Science Trips to Geneva
The beautiful and cultural city of Geneva with its dramatic views of Mont Blanc, surrounded by the Alps and Jura mountain, is a top choice for a science visit. As well as increasing their knowledge in science, students get to travel, experience another culture, broaden their horizons and create amazing lasting memories.
The highlight of any science trip to Geneva has to be a visit to CERN. Founded in 1954, the CERN laboratory sits astride the Franco-Swiss border and is the world’s largest particle physics laboratory. Here scientists from across the globe are using the world’s largest and most complex scientific instruments like the Hadron Collider to revolutionise our understanding of the universe. Visits must be organised directly by the group leader, and offer your students unbeatable access to the scientists working on this global project.
Add a visit to the History of Science Museum, United Nations tour or a cruise around Lake Geneva to provide a well-rounded science itinerary that both inspires your budding scientists and showcases this stunning and cosmopolitan city.
Prices start from£539pp
Popular itinerary
Our sample itinerary provides you with an idea of the visits you can cover during your trip. We can tailor-make an itinerary to support your specific learning outcomes.
| Morning | Afternoon | Evening | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Check in to UK airport for flight | Arrive Geneva and transfer to your accommodation | Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Geneva |
| 2 | Visit to CERN | Visit to History of Science Museum | Fondue Evening meal |
| 3 | Guided tour of United Nations | Transfer to Geneva airport for return flight | Arrive UK, onward travel to school |
- 1
- 2
- 3
| Morning | Check in to UK airport for flight |
|---|---|
| Afternoon | Arrive Geneva and transfer to your accommodation |
| Evening | Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Geneva |
| Morning | Visit to CERN |
|---|---|
| Afternoon | Visit to History of Science Museum |
| Evening | Fondue Evening meal |
| Morning | Guided tour of United Nations |
|---|---|
| Afternoon | Transfer to Geneva airport for return flight |
| Evening | Arrive UK, onward travel to school |
Price Shown includes
- Return Air Travel
- 2 nights B&B Hostel Accommodation
- Specialist Group Travel Insurance
- Bespoke itinerary planning service
- Free Place Ratios
- Live Trip Tracking
- Online trip organiser & Travel App
- 24/7 support whilst you are away
Places to Stay
Geneva
Reasons to Visit
CERN - European Organisation for Nuclear Research
CERN, the world’s largest laboratory for particle physics is where the Internet was born 20 years ago and where 10,000 physicists try to unlock the secrets of the universe and the Big Bang. Tours of the centre last half a day and can be themed to include any of the following topics: Accelerating Particles, Discovering Antimatter and Information Technology, Calculations and Communication. This can be followed by a visit to one of the permanent exhibitions.
Science Gateway opening on 8th October, 2023, visitors from age five and above will be able to discover their inner scientist in hands-on education labs and explore CERN and the universe through immersive multimedia exhibitions.
World Meteorological Organisation
WMO is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) with 191 Member States and Territories. It is the UN system's authoritative voice on the state and behaviour of the Earth's atmosphere, its interaction with the land and oceans, the weather and climate it produces and the resulting distribution of water resources. Group visits are organized upon request and according to availability.
History of Science Museum
The History of Science Museum is the only one of its kind in Switzerland. It is also an excellent display case for the city’s scientific past, which was particularly outstanding in the 18th century. The collections are composed of numerous old scientific instruments (microscopes, barometers, sundials, astrolabes, etc.), and books and documents bequeathed by the families of Geneva’s scientists and scholars.
Swiss Plasma Center
The Swiss Plasma Center is one of the world's leading fusion research laboratories. Through a wide range of research programs, scientists are working to advance our understanding of the physics of plasmas and develop fusion as an energy source. Groups can take a one hour guided tour including the tour of the tokamak (unique in Switzerland). The visit is located in Lausanne so a coach is required.
Geneva Observatory
What is an observatory? Which are the great fields of research in astronomy? Which tools do astronomers use? What is the daily life of an astronomer? You will discover all this during your visit.
Boat Cruise on Lake Geneva
A great way to sightsee is on board a cruise on one of Europa’s most beautiful lakes allowing you to discover the major attractions of Lake Geneva : the stone of Niton, the Water Fountain, the Black Harbour, the Diodati house, The UN building, the castle of Bellerive, the Mermaid, and many more interesting sites.
Jet d'Eau
Originally a simple security valve at the Coulouvrenière hydraulic factory, the massive Jet d'Eau fountain has grown to become symbolic of Geneva. In the summer months, eight 13,500-watt projectors light the fountain's majestic column in the evening, as it soars into the sky.
Cathedrale Saint-Pierre and Old Town
The Cathedrale Saint-Pierre is one of Geneva's main attractions. It has no less than 157 steps which lead to the summit of the cathedral’s north tower, and to a fabulous panorama overlooking the city and the lake. You will also be charmed by the Clémence, the queen of the bells, weighing over 6 tons and hoisted to this very tower in 1407.
Flower Clock
It is impossible to describe Geneva without making reference to the world-renowned Geneva watch industry, which is a real symbol of this city. The famous flower clock represents this perfectly as it is a true masterpiece of technology and floral art. Built in 1955, it is located at the edge of the Jardin Anglais and offers a delightful sight.
Mont Salève Cable Car
Just across the French border is a cable car that carries you to an altitude of 1,100 metres in less than five minutes. It offers superb views over Geneva, the Alps and the Mont-Blanc massif. It is located 9km from the Geneva Youth Hostel and is easily reached on public transport.
Traditional Fondue Evening
In the traditional Swiss style setting of Hotel Edelweiss, enjoy an evening of cheese or beef fondue, whilst being entertained with yodelling, cowbells and the Alpine Horn. A great atmospheric evening full of local charm.
International Museum of the Red Cross
Discover the fascinating history of the world's first humanitarian organisation. Photos, films, objects and documents are presented through audio-visual displays and computers. The unique setting of the “Today” area plunges you into the thick of current actions and gives you access to the latest news from the field.
The Palais des Nations
The European headquarters of the United Nations have become the centre of world diplomacy. Under the dome of Human Rights and on the Place des Nations, standing in front of the monumental “Broken Chair”, you are reminded of Geneva’s contribution to peace and freedom. This popular tour allows you to see The Assembly Hall, The Council Chamber and a film on the activities and objectives of the UN office in Geneva.
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What you say
Really happy with the service, everything was clear and we were able to complete trip without a hitch. The Sweyne Park School
At every stage your staff were extremely helpful and knowledgeable. Nottingham High School
Excellent as ever. Would have no hesitation in using EST for future trips. Maiden Erlegh School
Everything was easy, the website made tracking the progress a doodle - I can't think of anything that would have made it easier. (Itineray) Very clear and the parents really liked it. All bookings were easy and kids loved the spaghetti factory. Very professional - took all the stress of organising our visit away. Wood Green School
