most of your trip even when wrapped up from head to toe in winter clothing!

1. Visit Geneva Christmas Market

— by Trijit Mallick from Budget Travel Buff

Christmas in Geneva Switzerland is the quintessential traditional celebration, complete with Christmas trees, fairy lights, mulled wine, heated chestnuts, holiday dinners, delicious Swiss chocolate, and Christmas carols playing in the cool air. The Geneva Christmas market features a variety of international vendors and traditional holiday fare from many different countries.

You can find many gift ideas at the Geneva Christmas market because there are so many vendors here selling delectable meals, unique crafts, and jewelry. The market offers a wide variety of sights and activities. You can eat traditional Swiss cuisine, take in live music performances, see craft studios, shop for handcrafted items, and much more.

Rue du Mont-Blanc, the most elegant traditional Christmas market, offers delectable roasted gourmet cuisine, unique presents, and ornaments. The typical Christmas goodies are available for visitors to shop, and the festive atmosphere is open to everyone.

Noël aux Bastions is a must-visit if you are fascinated by Christmas lights. The market highlights the creations of regional craftsmen and offers the visitors the option to buy one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones. It is located in Bastions Park and is decorated with Christmassy fairy lights. Noël aux Bastions is the spot to go if you want to enjoy time at an ice rink and ride a carousel.

2. Stroll around Lake Geneva

— by Sean Lau from LivingOutLau

While Geneva might not be the place for some winter sun in Europe, there are still plenty of outdoor activities you can do. One of the top things to do in Geneva in winter is having a stroll around Lake Geneva, also known as Lac Léman. It is an activity everyone in the family can enjoy, even kids!

The lake sits on the border between France and Switzerland, just on the north side of the Alps. It is one of the largest lakes in Europe, which means walking around it is going to be impossible. However, visitors can still stroll around the lake and take in the peaceful winter views with the snow-covered Alps in the distance.

Lake Geneva in winter used to freeze, but it has not for many years, and you might even see some brave souls going for an ice swim in the winter. However, the path around the lake can be frozen over when it has rained or snowed recently, which means you’ll need to be extra cautious when walking around.

When you are tired, there are plenty of terraces on the perimeter of the lake where you can have a hot chocolate, relax and take in the spectacular views. If you are looking to be active and away from the crowd of the city center, consider strolling around Lake Geneva!

For a visit on the water, I recommend taking a 1-hour cruise on Lake Geneva. It is a great way to enjoy it, even in winter!

3. Discover the Old Town

— by Daria from The Discovery Nut

Geneva has plenty of attractions like historic landmarks and medieval architecture that can be seen in the city’s Old Town, making it a must-see stop on the Swiss itinerary for many travelers. The city also has over 30 museums and galleries that feature everything from contemporary art to archaeology to the country’s history.

Known as Switzerland’s biggest historical city, Geneva boasts an impressive Saint Pierre Cathedral that dates back to the 8th century and beautiful streets that are arranged in a maze. Head to Maison Travel Museum to learn the city’s history and the city’s place in the Swiss culture.

And, if you like watches, stop at Patek Philippe Museum where you can learn about the Swiss watching that originated in the 16th century.

To round up your day, stop for a dinner in one of the Old Town’s restaurants where you can taste some local Chardonnay wine. Geneva is one of the wine-producing regions in Switzerland thanks to its perfect location along the Jura mountains which create perfect conditions for wine growing.

Get the most out of your winter trip thanks to the Geneva City Pass available for 1-3 days: free public transport, free attractions and museums, city tours… You’ll get everything!

4. Climb St. Pierre Cathedral Towers

— by Yulia from Miss Tourist

If you’re looking to get the best view of Geneva blanketed in the snow, without having to strap on a pair of skis, there is no better spot than the top of the St. Pierre Cathedral Towers.

Located in the Old Town, one of the best areas to stay in Geneva, there are 157 steep and narrow stairs that you will need to climb, but the reward is worth it. The top of the towers will grant you uninterrupted 360-degree views over the city which you just can’t get anywhere else!

Besides the towers themselves, you will also have access to the beautiful St. Pierre Cathedral which boasts incredible stained glass windows identical to 19th-century examples found in the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire.

In winter (October – May), the Cathedral is open every day from 10 am – 5 pm (from 12 pm on Sundays) and the visit will cost just 7 CHF for adults and 5 CHF for children, making this one of the most affordable things to do in Geneva.

If you just can’t get enough, for an additional 5 CHF you can combine your visit to the towers with the cathedral archaeological site. This gives you the chance to go beneath the cathedral to see the remains of the churches which stood before it dating all the way back to the 4th century.

5. Enjoy Winter Sports

Because of its geographic situation between mountains, winter sports in Switzerland are so popular it would be a shame not to try some! Near Geneva, you will find several ski resorts, some of them worldwide renowned, where you can do almost any winter sport including snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, ice skating…

If you don’t want to go very far, you can hit the slopes in France at the resort of Mont Jura, located about 55min from Geneva city center by car, or at the Mont Blanc in Chamonix (the highest summit in the Alps), located only 1-hour drive. Avoriaz station is also pretty close. 

I definitely recommend going to the Chamonix ski resort for its incredible landmarks and attractions including the Aiguille du Midi and its cable car and the Mer de Glace train. 

If you prefer to stay in Switzerland, the Zermatt resort station is a great choice as it is, for me, the most beautiful. It’s also easily accessible by train in about 3,5 hours.

For a quick but unforgettable winter sports excursion, I recommend boooking this return trip that will take you to the highest peak in Europe: From Geneva: Guided Day Trip to Chamonix and Mont-Blanc

6. Try the Swiss Cheese Fondue

Foodies and cheese lovers, beware: in Switzerland, winter officially kicks off the cheese fondue season!

Fondue is the ultimate comfort food you need after a long day of sightseeing in the cold of Geneva winter. It is a typical Swiss dish, very convivial, consisting of melted cheese served in a pan with dried meat, potatoes, and bread. You have to dip your bread or potatoes into the cheese pan with a pick. Be careful not to drop your potatoes in the cheese!

Geneve is full of very good restaurants where you can experience this tradition: Les Fondues du Bateau, Buvette des Bains, Le Café du Soleil or Bistrot des Halles are some of them. Whatever the restaurant you choose, prefer making a reservation to secure your spot. 

By the way, if you are really into cheese, you should go to the medieval town of Gruyères, located 1,5 hours drive from Geneva. There, you can visit a cheese factory and have the best fondue you will ever eat (with chocolate tasting, of course).

Book the best Swiss cheese and chocolate tasting tour you could do from Geneva here: Geneva – Gruyères Gold Tour with Train Ride & Tastings.

If you prefer staying in Geneva, here’s the best food tour you can do.

7. Have a Break at Carouge

For those who love the bohemian atmosphere, Carouge is to Geneva what Greenwich Village is to New York. With its colorful narrow streets, pretty architecture, and its animations, this neighborhood definitely stands out from the rest of the city.

It is the quintessential crafts district, where you will meet artists, craftsmen, and other colorful characters who make the charm of this small neighborhood. It is the perfect place to discover ancestral arts typical of the region such as glass blowing, clock making, and woodworking. If you want to buy a souvenir, it is also the place to be.

While wandering around the district, you will come across many cafés and restaurants with a warm atmosphere, especially on the Place du Marché, a square with a beautiful fountain. Take a break to enjoy a delicious hot chocolate (made with Swiss chocolate of course) with a pastry. Ideal to warm up before continuing your journey!

8. Visit the Palace of Nations (United Nations Office)

The Palais des Nations is a symbol of Geneva and of peace in the world. It has been the headquarters of the United Nations since 1946 and is one of the most important institutions in the world.

Today, this is the second largest UN headquarters after the one in New York. The Assembly Hall can accommodate up to 25,000 representatives every year to organize world peace.

Visiting this palace is a must in Geneva. First because this palace sits in a superb setting offering a magnificent panorama of Lake Geneva and the Mont Blanc. Its park is also beautiful and houses gigantic monuments including the Armillary Sphere, the symbol of astronomy and knowledge.

Many different tours are organized to explore the interior of the palace, just choose one according to your preferences and let’s go for a visit sheltered from the weather. Highlights include the amazing ceiling of the Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room, as well as the Broken Chair.

9. Go on a Day Trip to Montreux

— by Jessie from Pocket Wanderings

Looking for day trips from Geneva in winter? Look no further! Experience another stunning town on the shores of Lake Geneva, Montreux.

Just 1 hour and 15 minutes away by train, it is well worth a visit to this breathtakingly beautiful Swiss town. Even the train journey itself is memorable, with its scenic panoramas over the lake. The train from Geneva to Montreux costs around €25 for a return.

Montreux has historically been a popular spot with various artists, writers, and musicians, all captivated by its charm and natural beauty. One of the best things to do in Montreux is to simply take a slow stroll along the promenade to soak up the surroundings. Make sure to stop by Chillon Castle, which looks as though it belongs in a children’s storybook – especially in winter when it looks utterly magical perched on the crisp lake.

For a break away from the cold, pop into the Queen Studio Experience or hop aboard the Swiss chocolate train if you plan to travel further afield. One of the highlights of a day trip to Montreux in winter is to experience the festive Christmas markets. Running from late November to Christmas Eve, wander over 150 wooden huts offering all manner of wonderful treats. Perfect for a spot of Christmas shopping!

Tip: If you already have visited Montreux, Annecy is another great day trip to do. Located less than an hour from Geneva, the Venice of the Alps is one of the most beautiful towns in Europe. Book your day trip!

10. Attend the New Year’s Eve fireworks on Lake Geneva

If you are lucky to be in Geneva in December and especially for the New Year, you will love the festive atmosphere that reigns throughout the city.

December is basically a very special month in Geneva since the Fête de l’Escalade takes place around December 12th. During this festival celebrating the Geneva victory over the Savoyard attack of 1602, you can see processions, music, and various food stands offering traditional dishes.

Every year on December 31st, both locals and tourists gather on the Quais du Mont Blanc where free concerts and many other performances are held to make you dance before the New Year. All the city’s restaurants and bars are also celebrating.

At midnight, you can enjoy one of the most beautiful fireworks displays in Switzerland on the Geneva harbor. Each year, the fireworks are based on a new theme and the lights are beautifully highlighted by the glittering water of the lake.

Read more: 10+ Best Places in Europe for New Year’s Eve

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So here are the 10 best things to do in Geneva in the winter!

I hope you’ve completed your itinerary thanks to this guide. If you’re planning to go, then the last part will be helpful to you, especially for packing the right things 👇

Geneva Winter Weather

Winter in Geneva Switzerland starts in mid-December and ends in mid-March.

Visiting Geneva in winter is certainly not the ideal weather for a swim in Lac Léman, but the city has so much to offer at this time of the year. But be prepared: with temperatures often close to zero, winter is overall cold and quite windy, so pack warm clothes!

Geneva in December: temperatures range from zero in the morning to 6°C in the afternoon. If you are lucky, you might have some snow. 

Geneva in January: this is the coldest month in Geneva with temperatures varying between -1°C in the morning to 5°C in the afternoon. Days are quite sunny, with a bit of rain or snow, but the dullness of winter is never far. 

Geneva in February: temperatures start to rise again with temperatures ranging from 1°C in the morning to 8°C in the afternoon. Rain is rare, but like in January, expect a fair amount of sunshine with some dullness. 

Travel Switzerland & Nearby

Need more recommendations to travel Switzerland and around? Here are a few other guides that might be helpful to you:

• Famous Landmarks to Visit in Geneva
• The Best Places to See in Switzerland
• Visit the Venice of the Alps: Annecy (50min drive / 1,5 hours train from Geneva)
• Travel the Jura region in France (2h drive from Geneva)

🔎 Other European cities to visit in winter:

• Lisbon in winter 
• Barcelona in winter 
• Paris in winter 
• Copenhagen in winter 
• Rome in winter 
• Annecy in winter

I hope you enjoy your winter trip to Geneva; if you have any questions, let me know in the comments below, I always reply.

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