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Jet d'Eau: Geneva's Iconic Water Fountain

Experience the awe-inspiring Jet d'Eau, Geneva's iconic water fountain, shooting 140 meters high into the sky, a symbol of the city's innovation and international spirit.

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The Jet d'Eau, a towering water fountain in Lake Geneva, is a symbol of the city and a must-see attraction. Originally built in the late 19th century as a safety valve for a hydraulic power network, it was later transformed into a captivating tourist landmark. Shooting water 140 meters (460 feet) into the air at 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph), the Jet d'Eau is a mesmerizing spectacle visible from afar. Visitors can stroll along the Quai Gustave-Ador to get a closer view and feel the refreshing mist. The fountain operates year-round, weather permitting, and is illuminated at night, creating a stunning visual display. Its presence embodies Geneva's ambition, dynamism, and international spirit, making it a beloved landmark for locals and tourists alike. Don't miss the opportunity to capture memorable photos with this iconic fountain as your backdrop.

A brief summary to Jet d'Eau de Genève

Local tips

  • Check the Jet d'Eau's operating schedule in advance, as it may be closed due to weather conditions (strong winds or freezing temperatures) or maintenance.
  • Visit at night to see the fountain illuminated with colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
  • Walk along the pier for a closer view, but be prepared to get slightly wet from the mist, especially on windy days.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Jardin Anglais and see the famous Flower Clock.
  • Take a boat tour on Lake Geneva for a unique perspective of the Jet d'Eau and the city's waterfront.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Jardin Anglais, walk along the Quai du Général-Guisan towards the lake. Continue along the Quai Gustave-Ador, keeping the lake on your right. The Jet d'Eau will be visible in the distance. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes and offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding area. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Gare Cornavin (Geneva's main train station), take tram line 12 towards 'Jardin des Tuileries' or tram 18 towards 'Nations' and get off at the 'Molard' stop. From there, walk towards the lake and follow the Quai du Général-Guisan and then Quai Gustave-Ador. The Jet d'Eau will be visible on your right. Alternatively, take bus line 2, 6, or 9 and get off at the 'Rue du Lac' stop, which is closer to the Jet d'Eau. A single TPG (Transports Publics Genevois) ticket costs CHF 3.00 for a short distance ride (valid for 3 stops) or CHF 3.50 for a longer ride (valid for 60 minutes within Zone 10).

  • Ferry

    From the Pâquis pier, take one of the 'Mouettes Genevoises' (yellow taxi-boat) with lines M1, M2, M3 or 3150, 3154 to the Eaux-Vives pier. From there, it's a short walk along the Quai Gustave-Ador to the Jet d'Eau. A single fare is CHF 2.00.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Geneva. A taxi ride from Gare Cornavin to the Jet d'Eau typically costs between CHF 14-17 and takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Note that prices may vary depending on the company and time of day.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking near the Jet d'Eau can be limited and expensive. Several parking garages are available in the city center, including Parking de Rive (Boulevard Helvétique 31 bis) and Parking du Mont-Blanc (Quai du Général-Guisan). Parking rates typically range from CHF 3-4 per hour. Consider using a parking app like Scanpark to find the best rates and availability. Street parking is also available in designated zones, but time limits and fees apply (approximately CHF 2.80 for a limited time in the city center).

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Discover more about Jet d'Eau de Genève

The Jet d'Eau, French for "water jet," is more than just a fountain; it's a powerful symbol of Geneva, Switzerland, and a testament to the city's innovative spirit. Located where Lake Geneva empties into the Rhône River, this iconic water jet shoots an impressive 140 meters (460 feet) into the air, making it one of the tallest fountains in the world. Visible from almost anywhere in the city, the Jet d'Eau has become a defining feature of Geneva's skyline and a major draw for tourists from around the globe. The history of the Jet d'Eau is as fascinating as the fountain itself. It wasn't initially conceived as a tourist attraction but rather as a practical solution to a technical problem. In 1886, Geneva was experiencing rapid industrial growth, and a hydraulic power plant was built at Coulouvrenière on the Rhône River to supply pressurized water to the city's workshops and factories. When these workshops weren't in use, particularly in the evenings, excess pressure would build up in the system. To release this pressure safely, engineers devised a simple yet ingenious solution: a valve that would shoot the excess water into the air. This first water jet, standing at a modest 30 meters (98 feet), was located at the Coulouvrenière plant. However, it quickly captured the public's imagination and became an unexpected attraction. In 1891, to celebrate the Federal Gymnastics Festival and showcase Geneva's industrial prowess, the city decided to move the Jet d'Eau to its current location in the harbor. This new fountain, connected to the city's drinking water system, reached a height of 90 meters (295 feet). The Jet d'Eau underwent further modifications in 1951, when it was connected to an independent pumping station that draws water directly from Lake Geneva. This allowed the fountain to reach its current impressive height of 140 meters. Two powerful pumps propel 500 liters (132 gallons) of water per second through a nozzle at a speed of 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph). The water plume is so powerful that it can be seen from as far as 10 kilometers (6 miles) away. The Jet d'Eau operates year-round, although it may be temporarily shut down due to strong winds or freezing temperatures. The fountain is typically illuminated at night, creating a spectacular visual display that reflects off the surface of the lake. Over the years, the Jet d'Eau has been adorned with various colors to commemorate special events or show solidarity with other nations. For example, it was lit up in the colors of the French flag after the 2015 terrorist attacks in Paris. Visiting the Jet d'Eau is a must for any traveler to Geneva. The fountain is easily accessible by foot, public transportation, or boat. A leisurely stroll along the Quai Gustave-Ador offers stunning views of the Jet d'Eau and the surrounding cityscape. For a closer experience, visitors can walk along the pier leading to the fountain's base, but be prepared to get slightly wet from the mist. Beyond its visual appeal, the Jet d'Eau holds a deeper significance for the people of Geneva. It represents the city's history, its commitment to innovation, and its status as an international hub. The fountain has become a symbol of peace, progress, and humanitarian values, reflecting Geneva's role as the home of numerous international organizations, including the United Nations and the Red Cross. The area surrounding the Jet d'Eau offers a variety of attractions and activities. The Jardin Anglais, with its famous Flower Clock, is a short walk away. Visitors can also explore the Old Town, with its charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and St. Pierre Cathedral. Boat tours on Lake Geneva provide a unique perspective of the Jet d'Eau and the city's waterfront. The Jet d'Eau is not just a fountain; it's an experience. It's the feeling of the cool mist on your face, the roar of the water as it shoots skyward, and the awe-inspiring sight of this iconic landmark against the backdrop of Lake Geneva and the Alps. It's a reminder of Geneva's rich history, its vibrant culture, and its enduring spirit of innovation. A visit to the Jet d'Eau is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a lasting impression of this remarkable city. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the Jet d'Eau is a sight that will captivate and inspire you. It's a symbol of Geneva that embodies the city's unique blend of tradition and modernity, its commitment to peace and progress, and its enduring appeal as a global destination. So, come and witness the magic of the Jet d'Eau and discover why it has become one of the world's most beloved landmarks. The Jet d'Eau stands as a powerful reminder of Geneva's past, present, and future. It's a symbol of the city's ability to transform challenges into opportunities, its dedication to innovation and progress, and its unwavering commitment to humanitarian values. As you stand before this magnificent fountain, take a moment to appreciate the history, the engineering, and the symbolism that make the Jet d'Eau a truly unique and unforgettable landmark. Let the Jet d'Eau inspire you to embrace the spirit of Geneva and to strive for a better world. The Jet d'Eau is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a living, breathing symbol of Geneva's identity. It's a reminder of the city's rich history, its vibrant culture, and its unwavering commitment to peace and progress. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor from afar, the Jet d'Eau is a source of pride and inspiration. So, come and experience the magic of the Jet d'Eau and discover why it has become one of the world's most iconic landmarks. Let the Jet d'Eau be a symbol of hope, inspiration, and the enduring power of human ingenuity.

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