Geneva Water Fountains (Jet d’Eau)
The Basics
Originally built in 1886 to regulate water pressure, Geneva’s Jet d’Eau is a landmark of this modern Swiss city. Most bus tours, Lake Geneva cruises, and even Segway tours typically provide notable views of the fountains. The Jet d’Eau also is often included on small-group tours, private city tours, and regional tours that visit nearby cities, such as Chamonix and Annecy.
Travelers exploring independently will find views of the Jet d’Eau from numerous locations around Geneva, including the English Garden (Jardin Anglais) and the walkable Mont Blanc Bridge (Pont du Mont-Blanc). It’s a great choice for a stop on a self-paced walking tour, since it’s a short stroll from several central neighborhoods, including the Old Town.
Things to Know Before You Go
As the city's most widely-recognized symbol, the Jet d’Eau is a must-see for all visitors to Geneva.
History and urban engineering fans will enjoy checking out this piece of Geneva's past, originally built as a hydraulic system safety valve.
Take in the views at night: In spring and summer, the Jet d'Eau is lit until late in the evening.
How to Get There
Enjoy the best views of the Jet d’Eau from the Jetée des Eaux Vives—off of Quai Gustave Ador—or while strolling the Quai du Mont-Blanc. To find these waterfront promenades, most visitors take public transportation. Hop a bus or tram to the Rive stop on the left bank, or the Isaac-Mercier stop on the right bank.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The Jet d’Eau spouts during the day for most of the year, though hours vary by season. The fountain shuts off at about 4pm in fall and winter, and 11pm in spring and summer. In November, the fountain is typically turned off for maintenance, so plan accordingly. Waterfront walks, with views of the fountain, are ideal in Geneva’s warmest months—June, July, and August—but expect crowds, since these months are during the peak tourist season.
Enjoying the Bains des Paquis
For views of the Jet d’Eau and a meal, stop by the public bathhouse Bains des Pâquis. It’s a scenic spot to sip wine, enjoy a swim or sauna session, and try local fondue—a melted cheese dish typically served alongside bread and vegetables for dipping. In summer, wear a swimsuit to sunbathe with the locals.
- Things to do in Lake Geneva
- Things to do in Annecy
- Things to do in Montreux
- Things to do in Lyon
- Things to do in Dijon
- Things to do in Turin
- Things to do in Basel
- Things to do in Lucerne
- Things to do in Ferno
- Things to do in Langhe-Roero and Monferrato
- Things to do in Zurich
- Things to do in Lake Como
- Things to do in Milan
- Things to do in Rhône-Alpes
- Things to do in Burgundy
- English Garden (Jardin Anglais)
- Flower Clock (Horloge Fleurie)
- Rousseau Island (Ile Rousseau)
- Baur Foundation, Museum of Far Eastern Art
- Brunswick Monument
- International Museum of the Reformation (Musée International de la Réforme)
- Barbier-Mueller Museum (Musée Barbier-Mueller)
- Geneva Old Town (Vieille Ville)
- Tavel House (Maison Tavel)
- Museum of Natural History (Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de Suisse)
- St. Peter's Cathedral (Cathédrale St-Pierre)
- Maison de Rousseau & de la Littérature (MRL)
- Geneva Museum of Art and History (Musée d'Art et d'Histoire de Genève)
- Bastions Park (Parc des Bastions)
- Rath Museum (Musée Rath)