BEST DAY TRIPS FROM GENEVA, SWITZERLAND

FIND OUT ABOUT THE BEST GENEVA DAY TOURS 

Geneva is a great city to explore in a day. But after a day or two of exploring Geneva and its main attractions, it is time to go on some fantastic day trips from Geneva. This post is all about the best day tours from Geneva. 

This beautiful city is located in the southwestern part of Switzerland and is known for its stunning views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps. It is a popular destination for people from around the world due to its rich history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

However, I also appreciate Geneva as a great base for exploring the nearby towns and cities, such as Annecy, Chamonix, and the world-famous Mont Blanc. 

These destinations are easily accessible – by train, car, or boat – making them perfect for Geneva day trips. 

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TIPS – PLANNING THE BEST DAY TRIPS FROM GENEVA

So, this post is all about these amazing day tours from Geneva for your Switzerland itinerary. These are places I loved exploring near Geneva, but first, here are some travel tips.

HOW TO GET AROUND FOR DAY TRIPS FROM GENEVA

There are a few options available when it comes to getting around.

Taking a scenic road trip offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. However, parking can be difficult in some areas, and the roads can be narrow and windy – a challenge, especially for inexperienced drivers.

Public transportation in Switzerland is just excellent. In this case, I actually suggest traveling by public transport. Enjoy some amazing train rides when traveling from Geneva to other parts of Switzerland – or even France.

If getting around via public transportation, I highly recommend the Swiss Travel Pass, which offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland.

The pass also includes access to many museums and attractions, making it a great value if you do a lot of exploring. 

CHECK OUT SWISS TRAVEL PASSES HERE

WHERE TO STAY IN GENEVA

Of course, staying in the city center of Geneva or on the shores of gorgeous Lake Geneva, ideally with a view of the Jet d’Eau – the Geneva Water Foutain – would be a good choice. However, hotel prices in this area are extremely high, so it will also depend on your budget which hotel you should pick. 

• Luxury: Les Armures Hotel – Nestled in the heart of Geneva’s old town, the Les Armures Hotel occupies a unique 17th-century building that exudes historic charm and character. This boutique hotel offers guests a one-of-a-kind experience, blending luxurious accommodations with fine dining in an unpretentious setting. ➡️ BOOK YOUR STAY AT  LES ARMURES HOTEL HERE

• Mid-Range – N’vY Manotel – There are some stunning hotels close to all the main attractions that won’t break the bank. My personal favorite is N’vY Manotel – a colorful hotel located close to the shores of Lake Geneva and the old town. ➡️ BOOK YOUR STAY AT  N´V`Y MANOTEL HERE

BEST TIME TO VISIT GENEVA

The best time to visit Geneva is during the summer months, which typically span from June to August. Summer in Geneva offers pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit).

However, I also love the fall season around Lake Geneva as the crowds leave and the fall foliage makes the area even prettier. It’s important to note that summer is a popular tourist season in Geneva, so it can be more crowded than at other times of the year.

If you prefer a quieter visit, consider planning your trip in the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October), when the weather is still pleasant and there are fewer crowds.

Winter in Geneva is also an amazing time to visit Geneva – thanks to its location, you can do some amazing winter sports activities or enjoy snow-capped mountains nearby.

BEST GENEVA DAY TOURS IN 2024

So, without further ado, here are my favorite day trips from Geneva.

MONTREUX

A visit to the Swiss Riviera is a must whenever you are in Geneva. The Swiss Riviera refers to the region along the shores of Lake Geneva (also known as Lac Léman) in Switzerland.

It is a beautiful area renowned for its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and luxurious resorts and stretches from the city of Lausanne to the eastern edge of Lake Geneva, encompassing several municipalities and villages along the way.

Montreux is part of this Riviera, and it is an absolutely gorgeous day trip from Geneva.

This charming town is nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, offering stunning scenery, a lively promenade, and a famous castle, the Chateau du Chillon.

Hop on a train from Geneva to Montreux and soak in the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains during the one-hour ride. Once you arrive, head straight to the promenade, a lively strip packed with restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Take a leisurely stroll while enjoying the stunning lake and mountain views. Next, it’s time to explore the iconic Chateau du Chillon, one of Switzerland’s most famous castles. The castle, which dates back to the 12th century, is located on a small island in Lake Geneva.

After the castle visit, head back to the promenade and satisfy your hunger pangs with a scrumptious meal at one of the many restaurants.

Take a relaxing boat ride on the lake and bask in the serene beauty of the surrounding mountains and the calm waters. Montreux is actually one of my favorite places in all of Switzerland, and I often visit for a day. So, very naturally I think, Montreux is one of the best day excursions from Geneva.

To reach Montreux from Geneva, take a train from the Geneva main station. Trains run regularly throughout the day. Alternatively, opt for a scenic drive along the lake, which takes about 1.5 hours, or hop on a boat and enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Geneva.

LAVAUX 

Get ready to savor some of the best wines in Switzerland as you explore the stunning Lavaux Vineyard Terraces!

Stretching for about 30 km along the south-facing northern shores of Lake Geneva from the Chateau de Chillon to the eastern outskirts of Lausanne in the Vaud region, these terraces are a sight to behold and a great place to visit from Geneva. It is so special it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

Although there is some evidence that vines were grown in the area during Roman times, the present vine terraces can be traced back to the 11th century. Back then, Benedictine and Cistercian monasteries controlled the area, and the vineyards were established to produce a highly valued wine that has always been important to the economy.

Explore the lower slopes of the mountainside between the villages and the lake, and witness an outstanding example of a centuries-long interaction between people and their environment. The vine terraces were developed to optimize local resources, resulting in the production of top-quality wines that are highly valued to this day.

So, what if you do not drink? I do not drink, and yet, I think the Lauvaux vineyards are one of the most stunning destinations near Geneva and all of Switzerland.  My favorite visits were always from June to late October (especially in late October, when the vineyards look extra pretty with all the fall foliage).

LAUSANNE

Are you ready for a day in another gorgeous city? Then, take a day trip from Geneva to the stunning city of Lausanne!

Start your day by hopping on a train from Geneva to Lausanne. The scenic ride takes around 45 minutes, offering breathtaking views of the picturesque Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains.

Once you arrive in Lausanne, head straight to the old town, a charming neighborhood filled with quaint cafes, shops, and historic buildings. Explore the magnificent Lausanne Cathedral, a Gothic-style structure dating back to the 13th century.

Take in the stunning views of the city and the lake from the cathedral’s tower. Visit the Olympic Museum, a must-see attraction for sports lovers. The museum showcases the history of the Olympic Games and features interactive exhibits, making it a fun and engaging experience for all ages. And if you are not into Olympic Sports? Well, I am neither, but I can tell you that even I enjoyed the museum.

Stroll along the stunning Lake Geneva promenade and enjoy the serene beauty of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Check out my Lausanne in one day itinerary for more tips.

To get to Lausanne from Geneva, take a train from the Geneva main station. Trains run regularly throughout the day. Alternatively, take a scenic drive along the lake, which takes about an hour.

ANNECY

Are you ready for a day trip filled with adventure, romance, and beauty? Look no further than the stunning town of Annecy, France, just a short drive from Geneva!

Once you arrive in Annecy, prepare to be swept off your feet by the charming town’s narrow canals, cobbled streets, and beautiful architecture.

Explore the old town and marvel at the beautiful pastel-colored buildings, which date back to the medieval era. Take a stroll through the lively markets, where you can find fresh local produce, cheeses, and handmade crafts.

Next, it’s time to take in the stunning views of Lake Annecy, often called “Europe’s cleanest lake.” Take a boat tour or rent a paddleboat to explore the crystal-clear waters and soak in the surrounding beauty. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike up to Annecy Castle and enjoy the panoramic views of the town and the lake from the top. The castle is also home to a museum that showcases the town’s rich history.

Annecy is probably my favorite French town – I just love this extraordinarily pretty place. Here is my Annecy travel post.

To get to Annecy from Geneva, you can take a train or drive. The train takes around 1.5 hours, and the drive takes about 45 minutes, offering scenic views of the lake and mountains along the way. Get ready for a day filled with romance, beauty, and adventure in the charming town of Annecy.

GLACIER 3000

Get ready for an epic day trip from Geneva to Glacier 3000, a stunning mountain peak that offers breathtaking views and thrilling activities! 

Once you arrive at the base of Glacier 3000, take the cable car up to the summit, where you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the Alps.

Once you’re at the top, experience the adrenaline-pumping activities Glacier 3000 has to offer. Try your hand at skiing, snowboarding, or sledding on the glacier slopes (in the colder months), or take a ride on the Alpine Coaster, a thrilling roller coaster that winds its way through the mountain peaks.

You can also try the Peak Walk, a suspension bridge that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. For a more relaxing experience, take a scenic walk on the glacier and soak in the stunning beauty of the Swiss Alps.

You can also explore the charming village of Les Diablerets, located at the base of Glacier 3000.

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I visited Glacier 3000 in late summer, and while I still enjoyed it, the best time to visit is probably in the winter, spring, or early summer when there is still more ice and snow at the top.

To get to Glacier 3000 from Geneva, take a train or drive. The train takes around 2.5 hours, and the drive takes about 1.5 hours, offering scenic views of the Alps along the way.

Guided tours are also available, offering a hassle-free and informative experience. 

NYON & YVOIRE

Are you ready for a day trip filled with charming towns, stunning views, and cultural experiences? Start your adventure in the beautiful Swiss town of Nyon and then head across the border to the French town of Yvoire!

Begin your day by exploring the charming town of Nyon, located on the shores of Lake Geneva. Stroll through the old town and marvel at the stunning architecture, and then head to Nyon Castle to learn about the town’s rich history.

Next, it’s time to cross the border into France and visit the charming town of Yvoire. This medieval town is located on the shores of Lake Geneva and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Explore the winding streets and picturesque gardens, and take in the stunning views of the lake. Visit the Jardin des Cinq Sens, a beautiful garden that showcases the five senses through its design and plants. Explore the Chateau d’Ivoire, a historic castle that dates back to the 14th century.

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After a day of exploration, have lunch at one of the town’s restaurants, which offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

To get to Nyon and Yvoire from Geneva, you can take a train or drive. The train takes around 20 minutes to Nyon. Then, take a boat ride to Yvoire, which takes about 20 minutes. The drive takes about 45 minutes, offering scenic views of the lake and mountains along the way.

CHOCOLATE WALKING TOUR

Immerse yourself in the world of Swiss chocolate with a delightful walking tour in Geneva. While not technically a day trip from Geneva, this experience is a must for any chocolate lover. Switzerland is renowned for its Alpine peaks and stylish watches, but it is chocolate that truly takes center stage – believe me, I know chocolate! 

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Led by an expert tour guide, this chocolate-themed walking tour allows you to explore Geneva by land and water.

Along the way, visit artisan chocolate shops where Swiss chocolate is crafted using traditional methods. Indulge in the pleasure of sampling various award-winning chocolate creations and experiencing the delicious flavors and textures firsthand. The tour provides fascinating insights into what makes Swiss chocolate so special.

Discover hidden gems and lesser-known sites of the city while savoring the finest chocolate treats. 

A short boat ride adds an extra touch of charm to the excursion. If you’re passionate about chocolate and eager to explore Geneva’s chocolate culture, the Chocolate Flavours Tours Geneva is a delightful 3-hour adventure that combines delectable tastings, sightseeing, and an immersion into the world of Swiss chocolate.

For more information and booking details, visit the following link.

CHAMONIX & MONT BLANC MOUNTAIN

Experience the awe-inspiring Mont Blanc Mountain, the highest peak in Europe, by embarking on a guided tour from Geneva to Chamonix Mont Blanc. Instead of navigating independently, indulge in a hassle-free journey with reliable transport and attentive service.

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Hop on a comfortable bus and relax during the scenic 75-minute drive through the picturesque Arve Valley, which will lead you to the charming Alpine village nestled at the foot of the remarkable and majestic Mont Blanc.

Upon arrival in Chamonix, immerse yourself in the captivating ambiance as you stroll through its quaint streets brimming with charm. Explore local shops and indulge in a fondue or raclette at one of the many renowned restaurants in this renowned ski resort town.

Learn about Chamonix’s historical significance as the birthplace of the first Winter Olympic Games in 1924.

Situated at the border between France and Italy, Chamonix is notable for its tunnel that connects the two countries beneath the mountain. Delight in the various activities available in this picturesque town before returning to Geneva.

If you choose the cable car option, revel in a breathtaking ride to the summit of Aiguille du Midi, where panoramic views will leave you mesmerized. In the afternoon, take advantage of the mountain train to discover the captivating Ice Sea (Mer de Glace), offering an unforgettable glimpse into the icy wonders of the region.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON THE BEST DAY TOURS FROM GENEVA

Geneva offers many exciting and engaging day trips that cater to a variety of interests.

While I enjoy spending a day in Geneva every once in a while, I admit that I am all about exploring the stunning places near Geneva. From exploring charming Swiss towns like Nyon and Montreux to embarking on outdoor adventures in the French Alps at Chamonix and Glacier 3000, the options are endless. 

Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy. With convenient transportation options, including trains and scenic drives, it’s easy to enjoy some amazing day trips from Geneva that you won’t soon forget!