Playground of the Parc des Bastions: climb, slide, and play giant chess in the heart of Geneva

A playground themed around the Escalade, in the heart of Geneva

Nestled in the Parc des Bastions, right next to Place Neuve and a stone's throw from the old town, this large playground is one of the most beloved in central Geneva. Its main structure is inspired by the theme of the Escalade, featuring towers, rope bridges, and climbing passages that turn every visit into a little adventure. Around it, the tree-filled park offers shade, benches for parents, and space to run. It is a great spot to visit after a city tour or for a whole morning dedicated to children. And good news: access is outdoors, public, and completely free.

What your children will discover

The large play structure combines towers, rope bridges, climbing walls, and a slide: perfect for inventing a thousand stories of castles to defend. The youngest can enjoy a sandbox and swings, while a play wall offers mirrors, small marble games, and puzzles to manipulate. All around, the park provides space to expend energy and observe the chestnut trees, squirrels, and passersby. It is an ideal place to climb, slide, and test one's balance with ease.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

The atmosphere is that of a lively urban park: local families, passing tourists, and children from nearby schools mingle in a relaxed environment. While the little ones go from slide to swings, the older ones can challenge each other on the giant chess games or the nearby ping-pong tables (it's up to you to bring paddles, balls, and pieces according to what is available on site). Parents enjoy the benches and shaded paths to relax while keeping an eye on the children. It’s nice to alternate between free play, chess games, and a stroll in the park, all without spending a dime.

Before you go

• Recommended age: ideal for ages 2 to 12; the climbing structures are especially suitable for children who walk and climb confidently.
• Duration: from 45 minutes to half a day, depending on the desire to combine play and a walk in the park.
• Price: free, public outdoor space.
• Reservation: none, open access.
• Stroller/disabled access: site accessible by wheelchair; a play wall and an adapted swing are provided. Accessibility details to be confirmed with the City of Geneva / Pro Infirmis.
• Transport: tram 12 to the "Place de Neuve" stop, at the park entrance; accessible from Cornavin train station. City parking is paid and limited, prefer public transport.
• What to bring: hat and sunscreen in summer, climbing clothes, and your own paddles/ball or chess pieces if you want to enjoy them.
• Ideal season: pleasant in spring, summer, and autumn; the shade of the large trees is welcome on hot days.

Parent tips

• Come in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the large crowds of mid-afternoon.
• Bring a small snack and water: it’s even more enjoyable to extend the break on a bench in the shade.
• The park may be closed or partially occupied during events; check the official site before a special trip.
• Combine the outing with a walk to the nearby old town for a varied half-day.
• Keep an eye on the little ones on the climbing structures, which are also designed for older kids.

Useful information

• Address: Promenade des Bastions, Place Neuve, 1204 Geneva.
• Official site: https://www.geneve.ch/place-jeux-parc-bastions
• Hours: public space open all year round; specific hours and possible closures for events to be confirmed on the official site.
• Access: tram 12, "Place de Neuve" stop at the park entrance; on foot from the old town and Cornavin train station via the park.

Looking for more outings? Find all our activities in Geneva.

Why we recommend it

Because it brings together everything we love in a city outing: a large, varied playground on an original theme, giant chess and ping-pong for the older ones, a tree-filled park to relax, and all for free, right in the center of Geneva and easily accessible by tram. It’s the perfect stop to break up a day in the city and let the kids expend their energy.

In a nutshell

A large free and tree-filled playground in the heart of Geneva, themed around the Escalade, with giant chess and ping-pong just steps away from the old town.