Plaine de Plainpalais

Plaine de Plainpalais is a vast open esplanade in the heart of Geneva, Switzerland, on the left bank of the Rhône between the Old Town and the River Arve. The diamond-shaped square measures roughly 640 m by 200 m, making it one of the largest public squares in the country. Locals treat it as a sports ground, market hall and fairground all in one.

Where does the name come from?

It has nothing to do with a palace. The name points back to a Latin phrase for marshy plain. The land began as an island in wetlands and later became pasture. After the failed Savoyard assault of 1602 (the Escalade) it stayed mostly wasteland. In 1637 the Duke of Rohan proposed turning it into a promenade for pall-mall, an old mallet-and-ball game, and the plain took its present form in 1662. Over the following centuries it hosted military drills and fairs. The former municipality of Plainpalais, grown from the suburbs of Palais, Saint-Léger and Saint-Victor, merged into the City of Geneva in 1931 after a vote the year before.

What can you do here?

• Flea market (marché aux puces). Running since 1970, it is held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and some sources add Sundays, especially the first of the month. Expect antiques, books, jewellery and second-hand finds.
• Skatepark. Opened in 2012 and covering about 3,000 m², it is among the bigger ones in Europe and a good spot for watching tricks.
• Circuses and funfairs. The plain regularly hosts circuses, including Knie, as well as travelling funfairs, trade fairs and exhibitions.
• Plain relaxation. Wide paths and lawns suit strolls, picnics and a game of boules.

What else is nearby?

The Cimetière des Rois, Geneva's cemetery of notable figures, is a short walk away. The Plainpalais–Jonction district has cafés, galleries and university buildings, and the Old Town is a brief walk away.

How do you get there?

The square sits right in the centre, so walking from the Old Town is easiest. City trams and buses stop at Plainpalais, next to the square. If you drive, use an underground car park nearby, since street spaces fill up quickly on market days and during events.

When is the best time to visit?

Come on a Wednesday or Saturday morning for the flea market. Spring and summer bring the most activity, with locals gathering in the evenings. The city has noted noise and litter after late-night gatherings near the skatepark and Avenue du Mail, so daytime is calmer.

Frequently asked questions

Is it free to enter Plaine de Plainpalais? Yes, the square is open to everyone at no charge. You only pay for events such as a circus or funfair.

Which days does the flea market run? Wednesdays and Saturdays. Some sources also list Sundays, so check the city's current calendar before you go.

Is it a good place for families? Yes. There is plenty of room to play, and circuses and fairs add extra draw. The skatepark is best enjoyed from the sidelines.

How long should I plan for? A walk across the square takes about 30 minutes. On market days allow 1 to 2 hours to browse the stalls.