Skip to main content
Kidora
All activities Blog View map

Explore by...

Little Train Left Bank - Geneva

Want a gentle and refreshing stroll by the lake with the kids? The Petit Train Rive Gauche runs along the harbor of Geneva starting from the Jardin Anglais, to discover the Jet d'Eau, the Flower Clock, and the parks along the water, without tiring little legs.

Illustration of the Petit Train Rive Gauche in Geneva: a small red road train with open wagons runs along the quay by Lake Geneva, with happy children and the Jet d'Eau in the background.

A stroll along the harbor

The Petit Train Rive Gauche is the perfect ride when you want to enjoy Geneva with your family without rushing. Starting from the Jardin Anglais, this small electric train powered by solar energy takes you along the quays, facing Lake Geneva, for a loop of about half an hour. Children love climbing into the little carriages, and parents appreciate discovering the city while seated, calmly, at stroller height.

What your children will discover

From the Flower Clock to the famous Jet d'Eau, passing through the parks of Eaux-Vives and La Grange, the route chains together beautiful viewpoints over the harbor. The train follows the edge of the lake along the Quai Gustave-Ador, with a panorama of the Alps in good weather. An audio commentary (available in several languages) accompanies the ride and shares a few anecdotes about the places crossed.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

You settle into an open carriage, enjoy the lake air, and watch the quays go by. It's a relaxing activity, perfect for a morning or late afternoon, complementing a stroll along the harbor or a picnic in a park. The pace is gentle, stress-free: a good option for young children as well as the grandparents accompanying them. Several stops allow you to get off along the way and catch the next train.

Before you go

  • Recommended age: from 6 years old to fully enjoy the commentary, but little ones also love the train (free for ages 0-3).
  • Duration: about 30 to 35 minutes for the complete loop.
  • Reservation: not necessary for a family; reservations possible for groups via the official website.
  • Stroller / PRM accessibility: the train is accessible to people with reduced mobility; inquire on site about stroller access.
  • Transport: departure at the Jardin Anglais, easily accessible by Geneva public transport (TPG); paid parking nearby, prefer public transport.
  • What to bring: a light sweater or a hat depending on the weather, as the carriages are open.
  • Ideal season: spring, summer, and autumn, with the train running from March to October (and more regularly in good weather).

Parents' tips

  • Check the schedules and operating days on the official website before you go: service depends on the weather.
  • Combine the ride with a visit to the Flower Clock and an ice cream by the lake for a successful morning.
  • Sit on the lake side to enjoy the view of the Jet d'Eau.

Useful information

  • Address: Quai Gustave-Ador 33, 1207 Geneva (departure at the Jardin Anglais)
  • Official website: https://www.petit-train.ch/
  • Hours: see the official website (operating from March to October, depending on the weather)
  • Access: Geneva public transport (TPG) to the Jardin Anglais; paid parking nearby

Why we recommend it

It's a simple, affordable, and eco-friendly outing that appeals to all ages. You enjoy Geneva differently, by the water, without the fatigue of a long walk: perfect with young children or on a beautiful summer day.

In two words

A ride on a solar train along the harbor of Geneva, gentle and panoramic, ideal for discovering Lake Geneva with family.

Frequently asked questions

Does the Petit Train Rive Gauche suit toddlers?
Yes, the train appeals to all ages. Children aged 0 to 3 travel for free and love the open carriages. The journey is short (about 30 minutes), making it suitable for young children.
Where does the Petit Train de Genève go?
The departure takes place at the Jardin Anglais, along the Quai Gustave-Ador, by Lake Geneva. The starting point is easily accessible by Geneva public transport (TPG).
How long does the walk last?
The complete loop takes about 30 to 35 minutes along the harbor. Several stops allow you to get off along the way and catch the next train.
Does the Petit Train operate all year round?
The train operates mainly from March to October, and more regularly in good weather. The service depends on the weather, so check the schedule on the official website before you travel.
Is the Petit Train accessible to people with reduced mobility?
Yes, the Petit Train is accessible to people with reduced mobility. For strollers, feel free to inquire directly on-site at the departure from the Jardin Anglais.
What is the price of the Petit Train Rive Gauche?
The rates are listed on the official website and remain affordable, with free admission for children aged 0 to 3 years. Visit petit-train.ch for the latest prices and options.

Michael @ Kidora

Kid Adventure Planner

Location

Geneva

Geneva

Quai Gustave-Ador 33, 1207 Genève

From 6 years
Outdoor Wheelchair accessible

Contact

Website

Nearby activities

Discover more activities near you

0,0 km
Illustration plate: small white and blue Corsairs boat on Lake Geneva facing the Jet d'eau of Geneva, delighted children on board in front of the Eaux-Vives quays lined with trees and Belle Époque buildings
Geneva, Geneva
Outdoor
From 6 years

Feeling like a big breath of fresh air by the lake with the kids? At Les Corsaires, at the end of Quai Gustave-Ador in Geneva, you can rent a pedal boat or a small boat and head out to admire the Jet d'eau from the water, at your own pace and with the family.

View details
0,4 km
Illustration plate of Baby-Plage in Geneva: small sandy beach by Lake Geneva, shallow water, large shaded plane tree, pier and CGN boat on the lake, children playing in the sand and in the water
Geneva, Geneva
Outdoor
From 3 years

Want a day by the lake without leaving the city? In the heart of Eaux-Vives, Baby-Plage offers a small sandy and grassy beach, shallow water, and a playground just steps away: the perfect spot for a family outing, and it's free!

View details
0,4 km
Illustration plate of the Bains du Jet d'eau in Geneva: two floating pools bordered by wooden pontoons, children and families swimming, the refreshment stand with terrace and umbrellas, and the Jet d'eau shooting up in the harbor.
Geneva, Geneva
Outdoor Wheelchair accessible
From 3 years

Feeling like a refreshing swim in the heart of the harbor, right under the famous Jet d'eau? The Bains du Jet d'eau offer your family two floating pools in the lake, with a space designed for children and a team of lifeguards on site all summer long.

View details
0,6 km
Illustration plate of a Geneva Seagull, small yellow and red boat, crossing the Geneva lake with joyful children on board, the Jet d'eau and the hills in the background.
Geneva, Geneva
Outdoor
From 3 years

Want a simple mini-cruise in the heart of Geneva? The Mouettes Genevoises cross the lake in just a few minutes, all year round, and offer children a true boat experience on the lake, accessible with a regular public transport ticket.

View details

AI Assistant

Your family activity finder