Visits to CERN
We will arrange a multitude of visits to CERN as part of the programme. If you wish to organise a tour yourself, or for visiting friends of family, please consult the visit service page.
Food shops, stores
Shopping Centres:
- Val Thoiry Shopping Centre (France): Featuring a large HyperU hypermarket.
- Centre Commercial de Blandonnet (Switzerland): Home to a Coop hypermarket.
- Balexert (Switzerland): A major shopping center with a Migros hypermarket.
Nearest grocery stores:
- Carrefour(location here) in Saint-Genis-Pouilly village on the French side (you pay in EUR). Working hours: Mon-Sat 08:30-19:30. Sun 08:30-12:30. (bus №67 and 68 from CERN bus stop to “Porte de France” stop, 5 min ride).
- Coop (location here) in Meyrin on Swiss side (you pay in CHF). Working hours: Mon-Fri 07:30-19:00. Sat 07:30-18:00. Sun closed. (tram № 18 from CERN tram stop to “Village” stop, 4 mins ride,)
Restaurants, pubs in St Genis and Meyrin
- Pubs – in Saint-Genis-Pouilly, Charly’s and Ô Brasseur are popular choices amongst summer students;
- Happy Grill, kebab place close to the hotel.
- Le Mahal, Indian restaurant in St Genis, also for take away.
- In the area of "Les Vergers" close to CERN in Meyrin in Switzerland, you will find a number of small cafés and restaurants.
Lake Activities
- Bain de Paquis - nice swimming/restaurant area on the lake in Geneva.
- Public beaches around Lake. It is always a nice plan to take the tram down to the lake after your work day and take a swim and have a pick nick by the lake.
Sports
As CERN students you have the opportunity to join a wide range of sport clubs organized by the CERN Staff Association. Whether you are into team sports, yoga, hiking, diving, or even fencing, there is something for everyone. It is a great way to stay active, meet new people, and make the most of your summer at CERN.
- Sport Center Maisonnex – Meyrin
Located just a short distance from CERN, the Sport Center Maisonnex offers an excellent place to stay active during your summer. The facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and squash courts, making it a popular choice among students and locals alike.
- Tennis - tennis club Le Smash
Opposite CERN, there is tennis club Le Smash with courts and a small swimming pool, which can be nice to pass by after a warm working day. They have special student tickets, so make sure you bring your student ID.
Open from June 30 to August 18, 2025, the free Urban Golf course takes you through beautiful spots like Parc des Bastions, Jardin Anglais, and Promenade de la Treille. Perfect for students, this activity combines sport, sightseeing, and relaxation. Equipment is provided free of charge, and no prior experience is needed!
- There is a big Aquatic Center with indoor and outdoor pools In Saint Genis.
- Piscine de Livron – indoor swimming pool
This indoor swimming pool is open year-round and offers a great spot for lap swimming, aqua fitness, and relaxing swims.
For sunny summer days, the Piscine extérieure des Vergers is a popular spot featuring large outdoor pools, lounging areas, and green spaces. Ideal for cooling off after a day at CERN.
Events during summer
Summer in Switzerland is the perfect time to explore not only its natural beauty but also its vibrant cultural life. In and around Geneva, and across the country, you will find a rich lineup of events—from lively open-air concerts and lakeside parties to world-class theatre, food festivals, and city celebrations. Whether you are into electronic music, jazz, or local traditions, there is something for everyone to enjoy during your stay.
Main music festivals:
This official guide from the city of Geneva highlights major open-air concerts and festivals taking place across the city—from local talent to international acts. A great way to enjoy the rhythm of summer with fellow students.
Experience one of Switzerland’s most iconic music festivals from 4 to 19 July 2025! The Montreux Jazz Festival offers over 600 free events including concerts, DJ sets, jam sessions, silent discos, workshops, and more. Whether you are into jazz, electronic, or pop, there is something for everyone—just a train ride away from Geneva.
Held from 10–12 July 2025, Openair Frauenfeld is a must for hip-hop fans, bringing top international artists and massive crowds together for an unforgettable open-air music experience. Located in Frauenfeld, it’s one of the largest and most anticipated festivals in Switzerland.
From 16–19 July 2025, the Gurtenfestival takes over the hills of Bern with a fantastic mix of international and Swiss artists, beautiful nature views, and an unforgettable open-air experience. A student favorite for its laid-back vibe and stunning location.
Taking place from 22 to 27 July 2025, the legendary Paléo Festival features dozens of international music acts across multiple stages. Located in Nyon, it is one of the most iconic festivals in Europe, attracting over 200,000 visitors.
Taking place from 24–26 July 2025, Open Air Lumnezia is one of Switzerland’s most scenic festivals, held in the breathtaking mountain valley of Lumnezia. It combines a relaxed open-air atmosphere with a strong lineup of both local and international artists. Expect a weekend of good music, unforgettable sunsets, and camping under the stars.
Get ready for one of the world’s biggest techno parades on the 9th of August 2025! It turns the city of Zurich into a massive open-air celebration with music trucks, live DJs, and vibrant crowds dancing by Lake Zurich. A unique and unforgettable summer experience for techno music lovers and partygoers.
From 14 to 17 August 2025, the OpenAir Gampel festival returns with four days of electrifying music and a legendary camping experience in the heart of the Alps. Known for its energetic crowd and diverse international lineup, this open-air event is one of the biggest and most anticipated music festivals in the country.
Taking place over two weekends (22–23 August and 29–30 August 2025), Zürich Openair delivers a high-energy lineup of international stars and electronic legends. With past lineups featuring names like Rita Ora and The Prodigy, this urban festival offers a full-sensory experience in the heart of Zurich. Expect unforgettable nights under the open sky.
More Festivals and Musicals Across Switzerland
Switzerland offers a rich variety of cultural events during the summer months — from open-air concerts and traditional music festivals to immersive theatre experiences. This official guide helps you discover hundreds of events happening across the country.
Browse the full list of different festivals and musicals here!
Food & Wine Festivals
From Geneva’s lakeside tastings to vineyard tours in Lavaux, summer brings a delicious range of food and wine festivals. Enjoy artisanal cheeses, regional wines, Swiss chocolate, and more in scenic open-air settings - Swiss Wine Events Calendar.
Swiss National Day – 1 August
Switzerland’s National Day is celebrated every year on August 1st, commemorating the alliance sworn in 1291 by the cantons of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden. In Geneva, festivities take place at La Grange Park and include cultural performances, music, speeches, and a vibrant public gathering. It’s a unique chance to experience the spirit of Swiss unity and tradition. More about the 1st August celebration in Geneva here.
