Ferney-Voltaire

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Ferney-Voltaire's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a charming café in the heart of Ferney-Voltaire, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the picturesque streets to admire the historic architecture and public squares. Don’t miss the local market, where you can interact with vendors and sample local delicacies.

afternoon
:

Visit the impressive Château de Voltaire, where the famous philosopher once lived, and explore its beautiful gardens. Take time to appreciate the art and exhibitions that highlight Voltaire's life and contributions to literature and philosophy. Enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro, savoring traditional French cuisine while soaking in the local atmosphere.

evening
:

As the sun sets, join a guided walking tour that delves into the tales of Ferney-Voltaire’s past, complete with stories of Voltaire himself. After the tour, unwind at a cozy wine bar, tasting some of the finest local wines. Conclude your evening with a peaceful walk through the town, enjoying the illuminated buildings and tranquil ambiance.

day 2
Cultural Immersion and Art Exploration
morning
:

Begin your morning with a visit to the local art gallery, showcasing contemporary works from local artists, which provides a glimpse into the region's vibrant art scene. Engage with the exhibits and perhaps participate in a workshop if available. Afterward, enjoy a casual brunch at a nearby café, sampling local cheeses and charcuterie.

afternoon
:

Head to the Ferney-Voltaire Museum to delve deeper into the history of the town and its famous resident. You’ll find fascinating artifacts and exhibits that narrate the stories of the region. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, where you can discuss your findings with fellow travelers or locals.

evening
:

In the evening, catch a performance at a local theater, which often features plays, music, and dance, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the area. Post-performance, dine at an elegant restaurant that offers a seasonal menu inspired by traditional French recipes. Savor the flavors of the region as you share your thoughts on the show with your dining companions.

day 3
Nature Walks and Scenic Picnics
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing hike along the trails of the nearby Jura Mountains, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy breathtaking views. Bring along a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. After your hike, find a peaceful spot to settle down for a picnic, surrounded by the tranquility of the environment.

afternoon
:

After your picnic, continue your exploration by visiting the nearby Parc de la Tête d'Or in Lyon, where you can stroll through lush gardens and enjoy the serene lake. Take a leisurely boat ride or rent a bike to explore more of the park’s expansive grounds. Treat yourself to ice cream from a local vendor as you relax by the water.

evening
:

Return to Ferney-Voltaire for a relaxed dinner at a local brasserie, where you can indulge in regional specialties. As you enjoy your meal, chat with locals and learn more about their favorite spots in the area. After dinner, take a quiet evening walk under the stars, appreciating the peaceful ambiance of the town.

day 4
Historical Insights and Gastronomic Delights
morning
:

Kick off the day with a visit to the Ferney-Voltaire market, where you can browse stalls filled with fresh produce, artisan crafts, and local specialties. Engage with the vendors to learn about their goods and perhaps pick up some ingredients for later. Enjoy your finds at a quaint café, relishing the flavors of the region.

afternoon
:

Embark on a guided tour of the historical sites around Ferney-Voltaire, including the remnants of the old fortifications and the town’s notable buildings. Gain insights into the impact of Voltaire and other influential figures from the area. Take a break for lunch at a nearby restaurant known for its farm-to-table approach, celebrating local cuisine.

evening
:

Participate in a cooking class where you can learn to prepare classic French dishes using fresh local ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labor by dining on the meal you’ve created, paired with selected wines. Conclude the evening with a friendly discussion about cooking techniques and culinary experiences with your fellow participants.

day 5
Adventure and Relaxation by Lake Geneva
morning
:

Start your day with a drive to Lake Geneva, just a short distance from Ferney-Voltaire, where you can enjoy stunning views of the water and the surrounding mountains. Rent a paddleboat or kayak to explore the serene lake at your own pace. Afterward, take a moment to relax on the lakeside, soaking in the beauty of the natural surroundings.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lakeside lunch at one of the many restaurants offering fresh seafood and regional dishes. Following lunch, take a dip in the lake or stroll along the promenade, where you can enjoy the local shops and cafés. Consider renting a bike to explore more of the scenic lakeside trails.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to Ferney-Voltaire for a relaxing dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where you can enjoy the views of the lake as the sun sets. Try a local fish dish, paired with a crisp white wine from the region. Cap off the night with a peaceful walk along the lake, listening to the gentle lapping of the water against the shore.

day 6
Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tours
morning
:

Begin your day with a journey to the nearby vineyards of the Jura region, known for producing exceptional wines. Participate in a guided tour of a vineyard, learning about the winemaking process from grape to glass. Enjoy a light breakfast at the vineyard, featuring local products paired with freshly baked bread.

afternoon
:

Engage in a wine tasting session, where you can sample a variety of wines, including whites, reds, and sparkling options crafted from local grapes. Meet the winemakers, who are often eager to share their passion and knowledge about their craft. Following the tasting, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the vineyard, savoring dishes that complement the wines you've sampled.

evening
:

Return to Ferney-Voltaire for dinner at a restaurant that specializes in pairing local dishes with regional wines. Engage in conversations about your favorite wines and culinary experiences from the day. End your evening with a nightcap at a local bar, enjoying the warm ambiance and chatting with locals about their favorite wines and vineyards.

day 7
Market Day and Culinary Experiences
morning
:

Start your day at the bustling Ferney-Voltaire market, where you can browse fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and local crafts. Interact with the friendly vendors, learning about their products and sampling delicious treats. After exploring the market, enjoy breakfast at a nearby café, savoring freshly baked pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Join a culinary workshop focused on French cuisine, where you'll learn to prepare classic dishes using seasonal ingredients. Enjoy the hands-on experience and connect with fellow food enthusiasts. After the workshop, indulge in a leisurely lunch featuring the dishes you’ve prepared.

evening
:

Visit a local restaurant known for its innovative take on classic French dishes, where you can enjoy a unique dining experience. As you savor each course, share stories with fellow travelers and locals about your culinary adventures. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the charming streets of Ferney-Voltaire, soaking in the ambiance of the night.

Discover Ferney-Voltaire

Read more in our Ferney-Voltaire 2025 Travel Guide.

Ferney-Voltaire Travel Guide