Where to go in Geneva when you want to eat the best fondue in winter, celebrate the carnival in March, listen to music and drink coffee while watching the sun rise after an all nighter, or even just for the famed after work apéro? Why to a public pool, of course!
The Bain des Pâquis has been a public pool since 1890, 18 years after its creation, and has remained in the city's and the people's hands ever since. It was renovated in the thirties, threatened by destruction at the beginning of the eighties, finally saved by Genevans in 1988 and renovated again.
During all this time, it has always been a place where anyone could come and go, feel welcome, hang out with friends and family, and partake in numerous events, such as short film festivals and concerts, offered by the Bains. There is also a sauna, hammam and Turkish baths as well as spaces for women only. You'll always find something to do there, people to watch, swans to be scared of.
It is one of my favorite spots in the entire city, I spend a lot of my summer Sundays there, enjoying a refreshing late afternoon drink or a dip in the lake, with my friends and the people of Geneva for company. And sometimes I just go for coffee and some Jazz before going to bed.
Explore Geneva like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Geneva guide.
Going to "Mount Saleve" in Geneva is something locals do on a Sunday morning - go to the top by cable car or hike and you can paraglide down!
By
"Le Dhaba" in Geneva is an Indian restaurant that is styled after an authentic highway-side truck driver cafe! You should try their thali...
By
"Qafe Guidoline" in Geneva is one of those rare places that have great beer on top of amazing coffee. It's my hip, go-to place for a Friday night...
By
"Le Saïgonais Restaurant" is my favorite restaurant in Geneva purely on the basis of food. They're Asian/Vietnamese and plant-based - need I say more?
By
"DFC Sports" in Geneva is a boxing gym that's ideal for meeting people & intensely working out while traveling! Kind of ironic in this peaceful city!
By
"ALIVE" in Geneva isn't your typical vegan restaurant that only offers lazy burgers & wraps - it's so much more! Try the Brunch Menu on weekends...
By
"Gives a Fork" in Geneva, with its U-shaped table and small dining area, makes for a very intimate vibe - a great restaurant to dine with friends!
By
"Audio Club" is my favorite club in Geneva. I come here with my friends for a great electronic music night with good sound and adventurous programming!
By
Geneva's theatre scene would just not be the same without "Galpon Theatre"! 20 years later, it's still managed by its founder. It's so cosy & familiar!
By
"Entre Homard et Cote" Geneva is where I'd go for a burger or lobster rolls, served with potato wedges and salad. You’ll be licking your fingers clean...
By
95 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 95 Insider Tips from our local Spotters