Geneva is a diverse city known for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're exploring the museums or eating the delicious cuisine, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Geneva, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Geneva?
A typical traveler spends $281 (Sfr227) per day on a trip to Geneva. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Geneva based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $103 (Sfr83) on meals
- $11 (Sfr8.57) on local transportation
- $327 (Sfr265) on hotels
A one-week trip to Geneva for two people costs, on average, $3,929 (Sfr3,178). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,965
Sfr1,589
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$3,929
Sfr3,178
-
One Month
Per person
$8,420
Sfr6,810
-
One Week
For a couple
$3,929
Sfr3,178
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$7,859
Sfr6,356
-
One Month
For a couple
$16,840
Sfr13,620
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Geneva cost?
A one week trip to Geneva usually costs around $1,965 (Sfr1,589) for one person and $3,929 (Sfr3,178) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Geneva on average costs around $3,929 (Sfr3,178) for one person and $7,859 (Sfr6,356) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Geneva will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Geneva on average costs around $8,420 (Sfr6,810) for one person and $16,840 (Sfr13,620) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Geneva expensive to visit?
In Geneva, budget travelers spend $118 (Sfr95) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $280 (Sfr227) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $606 (Sfr490) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Geneva.
Geneva is a vibrant city that's big enough to keep you busy for days. Here, you'll meet a diverse crowd of travelers, from those on a shoestring budget to those looking for a little luxury. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Geneva can definitely get expensive if you let it, but you have options to reduce costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Geneva is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Copenhagen or Amalfi.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Geneva Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Geneva?
The average Geneva trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Geneva travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Geneva cost?
Geneva on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$72
(Sfr58)
|
$164
(Sfr132)
|
$309
(Sfr250)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$5
(Sfr3.75)
|
$11
(Sfr8.57)
|
$20
(Sfr16)
|
|
Food2
|
$40
(Sfr32)
|
$103
(Sfr83)
|
$271
(Sfr219)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$15
(Sfr12)
|
$34
(Sfr27)
|
$65
(Sfr52)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$5-16
(Sfr4-13)
|
$13-38
(Sfr10-30)
|
$24-71
(Sfr19-58)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. While some think they can visit Geneva with minimal expenses, most people don't enjoy traveling that frugally. Consider what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Hostels or hotels or vacation rentals? Are fun activities and dining out important to you? Your overall budget will depend on all of these questions.
What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?
Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $118 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.
For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.
Fortunately, there are plenty of hostels available in Geneva, such as Geneva Hostel, MEININGER Geneve Centre Charmilles, and Nyon Hostel. In these hostels, you can discover cheap dorm accommodations and a great social atmosphere, though amenities may be few. The city also offers convenient public transit, which can help budget travelers steer clear of pricey taxi or Uber rides. While food is a highlight for every visitor in Geneva, budget travelers often opt for street food or cook in their hostel, which can prevent them from enjoying the exquisite culinary offerings.
What Makes You an Average Traveler?
If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Most people who travel to Geneva will want to experience its major attractions, museums, and historical landmarks. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $280 per person, per day.
Geneva boasts a wide array of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or children, thus reducing your expenses. Families should prioritize hotels and restaurants that are geared toward kids. Le Jour et la Nuit is an excellent family-friendly option, while Hotel d'Alleves is also superb. You can find additional family and couple-friendly hotels in our hotel guide for Geneva here.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If you're looking for a complete getaway that features every luxury and a high level of service, plan on a cost of about $606 daily. To enjoy nicer hotels, dine at award-winning venues, indulge in extravagant experiences, and travel around the city with taxis or private drivers, you'll need to set aside a luxury budget. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Geneva: Private Cruise on Lake Geneva with Aperitif - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Geneva
The prices for hotels in Geneva can really vary, especially during peak travel season. Off-season, the average hotel room costs $173, while during peak summer season, that average price jumps to around $323. With budget accommodations starting at $105 and luxury hotels peaking at $659, there are options for every traveler. Dorm-style hostels are often the cheapest. Traveling during the low season or booking early can help you save.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Geneva for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $327 (Sfr265). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $164 (Sfr132) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Geneva? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Geneva include:
- Hotel d'Alleves starting at $279
- B&B Wonderlandscape starting at $131
- Eastwest Hotel starting at $166
- Hotel Rotary Geneva - MGallery starting at $235
- Home Swiss Hotel starting at $119
As a sizable city, Geneva offers numerous lodging options. From affordable hostels such as Geneva Hostel to cozy vacation rentals and upscale hotels, there's plenty of variety. However, be prepared for higher rates if you stay in the city center, where you'll also have easy access to public transit and attractions.
Geneva has an excellent public transit system, so it's possible to stay further outside the city and commute in. This may keep your accommodation prices down, but your transportation costs will go up. It can also be inconvenient if you're short on time.
Traveling in the low or shoulder season (and not in summer) means you'll enjoy lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists around.
Exploring Geneva on foot is a popular choice, so it's wise to find a place in the center of it all. Just be prepared for potentially higher prices.
The city's old town is a favorite spot for visitors. Hotels here may be expensive, but they usually have a lot of character and offer convenient access to local attractions.
Transportation Budget in Geneva
Transportation is essential in a large city like Geneva, and the good news is that the city has an excellent public transit system. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats. To save money, use the public transit, though taxis and rideshares are readily available for convenience.
Visitors who prefer to discover the area by walking will find it enjoyable. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.
Public Transit: 
(excellent)
Walkability: 
(great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $11 (Sfr8.57) per person, per day, on local transportation in Geneva. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Geneva is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$11
Sfr8.57
Geneva has a wonderful public transportation system and this is the recommended means of travel within the city. All visitors to the city can access a free travel pass which is good on all local Transport TPG. You can inquire about this at your hotel. Geneva is also an excellent city for cycling. If you have access to your own bicycle, that is ideal, but there are also several good and reasonably priced options to rent bicycles. The city itself is quite flat and has many facilities and amenities catering to cyclers.
The public transportation system includes buses, trams, mouette (boats) and a suburban train service. Trams are frequent and the lines have a hub at the Cornavin train station as well as Place Bel-Air in the old town. Suburban trains run to the outer areas of the city every half hour during the day and every hour in the evening until midnight. Most trains are used by commuters, but several stops, including Versoix and Coppet, may be of interest to tourists. The mouette service runs from the Paquis station near the Quai du Mont-Blanc to the other side of the lake near the Jardin anglais. Boats run every ten minutes.
If you find yourself taking public transit regularly, multi-day transit passes are a smart way to save cash.
Stay alert for pickpockets on the buses and trains and in the stations. Geneva is a significant city, so it's wise to be cautious.
Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:
- Geneva Airport (GVA) to Geneva - Arrival Private Transfer for $93 details
- Airport Transfer: Geneva Airport GVA to Geneva by Luxury Van for $106 details
- Private Transfer from Geneva Cornavin station CFF to Hotels for $118 details
How much does it cost to go to Geneva? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Geneva will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Geneva
The cuisine in Geneva is amazing, and you definitely want to take the time to sample all the local flavors. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Geneva can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Geneva is $103 (Sfr83) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$103
Sfr83
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Geneva is around $103 (Sfr83) per person, with previous travelers spending from $40 to $271. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Geneva are as follows:
- Breakfast: $10 to $31
- Lunch: $15 to $41
- Dinner: $31 to $72
- Coffee: $8
- Fast Food or Street Food: $15
There is no shortage of restaurants of all types in Geneva. The city's international flair is apparent in the restaurant selection as well. Unfortunately, Geneva is probably the most expensive city to eat out in an already expensive country. If you're hoping to find some budget food options, head to the area around the train station or in the Paquis district where you will find most of the budget eating options. Also try near rue de l'Ecole de Medecine off of Plaine de Plainpalais. Cooking for yourself is also a good way to save money. The cheapest places to pick up food are the supermarkets in France where you can expect to pay about half of what you might in Geneva.
Also take note that food options may be limited on Sunday nights. Your best options will probably be near touristy areas around the train station. Plan ahead and have reservations in advance if you can.
Eating at nicer restaurants for lunch instead of dinner is a great way to save money. Many dining venues in tourist areas or business centers feature lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' These are often smaller and cheaper versions of the dinner menu. If you're willing to search, you might discover a full multi-course gourmet meal at a great price. For dinner, you can just enjoy a light meal.
Numerous hotels offer breakfast as part of the room rate, but some might charge extra for it. The cost and quality can differ from one hotel to another. Being aware of this beforehand can help you determine if you need to allocate additional funds. It could be worth it for a fantastic buffet at the hotel, or you might want to opt for a nearby bakery or cafe that's more budget-friendly.
Using a water bottle can save you money on drinks while being eco-friendly.
If you're thinking about taking a tour, it's wise to check in advance which meals are covered. You may need to cover some of your own food costs, which could increase your overall budget.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Geneva. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Taste Geneva – A Full Food Tour of Swiss Flavors by Do Eat Better for $225 details
- Food tour with EAT and CHILL TOUR Geneva & Lausanne for $294 details
- Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class for $227 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Geneva
People come to Geneva in droves for museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and historical sights.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Geneva typically cost an average of $34 (Sfr27) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$34
Sfr27
There are plenty of sights around town, many of which reflect the city's rich history and its current international feel. Make sure you make a point of visiting Cathedrale St-Pierre, Palais des Nations, Quartier des Grottes, and Monument Brunswick. Popular museums in the city include the International Museum of the Reformation, the Museum of the International Committee of the Red Cross, and Musee d'Art Moderne et Contemporain.
There are several interesting events throughout the year in Geneva. Of particular interest are the Bol D'Or Yacht Race in June, Fete de la Musique, also in June, Caves Ouvertes in May and Fete de Geneve in August.
Also take some time to explore the many parks around town. Notable parks include Parc des Bastions, Parc des Eaux Vives, Parc de la Grange, and Bois de la Batie.
Museums and Attractions:
Geneva is famous for its world-class museums and historic sites. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.
Shopping:
Shopping here is an enjoyable experience. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Geneva. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Private sailing cruise on Lake Geneva from Geneva for $199 details
- Unusual Audio Tour of Geneva for $26 details
- Geneva Apero TukTuk Tour for $157 details
Nightlife Budget in Geneva
Though Geneva has some nightlife options, it's relatively quieter compared to other more popular cities. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $25 (Sfr20) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Geneva per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$25
Sfr20
Exploring the nightlife is often a fun part of any trip, but skipping a few drinks can make a big impact on your overall travel cost.
Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially if you're drinking at night. You could become a target for pickpockets or other crimes, so stick with trusted friends and avoid wandering alone.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Geneva. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Swiss Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour in Vaud for $262 details
- Geneva Countryside By E-Bike With Wine Tasting for $204 details
- Wine Tasting, Aperitif and Castle By E-bike for $169 details
Travel cost data last updated: May 30, 2025
Traveling in Geneva
Geneva, Switzerland
Geneva is the second largest city in Switzerland and was previously the home for the United Nations Headquarters. The UN is now housed in New York City, but there is still a very strong presence in Geneva. Geneva is not known to be as energetic as some other European cities, but if you search it out, then you're sure to find some interesting places and lively nightlife. It's a very international city, in part because of the heavy UN presence, giving it an interesting feel. It is a French speaking city, and advertisements, signs, and television are all done in French.
Geneva's climate is temperate, oceanic. The winters are cool with frosts at night and occasional ice storms. Summers are comfortable and warm. Rain falls relatively evenly throughout the year. Swimming in the lake is a popular activity during the summer months and skiing in the nearby mountains is common during the winter months.
Neighborhoods & Around
Geneva can be divided into two section, the Rive Gauche and the Rive Droite, or the left and right banks of the River Rhone and the lake. You'll find many of the international organizations as well as many of the international residents on the Rive Droite. Here you'll also find the airport and the main train station, in the Paquis district. On the Rive Gauche you'll find the old town, also called Vieille Ville. For shopping you can go to Rue du Rhone and Rue du Marche, which run parallel to each other. Eaux-Vives is a residential area with many shops, bars and restaurants. Carouge is also on this side of the river.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
I love the international atmosphere in Geneva! It's very different than most Swiss cities, and it's also a bit more affordable.