When winter arrives, so do the festivities
Hôtel Bristol Genève is ideally located in the city center and just a stone's throw from the lake. It's the ideal place to discover all those winter activities while staying in a renovated, quiet and spacious room.
Take a seat and savor the delicate and creative flavors of the gourmet cuisine at Côté Square, the hotel’s restaurant, which has been awarded 14 out of 20 points by the 2027 Gault & Millau guide.
After a long day out, relax in our spa with jacuzzi, saunas and gymand treat yourself to a moment of well-being. Discover our packages for this winter.
Christmas market
From November 19 to December 24, 2026, the traditional Christmas market will transform the Quai du Mont-Blanc into an enchanting village.
In the midst of lights and abundant scenery, follow the path to the Christmas village. Local producers, designers and artisans will show you devices, delicacies and other delights.
After the Parc des Bastions and the Jardin Anglais, it is now bringing the Quai du Mont-Blanc to life under the name “Noël au Quai,” just a few minutes’ walk from the Hôtel Bristol. Admission is free.
The Fête de l'Escalade
L'Escaladeis the most popular festival in Geneva. It takes place in the city centre in December and is a commemoration of the citizens' proud defence against the Duke of Savoy's invading army in 1602.
It also includes “La course de l’Escalade,” a very popular sporting event held in Geneva the weekend before the festival, the48th edition of which will take place on December 5 and 6, 2026. From December 11 to 13, 2026, the Escalade festival transforms the city with parades, traditional customs, and fireworks.
Join us in celebrating one of Geneva's oldest traditions!
Choc-o-tour
Visit Geneva at your own pace, and push open the doors of Geneva's top chocolatiers to sample some of their tastiest specialities.
The Choco Pass is a wonderful way to explore the city while discovering the expertise unique of local chocolatiers.
Your Choco Pass is activated as soon as you visit your first chocolate shop and entitles you to a tasting plate at the partner chocolatiers of your choice (see the Geneva Tourism website for a complete list). The tasting plate will vary depending on the chocolate shop you visit; for example, you’ll sample the famous Geneva pavés at Stettler, while delicious truffles will be served at Sweetzerland. For children with the Choco Pass Kids, the tasting plate will be tailored to include a special surprise just for the little ones!
Reservations on request from our concierge or purchase online on the Genève Tourisme website.
Geneva Lux festival
Light installations created by artists from Switzerland and around the world interact with traditional festive illuminations to bring a magical and enchanting atmosphere to the city center and highlight Geneva’s heritage!
Free, outdoors, and open to everyone, from mid-January to early February 2027 (dates to be confirmed).
Art en Vielle-Ville
Art en Vielle-Ville is a leading cultural association that brings together fifteen prestigious art and antique galleries as well as three renowned cultural institutions, the Barbier-Mueller Museum, the Museum of Art and History and the Baur Foundation.
Its private viewings are a must-visit for art lovers, art collectors, art professionals and the simply curious. Discover Old Geneva in all its plurality and colour in a pleasant, eye-opening tour through its ancient streets. Find out more on the association's website.
The Coupe de Noël
During the traditional Christmas Cup on December 19 and 20, 2026, more than 4,000 brave participants will take on the lake’s icy waters.
First held in 1934, the Coupe de Noël is a must for swimmers partial to an invigorating dip on a frosty winter morning.
You can compete in this tournament or just stay warm on the shore and come cheer them on!
Festival Antigel
In exploring new cultural territories Antigel is a call to venture away from the main thoroughfares and explore the diversity and richness of urban and rural heritage in places as unusual as they are emblematic.
Antigel, which takes place every year at the beginning of the year, returns in February 2027 (dates to be confirmed). Check out the full program on their website.
