Activities in Geneva for International Students

Sports, activities and recreation

Geneva is a city on the go with plenty of opportunities for sports and recreation. With easy access to the nearby Alps, Geneva is also the perfect jumping off point for any mountain adventure. Also, don’t miss important cultural events and festivals happening within vicinity of Geneva.

Swimming, Water & Beaches

Lake provides ideal cool down during hot summer days, when everyone heads to one of many Geneva’s beaches. During the colder months, go for a swimming at public swimming pools at Sports Center Vernets or Varembe.

Rafting and Kayaking

With two raging rivers running through town, Geneva has prime rapids right at its doorstep.

Take advantage of lake and sunny weather and spent some lovely time on one of many Geneva’s beaches.

Skiing

Geneva is arguably the greatest skiing hub in the world. With over 200 ski resorts with 100km of the city. The Gare Routiere Bus Station offers daily round trips, including lift tickets, to top ski destinations including Chamonix, Clusaz, Avoriaz, Diablerets, Verbier, Les Gets, Les Houches, Flaine, Grand Bornand and Contamines. Check Gare Routiere departure times. There are also a number of ski clubs in Geneva that organize regular outings for all experience levels. Check with the Ski Club of Geneva (www.skiclubgeneve.ch) for the latest news and information.

Hot Air Ballooning

Alpine hot air ballooning is an exhilarating activity that, although costly, provides astonishing views and a once in a lifetime experience. The January Chateau d’Oex balloon festival is the largest winter balloon festival in the world and attracts hundreds of enthusiasts from around the world. A number of private operators offer hair-raising day tours that won’t soon be forgotten. (www.ballonreisen.ch)

Lake Cruises

Take a cruise to enjoy a relaxing time on the waves on Europe’s largest lake with fabulous vistas of the surrounding Alps.

Tours

    Walking Tours

    The city of Geneva (www.geneve-tourisme.ch) offers walking tours of the Old Town. There is also available a walking tour through Carouge, the south part of Geneva, and Geneva, cradle of fine watchmaking tour, taking you through history of Geneva’s watchmaking. To make the most of your visit, you can book your private walking tour. You have option to rent a Self-guided audio tours too.

    Mini Train Tours

    Mini-trains are a popular way to see the city, especially if your feet are too tired to carry on. The tours hit the basic sites and provide a good historical overview of the city. (STT Train Tours, Les Corsaires Mini-Train)

    City Tours

    Geneva is within reach of many other quaint lakeside villages and mountain towns. Key Tours (www.keytours.ch) is the most popular tour bus operator in the city with numerous day packages designed for every taste, whether you’re interested in the natural wonders of Switzerland or buying cheese. Tours depart daily from Gare Routière at 7 Rue de Alpes. Go to www.wwsa.ch for other tour operators in the city.

    Segway Tours

    Segway company Citywheels is offering segway tours in Geneva Old Town, in and around the United Nations and Private Segway Tours. Price varies depending on the tour length.