The Jet d’Eau, a Geneva icon since 1891
Quai Gustave-Ador, 1207 Geneva. Visible from more than 40 kilometres away, Geneva’s Jet d’Eau is one of Switzerland’s most iconic landmarks. Projecting 500 litres of water per second to a height of 140 metres, it has marked the landscape of Lake Geneva since 1891 and attracts millions of visitors to Geneva’s waterfront every year.
Easily accessible on foot from central Geneva, the Jet d’Eau is an ideal starting point for exploring Geneva’s Old Town, the shores of Lake Geneva and the international district of this major global diplomatic centre.
What to see around the Jet d’Eau in Geneva
- The shores of Lake Geneva: From the Jet d’Eau, Quai Gustave-Ador and Quai du Mont-Blanc follow the shores of Lake Geneva for several kilometres. On a clear day, the waterfront offers views of the Alps and Mont Blanc. The English Garden, known for its colourful flower displays, is approximately ten minutes away on foot.
- Geneva ’s Old Town: Geneva’s Old Town is approximately a 15-minute walk from the Jet d’Eau. St Pierre Cathedral, Parc des Bastions and Place du Bourg-de-Four form the historic heart of Geneva and are among the city’s most important cultural and architectural landmarks.
- Palais des Nations: The Palais des Nations is the European headquarters of the United Nations in Geneva. It can be reached in approximately 20 minutes from the Lake Geneva waterfront.Guided tours are available by advance reservation.
- CERN : Located approximately 8 kilometres from central Geneva, CERN is the world’s largest particle physics laboratory. Free visits are available by reservation at its sites near Meyrin and Vernier.
- The Flower Clock: Located in the English Garden, approximately ten minutes on foot from the Jet d’Eau, the Flower Clock is one of the best-known symbols of Geneva’s watchmaking heritage. Its display features around 6,500 flowers, which are renewed according to the season.
Where to stay near the Jet d’Eau in Geneva
Appart’City Collection Genève Aéroport Vernier
An ideal aparthotel for visiting the Jet d’Eau
Located in Vernier in the canton of Geneva, Appart’City Collection Genève Aéroport Vernier is approximately 15 minutes by car from the Jet d’Eau and five minutes from Geneva International Airport. The property is an ideal aparthotel in Geneva for exploring Lake Geneva, the Old Town and the city’s international institutions. The Jet d’Eau is approximately 15 minutes away by car. Geneva International Airport can be reached in around five minutes, while CERN is approximately 8 kilometres from the property. Lake Geneva is around 15 minutes away. Geneva’s Old Town and the Palais des Nations can be reached in approximately 20 minutes. The French border and the Pays de Gex are accessible in around ten minutes.
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Frequently asked questions about the Jet d’Eau in Geneva
How high is the Jet d’Eau in Geneva?
The Jet d’Eau projects water to a height of 140 metres at a rate of 500 litres per second. The water leaves the nozzle at a speed of approximately 200 kilometres per hour. On a clear day, the fountain can be seen from more than 40 kilometres away, including from the shores of Lake Geneva and the surrounding hills.
When does the Jet d’Eau operate?
The Jet d’Eau generally operates from March to October, from 10 a.m. until 10:30 p.m. on weekdays and until 11:30 p.m. at weekends. It may be switched off during strong winds or for technical reasons. During winter, it may operate occasionally for special events.
Is the Jet d’Eau free to visit?
Yes. The Jet d’Eau can be viewed free of charge from the shores of Lake Geneva. The walkway that allows visitors to approach the fountain from the lake is also free to access.
Can you walk along the Jet d’Eau walkway?
Yes. A walkway extends into Lake Geneva and allows visitors to get close to the Jet d’Eau. Depending on the wind direction, the spray may make visitors wet. Access is free during the fountain’s operating hours.
How do you get to the Jet d’Eau from Geneva Airport?
From Geneva International Airport, the Jet d’Eau can be reached in approximately 30 minutes by public transport, using tram and city-centre connections. By car, the journey takes around 15 minutes via the A1 motorway towards central Geneva, depending on traffic.
Which aparthotel should you choose when visiting the Jet d’Eau in Geneva?
Appart’City Collection Genève Aéroport Vernier is an aparthotel in Vernier, in the canton of Geneva, located approximately 15 minutes by car from the Jet d’Eau and five minutes from Geneva International Airport. The property offers fully equipped studios and apartments, a reception desk open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and on-site parking.
Is there parking near the Jet d’Eau in Geneva?
Yes. Several public car parks are available near the Jet d’Eau and central Geneva. Nearby options include the Mont-Blanc car park on Quai du Mont-Blanc, the Rive car park near Rue de la Rôtisserie and the Saint-Antoine car park on Rue Saint-Antoine.