Geneva, Switzerland: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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Ready to pack for Geneva, Switzerland? If you're planning to go to Geneva, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Geneva, Switzerland

Based on the climate and weather in Geneva, Switzerland, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Geneva, Switzerland

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Geneva, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Geneva, Switzerland by month

January

In January, Geneva is cold. Temperatures routinely are in the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Geneva, with several of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Switzerland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Geneva. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Take care to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

If you see the International Museum of the Reformation, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

Traveling to Geneva in February, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain or snow about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Switzerland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Geneva. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. It's important that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the International Museum of the Reformation, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

Traveling to Geneva in March, you will notice that it is cold. Expect it to rain or snow regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Switzerland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Geneva. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Check that you get the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you see the International Museum of the Reformation, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Geneva is crisp. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Switzerland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Geneva. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Check that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the International Museum of the Reformation, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

In May, Geneva is mild. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 10s C) and occasionally jump into the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Geneva, with several of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Switzerland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Geneva. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Make sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the International Museum of the Reformation, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you vacation in Geneva during June, you will probably see that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally around 50 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Switzerland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Geneva. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be careful to pick the necessary type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the International Museum of the Reformation, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you are traveling to Geneva in July, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Switzerland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Geneva. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be careful to find the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you see the International Museum of the Reformation, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you go to Geneva in August, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Switzerland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Geneva. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the International Museum of the Reformation, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in this region is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Switzerland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Geneva. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the International Museum of the Reformation, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Geneva can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Switzerland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Geneva. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Check that you get the necessary kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the International Museum of the Reformation, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you vacation in Geneva during November, you might see that it can be very chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Switzerland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Geneva. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Take care to find the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

If you see the International Museum of the Reformation, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Geneva can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Switzerland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Geneva. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Make sure to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the International Museum of the Reformation, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva, the most populous city in Switzerland, is renowned for its breathtaking scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Located on the shore of Lake Geneva, the city offers an array of tourist attractions that cater to the interests of both nature lovers and history buffs. In this article, we are going to discuss the top tourist attractions in Geneva, Switzerland.

1. Jet d'Eau

Jet d'Eau is the iconic landmark of Geneva that attracts thousands of tourists every year. It is a water fountain that shoots up to 140 meters high, making it one of the tallest fountains in the world. This fountain is located at the center of Lake Geneva, and it offers an excellent view of the city.

2. St. Pierre Cathedral

St. Pierre Cathedral, located in the old town of Geneva, is another must-visit tourist attraction. This medieval church has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century. The cathedral is known for its stunning architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and impressive organ. You can also climb the tower to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

3. Palais des Nations

Palais des Nations, the headquarters of the United Nations in Europe, is among the most visited tourist attractions in Geneva. The palace was constructed in the 1930s and features an impressive facade adorned with intricate details. You can take a guided tour of the palace to learn about its rich history and its role in shaping the world.

4. Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Europe and stretches over 580 square kilometers. It is surrounded by majestic mountains and offers stunning views of the city. You can take a leisurely stroll along the lake or go on a boat ride to enjoy the natural beauty of the lake.

5. Old Town

The Old Town of Geneva is another must-visit tourist attraction. It is a historic district dotted with cobbled streets and charming cafes. You can explore the district on foot and discover the numerous museums, galleries, and boutiques that line the streets.

6. Patek Philippe Museum

Patek Philippe Museum is a paradise for watch lovers. The museum showcases the history of watchmaking and features some of the rarest and most exquisite watches in the world. You can learn about the intricate art of watchmaking and admire the craftsmanship and beauty of these timepieces.

In conclusion, Geneva, Switzerland, is a city that offers a perfect blending of natural beauty, history, and culture. The above mentioned tourist attractions are the top picks you should not miss in Geneva. Moreover, it is a city that is worth visiting for experiencing a luxurious vacation where you can explore and indulge in the city's cultural and natural attractions.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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