What is it?
Nothing is more iconic than the giant water fountain sprouting water more than 140m into the air on Lake Geneva. Locals, tourists, and even celebs (yes, will.i.am has a selfie here) flock to this guy in summer to sunbake by the jetty before jumping in the water.
Is it worth visiting?
Don’t fight it: as possibly the most recognisable image of Geneva (you can even see it from the plane), it’s practically the law to get your photo taken in front of the city’s giant water fountain. It’s also got a pretty good story behind it...
Oddly enough, the Jet d’Eau happened by accident – apparently the hydraulic pump used water to power all the factories and houses of Geneva in 1850 and at night, when the technicians and craftsmen stopped working, excess pressure built up in the system and et voila, the Jet d’eau came into life. When the technicians finally stopped the flow, residents argued that they loved it, and so it remained.
Is it free to visit?
There aren’t many things for free in Switzerland – but this is one of them.
Where’s good to eat nearby?
There’s plenty to eat and drink around here as Jet d’Eau is right in the centre of town by the water. Try Café La Clémence for coffee and snacks, Cafe Papon for fondue, or go all out and have dinner at either Restaurant de la Cigogne or Wine & Beef Fusterie.