Excursions and visits in the region

CAGI offers a programme of excursions, visits and regional events for international newcomers.

The CAGI Welcome Programme offers new international newcomers a programme of excursions and visits organised around three themes of discovery :

  • towns and districts,
  • institutions and companies,
  • regional events and leisure activities.

The excursions are monthly and take place on Saturdays to enjoy with your spouse and child(ren). The presence of many volunteers from the Fondation pour Genève Newcomer Network also helps to create friendly ties.

Registration is free and valid for one non-renewable year, but certain activities may require a modest financial contribution.

  To receive invitations, please check your eligibility by visiting the Welcome Programme page and fill in the form. 

Programme of excursions 2024-2025

Saturday 24.8.24 – Walk in the Jura
Walk in the Jura between Les Pralies and La Givrine (7.5 km, estimated time : approx. 3 hours).

Saturday 21.9.24 – Fête du Vacherin à la Vallée de Joux
“Fête du Vacherin” (a famous local cheese) in Charbonnières; cow herd descent, alphorns and regional products market.

Saturday 19.10.24 – Lausanne
Guided tour of the Old Town, welcome and reception by the authorities at the Town Hall with a presentation of the municipality.

Saturday 16.11.24 – Grand Théâtre de Genève
Exclusive private tour of the Grand Théâtre de Genève.

Saturday 14.12.24 – The Old Town in the time of the Escalade
Discover medieval Geneva and its secret passages, before celebrating the traditional Escalade in a private club in the Old Town.

Saturday 18.1.25 – Geneva Airport
The runway, the control tower and the baggage sorting area… this and much more will give you a behind-the scenes look at a key Geneva location.

Saturday 15.2.25 – Snow-shoeing
A snowshoe tour at the Col de la Givrine in the Jura, followed by a hearty cheese “fondue” in the late afternoon.

Saturday 22.3.25 – Ferme Bieri
A visit to a farm in the countryside on the left bank before enjoying a « raclette genevoise » among the cows.

Saturday 26.4.25 – Nyon
Welcome and reception at Nyon Castle before exploring the town with a guided tour.

Saturday 24.5.25 – Geneva’s botanical conservatory and gardens
Guided tour of the park and greenhouses for a unique exploration of the botanical world.

Saturday 14.6.25 – Lavaux and Chillon Castle
Visit Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007. See the terraced vineyards with views over Lake Geneva. Afternoon visit to Chillon Castle, a 12th century fortress.

Services of the Welcome Programme

Founded by the Swiss Confederation and the Republic and Canton of Geneva, the International Geneva Welcome Centre is the single entry point for the support and integration of employees of International Geneva and their families, NGOs and visiting delegates.