Geneva is one of the popular starting points for a Switzerland itinerary. It sits on the shores of Lake Geneva, just like Laussane,Nyon, Morges, Vevey and Montreux. And it is possible to enjoy the city of Geneva without breaking the bank. Here are some of the free things to do in Geneva if you’re traveling on a budget:
Free Things to Do in Geneva: Admire the Beauty of Nature at Conservatoire et Jardin Botaniques
The Botanical Gardens and Conservatory of Geneva offers seasonal free tours, allowing visitors to see its collections of plants and flowers.
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Greenhouse at the Conservatory and Botanical Garden of the City of Geneva – photo by Torbjorn Toby Jorgensen under CC-BY-SA-2.0
Free Things to Do in Geneva: Be Amazed with The Geneva Water Fountain
Jet d’Eau is an iconic fountain in Lake Geneva that pumps water 140 meters high into the air. At night, it becomes even more beautiful once all lit up.
Jet d’Eau early in the evening – photo by Aminul Huq under CC-BY-SA-3.0
Dip into the Waters of Bains des Pâquis
You don’t have to spend a dime to enjoy Bains des Pâquis, a popular public baths venue in Lake Geneva. During winter, the public bath houses become saunas.
Bain des Pâquis during summer – photo by Guilhem Vellut under CC BY 2.0
Explore the Little Italy of Geneva
The district of Carouge in Geneva is known as the city’s Little Italy. Strolling around the neighborhood acquaints you with its several artisan studios and boutiques. While in Carouge, you will also find a slathering of buildings following classic French-Italian architecture.
Place du Temple in Carouge – photo by HJPD under GFDL and CC-BY-3.0
Relax in the Parks
Geneva has a number of green spaces where you can sit back, relax and enjoy the views. Some of these are Jardin Anglais, Parc La Grange and Parc des Eaux-Vives.
Jardin Anglais in Geneva – photo by Ash Chuan under CC BY-SA 2.0 
Parc de la Grange – photo by Jon Gos under CC-BY-2.0 Parc des Eaux-Vives – photo by Guilhem Vellut under CC BY 2.0
Snap Some Photos of the Brunswick Monument
Within Square des Alpes in Geneva, one can find the Brunswick Monument, a Neo-Gothic mausoleum dedicated to Charles II, Duke of Brunswick.
Brunswick Monument in Geneva – photo by Dennis Jarvis under CC BY-SA 2.0
See the Splendor of Église Russe
The Russian Orthodox Church in Geneva is a historic 19th century building that features gilded onion domes and Byzantine striped arches.
The Russian Orthodox Church in Geneva – photo by Szalax under CC-BY-SA-3.0
View the Exhibits in Museums
There are museums in Geneva that offer free admission to the public. These include Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle, Musée d’Art et d’Histoire, Tavel House, Musée Ariana and Musée d’histoire des sciences de la Ville de Genève. While some might require a small fee to certain exhibits, entry to these museums are generally free.
Musée d’Art et d’Histoire – photo by Sanyam Bahga under CC-BY-SA-3.0 View of the entrance to the Geneva Natural History Museum – photo by Grototoro under CC BY-SA 3.0 
The door of Maison Tavel – photo by Sumit Surai under CC-BY-SA-4.0 
Musée Ariana – photo by Falcon® Photography under CC BY-SA 2.0 
Musée d’histoire des sciences – photo by Franck Schneider under CC-BY-SA-3.0
Visit Cathédrale Saint-Pierre Genève
The 12th century Gothic Saint Pierre Cathedral in Geneva is a renowned Calvinist church. Inside, one can find a wooden chair that was used by John Calvin.
Saint Pierre Cathedral in Geneva – photo by Sergey Ashmarin under CC-BY-SA-3.0
Window Shop at Place du Bourg-de-Four
Find your way to Place du Bourg-de-Four, the oldest square in Geneva. There are several upscale shops and dining places lining the square, making it a treat to simply explore the area.
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A portion of Place du Bourg-de-Four – photo by © Traumrune / Wikimedia Commons under CC BY 3.0
