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Best time to visit Geneva: month by month
Short answer
May to September is best, with highs of about 19–27°C, lake swimming and outdoor terraces. July and August are warmest (about 27°C) and lively with the Fêtes de Genève; winter is grey and cold (about 5–9°C highs) but good for fondue and skiing nearby.
Month by month
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 5°C | 0°C | 12 | low |
| Feb | 9°C | 1°C | 8 | low |
| Mar | 12°C | 3°C | 10 | medium |
| Apr | 14°C | 5°C | 11 | medium |
| May | 19°C | 10°C | 12 | medium |
| Jun | 25°C | 15°C | 12 | high |
| Jul | 27°C | 17°C | 11 | high |
| Aug | 27°C | 17°C | 9 | high |
| Sep | 22°C | 14°C | 9 | medium |
| Oct | 18°C | 10°C | 9 | medium |
| Nov | 10°C | 4°C | 17 | low |
| Dec | 7°C | 1°C | 15 | medium |
Temperatures and rainy days: Copernicus ERA5 averages, 2021–2023. Crowd levels are our estimate.
Season by season
Spring (Mar–May)
Cool to mild, about 12–19°C highs, with blossoms in the parks and fewer tourists.
Summer (Jun–Aug)
Warm, about 25–27°C, with lake swimming, boat trips and the Fêtes de Genève in August.
Autumn (Sep–Nov)
September is pleasant at about 22°C, October about 18°C; November is grey and wetter.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Cold, about 5–9°C highs and near-freezing nights, with the bise wind; the Escalade festival and Christmas market brighten December.
Events worth planning around
- Fêtes de Genève with fireworks over the lake (August)
- L'Escalade festival with chocolate cauldrons (around 11–12 December)
- Geneva Christmas market (December)
- Lake Parade electronic music event (summer)
When to avoid
Avoid big conference and fair weeks if you want reasonable hotel prices. November and the grey winter months are less appealing for the lakefront.
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Common questions
What is the best time to visit Geneva?
May to September, for lake swimming, boats and terraces.
When is the Escalade?
Around 11–12 December, with parades and chocolate cauldrons.
Is the Jet d'Eau always on?
No; it is switched off in strong wind, frost and for maintenance.