The Brunswick Monument with the iconic Jet d'Eau fountain in Geneva, a summer scenic view.
All attractions

Brunswick Monument

Geneva, Switzerland
i

The Brunswick Monument with the iconic Jet d'Eau fountain in Geneva, a summer scenic view.

Photo by WASSIM AHMED

Standing serenely along the banks of Lake Geneva, the Brunswick Monument blends grand gestures with intricate details. This ornate neo-Gothic mausoleum, dedicated to Charles II, Duke of Brunswick, offers a quiet space for contemplation amid the city’s gentle bustle. Stroll beneath tall plane trees and find a slice of Geneva’s history, quietly waiting for curious travelers and thoughtful wanderers.

Visiting Info

Currency
Entrance fee
Free
Hours
Opening hours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Contact Information

Location
Address
Jardin des Alpes, Quai du Mont-Blanc, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland
Phone

Planning your visit

Visiting the Brunswick Monument calls for just a bit of planning. Located in the Jardin des Alpes near the Mont-Blanc Bridge, the site is easy to reach from most corners of Geneva. Since this isn’t a ticketed attraction, the monument stays accessible all day, but the area feels liveliest in the late afternoon. Families, solo sightseers, and seniors all find it welcoming, though the monument’s steps require some care. The surrounding gardens offer smooth walking paths and benches for rest.

  • Best time to visit: Spring through early autumn, especially on sunny afternoons or golden hours before sunset.
  • How to get there: Walk from Genève-Cornavin train station (about 10 minutes), ride tram or bus to Mont-Blanc stop, or cycle along lakeside paths.
  • Accessibility: The garden and main viewpoints are accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, but the stairs of the monument itself are not.
  • Average visit duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour, including time to enjoy the lake or nearby cafes.

Must see stuff

The Brunswick Monument rises in carved stone, modeled after the famous Scaliger Tombs of Verona. Its three-tiered spire and elegant arches stand out, especially when sunlight filters through the trees. The monument draws photographers, history buffs, and anyone ready to pause by the water. Visitors can circle the structure or relax nearby as local students and picnickers drift through the park. Don’t miss the view across the lake to Geneva’s grand hotels and the ever-changing sky.

  • Key sights: The richly carved mausoleum, statues of lions and ducal figures, and the peaceful Jardin des Alpes surrounding the monument.
  • Unique experiences: Watch swans glide on Lake Geneva from the nearby promenade, or discover tribute plaques tucked around the base.
  • Photo-worthy locations: Monument framed by spring blossoms, reflections of the lake, and wide views of the Mont-Blanc Bridge.
  • Cultural facts: Charles II left much of his fortune to Geneva, making this monument both a gift and a mark of gratitude for the city. Architect Jean Franel’s design reflects 19th-century romanticism.

Tips for your visit

To get the most from a trip to the Brunswick Monument, try to visit on a clear day when crowds thin out and lake views shimmer. No tickets are needed, but benches fill quickly in warm weather. Early mornings offer quiet, while afternoons bring the soft rhythm of Geneva life. Bring a camera for light-dappled photos, and wear comfortable shoes for lakeside walks. While the atmosphere feels safe, be mindful of cyclists and others sharing the promenade.

  • Best times to avoid crowds: Early mornings and weekdays outside lunch hours.
  • What to bring: Water bottle, camera or phone, walking shoes, lightweight jacket in case of wind.
  • Etiquette: Keep voices low, avoid climbing on monument steps, and be respectful of families or elderly visitors resting nearby.
  • Comfort note: Restrooms are not always nearby, but several cafes or public facilities can be found within a few minutes’ walk.