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15 Best Day Trips from Geneva

Geneva is Switzerland’s second most populous city, famed for being a diplomatic centre.

But with so many more facets to its appeal – from cuisine and architecture to breath-taking nature – Switzerland is a country of almost unparalleled beauty.

Steep, jagged mountains rise from the ground, dusted in snow in winter, carpeted with green in the summer.

Sprawling, successful cities blend the clean lines of skyscrapers with the intricate architecture of the old world.

Then, of course, there’s the food – notably, some of the best chocolate in the world is sourced in Switzerland.

Geneva is certainly not going to disappoint holidaymakers, whether you stick to the city or venture further afield to explore some more of Switzerland’s highlights.

Here are some great recommendations for the best day trips to be had from Geneva.

Often called the Venice of the Alps, old-town Annecy is a picture-perfect place to explore for the day.

Located just 45-minutes from Geneva, it sits prettily on the River Thiou and has been awarded the Art and History designation by France, cementing its status as a site of cultural importance.

There are plenty of nooks and crannies to seek out, with flea markets and hole in the wall cafes sharing space with historic landmarks.

Of course, it doesn’t hurt that the surrounding scenery is stunning, with mountains rearing up all around.

Recommended tour : Annecy Half-Day Trip from Geneva

2. Chamonix

The Alpine resort of Chamonix has long been a favourite spot among tourists, with its chocolate-box looks and easy access to the mountains.

In 1924, the village hosted the first Winter Olympics and its popularity has been ensured ever since.

The nearby valley offers options for both snow sports and mountaineering, while the village itself has plenty to entertain visitors, from excellent shopping to boutique restaurants.

You can hop on a cable car up to the mountains, or simply take in the views while sipping a coffee from a café, as Mount Blanc can be seen right from the village.

Best seller : Chamonix, Mont-Blanc Day Tour from Geneva

3. Lausanne

Moving away from the mountains, along the river sits Lausanne; a city with the fortuitous position of being located on a beautiful lake with a stunning alpine backdrop.

The spires of the cathedral tower over the cityscape, nestled among the pretty red rooves of its neighbouring buildings.

Visitors can spend many a happy hour wandering the streets; there are plenty of busy restaurants lining the city centre, perfect for a quick stop before you head back to Geneva by boat.

Cruising back along the fresh water of the Leman Lake, you’ll find yourself wishing you didn’t have to leave.

Available tour : Swiss Riviera Tour – Lausanne, Montreux & Chateau Chillon

The fortified village of Yvoire provides a fascinating time capsule of medieval France.

The castle was built in 1036 but still stands strong today, while the village itself has remained hardly changed for over 700 years.

Yvoire is considered one of France’s most beautiful villages – and that’s saying something – so make sure you spend some time soaking in the atmosphere of the place.

The local speciality dish, filet de perche, is served in many of the village’s top restaurants.

If you choose the right spot, you’ll get a lake view as you dine.

Suggested tour : Yvoire & Evian Private Day Trip from Geneva

5. Swiss Riviera: Vevey, Montreaux and Chillon

Packed into this day trip are several cute Swiss villages, each with its own unique charm.

Start out with a drive through the spectacular Vaud countryside, and kick off the trip with a look round Corsier-sur-Vevey.

Then move along to Chillon – where the castle is the most impressive sight – by way of the beautiful lake road from Vevey, lined with palm trees and tropical flowers.

After taking plenty of pictures, head on to the glitz and glamour of Montreux, where you can practically feel the presence of all the stars who have visited in the past, from Ray Charles to Aretha Franklin.

Riviera tour : Geneva: Riviera Montreux, Lavaux UNESCO & Optional Cruise

6. Lavey les Bains

For a truly relaxing day trip option, consider a visit to Les Bains de Lavey, a luxurious spa located near Lake Geneva.

Ease your mind and your muscles as you luxuriate in the hottest water in Switzerland – a thermal spring whose temperature reaches 62 degrees.

The spa has plenty of wellness options besides swimming, including massages and beauty treatments.

You can hardly help but leave feeling calmed and ready to take on the rest of your trip.

Book online : Private Trip from Geneva to Lavey Les Bains

The vineyard region of Lavaux is a UNESCO world heritage site, recognised in 2007, and is famed around the world for its wines.

Located in the canton of Vaud in Western Switzerland, it is situated at 500-metres altitude.

Lavaux is an area of stunning natural beauty, so make sure you allow enough time to meander through the vineyards with their spectacular views of the lake and the Alps.

Be prepared to sample some excellent wines accompanied by local produce as a last-minute treat on your trip; Lavaux wines are well known for being an excellent companion to raclette and fondue.

8. Valmorel

This ski resort is world-renowned, and a hugely popular day trip to take from Geneva, due to its easy accessibility.

It’s perfect for some easy day skiing, and even for beginners there’s plenty of options on offer, with wide sweeping runs cascading down the mountain.

If you don’t fancy skiing, there are other snow sport options, including snow skating, tobogganing and air boarding.

The après is pretty good too, with multiple bars on offer, and the town itself has some excellent restaurants to hang out in.

9. Interlaken

Interlaken is a photographer’s dream, with the vivid greens of the hills delicately contrasting with the cerulean blues of the lake, leaving no need for post-production on pictures.

It’s hard to believe this place is real and hasn’t simply sprung into existence from a postcard.

Interlaken is also a great jumping off point for further excursions, such as riding the cable cars around the mountains and visiting the place where the Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service was filmed.

There’s also the nearby lake, which you can take a boat trip around.

10. Gruyeres

Cheese fans rejoice; Gruyeres is everything you have dreamed of.

Foodies will love this fun day trip, involving plenty of cheese and chocolate, two of the things that the Swiss do best.

You will learn about the history and process of making these foods, with tours of the food making facilities led by experts on the subject.

And don’t worry, there’s plenty of opportunities to taste test throughout the day.

The village itself is also, unsurprisingly, very picturesque, and a pleasant place to wander around as you let your food digest.

Available tour : Gruyeres Basic Tour to Medieval Village

11. Europa theme park

If you’re a bit bored of spectacular scenery, exquisite food and cultural history, then this is the day trip for you.

Europa Park is Geneva’s best theme park, complete with loop-the-looping roller coasters, hours of fun shows, wild-water rapids and plenty more.

The theme is, as the name suggests, the continent of Europe, and there are fifteen different areas reflecting varying countries and cultures.

This is a superb place to take the kids for the day, so consider it as an option when planning your holiday.

Transfer & Tickets : Europa Park Theme Park

12. Glacier 3000

Where better to take in views of Alpine peaks than from a glacier at 3000-metres? On this day trip from Geneva, you’ll drive along the lake before passing the Col du Pillon and boarding a cable car for your steep ascent.

Once you’re at the top, you can choose a leisurely walk across the frozen land, or opt for the excitement of a husky dog sled-ride if you’re visiting in summer.

Either way, the views are spectacular.

You can also choose to have your lunch on high at a restaurant designed by architect Mario Botta.

Suggested tour : Gold Tour at the Glacier 3000 and Montreux

You’ve heard of the bottled water brand, but here you have the chance to visit the place from which it takes its name: the charming lakeside village of Evian.

The crystal-clear waters of the lake and nearby springs help you understand why it rose to fame for this very reason.

Take a walk along the water for a tranquil afternoon, with the views across the lake providing a picturesque setting for a picnic.

Switzerland’s capital certainly deserves a mention on this list, and of course, the place is pristinely clean and full of sharp, well-engineered buildings alongside historic architecture.

Since 1983, the city has been recognised by UNESCO for its picturesque properties.

Ascend the Bern Cathedral for the best views from the highest point in the city, stretching out to the shores of Aare River.

Visit the Clock Tower in the city centre – one of the oldest in Switzerland – and stop off along the way for a quick coffee in one of many excellent cafes.

Culture is easy to find too, in the Einstein Museum or the Museum of Art, among many other top spots.

15. Veysonnaz

Yet another pretty ski village can be found in Veysonnaz, located slap bang in the middle of the Four Valleys, and a great place to visit for the day tripper.

That’s just the winter, though – hiking is plentiful in the summer months and the views of the valley are splendid, with verdant grass and wildflowers carpeting the slopes of the Rhone valley.

Veysonnaz is an authentic pocket of Alpine culture with the advantage of a modern infrastructure, making it easy and pleasant for visitors to get an insight into its charms.

An excellent day trip option.

15 Best Day Trips from Geneva:

• Swiss Riviera: Vevey, Montreaux and Chillon
• Lavey les Bains
• Europa theme park
• Glacier 3000

Here are Geneva’s 8 best day trips

Mar 11, 2022 • 7 min read

From medieval castles to sweeping lakeside views, here are the best day trips from Geneva © Scott Wilson / Alamy Stock Photo

It might be hard to drag yourself away from Geneva ’s ritzy lakefront, knockout Mont Blanc views and rainbow-kissed Jet d’Eau fountain, but you’ll be glad you did – trust us. This sophisticated polyglot of a Swiss city is but a day trip away from vineyards, Alpine peaks, medieval castles and towns with cultural cachet. And given that Switzerland has truly nailed slow travel, most places can be reached by boat, rail or cable car. Here we bring you eight of Geneva’s best day trips.

Take a cable car to the top of Mont Salève 

For dress-circle views of Geneva and Lac Léman to the Alps beyond, make the quick hop over the French border to 1379m Mont Salève , where a cable car hauls you to the summit in minutes. On cloudless days, the view reaches all the way to the Jura Mountains and pearl-white Mont Blanc massif. In summer, there’s lots of action at the top, with hiking, climbing and paragliding, while winter attracts sledders and cross-country skiers.

Watch this space: the cable car is set to relaunch in 2022 with a new panoramic restaurant, museum, botanical garden and climbing wall.

How to reach Mont Salève:  It’s a 20-minute drive east to Etrembières, where the cable car rises to Mont Salève. Alternatively, take bus 8 from Gare Cornavin to Veyrier-Douane, a 10-minute walk from the cable car base station.

Take in the art-inspired Château de Chillon

A medieval castle to trump them all, Château de Chillon makes people gasp out loud with its riot of towers and turrets, and ravishing backdrop lifting the gaze from the lake to the oft-snow-encrusted Alps. If the scene looks like a painting, it is: Turner committed it to canvas back in 1836, and Gustave Courbet did likewise in 1874.

And they weren’t the only ones smitten with its romance: Lord Byron penned The Prisoner of Chillon, a poem recounting the fate of François Bonivard, incarcerated here for his seditious ideas and freed by Bernese forces in 1536. Highlights of a visit include the frescoed Chapelle St Georges and the Gothic dungeons.

How to reach Château de Chillon: It’s a gentle 3km walk along flower-draped shores from Montreux to Chillon, or take bus 201. CGN boats chug here from Lausanne (1¼ hours), Vevey (50 minutes) and Montreux (15 minutes).

Vibe out in bohemian Carouge

When you tire of the crowds, take time out in nearby Carouge. Though it's just a 10-minute tram ride from Geneva, this village-within-a-city moves to its own laid-back, bohemian beat. Architecturally Carouge is a one-off, too, with plane tree-lined lanes and pastel-painted, shuttered houses overlooking courtyard gardens. It bears the 18th-century hallmark of Vittorio Amedeo III, king of Sardinia and duke of Savoy, who had grand plans to rival Geneva as a center of commerce.

 Carouge brims with appealing bars, boutiques, artists' workshops and bistros, some of which spill out onto the pavement when the sun’s out. You’ll also find the Musée de Carouge , zooming in on the neighborhood’s 19th-century glory days. Stop for lunch at Café du Marché on the main square, then return at night for tapas, jam sessions and DJ sets at the artsy Chat Noir .

How to reach Carouge: Trams 15 and 18 connect Geneva’s Gare Cornavin to Carouge in just 10 minutes.

Get a history lesson in Lausanne

If you’re culturally minded, you won’t be able to resist the siren call of Lausanne , whose medieval historic center, crowned by the weighty Gothic Cathédrale de Notre Dame , tumbles down to the lake in a maze of steep lanes and gardens. Lausanne’s sizeable student population gives it verve and more of a party scene than many a Swiss city. Factor in at least a day – if not a weekend - to do the city and its staggering location on the lake justice.

Lausanne’s star has risen more than ever recently with the opening of PLATEFORME 10 , a thrilling new arts district in born-again train sheds, bringing together the city’s three flagship museums. For more post-industrial cool, nose around the Flon district, where cafes, bars, boutiques and galleries reignite former warehouses. Try Eat Me for global tapas and cocktails, and ever-so-eccentric Le Perroquet for brunch or a G&T.

How to reach Lausanne: Regular trains zip along the lakeshore from Geneva to Lausanne (40 minutes), or it’s a 50-minute drive via the A1.

Explore the fairy-tale architecture of Nyon

Reclining serenely on the lakeshore, midway between Geneva and Lausanne, petite-and-pretty Nyon punches above its weight culturally, with a nautically themed museum , the ruins of a Roman basilica , and not one but three chateaux. Its 12th-century crowning glory is the whimsically turreted Château de Nyon , looking every inch the fairy-tale dream, where you can take a romp around the town’s historical museum, admire ringside views of the lake from the terrace, and taste red and white wines from the surrounding vineyards in its brick-vaulted basement Le Caveau de Nyon . Venture slightly out of town to reach the 18th-century mansion Château de Prangins for more historic exhibits and walks in glorious French-style gardens.

Nyon really comes into its own in summer with its lakefront lido, alfresco dining at La Plage de Nyon (try the lake perch), and proper Italian gelato at Gelateria Venezia . In July, the town rocks at Paléo , Switzerland’s biggest outdoor international music festival.

How to reach Nyon: Very frequent trains connect Geneva to Nyon (15 minutes) or it’s a 30-minute drive north along the lake via the A1.

Retreat lakeside in Montreux

With an uplifting panorama of lake and mountain, flower-rimmed shores for a promenade, a microclimate so mild that palm trees flourish, and belle époque hotels that wing you back to a more graceful era of travel, Montreux is an instant heart-stealer. Romantics from Lord Byron to the Shelleys have eulogized its views. And if you’re going to fall hard for one town on the lake, this will most likely be it.

 To enjoy the view from above, take the cogwheel train up to the 2042m peak of Rochers de Naye , surveying Lake Geneva and the Alps from on high.

If jazz rocks your boat, you’ll have surely heard of the summer Montreux Jazz Festival . Many a legend recorded albums at the Mountain Studios in Montreux Casino over the years, among them Freddie Mercury, to whom a statue and Queen: The Studio Experience are devoted.

How to reach Montreux: At the eastern tip of croissant-shaped Lac Léman, Montreux is an hour’s drive or train ride from Geneva.

Wine down in Lavaux

Rising north of Lausanne, the World Heritage-listed  Lavaux  vineyards are ridiculously lovely. Diving down to Lake Geneva, the gravity-defying slopes are intricately scaled with terrace after terrace, vine after vine, dry-stone wall after dry-stone wall. If this is the first you’ve heard of them, it’s because the wines here are so select and small-scale that many of them never leave Switzerland (lucky Swiss).

For the full-on Lavaux experience, allow time for a walk and wine tasting at local caveaux (cellars). A great springboard for the area is the adorable medieval village of Lutry. Here you can strike out on the 5.5km Grandvaux trail, stitching together vine and hamlet, before a petite dégustation (tasting) at the Domaine du Daley , the region’s oldest wine-producing estate, going strong since 1392.

How to reach the Lavaux: Trains run at least twice hourly to Lutry (one hour). Or it’s a 50-minute drive east of Geneva via the A1 if you’re driving.

Eat like royalty in Vevey

Sitting smugly on Lake Geneva’s northern shores, with an alley-woven center and views rippling across glass-blue water to the Alps, Vevey is the kind of town that makes you want to crack open a bottle of something special. And the terraced vineyards that tear up the surrounding slopes make sure there’s plenty of that. Pairing with excellent wines like crisp, flinty Chasselas whites, there’s sensational cuisine, as noted by the giant fork sculpture protruding from the lake and the food-focused Alimentarium , with its museum and cookery workshops.

 The town has certainly done its bit to put the region on the global gastro map, shining with a total of five Michelin stars and offering plenty of opportunity for saying to hell with the budget. For molecular wizardry and 20-course tasting menus, aim to score a table at the rather fabulous Denis Martin .

How to reach Vevey: Vevey is an hour’s train ride or drive east of Geneva. It’s a beautiful journey skimming the shores of the lake.

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This article was first published March 2021 and updated March 2022

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12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Geneva

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Apr 13, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

From your first look at Geneva , on the shore of beautiful Lake Geneva and surrounded by Alpine peaks, you'll see the possibilities for day trips. You'll find that the lake and mountains offer as many things to do as the city itself, from strolling the romantic old lanes of lakeside towns to marveling at glaciers high in the Alps .

On a day trip, you can ride mountain railroads and cable cars for spectacular views, visit Alpine gardens, relax in a spa, or ski and return for dinner in Geneva.

Many of these day-trip destinations can be reached by boats that ply Lake Geneva on a regular schedule. You can cruise around the lake and enjoy the scenery, hopping off the boat right in the heart of lakeside towns and cities. The steamers stop right at Chateau Chillon , one of the top places to visit in Switzerland .

As Geneva sits almost at the international border with France, it's also easy to visit the French Alps and go sightseeing in traditional French villages . Learn all about the attractions and things to do near this cosmopolitan city with our list of the top day trips from Geneva.

1. Take a Scenic Tour of Lake Geneva

2. château de chillon, 3. hike or ride up mont saleve, 4. chamonix and mont blanc, 6. lausanne, 8. montreux and the rochers-de-naye railway, 9. gruyères, 10. evian-les-bains, 12. spend a day skiing, map of day trips from geneva.

Depart from any one of the four quays along the lakefront for a boat tour of Lake Geneva that reveals magnificent mountain views , lush green hillsides with picturesque stone villages, lakeside resorts lined with Belle Epoch hotels, and the famous Château de Chillon rising out of the water. You can leave the boat at any of these to explore, rejoining a later cruise or returning by train for a different set of views of the Swiss Riviera.

At Montreux, you can board the narrow-gauge Rochers-de-Naye rack railway that climbs to 360-degree Alpine views. Eight of Lake Geneva Navigation Company's 20 boats are historic paddle wheelers , and on any, you can choose a seat on the deck or in glass-walled salons.

The formidable walls of the 9th-century Château de Chillon rise directly from the waters of Lake Geneva in one of Europe's most dramatic settings for a castle. Its literary fame as the basis for Byron's The Prisoner of Chillon arises from a true story, and you can still see the ring in the wall where François de Bonivard was held.

The Counts and Dukes of Savoy gave the castle its present form in the 13th century, but you can still explore the original foundations and cavernous underground vaults with massive pillars carved out of bedrock. Follow the well-marked tour route to see the entire castle complex, which includes upwards of 20 buildings.

Costumed guides add to the experience in some rooms with stories that bring the castle to life. Highlights of this popular tourist attraction are the kitchen, banqueting hall, Bernese Room, Heraldic Hall, the Duke's apartments, St. George's Chapel, and the Count's Great Hall with its splendid coffered ceiling and Gothic arches.

Address: Avenue de Chillon 21, Veytaux

On the French border south of Geneva, Mont Saleve is a limestone ridge that offers outstanding views of the lake and the Alps. Along with the views, you can enjoy hiking and rock climbing here, or simply take the six-minute cable car from Veyrier, at the French border, for sightseeing at an elevation of 1,143 meters.

A short distance beyond Veyrier is the summer resort of Mornex , on the southern slopes of the Petit Salève. From the resort of Monnetier, in a cleft between the Petit and Grand Salève, it is a half-hour climb to the summit of the Petit-Salève.

At 1.5 kilometers from the Monnetier, a road on the right leads to magnificent views of the Mont Blanc chain, Lake Geneva, and the Jura, as well as to a path (also about a 30-minute climb) ascending to the Crêt de Grange-Tournier. At 1,308 meter`s, this is the highest point on the Grand Salève.

The small mountain village of Chamonix , over the border in France, is less than 90 minutes away, reached on a drive through the spectacular Arve Valley, with the snowcapped French Alps rising ahead. Chamonix sits at the foot of Mont Blanc, Western Europe's tallest peak at 4,800 meters altitude.

For even better Alpine views, ride the cable car to the peak of Aiguille du Midi for a panorama that includes Mont Blanc and the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps. Its rocky summit has snow year-round and on a clear day, you can see the Matterhorn.

A cog railway makes the scenic climb to Montenvers and the Mer de Glace , a "sea of ice" where you can visit ice caves , and a museum with displays on the glacier and the building of the Montenvers railway. Although the main allure of Chamonix is its access to the Alps, the town itself is attractive, its streets lined with chalets, shops, and cafés, where you can sip hot chocolate and admire the scenery.

You can include all these on a 9.5-hour Chamonix and Mont Blanc Day Trip from Geneva , traveling into the Alps by comfortable coach and ascending the Aiguille de Midi in a modern cable car. The tour then continues by cog railway to Montenvers, to see the famous glacier, Mer de Glace.

For sheer charm, not to mention its near-perfect setting beside a mountain-backed lake, it's hard to beat the French town of Annecy , about an hour's drive from Geneva. The Counts of Geneva made Annecy their home and headquarters in the early 1200s, and you can learn more about the town's history at the museum inside the Château d'Annecy , a restored castle that dominates the Vieille Ville (old town).

But the best way to enjoy Annecy is simply to stroll its narrow streets and soak up the scenery of medieval houses that line its canals and lanes. Canals surround the Palais de l'Isle, a 12th-century fortress that was once a prison. Today, it vies with the graceful Lovers' Bridge as Annecy's favorite photo op.

An easy way to get here is on a five-hour Annecy Half-Day Tour from Geneva , traveling across the border by coach and taking a walking tour of Annecy's landmarks with a professional guide before enjoying time to explore on your own. You can choose a morning or afternoon tour.

While this city on the north shore of Lake Geneva is usually thought of as a center of business and commerce, which it most certainly is, Lausanne is also a beautiful city and an interesting place to visit. Its streets and a trolley line climb steeply from the steamer landing and shoreline promenade to the cathedral . This important medieval landmark has a 13th-century Apostles Doorway of painted stone sculptures and a glorious 13th-century stained glass rose window .

Descend via the picturesque Escaliers du Marche , a long covered flight of steps, to Place de la Palud , where you'll find Lausanne's oldest fountain and an animated clock that reenacts scenes from local history every hour. On Wednesday and Saturday mornings, the square and adjoining streets become a lively farmers market.

Along the lakeshore, a garden-edged promenade lined by grand Belle Epoch hotels connects the steamer landing and 12th-century castle of Château d'Ouchy with the Olympic Museum . Lausanne is the world headquarters of the Olympics. Other outstanding museums exhibit fine arts, art brut, contemporary design, and photography, as well as Lausanne's Roman past.

One of the prettiest towns on the lake, Vevey combines medieval buildings with Belle Epoch style and makes them seem right at home with each other. At its center is one of Europe's largest market squares, filled on Tuesday and Saturday mornings with local farmers, food producers, florists, and craftspeople.

Vevey was the home of Charlie Chaplin, whose statue overlooks the lake. Nearby, its presence announced by a giant fork standing in the lake, is the excellent Alimentarium an interactive museum of food history, sources, traditions, lore, and science.

Farther along the lakeside promenade are beautiful hotels from the late 1800s, the star of which is Grand Hotel du Lac , made famous by the Booker prize-winning novel that was both set and written here. A castle at the edge of the lake contains a small museum. Vevey is known for both its dining and its shopping.

The lakeside city of Montreux rings with Belle Epoch grandeur, with its grand hotels, flower-studded terraces, and promenades along the water. Each summer in June and July Montreux hosts the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival . For a sense of the opulence of late 19th-century travel, step inside the grandest of the Swiss Riviera's grand hotels, the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace , which is still the haunt of visiting celebrities.

For views of the lake from on high, as well as panoramic Alpine vistas, take the train to Glion, in the hills above town, and board the Rochers-de-Naye rack railway for the scenic ride up to the mountain top of the Rochers de Naye . At the summit, if you can tear your eyes from the views in every direction, visit the marmot house , the small nature museum, and the vertiginous La Rambertia Alpine gardens. In the winter, this becomes a center for Alpine skiing .

The name of this hilltop village is forever linked with that of the local cheese, and on a day trip here, you can watch this famous cheese being made and sample the real thing. The village itself is postcard perfect, topped by a large medieval castle, Château de Gruyères . Exhibits inside reflect its eight centuries of history, and below is a formal garden.

As well-known as its cheese is the chocolate produced here, and you can visit Maison Cailler, the chocolate factory in Broc, on the way to Gruyeres. An easy way to see both is on the Day Trip to Gruyères Medieval Village & Chocolate Factory from Geneva . The full-day excursion includes guided tours and tastings at both.

The French town of Evian, on the southern shore of Lake Geneva, was known as a spa town by the mid-1800s, its fame enhanced by the mineral water that was bottled from its springs. Its therapeutic qualities had been identified in the late 1700s by an aristocrat fleeing the French Revolution.

To underscore its position as a spa town, the name was changed in 1865 to Evian-les-Bains. By the end of the century, there were more than 20 hotels, and its shore and the hillsides behind it were studded with villas.

Like the elaborate pump house, built in 1902, many of these were in the fashionable Art Nouveau style; the hotels favored the grandiose Belle Epoch architecture, as did the extravagant Palais Lumière , built as a fashionable spa. Now a venue for art exhibits, the interior of the Palais Lumière is an extravaganza of Art Nouveau decoration.

Evian is still one of Europe's most fashionable spas, a genteel world of lakeside parks and promenades, villas, and grand hotels that have hosted a litany of famous guests: English and Egyptian kings, maharajas and the Aga Kahn, as well as socialites and the literati, including Marcel Proust.

From the first view of its medieval stone-paved lanes, well-preserved buildings, and flower-draped balconies, it's easy to see why Les Plus Beaux Villages de France named Yvoire one of France's most beautiful villages.

The setting at the end of a small peninsula with the snow-covered Savoy Alps as a backdrop only enhances the scene. It's a town for wandering, stopping in cafés and shops to admire the work of local artisans.

For determined sightseers, there is a museum of local history inside the 14th-century castle, Château d'Yvoire , and Le Jardin des Cinq Sens , a garden designed to appeal to all five senses. If you can, plan to travel at least one way by lake steamer, for the best views of Yvoire sitting along the lake with the Alps behind it.

Geneva is surrounded by some of the best skiing in Europe , with world-class ski resorts as close as an hour away. In less than 90 minutes, you have an even wider choice. Make the most of a winter trip with a day skiing at one of these top French ski resorts.

An hour from Geneva, La Clusaz is known for its reliable snow conditions (the slopes reach up to 2,600 meters altitude) and wide variety of terrain for all levels of skier.

The same distance from Geneva, Samoëns, France, is also a great place for beginning and intermediate skiers but will challenge experts with some of the steepest pistes in the Alps . The town is a charmer, a typical Savoy mountain village of stone houses with Mont Blanc rising majestically behind it.

Only 15 minutes farther from Geneva is one of the top ski resorts in France , the famous Chamonix , on the slopes of Mont Blanc. Although there's plenty of terrain for every level, expert skiers and riders will be especially happy here.

More on Switzerland

The Perfect Chamonix Day Trip from Geneva

Last Updated on September 25, 2023

by Neota Langley

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The beating heart of the French Alps, Chamonix is a charming alpine town nestled in the valley below the Mont Blanc Massif mountain range. With a dramatic backdrop of towering peaks and mesmerising glaciers, taking a Chamonix day trip from Geneva opens up a world of opportunity.

During the France winter months , Chamonix transforms into a snowy wonderland, welcoming skiers and snowboarders from across the globe to its pristine slopes. As the snow melts, the mountains reveal winding hiking trails, endless rock climbing opportunities, and stunning views across the valley. 

Table of Contents

How to Get from Geneva to Chamonix

By organised tour.

Taking a day trip to Chamonix from Geneva is a popular choice, with several pre-established tours available if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of planning a self-guided day trip. 

There are two types of tours available from Geneva , guided or unguided. They both include transfers, cable car tickets to Aiguille du Midi and train tickets to the Mer de Glace. The difference is that one includes a knowledgeable guide, providing local insights and information along the way.

This full-day tour or this full-day tour is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a guide to take you around Chamonix.

Otherwise, this full-day tour or this full-day tour is a good choice if you prefer a bit more independence on your trip to Chamonix.

They are both excellent value for money, seeing as they include travel and all of the activities for the day. If you are new to the area and don’t have time to spend a few days in Chamonix , this is the perfect way to see the sights and learn more about this incredible valley. There is also the option to take a private tour if you prefer.

If you want to forge your own path and explore Chamonix without a guide, it is entirely possible to take a train from Geneva to Chamonix, but this option requires a few transfers.

First, you will need to take the train from Geneva to Martigny in Switzerland. From Martigny, you’ll transfer to a train heading to Chamonix-Mont Blanc station.

You could also opt to take the Léman Express train to Saint Gervais-Les-Bains-Le Fayet, then change onto the Mont Blanc Express to take you to Chamonix.

This journey takes around 2.5 hrs, but trains are less frequent than the first option, so it may not be the best option for a day trip from Geneva to Chamonix.

Several shuttle companies and bus services operate between Geneva and Chamonix. Buses typically depart from Geneva’s main central bus station, known as the Geneva Bus Station (Gare Routière Genève).

This is one of the most popular ways to reach Chamonix from Geneva as this is a well-travelled route all year round. Shuttle services are usually the most affordable, direct way to travel.

Depending on traffic, this route usually takes between 1.5 and 2 hrs, which is also faster than the train. You can view schedules here.

The most flexible option is to rent a car at Geneva Airport or in the city. The drive to Chamonix takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and the weather conditions. The traffic is usually fairly light around Chamonix but can get heavier during rush hour, so try to avoid travelling at this time. 

The route is incredibly straightforward, keeping to the main highways. First, you take the A1 motorway from Geneva towards Lausanne, then follow signs for the A40 towards Chamonix and Mont Blanc. The A40 runs directly into the heart of Chamonix, with the largest car park on the right at the last roundabout before the town centre. 

There are several smaller car parks at either end of the town, but these can fill up quickly during the peak seasons. If you want to save some pennies, you can park for free by the outdoor climbing wall beside Lac Sinclair and walk into the town itself, which takes around 10 minutes.

You will need a vignette for driving on the motorway in Switzerland , but if you are hiring a car, the hire company will have taken care of this for you. If you need to rent a car for your trip, you can browse Rentalcars.com which compares prices across major companies.

When you arrive in France, there are a few sections of tolled road, but this won’t add up to much. You can select’ avoid toll roads’ on your navigation system to take a detour, but this will add another 30 minutes. 

One benefit to having a car is it can allow you to make a trip from Chamonix and continue onward in France rather than return to Geneva at the end of the day. For instance, Chamonix is located only about an hour and twenty minutes from the lovely city of Annecy in France.

Chamonix Day Trip Itinerary

There is so much to do in one day in Chamonix that planning an itinerary may seem overwhelming at first. If you are an adrenaline junkie, you could easily fill the day with high-tempo adventure activities such as rafting, paragliding or climbing.

If you are visiting for the first time and want to make the most of this outdoor paradise, this itinerary gives you a taste of the urban town centre, whisks you high up into the mountains and gives you the opportunity to explore an ice cave below one of France’s largest glaciers, Mer de Glace. 

The first stop on any day trip itinerary should be breakfast. Luckily, Chamonix is home to several boulangeries where you can find delicious flaky French pastries. Enjoy a morning croissant or pain au chocolat paired with a rich espresso while savouring the crisp mountain air. Even if you only have 1 day, this is one of the best things to do in Chamonix to kick off your trip.

Aiguille du Midi 

Surrounded by the Mont Blanc Massif mountain range, Aiguille du Midi (directly translated into English as ‘Needle in the sky’) is a towering pinnacle of a mountain rising high above Chamonix. At an altitude of 3,842 metres, Aiguille du Midi is one of the highest cable cars in Europe, and the journey to the summit is just as thrilling as you would imagine. 

Two adjoining cable cars ascend with almost gravity-defying grace, treating passengers to mesmerising, panoramic views of snow-draped peaks and glaciers. It’s a thrilling ascent that leaves you breathless even before you reach the summit. 

At the top, a sprawling observation deck reveals a 360-degree panorama of alpine splendour. Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe, stands as a formidable neighbour, its snow-covered peak piercing the sky. If you take binoculars, you can see intrepid explorers climbing to the summit from the observation deck. 

Inside the top station, you will find a detailed history of Aiguille du Midi, the construction of the station and stories of alpinists throughout history. There is also a cafe and restaurant where you can enjoy a drink with a direct view of Mont Blanc. 

For the brave, the “Step into the Void” experience awaits. A transparent glass box that extends over the precipice, offering a bird’s-eye view of the abyss below. You usually have to queue to ‘step into the void’, but it moves quickly, so you shouldn’t have to wait too long. 

Across the valley from Aiguille du Midi, on the other side of Chamonix, you will find Brevent. At 2,525 metres high, this peak is much lower than Aiguille du Midi, so if you have less time to explore or want to have a go at paragliding back down into the valley, this mountain makes a great alternative.

There is also something special about looking across at the needle point of Aiguille du Midi and the domed peak of Mont Blanc – it is incredibly picturesque. 

The journey begins with a cable car ride that whisks you from Chamonix town to the summit of Brevent. As you ascend, the Chamonix Valley unveils itself in all its glory, with Mont Blanc dominating the skyline.

The view is nothing short of spectacular, a canvas of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and the charming town of Chamonix below. If you are an avid hiker, you could pass on the cable car tickets and hike up to the summit. It is a challenging hike, with 1,500m of elevation, so should only be attempted by experienced hikers. 

Whilst you could take the cable car back down the mountain after enjoying the views and visiting the cafe at the summit, there is an alternative way to descend for adventure enthusiasts. Paragliding down Brevent is an exhilarating experience that allows thrill seekers to take flight amidst the stunning backdrop of the French Alps.

A 20-30 minute flight can vary is price, depending on the season. As your parachute-like wing catches the breeze, you’re suspended in mid-air, soaring like an eagle. The awe-inspiring vistas of Mont Blanc and Chamonix Valley unfold below.

As you return to the valley below, you are sure to have built up an appetite. There are hundreds of cafes and restaurants in and around Chamonix offering traditional Savoie cuisine alongside international dishes from around the world. 

Seeing as we are midway through a busy Chamonix day trip, you ideally want something quick and easy before heading off on your next adventure. One of the best places to find delicious street food is just off the main high street, hidden away beside the river.

Cool Cats is an institution favoured by visitors and locals alike. They specialise in gourmet hot dogs (vegetarian and vegan also available) with incredible toppings and sides. 

If you would prefer something sweet, head to Aux Petits Gourmands. This traditional French patisserie is full of sweet treats disguised as art. For a taste of Alpine tradition, try the local speciality, tarte aux myrtilles, a delicious blueberry tart. 

Chamonix Town Centre

After lunch, take some time to stroll through the town centre. Chamonix is a shopping enthusiast’s dream destination, with several outdoor gear stores, designer boutiques and artisan producers. If you have a penchant for outdoor equipment, Snell Sports is a huge store over 4 stories where you will find climbing gear, clothing, footwear and winter sports equipment all under one roof.

If you want to fill your suitcase with delicious Savoie specialities, don’t miss Le Refuge Payot. Shelves stacked high with regional saucisson, cheeses, wine and locally made condiments and trinkets. 

There is one main high street in Chamonix, so instead of turning around and coming back the way you came, you can walk back along the Arve River. Born from the melting glaciers of the Mont Blanc Massif, this pristine alpine river flows through the town centre with crystal-clear waters. Its banks, lined with lush flora, offer peaceful spots for picnics and time out from the bustling centre.

Montenvers Train & Mer de Glace

The final activity on our day trip to Chamonix from Geneva is the Montenvers Train. This cogwheel railway embarks on an incredible ascent from the heart of Chamonix to the Montenvers station.

As you traverse the steep alpine terrain, the vintage red carriages and the rhythmic clatter of the wheels create an undeniable sense of nostalgia and adventure. Along the way, the windows frame jaw-dropping vistas of the Mont Blanc Massif.

Arriving at Montenvers, you are greeted by a truly awe-inspiring spectacle – the Mer de Glace, a vast river of ice. At 7km long and 200m deep, the Mer de Glace (or Sea of Ice in English) glacier is the largest in France.

A steep staircase made up of 430 steps leads you to the glacier’s edge, where you can explore 100m into an ice cave carved deep into its heart. This cave entrance has to be moved 70m every year to keep up with the melting of the glacier itself.

This journey is not just about the breathtaking beauty. It’s a poignant reminder of the impact of climate change. Markers document the glacier’s retreat, emphasising the urgent need for action to save our climate. If you want to learn more about glaciology, how glaciers form, and their history, you can visit The Glaciorium, an exhibit beside the glacier, open from June to September.

There is also a restaurant on site if you get peckish, but for our final meal in Chamonix, we are heading back down into the valley. 

Chamonix’s culinary scene is home to a wonderful fusion of traditional French and Alpine flavours. Savoyard cuisine reigns supreme here, featuring indulgent dishes like raclette and fondue, where melted cheese takes centre stage.

Hearty mountain dishes, including rich stews and charcuterie, refuel mountaineers, hikers and skiers all year round. 

There are hundreds of restaurants to choose from, but if you want to experience a fondue or raclette in a traditional setting, Le Monchu is an excellent choice. You can opt to dine inside, where the decor matches a cosy chalet, complete with roaring open fire or outside on the terrace.

Where to Stay in Geneva

Hotel Astoria – Mid-range visitors keen to go on a day trip to Chamonix will love this hotel near Geneva’s train station. They have a range of lovely rooms to choose from along with breakfast available each morning.

Hotel D Geneva – Those after a luxury stay in Geneva will love this plush hotel located in the city centre. They offer an array of gorgeous rooms to choose from, there’s breakfast each morning and they have a great location for exploring the city and embarking on day trips.

City Hostel Geneva  – If you’re visiting Geneva or Chamonix on a budget, then this hostel is a great choice. they have a number of dorms and private rooms available along with good common areas and self-catering facilities available for guests.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Geneva hotels! 

Visiting Chamonix as a day trip from Geneva is an excellent way to experience the highlights of the French Alps in a short period of time. Whether you’re there to ski in the winter or to enjoy the mountain scenery in the summer, there’s no doubt that this is an excellent place to visit.

Are you planning to visit Chamonix? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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The Perfect Weekend in Geneva: A 2-Day Itinerary

The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in Switzerland Itinerary

The Perfect 1, 2 to 3 Days in Toulouse Itinerary

About Neota Langley

Neota is a writer for The World Was Here First. Born and bred in Cornwall, she can usually be found with hiking boots on, ready to embark on an adventure. For the last 6 years, she has travelled throughout Europe in her self-built campervan with her trusty canine companion, Ivy. She loves exploring France, the Nordics and spending time in Alpine destinations.

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Day trips from Geneva

Annecy To many, Annecy is the most beautiful city in all of France. The city – just 35 km south of Geneva – is a must for day trippers, especially in summer. The ancient town is known for it’s incredible lake front beaches along Lake Annecy and for the maze of ancient canals running through the old town, garnering Annecy the nickname “Venice of the Savoie.” The Palais de l'Isle, Saint Peter’s Cathedral, and Annecy Castle, are major historic monuments for when you get tired of the beach.

Montreux For the first two weeks in July, Montreux transforms into the coolest place in Switzerland during the world famous Montreux jazz festival. But Montreux is worth visiting anytime of year for its incredible up close views of the Swiss Alps looming overhead and its beautiful lakefront promenade. The city was originally intended as a resort area and retains its resort atmosphere with many large old-style hotels located throughout the city.

Gruyeres If you’re looking for the consummate Swiss alpine village, look no further than Gruyeres. You can visit the famous Gruyeres cheese factory or just take in the breathtaking mountain views from one of the city’s many terraced restaurants. The sound of cowbells is never far off and you’ll never go hungry in this beloved Swiss berg. www.la-gruyere.ch

Pays de Gex (St. Genis – Gex – Ferney – Divonne ) Pays de Gex and its surrounding towns are famous for the local hot springs that permeate the area and are said to have healing powers. Every town has its own resort with public thermal baths and adjoining health and spa facilities. Located just 15 km north of Geneva at the foot of the Jura mountain range.

Chillon Chillon castle is Switzerland’s most famous castle situated on a rocky outcropping on Lake Geneva’s northern shore. The castle is fully restored and furnished with a collection of excavated antique weapons, chests and other items. Daily guided and self-guided tours are offered year round.

Chamonix Located across the Arve Valley approximately 90 minutes from Geneva by car, Chamonix is home to world class ski resorts and abounding with outdoor activities of every extreme. The two stage cable car to the top of the Aiguille du Midi is popular with day trippers and promises second-to-none views of the Alps on a clear day.

Champéry

Vallee de Joux

Mont Salève

Verbier (Mountain Ski Resort )

Other beautiful towns not far from Geneva are: Dijon, Lion, Besançon, Turin, Milan, Genoa and Nice.

If You are in Europe for a longer time, deffinitely have a look to Paris .

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How to Plan Beautiful Day Trips from Geneva

Thanks to its location, a stone-throw from Switzerland’s border with France, there are many beautiful day trips from Geneva. Whether it’s an excursion on the majestic Mont Blanc, a visit to picture-perfect Annecy, or a jaunt to the charming town of Gruyères, your Geneva day trip will be an unforgettable experience.

Geneva is known for its charming old town, the lovely lakeshore, and for being home to the main international organizations, not least the Red Cross and the United Nations. While the city is worth spending one or two days, there’s also a lot to explore nearby, and you can have fabulous day trips from Geneva. Thanks to its geographic location, you can easily discover a bit of Switzerland and France. There’s also an exciting bonus. You’ll experience one of Switzerland’s famous scenic train rides to reach many destinations.

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Best day trips from Geneva

Chamonix and the majestic mont blanc: an unforgettable geneva day trip.

Strategically located at the border between Switzerland and France, Geneva is very close to the Alps and Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe. Chamonix, the world-famous mountain resort, is only about one hour away, and from there, you have several options to explore the valley. Chamonix and the Mont Blanc are arguably one of the preferred day trips from Geneva. And for a good reason. The alpine landscape is just breathtaking!

I am passionate about mountains and glaciers; therefore, I recommend that you ride the Aiguille du Midi cable car. Once you reach the top, at 3,842m (12,605ft), you’ll get to see one of the most jaw-dropping alpine scenery. Imagine being surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glaciers, feeling like you were on top of the world.

High altitude can be an issue for some people, though. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t admire stunning glaciers. Go onboard the famous Chamonix red cog train to Montenvers (1,913m / 6,276ft), where you’ll get beautiful views of the Mer de Grace glacier and the Grandes Jorasses mountain range.

How to get from Geneva to Chamonix

You can catch a bus between Geneva and Chamonix, although there are not many throughout the day. Check out the timetable and prices -> Here

Day tours from Geneva to Chamonix

Chamonix Mont-Blanc Day Trip from Geneva : a full-day tour by minibus to discover Chamonix. Once there, you can choose your preferred mountain excursion.

Chamonix, Aiguille du Midi & Mer de Glace Full-Day Trip : visit Chamonix and discover the Aiguille du Midi or the Mer the Glace.

High altitude is not for everyone, but you can have a lovely day trip to Chamonix to enjoy the beautiful scenery and visit charming Yvoire .

Montreux and the picturesque Chillon Castle

Montreux is home to one of Switzerland’s most iconic images: the one of the Chillon castle reflecting in the water. There are many things to do in Montreux, and the visit to the Chillon castle is only one of them.

Montreux lakefront is easily the prettiest of Lake Geneva, always perfectly kept and decorated with beautiful flowers at almost any season. I suggest you walk to the castle. It only takes about 30-40 minutes, and you’ll have a stroll in a charming setting. Chillon is built on limestone rock and in a strategic position on what was once the path leading to Italy to the south and Germany to the north. Starting in the 12th century, the castle became the House of Savoy’s summer residency and thus was expanded. At the end of the 16th century, the Savoy lost control of the castle, which later became a prison.

The medieval Chateau de Chillon is one of the top attractions in Montreux , so you may want to buy your ticket in advance to avoid possible queues and waste of time.

Montreux is a must-see for all Freddy Mercury and Queen fans. The band visited the Swiss city for the first time in 1978. They would regularly come and go since they bought a registration studio, where they recorded six albums. From 1987 until he died in 1991, Freddy Mercury spent more and more time in Montreux, where he could find the tranquillity he needed to face his illness. The city paid its tribute to the unforgotten singer by erecting a giant statue sculpted by Irena Sedlecká towering on the shore of lake Geneva. You can even book a Freddy Mercury tour to learn about his time in Montreux, his house and favorite places.

How to get from Geneva to Montreux

It’s very easy to reach Montreux from Geneva by train, and it takes about one hour. You can check the timetable and buy your ticket here

If you prefer organised tours, have a look at the day trip from Geneva to Montreux and the Chillon castle , wit h free time to explore on your own.

Best tours in Montreux

• Take a 2-hour lake cruise and enjoy the beautiful lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains.
• Almost halfway between Montreux and Lausanne, Chaplin’s Word is a must-see for all cinema fans. At the Manoir, where Chaplin lived for 25 years, you’ll have an amazing experience. Book your ticket in advance here !

Lausanne, its colorful old town and great museums

While Geneva is known for housing many of the most important international NGOs, Lausanne is recognised as the “Olympic city”. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) sits there, as well as the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Furthermore, the Olympic Museum opened in 1993 and has become one of the top attractions in Lausanne.

The old town with its colorful houses is charming. Don’t miss visiting the gothic Cathedral, dating back to the year 1170. Built as a catholic church, the Cathedral was turned into a Protestant religious building with the Protestant Reformation in the mid-16th century.

The promenade bordering the lake is enchanting and relaxing. From Quai d’Ouchy to the Ouchy waterfront, where the boats depart, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the mountains and France on the opposite side of the lake. This is also where you’ll find the Olympic Museum and the Hotel Beau-Rivage, one of the most exclusive in Switzerland and hosting so many VIPs.

How to get from Geneva to Lausanne

It’s quick and easy to reach Montreux from Geneva by train, and it takes about 45 to 50 minutes. You can check the timetable and buy your ticket here

If you prefer organised tours, have a look at the day trip from Geneva to Lausanne, Vevey, Montreux and Chillon castle .

Best tours in Lausanne

• One of the best day tours from Lausanne is a walk in the beautiful Lavaux terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover vine stories and taste the delicious local wine on this day trip .
• Although you’d have to get to Lausanne from Geneva on your own, there’s a very interesting day trip to discover the best of the “Swiss Riviera”. It includes visits to Chaplin’s World, the Lavaux terraces, Vevey, Montreux and Chillon castle.
• If you’re keen to visit the French shore of Lake Geneva, there’s an independent excursion by boat to Evian , a charming town well known also for its mineral water.

Visit the picture-perfect village of Gruyères

There are countless lovely towns throughout the country, but Gruyères is easily one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland you can visit.

You may have heard of Gruyère cheese , which is produced in this area (but beware of the ones just “stealing the name”). Actually, many people call Gruyère a cheese that is not: it’s Emmenthal, easy to recognize for its large holes. Saying that Emmenthal is almost the same as Gruyères – produced in the region – is like affirming that a Fiat car is the same as a BMW. if you haven’t tasted it yet (I mean, the real thing), this is the right time to catch up.

Gruyères was built following the typical medieval structure: a castle perched atop a hill to dominate the valley and counter possible attacks. The town was circled by walls, and you can still see some ruins. The village is tiny but so cute that you’ll fall in love.

While you’re in Gruyères village, you can also visit the cheese factory and the nearby Cailler chocolate factory.

How to get from Geneva to Gruyères

If you want to go independently, you must know that by train it takes 2 hours to get from Geneva to Gruyères. No worries, you won’t get bored since it’s one of Switzerland’s most scenic train journeys . Check out the timetables and fares -> Here .

If you prefer organised tours, have a look at these day trips from Geneva.

Best day trips to Gruyères from Geneva

• A full-day excursion from Geneva to discover Gruyères . You’ll ride the scenic Panoramic Golden Express, visit the chocolate factory, and see the cheese factory. There will be time to explore the village at your pace, and you’ll also get to taste the delicious cheese fondue.
• A cheaper option is the Gruyères day trip from Geneva without the panoramic train ride and the cheese fondue. You’ll still enjoy the scenery, but from a luxury coach, and the trip includes the Cailler chocolate factory and a visit to the cheese museum.
• There’s also a private day tour to Gruyères from Geneva , which is a good option if you’re a family or a group of up to four people.

You can read my dedicated post if you wish to know more about Gruyères and why it’s one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland.

Discover charming Annecy

The small city of Annecy is only 40 km away and thus makes a perfect day trip from Geneva. A medieval town whose origins date back to the 14th century, Annecy is charming.

Located on the banks of the Annecy lake and the Thiou river and surrounded by mountains, Annecy is actually one of the most picturesque cities of France Haute Savoie 2. Stroll along the canals lined by colorful houses, get lost in the cobblestone alleys, climb to the castle, walk along the lakeshore, and chill out at one of the many cute cafes.

How to get from Geneva to Annecy, France

The easiest way to travel from Geneva to Annecy is by bus. The journey takes about 1 hour. Check here the timetables and prices.

Day trips to Annecy from Geneva

• A day tour combining Geneva, Switzerland and Annecy, France . The excursion includes sightseeing of Geneva’s top attractions, after which you’ll cross the border to France to discover picturesque Annecy.

If you’re short of time, you might also consider a half-day trip to Annecy from Geneva . You won’t have much time to explore, but it will still give you a taste of this charming little city.

Explore Bern, the Swiss capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Tourists often overlook the capital of Switzerland, although the city is beautiful. The old town is compact and not too big. Therefore, you can discover Bern’s main attractions on a day trip from Geneva.

The old city, built on a hill and surrounded by the emerald-green Aare river, is a little jewel. From the middle age onward, the historical center developed a consistent architectural style, earning Bern the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. I spent some time in Bern over the last few years and never got tired of the charming alleys, the beautiful allegoric fountains, the colorful flags, and the view of the Alps.

There’s no better way to explore the city than getting lost in the alleys. After all, the old town is not that big, and you’ll find your way back, eventually. A must-see is the Zytglogge , the tower with the famous astronomical clock dating back to the early 15th century. If you love modern art and architecture, don’t miss visiting the Paul Klee Zentrum . The building designed by famous Italian architect Renzo Piano is beautiful, and the collection of Paul Klee artworks is incredible.

How to get from Geneva to Bern

Zytglogge – Tour through the Clock Tower : a 50-minute tour to discover one of Bern main landmarks.

A tour of Bern with a local : see some of Bern top attractions with an unconventional guide

No matter which tour you end up picking, these Geneva day trips won’t disappoint you.

Where to stay in Geneva

The Ruby Claire Hotel Geneva is strategically located close to many of Geneva main attractions. It features modern and stylish decor at affordable prices (considering that Switzerland is expensive).

The cozy and stylish Eastwest Hôtel is located close to the lake and the train station, withing walking distance to several Geneva landmarks and many nearby public transportation options.

For the ultimate luxury experience, there’s no better place in Geneva than the Hotel Beau-Rivage . Located in Ouchy, the Beau-Rivage boasts magnificent views of the lake and the alps. Since its opening in 1861, this beautiful Belle Epoque building has hosted many celebrities, including Nelson Mandela, Coco Chanel, King Hussein and Queen Noor of Jordan, to mention only a few.

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Travel addict and passionate about photography, Simon Falvo started Wild About Travel back in 2009. Leveraging her strong PR background, she developed an extensive knowledge of Digital Communications and Content Creation. Besides travel writing Simon holds workshops and trainings, she collaborated with tourism boards for digital marketing campaigns and participated as a speaker at several events.

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Best day trips from Geneva

Welcome to the land of cheese, chocolate, and watches! Geneva is a beautiful city that offers plenty of things to see and do. But what if you’re craving more adventure? Fortunately, there are many amazing day trips from Geneva that will take your breath away. From stunning alpine peaks to picturesque vineyards and charming medieval towns, this region has something for everyone. If you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Switzerland and France, keep reading because we’ve got the best day trips from Geneva covered!

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Montreux is a beautiful lakeside town in the Swiss Alps that is just a short train ride from Geneva. There are many things to do in Montreux, including exploring the old town , visiting the Chateau de Chillon, and taking a cruise on Lake Geneva.

The Chateau de Chillon is one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist attractions. This medieval castle is located on an island in Lake Geneva and can be reached by boat from Montreux. The castle has three courtyards, a dungeon, and many rooms that are open to the public. You can also enjoy views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains from the castle walls .

A cruise on Lake Geneva is a great way to relax and take in the stunning scenery. There are several companies that offer cruises from Montreux, and you can choose between sightseeing cruises and dinner cruises. During your cruise, you’ll likely see some of Geneva’s most famous landmarks , such as St. Pierre Cathedral and the Jet d’Eau fountain.

Lausanne is the capital of the canton of Vaud in Switzerland and is located on the shores of Lake Geneva. The city has a population of about 140,000 and is an important economic, political, and cultural center in Switzerland . Lausanne is home to many international organizations, including the International Olympic Committee , and the city has a long history of hosting sporting events. Lausanne is also a major center for higher education, with three universities and several other institutions of higher learning.

• Take a cable car up to Mount Pilatus for panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne
• Visit the medieval town of Gruyeres , home to a castle, museums, and delicious cheese
• Take a boat ride on Lake Geneva to see some of the lavish villas that line its shores
• Head to Montreux to stroll along the promenade and enjoy views of Lake Geneva and the nearby mountains
• Spend a day in the Swiss capital of Bern, with its historic old town and famous clock tower

Gruyere is a small town located in the canton of Fribourg, Switzerland . It is best known for its cheese, which has been made in the area since the 12th century. The town is also home to the Gruyere Castle, which dates back to the 13th century. Visitors to Gruyere can enjoy walking through the old town, visiting the castle, and of course, tasting the local cheese.

The nearby St. Germain mini-castle houses the H. R. Giger museum. The fantastical work of the Oscar-winning director and “Alien” creator is on display here. The Tibet Museum, which opened in 2009 and features more than 300 Buddhist sculptures, pictures, and ritual works from different Himalayan regions, can be found in the heart of the town with no traffic.

Superior culinary offerings and a cutting-edge show dairy give the town its own special allure.

If you’re looking for a day trip from Geneva, consider Bern, the capital of Switzerland. This charming city is home to a number of historic sights, including the Bernese Alps, the Old City , and the Zytglogge, a medieval clock tower. You can also enjoy a stroll through one of Bern’s many parks or visit one of its museums.

The Swiss capital of Bern is located in western Switzerland, on the banks of the Aare river . The old town, which dates back to medieval times, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to it being well-preserved and still retaining much of its original architecture.

Zurich is a popular day trip destination from Geneva. Located in the heart of Switzerland, Zurich is known for its financial district, its vibrant nightlife, and its scenic location on the shores of Lake Zurich. There are plenty of things to see and do in Zurich , making it the perfect place to spend a day or two away from Geneva. Here are some of the best things to do on a day trip to Zurich:

• Explore the Old Town: The historic old town of Zurich is full of charming cobbled streets and medieval buildings. Start at the Bahnhofstrasse , the city’s main shopping street, and then head to the Fraumünster church with its beautiful stained glass windows. Wander through the narrow streets and alleyways, stopping for a coffee or lunch in one of the many cafes and restaurants.
• Visit Lakeside Attractions: Take a stroll along the promenade on Lake Zurich, or go for a swim in one of the many public pools. If you’re feeling active , hire a paddle boat or go for a hike in the nearby Uetliberg forest. In winter, you can even go ice skating on the lake!
• Experience Swiss Culture: No trip to Switzerland would be complete without experiencing some traditional Swiss culture. Head to one of Zurich’s museums such as the Swiss National Museum or take a ride on an old-fashioned cogwheel train up to Uetliberg Mountain. Or why not try some

Lucerne is a beautiful lakeside city in central Switzerland . It’s situated near the Alps, making it a popular destination for outdoor lovers. The city is also home to several museums and historical landmarks.

If you’re looking for a day trip from Geneva, Lucerne is the perfect place to explore. Here are some of the best things to do in Lucerne:

• Visit the Chapel Bridge: The Chapel Bridge is one of Lucerne’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a wooden bridge that spans across the River Reuss. The bridge is decorated with paintings of Swiss saints and has a tower at each end.
• Explore Old Town: Old Town is the medieval city center of Lucerne. It’s filled with narrow streets, historic buildings, and cute cafes. Be sure to visit the Lion Monument while you’re here.
• Take a boat ride on Lake Lucerne: Lake Lucerne is a large lake in central Switzerland. You can take a boat ride around the lake to enjoy the stunning scenery. There are also several islands located in the lake that you can visit by boat.
• Visit Mt Pilatus: Mt Pilatus is a mountain located near Lucerne. You can take a gondola up to the top of the mountain for stunning views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne below.

St. Moritz is a municipality in the district of Maloja in the Swiss canton of Graubünden. It is located on the southern shore of Lake Geneva at the foot of the Alps. The town is a popular tourist destination and was the venue for the Winter Olympics in 1928 and 1948.

The town has a long history as a winter resort and was first mentioned in Roman times as Summoritium. It gained popularity in the 19th century as a health resort and was frequented by aristocrats from all over Europe . In 1864, it was visited by Tsar Alexander II of Russia, who built a Russian Orthodox church there.

The local economy is reliant on tourism and winter sports, with facilities for ice hockey, ice skating, curling, sledding, ski jumping, and more. There are also several golf courses in the area.

There are several museums in St. Moritz, including the Engadin Museum which houses artifacts from the region’s history, the Segantini Museum which features work by the 19th-century painter Giovanni Segantini, and the Stätts

Annecy is a charming town located in the French Alps, just a short drive from Geneva. This beautiful town is known for its quaint old town, canals, and stunning mountain views. There are plenty of things to do in Annecy, making it the perfect day trip from Geneva.

There are also several museums worth visiting, including the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire and the Musée Paysanne. And no trip to Annecy would be complete without trying some of the local delicacies, like fondue or tartiflette.

With so much to see and do, Annecy makes for a perfect day trip from Geneva.

If you’re looking for a day trip that’s full of adventure, Chamonix is the perfect place for you. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, whether you’re interested in hiking, skiing, or simply exploring the town. Chamonix is also home to some of the best views in the Alps, so be sure to bring your camera!

Yvoire is known for its beautiful gardens, which are open to the public between April and October. The Jardin des Cinq Sens garden features a variety of plants and herbs, while the Garden of Poetry offers stunning views of the lake below. Visitors can also explore the nearby vineyards and take a boat ride across Lake Geneva to explore other parts of the region. With so much to see and do, Yvoire is definitely worth a visit!

Lavey les Bains

Lavey les Bains is a quaint little town located in the middle of nowhere. The best way to get there is by car, and the journey takes about an hour and a half. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by friendly locals and some of the most stunning scenery in all of Switzerland.

There’s something special about Lavey les Bains that makes it stand out from other towns in Switzerland. Its peaceful atmosphere and picturesque setting make it a great spot to take a break from your travels and truly relax.

There are plenty of things to do in Lavey les Bains, including hiking, biking, and kayaking. You can also visit the local spa, which is said to have therapeutic properties. After a long day of exploring, make sure to grab a bite to eat at one of the delicious restaurants in town.

At the center of Lavaux is the Lavaux Vinorama, a wine-tasting center where visitors can learn all about the region’s wines and enjoy tastings. There are also several wineries in the area where visitors can purchase bottles. Don’t miss out on exploring some of the area’s charming villages, such as Epesses and Grandvaux, which offer stunning views over Lake Geneva and its surroundings.

Valmorel is a charming mountain village in the French Alps, just a short drive from Geneva. Surrounded by forests and alpine meadows, Valmorel offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In winter, the village is a popular ski destination , and in summer it’s a great place to hike, bike, or simply relax in the fresh mountain air.

Once you arrive in Valmorel, there are plenty of things to do. If you’re visiting in winter, hit the slopes at one of the village’s four ski areas: Grand Domaine Ski (the largest), Douceur des Cimes (perfect for beginners), Famille Plus Montagne (family-friendly), or Le Solaret (for experienced skiers). If you’re visiting in summer, there are numerous hiking and biking trails to explore, or you can simply relax in one of the village’s many cafés or restaurants.

Interlaken is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland. It is located in the heart of the Bernese Oberland, between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. The town is a gateway to the Jungfrau region, with its towering peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows.

The best way to get to Interlaken from Geneva is by train. The journey takes about two and a half hours and passes through the beautiful Swiss countryside. Once you arrive in Interlaken , you can explore the town on foot or take the local bus.

Interlaken has something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to culture seekers. You can visit one of the many museums and galleries in town, such as the Alpen Museum or the Kunsthaus Interlaken. Or you can take a leisurely stroll around Lake Thun or along the Aare river. Adventure seekers can try their hand at paragliding or white-water rafting, while skiers and snowboarders will love the nearby slopes. No matter what you’re looking for, Interlaken has it all!

Glacier 3000

The glacier itself is a breathtaking sight, with its white ice and impressive crevasses. There are also many other attractions in the area, including the nearby peak of Diablerets which offers stunning views of the Alps and the Rhone Valley. The area is also known for its ski resorts , so visitors can enjoy skiing or snowboarding during winter months.

Evian, France is a beautiful town located on the shores of Lake Geneva. It is just a short drive from Geneva and makes for a perfect day trip . There are plenty of things to do in Evian, including exploring the old town, taking a boat ride on Lake Geneva, and visiting the Evian Resort .

If you’re looking for some outdoor activities, there are plenty to choose from. You can rent a boat and cruise around Lake Geneva, or take part in water sports such as kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. In the summer months, you can also enjoy swimming at one of the lakeside beaches or go on a scenic hike up one of the nearby mountains.

No matter what you’re looking for, Evian makes for a perfect day trip from Geneva.

If you’re looking for a breathtaking alpine retreat, look no further than Veysonnaz. This village in the Swiss Alps is just a short drive from Geneva and boasts stunning views of the Rhone Valley. In the winter , Veysonnaz is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, and in the summer, hikers and mountain bikers flock to the area to take advantage of the beautiful trails. Whether you’re looking for a day of adventure or a relaxing getaway, Veysonnaz is sure to please you.

Veysonnaz is also home to some of Switzerland’s best ski resorts . The resorts offer everything from beginner slopes to high-end skiing and snowboarding challenges. After a day on the slopes, you can relax at one of the many spa hotels or take advantage of the nightlife in town. No matter how you spend your time here, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Veysonnaz!

Geneva is a great place to visit for its rich history, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture. As demonstrated in this article, there are lots of exciting day trips from Geneva you can take that will let you explore the wider region and all it has to offer.

Whether it’s taking a hike through the Alps or soaking up the sun on Lake Geneves, these day trips from Geneva make a wonderful addition to any trip. So why not book one of these incredible experiences today and have an amazing time exploring what Switzerland has to offer!

Best Day trips from Geneva

Geneva is the second-largest city in Switzerland. It is known for cheerful, welcoming locals, many traditional festivities (like the three-week-long Geneva Music Festival with many free outdoor concerts around town) and world’s largest Flower Clock, located in Geneva’s English Garden.

The city’s major tourist attractions also include the over-hundred-years-old botanical garden and the Tavel House; one of Geneva’s oldest architectural structures, currently hosting a museum dedicated to the local history and the rural lives; from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.

With this guide, we want to lead you through amazing day trips from Geneva Switzerland. Leave the urban bustle behind and start exploring!

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Table of Contents

Day trip from Geneva to Lake Geneva

Also known as Lac Léman, Lake Geneva is one of the most popular destinations for a getaway from the city. One of the largest lakes in Western Europe, it is located on the Northside of the Alps, right between Switzerland and France.

A day trip to Lake Geneva is a getaway into the pristine. You will come closer to Switzerland’s beautiful nature; Lac Léman is rich in wildlife, especially birds. 

If you want to learn more about the local culture and search for some unique souvenirs, a trip to Lake Geneva is on top of our recommendation list too! Some of the best local markets in Switzerland take place in the small towns and villages around the lake.

Weekly markets occur in most villages, and in the summer, the town of Vevey hosts the Swiss Folklore Market. In Vevey you will not only be able to shop for souvenirs and knickknacks but also try some of the traditional foods and local Swiss brews!

Lac Léman is best explored by car, the roads are well-maintained and rarely get crowded. Driving on your own will also give you the flexibility to visit local villages.

Whereas travelling around the northern shores of Lake Geneva with buses and trains is fairly easy, public transportation on the southern shores is less convenient for tourists.

If you do not want to go by car on your own, search for tours online or book a day trip with a tourist agency to secure an English-speaking guide and convenient transportation.

Day trip from Geneva to Interlaken

Interlaken is a popular Swiss resort town between Lake Thun (popular among windsurfers and sailors) and Lake Brienz (known for its turquoise tone and spectacular mountain views) in the stunning Bernese Alps. 

Many tourists who visit Interlaken want to see the popular Caves of St Beatus. Beatus, the Irish monk from the 6th century, is claimed to have lived in the caves, and the legend says that to move in, he had to conquer a dragon.

Besides the on-site Cave Museum where the wildlife and geology of the caves are explained, you will find a kilometre-long walkway with crypts and chambers, dark grottos and underground waterfalls. 

Last, but not least, Interlaken’s main attraction is the highest railway in Europe that leads up to the Jungfraujoch Mountain, one of the three main peaks of the Bernese Highlands (Jungfrau, Eiger and Mönch).

The Interlaken cable car line is more than 100 years old, and when you reach the top, you can enter the “Top of Europe” building. From there you will get an amazing view of large parts of the famous Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn region.

It is a designated protected natural region, and the most glaciated part of the European Alps listed as a UNESCO world heritage site since 2001.

You can travel to Interlaken with public transportation, but there are no direct railway connections from Geneva. Taking the train, you must change in Bern, which makes the journey around 3 hours long.

For your convenience and to make sure you do not miss any important tourist attractions, we recommend booking a day trip from Geneva to Interlaken with an agent online or on-site in Geneva.

• Interlaken Schilthorn Cable car from Geneva
• Interlaken day trip by bus from Geneva
• Interlaken and Jungfrau from Geneva
• Interlaken and Paragliding Day Trip from Geneva

Day trip from Geneva to Yvoire

Have you heard of the tranquil medieval village of Yvoire? Located on the shore of Lake Geneva, nicknamed the “gem of the lake”, it is often referred to as one of the most beautiful villages in France.

The city was built in the early 14th century and is now one of the French cities near Geneva popular among tourist seeking a rural getaway.

Your day trip to Yvoire must include a visit to the Garden of Five Senses, it is a true garden of paradise, inviting you on a sensual journey to discover the plants will all five senses. Another popular tourist attraction is the Yvoire Castle (Château d’Yvoire).

Its thick walls and towers with only a few windows make the castle quite distinct. It is a great example of the Savoy design, resembling through other medieval castles in the area of Lac Léman. Last, but not least, do stop by the Church of St Pancras.

Parts of the chapel date back to the 11th century, but the church we can admire today has become a mixture of various architectural styles.

Your day trip from Geneva to Yvoire can be done… by boat! If you want to add another experience to your day tour, join a pictorial cruise on Lake Geneva.

The cruise will take 1 hour 30 minutes, so if you need to mind the time, we recommend renting a car and driving on your own. Geneva and Yvoire are less than 30 kilometres apart, so the drive will take you just about half an hour.

• Yvoire Medieval village & Boat Cruise
• Chamonix and Yvoire Day Trip from Geneva
• Private trip from Geneva to Yvoire and Évian-les-Bains in France

Day trip from Geneva to Lausanne

Lausanne feels like a laid-back holiday resort, yet the city has a charming commercial bustle to it too! It is the second-largest city on Lake Geneva, known for its great atmosphere and multicultural profile.

Surrounded by vineyards, the town was built on three hills, and on the opposite shore of Lake Geneva are the Savoy Alps. Get ready to meander around cosy pedestrian-only alleyways with boutiques and cafés.

The atmospheric city centre attracts many tourists around Christmas because of its bustling holiday markets. A getaway to Lausanne is one of the most popular day trips from Geneva in winter!

The main city attractions can be viewed all year round though! Often voted to be the most impressive piece of early Gothic architecture in Switzerland, the majestic Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Lausanne can be found in Lausanne old town.

The cathedral is known for its impressive architecture and the magnificent “Great Organ”. Following a design process of more than 10 years, the organ was inaugurated in 2003. It is composed of 7000 pipes and weighs over 40 tonnes!

Lovers of culture will not be disappointed by what Lausanne has to offer either! Head to the Fondation de l’Hermitage or the photographic museum “Musée de l’Elysée” for an artsy visit. Lausanne is also home to the well-known Béjart Ballet.

Also, check out the impressive cultural event calendar that includes theatre productions and musical performances, maybe your dates align with a performance you would not want to miss!

A day tour to Lausanne is one of the most popular train trips from Geneva. You only pay around 13 USD for a single one-way ticket. The journey takes less than 45 minutes, and there are many daily departures from Geneva Cornavin train station.

• P rivate trip from Geneva to Montreux through Lausanne
• Riviera line to Lausanne, Cruise to Montreux with optional olympic museum
• Swiss rivera tour From Geneva to Lausanne and Cruise
• Swiss Riviera Private Tour : Lausanne, Vevey, Montreux, Chillon

Day trip from Geneva to Annecy

With serene views of snow-capped mountains and the adjacent Lake Annecy, Annecy in France is one of the top day trip destinations from Geneva.

It is known among water sports enthusiasts, and in the summer, the beaches (both sandy and grassy) around Lake Annecy attract both locals and tourists longing for relaxation by the water. 

The Old Town of Annecy is a popular tourist attraction too. The winding cobblestone alleys and small streets with pastel-hued houses brightened up by flower boxes are perfect for a relaxed stroll. They will make a beautiful backdrop for your holiday pictures too!

Take a walk around to admire the architecture, and whenever you feel like it, stop at a “boulangerie” (French style of bakery) or try the locally made ice-cream at one of the many “gelaterias”.

If you happen to visit the town on a Sunday, make sure not to miss “The Sunday Annecy Market”. It is a local farmers’ market, one of the finest of its kind in France.

Annecy in France was not named the “Venice of the Alps” for no reason! Joining Annecy’s two open gardens: Jardins de l’Europe and Pâquier Esplanade you will find the city’s “Pont des Amours” (“Lovers’ Bridge”).

According to the local legend, if two lovers kiss on this beautiful iron bridge, they will stay together forever. Traditionally, padlocks are also attached to the bridge with keys thrown into the water to seal love promises made on the bridge.

The distance between Geneva and Annecy in France is only 33 kilometres, and FlixBus will take you there for as little as 4,5 USD per person for a single, one-way journey. You will be crossing the border between Switzerland and France, so remember to bring your passport, just in case.

• Private trip from Geneva to Annecy in France
• Annecy Half-Day Tour from Geneva
• Geneva and Annecy Tour With Optional Lake Geneva Cruise
• Summer Chamonix and Annecy Day Trip from Geneva
• Geneva city tour and Annecy Private Guided Tour

Day trip from Geneva to Mont Saleve

Only 20 kilometres from Geneva, Mont Saleve attracts both tourists who seek a relaxing escape into the Alpine nature as well as sports lovers looking for an active day trip from Geneva.

We recommend checking the possibilities and opening times upfront (as they vary with season), but Mont Saleve is the dream destination for tourists interested in climbing, mountain biking or paragliding and in winter: skiing.

The most popular attraction is the Mont Saleve cable car; it will bring you to the top of the mountain within five minutes! Prepare for breathtaking views, and if the day you visit Mont Saleve the weather is clear, you will be able to see as far as the Mont Blanc (from Mont Saleve’s southern side).

How to get to Mont Saleve from Geneva? This trip is easily done with public transportation. From Geneva’s Cornavin Train Station jump on the bus no. 8 (going towards Veyrier-Douane). Get off at “Veyrier-Douane” form where you can walk to the cable car station.

The cable car leaves approximately every 15 minutes and it operates daily, between 9:30 AM and 7 PM from April to October. To save over 30% or your ticket price, buy the combined return tickets for the cable car.

Day trip from Geneva to a Swiss Chocolate Factory

Who would not want to join this trip? Switzerland is known for its high-quality chocolate, and there are several places around the country where you can visit a real chocolate factory, and learn all about the complicated yet fascinating journey from cacao beans to the neatly wrapped pieces of choco-heaven, we all know and love.

Chocolate production is an art, and in a chocolate factory, you will be led through a series of educational exhibitions and have a sneak peek into the live production too. Optionally, you can join a chocolate making workshop; it is a great idea for travelling families! 

If you want to organize the trip on your own, the closest from Geneva is the chocolate factory of Cailler in Broc near Gruyères, Switzerland. Your trip to Gruyères can be done with public transportation, but it is a journey of around 2 hours and you have to interchange twice.

There are other chocolate factories in Zurich and Lucerne, but the train journey would be even longer. Therefore we recommend booking a guided day trip from Geneva to Gruyères, it will secure comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide! 

• Private Trip from Geneva to Gruyeres: Cheese and Chocolate Tasting
• Winter Gruyeres Swiss countryside and chocolate from Geneva
• Day Trip to Gruyères Medieval Village & Chocolate Factory from Geneva

Day Trip from Geneva to Gruyères

Gruyères is a Swiss medieval town, well known not only for its chocolate factory but also for the impressive medieval castle from the 13th century.

The castle features abundantly decorated rooms and stunning collections of various historical and cultural artefacts. Gruyères is not only about the local Swiss culture though! The Tibet Museum gives you a sneak peek into the Buddhist tradition, showcasing religious and ritual items alongside sculptures, drawings and paintings.

If your inner foodie starts calling on you when you hear “Gruyères”, it is the right call! The town gave the name to the famous Gruyères cheese, and it probably does not come as a surprise that the city is a paradise for food connoisseurs.

When you are there, make sure to try the cheese fondue or raclette – the local speciality where a big piece of cheese is melted in front of an open fire and eaten with spiced potatoes, meats and pickled onions.

As mentioned, you can travel to Gruyères with public transportation, however, booking an organized guided tour would be more convenient. One of our top recommendations is a day trip to Gruyères including Golden Panoramic Express Train!

You will travel to Gruyères by coach, and from there embark on the Panoramic Golden Express train, which is like a sightseeing platform in motion! Get ready for breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the pristine Swiss countryside.

• Day Trip to Gruyères including Golden Panoramic Express Train

Day trip from Geneva to Montreux and Château de Chillon

Appearing to float on Lake Geneva, Château de Chillon (or the Chillon Castle), is the most visited historical site in Switzerland.

Surrounded by the most beautiful, pristine scenery, the castle has stood proudly since the 12th century, and it is now home to regular exhibitions as well as a wide array of cultural events.

The castle was a source of inspiration for many artists, among them Jean-Jacques Rousseau who, in the 18th century, unveiled parts of his novel “Julie” (also known as “The New Heloise”) in Château de Chillon.

Every Sunday in the castle there is a guided tour available in English, German and French (free with the purchase of your entry ticket). The castle program also offers visits combined with creative workshops and special kids’ program if you want to make your tour around Château de Chillon a more interactive experience. 

Trips to the Chillon Castle are often combined with a visit to Montreux, a small, cosy town offering a wide range of cultural attractions and sport activities. It is home to the world-famous annual Montreux Jazz festival, known for its diverse musical performances, that include much more than jazz jamming. 

With the famous Montreux Noël, Montreux is one of the top destinations for day trips from Geneva in winter. “Montreux Noël” essentially means “Montreux Christmas” and brings to town medieval markets and a fairytale festival hosted at Château de Chillon.

How to get to Montreux from Geneva? Jump on one of the direct trains that leave approximately every 30 minutes. The direct train journey will take less than one hour, and the fees for a one-way ticket start at around 9 USD.

For convenient transportation between Montreux and Château de Chillon and to secure an English-speaking guide, you can book a combined day trip to Montreux and Château de Chillon with an agency.

• Private trip from Geneva to Montreux through Lausanne
• Glacier 3000 Gold Tour, Aperitif and Montreux Day Trip From Geneva
• Day Trip to Montreux, Chaplin’s World Museum and Chillon Castle
• Day Trip to Montreux and Château de Chillon
• Montreux, Château de Chillon, and Chaplin’s World Day Winter Trip from Geneva

Day trip from Geneva to Riviera Col du Pillon and Glacier 3000

The town of Montreux is also a frequent stop on day trips to Riviera Col du Pillon and Glacier 3000. Col du Pillon is the starting point of a famous hiking route towards Scex Rouge that usually takes around 4 hours 30 minutes.

From the mountain station Scex Rouge you can enjoy the spectacular panorama and refuel at the restaurant on the peak. If you do not feel like hiking down all the way, there is a cable car down to the valley station that departs every 20 minutes. 

Not into hiking and would rather explore the pristine region by bike? Cycling enthusiasts can look into bike rentals and discover hidden gems of the Col du Pillon area on two wheels. You will find great biking trails there!

Probably the biggest attraction of the region is Glacier 3000 and the famous “Peak Walk by Tissot”, which is the world’s first suspension bridge connecting two peaks. Prepare for stunning views, and if you are up for a fun activity, try a sledge run in winter or Europe’s highest tracked toboggan run in summer!

It is possible to make this day trip with public transportation, but the combined train and bus trip to Col du Pillon would take almost 4 hours. We, therefore, recommend booking a guided day trip from Geneva, either with an on-site yours agency or online.

• Riviera Col du Pillon & Glacier 3000: High Level Experience in the Swiss Alps
• Day Trip to Vevey, Montreux, Chillon from Geneva
• Private trip from Geneva to the Swiss Riviera Montreux & Glacier 3000

Day trip from Geneva to the Chamonix Mont -Blanc Valley

Chamonix is a picturesque town in the French Alps. It is mostly known for the impressive peaks it is surrounded by, like “L’Aiguille du Midi” (which directly translates to “The Needle of the Midday”), known as the highest mountain peak served by a cable car system and, of course, Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps.

Tourists coming to Mont Blanc can be looking forward to taking the cable car to the summit as well as exploring the Mont Blanc tunnel, the deepest operational tunnel in the world; 2480 meters beneath the surface!

If this is all too adventurous for you, you can also stay around Chamonix and explore the city. Do not miss the “Musee des Cristaux” with an impressive collection of rocks and minerals from Mont Blanc and the surrounding areas and, as the name suggests, crystals which will be presented in a gallery-like setting.

Travelling families will surely have a great time visiting Chamonix Luge Alpine Coaster, which is a ski resort very close to Chamonix centre. Note that the luge is only open three days a week for a few hours each day, so make sure to double-check opening hours before you go!

From Geneva’s bus station, you can take the FlixBus towards Verona, Italy. After approximately 1 hour 20 minutes, hop off at the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc station. The fee for a single, one-way ticket is around 17 USD.

If you feel unsure about planning this trip on your own, there are plenty of guided day trips from Geneva you can book online or with the local tourist agencies!

• Chamonix Sightseeing Tour from Geneva
• Chamonix and Mont Blanc Guided Day Trip from Geneva
• Chamonix and Mont Blanc Day Trip from Geneva
• Independent Chamonix and Mont Blanc Tour from Geneva
• Chamonix Mont-Blanc French Alps Day Tour from Geneva

Day trip from Geneva: outlet shopping in Italy

Last, but not least, for everyone interested in shopping designer items at very affordable prices, we recommend one of the most fun day trips from Geneva to Italy: The Luxury Outlet Shopping Day Trip!

Including sightseeing of Turin, the Italian city known for its impressive array of museums like the Egyptian Museum or Italy’s National Cinema Museum and magnificent historical sites like the Royal Palace of Turin, this tour brings you to the Torino Outlet Village – a paradise for every shopper. Visit as many of the 90 different designer stores, as you can, and enjoy the amazing discounts!

You can travel to Torino Outlet Village on your own, but we recommend you book this trip with a tour agency. You will still get plenty of time and freedom to do the shopping, but you are also guaranteed comfortable transportation and a tour around Turin city!

• Luxury Outlet Shopping Day Trip from Geneva to Torino Village, Italy

Recommended day tours from Geneva

• Day Trip to a Bollywood Filming Location From Geneva
• Chamonix Montblanc Day Trip from Geneva with optional Cable Car Ride and Lunch

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Day Trip from Geneva to Yvoire, France

Make time to go medieval in a small french village.

The castle in Yvoire, France, was built in the Middle Ages. Photo credit: © foxytoul — stock.adobe.com

From fast-moving and modern Geneva, with its trains and efficiencies, escape for a day to nearby Yvoire, France , a medieval town replete with a castle. Situated on Lake Geneva (also known as Lac Léman), this little town transports visitors to the Middle Ages as they pass through its walls , visit the small, stone church of Saint Pancras, head down to the waterfront, and marvel at that glorious castle .

A stronghold in a number of wars from the 1300s, the castle had fallen into disrepair by 1900. Now restored—and privately owned—it is not open to the public; even so, going to Yvoire to see it is worth a trip, especially for tourists from places where the architecture does not typically include castles. They really do exist! Even the most cynical of travelers might imagine knights in shining armor rattling through the old streets of this place, especially if the day is a bit misty or dusk is near.

Saint Pancras Church in Yvoire, France, is named for the patron saint of teenagers, who was martyred at the age of 14 on the Via Aurelia in Rome in the year 304 C.E. Photo credit: ©Aurélien Antoine — stock.adobe.com

Visitors can walk by charming shops and apartments in buildings that seem to have been constructed before time began. At the small church of Saint Pancras , listen for the sound of monks chanting. Stop for a cappuccino or a drink at a restaurant in the village and imagine how food was served in the Middle Ages. Think about how physically small people were then, and how they lived their lives almost entirely locally. Would you have been able to eat their food and live their lives? Would you be able to stay in this place forever?

Listen carefully and you may hear the chant of monks inside the Church of Saint Pancras in Yvoire, France. Photo credit: © lemélangedesgenres — stock.adobe.com

You might want to. Yvoire is about a 45-minute drive from Geneva , or about 25 miles (or 40 km), or a bit more or less, depending on the route you take. With a little more ingenuity, travelers can also take a train and a boat to get to Yvoire from Geneva. A hotel and bed-and-breakfast options are available in Yvoire.

—Lori Tripoli

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10 Day Trips From Geneva You Can Do With Your Kids

• February 28, 2020
• Geneva region , Visit Switzerland
• annecy , barbaleuse , chamonix , french alps , gemmi pass , geneva , geneva day trips , gruyeres , gryon , italian alps , lausanne , leukerbad , mont blanc , montreux , mountains , sion , swiss alps , vevey , zermatt

If you have already visited Geneva and all its beautiful places, let us discover other possible day trips from Geneva for you.

There are two best ways to travel from Geneva to the recommended places: by train or by rented car . If you are a bigger group of people, I highly recommend renting a car as it will save you some money: rent prices and gas prices will be lower than ticket prices, especially if your group is bigger than 2 people.

On the other hand, although trains are more expensive, you will go through some pretty amazing places and the train rides in Switzerland are immensely beautiful, especially through the mountains. If you are planning to travel for more than one or two days, I highly recommend buying the Swiss Pass .

8 of my recommended destinations are in Switzerland and two of them are in France. I just can’t ignore two beautiful locations very close to Geneva, and as you know, Geneva is right on the border with France. But IF you go to France from Geneva, better to go on the train, because some of the rental car companies do not allow to cross the border OR charge much more.

In this post, I will focus on these helpful things – how to get to the destination, distance from Geneva, and the best thing or things to do there.

Table of Contents

10 Easy Day Trips from Geneva You Can Do With Your Kids

1- montreux.

Even though you will have to travel 94 kilometers, Montreux is still on the same lake as Geneva, right on the other side of it.

Montreux is in a stunning location with great views of huge mountains, surrounded by vineyards and right on this crystal clear lake. One other important detail about Montreux: the famous Freddie Mercury was living there. Just imagine that he could quite literally live where ever he wanted and he chose Montreux.

Right on the shores of the lake, they have a beautiful Chillon castle . I highly recommend reaching Chillon castle on foot, so you can enjoy a beautiful walk by the lake.

Chillon is a medieval castle and the first written record of this castle was found back in 1005. So this castle, at least the base of it is more than 1000 years old. It was once a very important and strategic castle securing the Roman roads (Switzerland was once in the Roman empire).

During centuries the castle had several owners and once even was a prison for some people in religious wars back in the 16th century. Chillon castle is one of the most visited castles in Switzerland and its rich history definitely plays a huge role in that.

Please visit their official website for tickets and opening times: Chillon castle .

Distance from Geneva : 94 km, 1h 10 minutes.

Other things to check out in Montreux : Freddy Mercury statue, Montreux promenade, Plexus Art Gallery .

Further read: Awesome Things to Do in Montreux, Switzerland

Vevey is yet another fascinating location in Switzerland on the same lake as Geneva.

Vevey had even more famous people living there: Charlie Chaplin, Jean-Jacques Rousseau – the most famous Swiss writer, Victor Hugo, and many others. Vevey was like a magnet for famous writers and artists. The spirits of Vevey are really high.

Definitely the beauty and the tranquility play a huge role there. Just imagine how pristine, beautiful, calm was Vevey back in the 18th century when Jean-Jacques Rousseau was writing his famous novels there.

One of the most interesting places in Vevey is called Alimentarium. You would never guess what it is. It is a museum dedicated to food. Simply as that. But in these days and our nutrition habits, I think it is very important once again to come back to basics and maybe learn something new. What can be more important than our health?

It is a very cool museum in an old building (all new inside). It is in a very beautiful location and from a local cafe, you can observe the lake if you wish. In this museum, they do courses, group visits and much more.

And what about this fork in the lake near Vevey. Well, it is all part of Alimentarium 🙂 Discover more in Vevey!

Please check all the latest information, ticket prices and opening times right here: Alimentarium .

Distance from Geneva: 90km, 1 hour.

Other things to check out in Vevey: Charlie Chaplin statue, Swiss camera museum, Musee Jenisch Vevey .

3- Gruyeres

Gruyere is a very very famous cheese production place. It would be probably hard to count how many awards their cheese has won in the world. If you are there, you must try their cheese.

Gruyeres is a medieval little town situated on the hill, it is like a little fortress up there and there is a beautiful castle on the top. You are going to love the wandering in the town’s streets and alleys.

There are many nice hiking trails around Gruyeres as well, and quite easy and pleasant ones as Gruyeres is in a more flat part of Switzerland.

It is pretty hard to choose one best thing to do there because, on one hand, it is a historic town with castles, but on the other hand it has pretty much the most bizarre museum I have ever seen: HR Giger Museum . Have you ever seen a movie  Alien with Sigourney Weaver? So that place looks like it was infested by those Aliens 🙂 It is a pretty cool museum which is filled with the works of artist Giger. It is even strange that they put such a weird museum in a historical medieval town, not in some fancy district of Zürich, but it really really stands out.

Have a look at their official website for all the information you may need: HR Giger Museum . You are going to love it or hate it.

Distance from Geneva : 121 km, 1h 27 min.

Other things to check out in Gruyeres: Former Chartreuse De La Part-Dieu, Gruyeres Castle, Saint-German castle.

Zermatt is probably one of the most famous destinations in Switzerland. It definitely makes the list of the most charming villages in Switzerland .

This fairytale place is a car-free village full of Swiss Alps history. It has the most famous Swiss mountain in its backyard. Do you know the Toblerone chocolate? That is the mountain on the package of it.

Zermatt is a perfect mountain lovers’ location which offers a great escape from modern life. You can do hours and hours of hiking, days and days, and you still won’t do all the hiking trails which are around Zermatt.

It really deserves to be one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland, if not all Europe.

You must get up to Matterhorn glacier paradise. It is the highest mountain station in all Europe, it sits at an astonishing 3883 meters. Pretty close to 4 kilometers altitude. Just be aware, you may feel the lack of oxygen up there. I felt it, I was very slow all the times I have visited it. The thing is that with cable cars you get pretty fast up there, and you may feel a bit dizzy in the beginning.

But don’t be afraid, go out and get to the viewing point: the views to all the 4000-meter peaks and the valley are breathtaking.

On the top, if you are lucky and the sky is clear, you will see the highest mountain in Europe: Mont Blanc.

In Matterhorn glacier paradise you will find an ice museum/maze/rooms, a coffee place where you can rest, and much more. It is one of a kind place in Europe.

Check all the information right here: Matterhorn glacier paradise.

Distance from Geneva : 232km, 2h 50 min.

Other things to check out in Zermatt: Matterhorn Museum, Gornergrat.

Further read: Best Things to Do in Zermatt

5- Leukerbad

Leukerbad is yet another great Swiss Alps destination which is surrounded by huge mountain walls.

It is the last village on the road, so literally, after Leukerbad – only big mountains.

Leukerbad is a great destination for skiers and hikers all year round. There is a great skiing resort for winter activities and a lot of hiking trails for summer nature lovers.

You must get to Gemmi Pass . There is a cable car station in Leukerbad which can get you up the mountains and you will get to a very beautiful mountain pass called Gemmi. It has a huge lake on the top and you can hike along with it. Do not go swimming, as I was there in mid-July and it was crazy cold. Unless you are used to cold swims.

Even though Gemmi Pass is at 2270 meters altitude, it is all surrounded by even higher mountains. You can hike to those peaks, you can hike all around the lake or you can hike to Hotel Schwarenbach where you can have your lunch or a  cup of coffee.

If you don’t want to hike, there’s a very nice renovated restaurant right next to the cable car station on the mountain with fantastic views.

Please check all the information right here: Gemmi Pass cable car .

Distance from Geneva:  200km, 2h 30 min.

Other things to check out in Leukerbad : Thermalquellen-Weg & -Steg, Leukerbad Therme.

6- Lausanne

Lausanne is probably the second most popular destination in the Swiss french side right after Geneva. As Vevey and Montreux – it is still on the same lake as Geneva. The views from the shore are spectacular and Lausanne as well as a very charming old town.

You are going to love walks both by the lake and in the city center. Lausanne as well as a very nice beach, so in the summertime, if the weather is sunny, you can have a very nice swim in this crystal clear lake.

In Lausanne you can see that the architecture is affected by French: it is shiny, bright, and much more luxurious than the one in the German part of Switzerland.

Lausanne is full of amazing buildings, museums, churches, and many other artifacts, but I think the boat tour on the lake is pretty amazing. The lake, the mountains surrounding it makes the boating lake pretty breathtaking.

There boat routes to quite a lot of places and some of them can even take you to France, so there’s a wide variety of boat destinations. You can check all the destinations here: Lake Geneva boat routes from Lausanne . So, while visiting Lausanne, you can visit even other places, rest there, have lunch and then come back by boat back to Lausanne.

And the pictures you are going to make on lake Geneva are going to explode your Instagram account. It is even hard to find words to explain how beautiful it is there.

Tickets, routes, and timetables are right here: Lausanne boat rides .

Distance from Geneva: 63km, 57 minutes .

Other things to check out in Lausanne : Olympic Museum, Château d’Ouchy and Promenade, Cathedral of Notre-Dame, Collection de l’Art Brut, Hermitage Foundation.

Further Read: Awesome Things to Do in Lausanne This Summer

Sion is a very lucky city as its location is fascinating: next to big mountains surrounded by countless vineyards.

If you are going to Sion via highway, it will be hard to miss it: it has a huge castle in the middle of the city on a big hill. Hard to miss it.

Sion is a perfect location to relax and have some good Swiss wine.

The city itself is not very big, so you can reach everything on foot and you will love the views from the castles.

In Sion, I would highly recommend connecting to activities: one is a historic one, one is a more fun one.

Sion has a very beautiful castle called Tourbillon  which has a rich history and first was build back in the 13th century. Entrance to it is free and you will get very good views of Sion itself and the surrounding places.

Right after the castle tour, I recommend doing some wine tasting as this region is famous for it. You can head to Les Fils de Charles Favre  (address: Avenue de Tourbillon 29, 1950 Sion) and taste white or red wine of your own choice.

Distance from Geneva:  160km, 1h 50 min.

Other things to check out in Sion : Real fly, Maison de la Nature, Chateau Valere, and the Basilica.

Further Read: Things to Do in Sion

Gryon is a small village in the Swiss Alps with very nice historic buildings. There is even a tour in Gryon where you can walk by the old buildings and the billboards of information are set up there. Just one note: information just in french.

Gryon is a very charming little village sitting in the mountains and all the big peaks are almost reachable by hand. You just need to walk a bit and you will get to amazing hiking trails all around. Even in Gryon itself, you walk down or up, there’s almost no flat road there.

Once you wander around Gryon, you almost wish to have your summer villa right there, it is that beautiful up there.

Hike in Les Chaux.  Very close to Gryon, there is another small village called Barbaleuse and it has a cable car station which can take you up to 1700 m altitude in 5 minutes. Ticket price back and forth: 20 CHF.

From Les Chaux I highly recommend hiking a bit up, around 300 meters (gain in altitude) is Chaux Ronde  – a beautiful peak with a cross on it. You are going to fall in love with the views from there. Huge mountains all around. If you wish, you can even hike further, the windy paths are calling every hiker. If you are lucky, you may even see an eagle or two. This place is nature’s place. The tranquility is taking place there.

Distance from Geneva: 127km, 1h 38 min.

Other things to check out in Gryon : Place de jeux Barboleuse, Buffet de la Gare Gryon.

It is probably one of the most beautiful french cities next to the French Alps. It has a very charming medieval old town, beautiful walks by the lake, and clear views of the mountains.

Annecy is quite a big city with population over 120 000 people, but you will not feel like being in an overcrowded place, you will love the wandering in the old town, especially the narrow alleys and the river running through it. It is like a very small copy of Venice.

Annecy is full of museums, churches, and other old buildings; it is rich in history and great architecture, many restaurants, hotels, and beautiful boutiques. You will love the walks in Annecy.

I know that Annecy has an outstanding old town and a beautiful lake, but what about hiking this time and taking pictures of all this beautiful place from the top? Sounds good?

Once you get to the lake, you will see that on the other side of the lake there is a mountain. It is called Col des Sauts  and you will love the views from the top.

You can start hiking right in the city or get a bit closer to the base of the mountain, but if you start in Annecy, the hike is 6 kilometers and you will have to gain 700 meters in altitude (if you feel tired, no need to push to the top, the views will be amazing even midway). Do not forget to take plenty of water and some snacks, so you won’t get tired.

Distance from Geneva: 41 km, 43 minutes.

Other things to check out in Annecy : Château d’Annecy, Église Notre Dame de Liesse, Le Palais de I’lle

10- Chamonix

The last, but definitely not least – Chamonix. If you are at least a bit interested in the mountains, you must know this place. It is the place where people try to conquer the biggest mountain in Europe: Mont Blanc . Oh, and for sure, it has an amazing skiing resort.

Chamonix is an old charming mountain village and resort which is pretty much always full of people who are looking for adventure: it can be some high hiking trails, it can be Mont Blanc, it can be some amazing skiing routes or it can simply be a perfect escape from big city life.

Chamonix is as charming as it can get.

Of course, the easiest answer would be: Climb the Mont Blanc. But it is not for everyone, it is a hard climb only for the ones who are ready, are trained, have time, and have hired a mountain guide. I would not recommend doing it only on your own unless you are really experienced.

BUT with a cable car, you can get to a pretty fascinating point in the mountains up there: Aiguille du Midi.  Just in 20 minutes, you will get to an astonishing 3842 meters altitude. Just imagine the beauty up there. In the terraces of Aiguille du Midi you will get a 360 degrees view of Italian, French, and Swiss Alps, and if all is good: clear view to Mont Blanc. What can be better for a mountain lover? It is a place for you to go.

The ticket price back and forth is 65 euros. Check all the information right here .

Distance from Geneva: 81km, 1 hour .

Other things to check out in Chamonix: Musée Alpin Chamonix ,  Le Brévent.

Feel free to share your best Geneva day trips below. 🙂

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Hi there! I’m Aurimas, a man behind Go Look Explore. I’m passionate about hiking, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, and everything outdoors related. Let’s connect .

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Catherine Zeta-Jones’ daughter Carys slips into her mom’s 25-year-old dress for 21st birthday party

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Passing on more than just good genes.

Catherine Zeta-Jones’ daughter, Carys Zeta Douglas, looked just like her mom as she reached into the actress’ fashion archives for her 21st birthday.

Carys shared a series of photos celebrating the milestone, sporting a glamorous Ungaro pink slip pink dress with lace accents and roses designed on the top.

She added minimal jewelry and strappy heels to accessorize the statement gown, and she styled her hair in loose curly locks.

Zeta-Jones –– who is shares Carys and brother Michael with husband Michael Douglas –– originally wore the pink dress while walking the red carpet at the 1999 MTV Movie Awards when she was nominated for, and later won, the award for best breakthrough performance for her role in “The Mask of Zorro.”

The Oscar winner, 54, looked remarkably similar to her daughter with her their matching hairstyle and silver strappy heels.

Carys smiled while posing for photos in the dress and even included one of a boy kissing her on the cheek while she held a flower.

“The most perfect 21st I could ask for ! 🌸,” she captioned the carousel of photos.

The “Chicago” actress gave her stamp of approval for the look by commenting under her daughter’s post, “You deserve it sweetheart ❤️.”

Catherine also shared a separate Instagram post that included a few pictures from when her daughter was younger.

“Happy Birthday to my beautiful daughter @carys.douglas You are the joy of my life. 21 years of watching you blossom in to the most incredible woman you are today is a God given gift that I never take for granted and cherish every day of my life. Thank you for being you. I love you with all my heart ♥️ Mama,” she wrote.

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Carys has been in the fashion world since she was a teenager, when she made her magazine cover debut posing alongside her mom for Town & Country in 2018.

“Fashion has been so important in my life, because my mom is like a fashion icon to me,” she told the outlet at the time. “I’m always looking through her closet.”

Since then, the mother-daughter duo have graced the cover of Vanity Fair , starred in a Fendi campaign together and attended several New York Fashion Week shows.

Most recently, Carys wore a semi-sheer Elie Saab lace gown while walking the Cannes Film Festival red carpet with her mom and dad in May 2023.

We expect to see more of Carys on the red carpet after her fashionable birthday party.

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