Travel Plan
Jet d'Eau

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · GENEVA

Jet d'Eau

Geneva's 140-metre water fountain shooting into the sky from Lake Geneva.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
30 minutes
Entry
Free
Best time
Sunny afternoons
Area
Lakefront

A fountain shooting water 140 metres into the air, Geneva's symbol.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Quai Gustave-Ador, 1207 Geneva

  • On foot: From the Jardin Anglais, walk out along the Eaux-Vives jetty.
  • Tram/bus: Stops around Rive and Jardin Anglais.
  • Schedule: Usually runs daily; it may stop in strong wind or frost.

The story of the Jet d'Eau

The Jet d'Eau began in 1886 as a safety valve for a hydraulic power network. People loved it so much that it became a permanent attraction, moved to its current spot in 1891.

Today it pumps about 500 litres of water per second to a height of around 140 metres. On sunny days you can see rainbows in its spray, and you can walk out along the jetty — but expect to get wet!

Best time to visit

Best season

April to October.

Best time of day

Sunny afternoons for rainbows; evening when lit.

Wind

It may be switched off in strong wind.

Tips before you go

  • Walk out on the jetty for a close view (and some spray).
  • Walk out on the jetty, but watch the wind direction.
  • Photograph it from the Mont-Blanc Bridge or Bains des Pâquis.

Best hotels near the Jet d'Eau

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues

Lakefront palace hotel near the Rhône.

See prices

Beau-Rivage Genève

Family-owned grand hotel facing the Jet d'Eau.

See prices

Hotel d'Angleterre

Boutique hotel on the lake promenade.

See prices
All hotels near the Jet d'Eau

What's around the Jet d'Eau

  • Jardin AnglaisPark with the Flower Clock.
  • Bains des PâquisLake baths across the harbour.
  • Old Town10 minutes uphill.
  • Mont-Blanc BridgeBridge with views.

Questions travellers ask

How high is the Jet d'Eau?

About 140 metres.

Does it run every day?

Usually, except in strong wind or frost.

Can I walk close to it?

Yes, along the jetty.

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Chillon Castle

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Travel Plan · Jet d'Eau Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure