Geneva Botanic Garden

The Geneva Botanical Garden (Conservatoire et Jardin botaniques de la Ville de Genève, or CJBG) sits in Geneva's Petit-Saconnex district by the lake, a short walk from the Palais des Nations. It works as a relaxed city park and as a research institution with an international reputation.

What is it, and how did it start?

Botanist Augustin Pyramus de Candolle founded the garden in 1817. It began in the Parc des Bastions in the city centre and moved to its present site in the early 20th century. Today it covers about 28 hectares. It logged roughly 700,000 visits in 2023, which makes it the most visited attraction in Geneva.

What will you see?

• Living collections: more than 11,000 plant taxa across the grounds and greenhouses.
• Greenhouses: tropical and volcanic-region plants. They close earlier than the park itself.
• Alpine garden: mountain flora, a fitting stop in Switzerland.
• Small animal park: a handy break if you travel with children.
• Herbarium: over six million preserved specimens, among the largest in the world. It is a working scientific archive rather than a sightseeing stop.
• Specialist library: more than 160,000 volumes.

A mediation space on site runs free activities, and the events calendar lists guided visits.

How do you get there?

City buses 1, 11, 22 and 25 stop at "Jardin botanique". The garden has several entrances, including one at Place Albert-Thomas and one at Chemin de l'Impératrice 1. From the Palais des Nations it takes a few minutes on foot, so you can pair the garden with a visit to the international district.

When should you go, and what does it cost?

According to the city, the garden opens every day of the year: 8:00 to 17:00 in winter and 8:00 to 19:00 in summer. The greenhouses close at 17:00. Entry is free. Late spring and summer bring the most flowers, while the greenhouses give you somewhere to go on rainy days. Check the garden's website for current hours before you set off.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Geneva Botanical Garden free?

Yes. Entry is free, and so are the activities in the mediation space.

How long should I plan for a visit?

Two to three hours covers a relaxed walk through the grounds and greenhouses. Allow more if you bring children and visit the animal park.

Are there other sights nearby?

Yes. The Palais des Nations and the United Nations compound are right next door, and the lakeshore is close.

Who founded the garden, and when?

Augustin Pyramus de Candolle founded it in 1817.