tourist spots in geneva

15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Geneva

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The city of Geneva may seem more French than Swiss, not surprising, since this corner of Switzerland is almost completely surrounded by France . While it may be surprising that a center for world banking and diplomacy would have so many attractions for tourists, you'll find plenty of things to do in Geneva.

Lake Geneva (Lac Leman) gives the city a waterfront, complete with a promenade, places to swim, access to lake tours, and even a water shuttle connecting different parts of the city. The lakefront, along which you'll find many of Geneva's attractions, is lined with elegant parks and gardens.

Behind this, the old town rises above the Rhone River, and its picturesque old streets and flights of steps are dominated by the cathedral. Geneva's international and commercial life provide some places to visit, as well, with the impressive Palais des Nations, a museum of the Red Cross, and the Patek Philippe Museum of watches and watchmaking.

You can be sure of finding the best places to go with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Geneva.

See Lake Geneva by Boat

Jet d'eau (water jet), temple de saint-pierre, stroll through the jardin anglais (english garden) and parc de la grange, place du bourg-de-four, jardin botanique (botanical gardens), palais des nations, day trip to chamonix and mont blanc, explore the past at the musée d'art et d'histoire (art and history museum), monument de la réformation and parc des bastions, patek philippe museum, international red cross and red crescent museum, ariana museum, day trip to evian-les-bains, quai du mont-blanc, where to stay in geneva for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to geneva, map of attractions & things to do in geneva, geneva, switzerland - climate chart.

The lake is unquestionably the star of Geneva's show. It is the background for many of the loveliest city views and itself has the unmatched backdrop of snow-covered Alps.

You can get from one part of the city to another on its Mouettes Genevoises , motor-launches that have shuttled between lakeside quays since 1897.

Or you can explore the lake on one of the regular boats that connect Geneva with Lausanne, Montreux, and other lakeside towns, some of the most popular places to visit near Geneva . For a taste of lake travel of long ago, opt for a cruise on one of the historic paddle steamers , one of the most romantic things to do for couples. To get even closer to the lake, you can rent a paddleboard and take to the water.

Beside the Jetée des Eaux-Vives, the breakwater enclosing Geneva's harbor, a mighty jet of water soars straight up from the lake surface in a 145-meter plume. This water jet has become the symbol of Geneva and is its most famous landmark. A powerful pump propels the water at a rate of about 500 liters a second, which accounts for the height it reaches.

A good viewpoint is from the Bains des Pâquis , a favorite spot for locals to swim, enjoy a sauna, or have a bite in a café.

Dating back to 1150 as the Cathedral of Saint-Pierre, the Romanesque church at the highest point of Geneva's old town features some Gothic elements. During the Protestant Reformation, in which Geneva played an important role, the name was changed to Temple de Saint-Pierre and it became a protestant church.

John Calvin preached sermons here from 1536 to 1564, and his followers stripped out the altars, paintings, and statuary, leaving only the carved capitals and the stained glass from its original decoration.

The two principal towers, dating from the 13th century, were never completed. You can climb to the top for beautiful views of the lake and town, and a corridor connecting the two towers makes it possible to ascend both without having to return to ground level.

The metal spire over the crossing was built in 1895, replacing a tower destroyed by fire in the 15th century. The original west front and doorway were replaced in 1749-56 by a portico of six Corinthian columns, which is not at all harmonious with the building's architecture but doesn't detract from the unity of the somewhat austere interior.

The galleried nave, with the aisles separated by massive clustered piers, ends in the 12th-century choir and semi-circular apse; the transepts are short and narrow. Be sure to notice the late Romanesque and early Gothic capitals in the nave, aisles, choir, and transepts for their workmanship and the variety of their themes.

The stained glass windows are copies of the 15th-century originals, now in the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire. Against the aisle walls, the fifth bay holds late Gothic choir stalls with delicate carving from the destroyed Chapelle des Florentins. In front of the last pillar of the north aisle is a triangular chair said to have been used by John Calvin.

Adjoining the southwest corner is the Chapelle des Macchabées , from 1406, a superb example of High Gothic religious architecture, with beautiful window traceries. Archaeological excavations below the church reveal an extensive underground labyrinth from the early Christian settlement on the hill, including Roman mosaics and two 4th-century Christian sanctuaries.

Address: Cours St-Pierre 6, Geneva

On the south side of the lake, known as the Rive Gauche, the Promenade du Lac runs east from the Pont du Mont-Blanc, flanked by the Jardin Anglais, where you'll see the large flower clock, almost as emblematic of the city as the Jet d'Eau.

The clock, set on a slight slope for easier viewing, changes with the seasonal blooming plants that form its colorful face. Also in the park is the Monument National, with allegorical figures of Helvetia and Geneva, commemorating Geneva's entry into the Swiss Confederation in 1814.

Along the south lakeshore are the landscaped Parc de la Grange, with a beautiful rose-garden, and the Parc des Eaux-Vives , with stately trees and flower-beds.

In the heart of Geneva's Old Town, near the Temple de Saint-Pierre, you'll find the popular Place du Bourg-de-Four. Possibly the oldest square in the city, and certainly its most charming and atmospheric, it is on the site of the Roman forum and held an important market from the ninth century onward. In the 16th century, exiled Protestants found shelter and refuge here.

Today, tourists and locals find refuge in its cafés and restaurants, many of which spill out onto the pavement in good weather. Along with an 18th-century fountain, a statue, Clementine by Heinz Schwarz, stands in the square. The Palais de Justice, which has housed the law courts since 1860 was built as a convent in the early 1700s.

Southeast of the Ariana, between the Avenue de la Paix and the Chemin de l'Impératrice, you'll find Geneva's botanic garden, established in 1902 to replace a smaller one in the Parc des Bastions. Its greenhouses, gardens, and conservatory cover about 28 hectares and feature more than 12,000 species of plants and trees.

An Alpine Garden shows plants from Switzerland's high elevations, and the herbarium is one of the largest in the world, with six million examples. A small animal area includes fallow deer and other wildlife, a popular place to visit for families.

Address: 1 Chemin de l'Impératrice, Geneva

The large complex of marble buildings that make up the Palais des Nations is the European headquarters of the United Nations, a position it assumed after the demise of the League of Nations, whose world headquarters was here.

As such it has become a center of world diplomacy, the largest UN center after New York, with upwards of 25,000 delegates passing through annually. On a guided tour, you can learn about the work carried on here and see the artworks and interiors donated by countries all over the world.

The Assembly Hall, seating more than 2,000, is used for meetings of the United Nations and its associated organizations. From its lobby is a beautiful view of the Alps. The two heavily gilded bronze doors at the ends were brought back from Italy by Napoleon, and presented to the League of Nations by Clemenceau.

The wall and ceiling painting in sepia on gold by J. M. Sert in the smaller Council Chamber was a gift from Spain, completed in 1936, showing themes of technical, social, and medical progress and world peace. In the ante-chamber are three bas-reliefs by Eric Gill inspired by Michelangelo. The library contains more than a million print items as well as electronic journals and books.

Between the main wings is the Cour d'Honneur, a spacious terrace merging into the park, with a magnificent view of the lake and the Alps. In the middle is a bronze armillary sphere with gilded signs of the Zodiac by American sculptor Paul Manship.

Address: Avenue de la Paix 14, Geneva

You can add another country to your travels on a day trip to the Alpine resort of Chamonix and Europe's tallest peak, Mont Blanc. Chamonix is best known as a chic French ski resort , but the rest of the year, it's also a center for climbers and hikers, as well as tourists.

Sightseeing opportunities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc abound, whether you want to do a little climbing or walk on more gentle trails across Alpine pastures. You can ride one of several gondola lifts for even higher views, or ride the tramway to the Nid d'Aigle at 2,372 meters. A walking path leads from here to the Bionnassay glacier.

A historic red cog railway will take you from Chamonix to Montenvers, where you can see the famous Mer de Glace glacier.

While you can drive from Geneva to Chamonix, an easier option is the Chamonix and Mont Blanc Day Trip , traveling by air-conditioned coach through the scenic Arve Valley on a full-day adventure. Optional add-ons include lunch and various mountain rides.

Read More: From Geneva to Mont Blanc: Best Ways to Get There

One of Switzerland's three largest museums, Geneva's Musée d'Art et d'Histoire owes its exceptional collections to the merger of several regional museums, with added donations from private collectors. The result covers the fields of applied and fine art and archaeology, with a collection of weapons, Greek and Roman art treasures, Middle Eastern and Eastern Mediterranean antiquities, Roman and Etruscan pottery, and Egyptian funerary art.

Archaeological finds and antiquities from Geneva and the surrounding area date back to the Paleolithic and the Iron Ages, extending through Roman and Gallo-Roman times to the Middle Ages. Various arts from Gothic and Renaissance periods are also displayed.

The fine art galleries include Italian, Flemish, and Swabian old masters and works by Flemish, Dutch, and French artists of the 16th to 18th centuries. Paintings by Geneva artists of the 18th and 19th centuries complete the collections.

Address: Rue Charles-Galland 2, Geneva

Through a pillared gateway southwest of Geneva's Hôtel de Ville, the Promenade de la Treille is lined with chestnut trees and offers views of Mont Salève and the Jura. Against the wall under the promenade, in the beautiful Parc des Bastions, stands the Reformation Monument, erected in 1917 in recognition of Geneva's leadership in the Protestant Reformation.

In the middle are figures of John Calvin, Guillaume Farel, Théodore de Bèze, and John Knox, prominent leaders of that movement. These are flanked by those of the statesmen who promoted the cause of reforming the church, along with bas-relief scenes from the history of the Calvinist movement. At the ends are memorials to Luther and Zwingli.

Address: Parc des Bastions, Geneva

There's more to the Patek Philippe Museum than watches and watchmaking by this prestigious Geneva firm. Along with example than watches and watchmaking by this prestigious Geneva firm. Along with examples of the company's timepieces since its founding in 1839, the museum displays Swiss and other watches, automated musical devices, and portrait miniatures from the 16th to the 19th century.

The earliest watches here date from the 1500s, and those shown include enameled and technical watches, as well as those from China and Turkey dating from as early as 1600. Besides watches there is an outstanding collection of portrait miniatures from the 17th through 19th-centuries.

Address: Rue des Vieux-Grenadiers 7, Geneva

Although you'll find historic documents and artifacts displayed here, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum is designed to bring visitors into the contemporary work and mission of the world's primary humanitarian aid organization. Through its well-designed and interactive exhibits, visitors discover not only the works of the Red Cross in the two World Wars and other conflicts, but how they are immersed in the contemporary crises the world faces today.

Three separate areas, under the title "The Humanitarian Adventure," explore three major challenges in today's world: Defending Human Dignity, Restoring Family Links, and Reducing Natural Risks. The exhibits are immersive, raising visitors' awareness by simulating the emotional experience of being part of a humanitarian crisis. A large interactive globe shows the latest developments from the field.

Address: Avenue de la Paix 17, Geneva

Near the Palais des Nations is this museum devoted entirely to ceramics and glass production with a collection of 25,000 examples from Switzerland, elsewhere in Europe, and the Middle and Far East. The objects shown illustrate the history of ceramic arts from the early Middle Ages through the 20th century, tracing both the ceramic formation and glazing processes.

The building in which these are displayed was built between 1877 and 1884 to house the private collections of its founder, Gustave Revilliod. He commissioned it to combine the Neoclassical and New Baroque architectural styles, and the result is an impressive gallery with a vaulted ceiling and colonnades. The museum is also the seat of the International Academy of Ceramics.

Address: Avenue de la Paix 10, CH-1202 Geneva

On the French southern shore of Lake Geneva, 25 miles from Geneva, Evian-les-Bains became a popular health resort because of its mineral-rich thermal springs and its beautiful setting backed by Alpine slopes.

Although its history reaches back to the Middle Ages — the church of Notre Dame de l'Assomption was built in the 13th century — Evian-les-Bains reached its height of popularity in the Belle Epoque.

The town retains its Art Nouveau buildings, including the historic Pump House with its tiled dome, stained glass, and ornate clock tower. The elegant Palais Lumière , built as a spa, hosts art exhibits and cultural events. The equally lavish Antoine Riboud Theater hosts the summer Estivales Théâtrales , and in July, the town hosts a classical music festival.

Along the north bank of the lake, the Rive Droite, the Quai du Mont-Blanc extends northeast from the bridge with a view of the Mont-Blanc mountain chain, a beautiful sight especially in the late afternoon of a clear day. At the landing stage in front of the Hôtel Beau Rivage, the Empress Elisabeth of Austria was assassinated by an Italian anarchist in 1898; she is remembered here by a monument.

Beyond the Quai du Mont-Blanc is the imposing Brunswick Monument, a mausoleum modeled on the Scaligeri tombs in Verona, built for Duke Karl II of Brunswick, who left his money to Geneva. Quai Wilson runs north past the large Palais Wilson in which the League of Nations met from 1925 until 1936.

Expect hotels to be expensive in Geneva, especially those along the lake, close to the old town tourist attractions. The area around the main rail station, while handy for airport and train arrivals and not far from the old town, is a nightlife district with a lot of street life. It's safe, but look elsewhere for a quiet family-oriented neighborhood. Geneva hotels provide guests with transport cards for free public transport, including to the airport. Here are some highly-rated hotels in Geneva:

Luxury Hotels :

• Balconies in the spacious Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva rooms overlook the lake and the Jet d'eau, while the hotel is steps from smart old town shops and attractions. It has a pool, spa, and two restaurants.
• Along with the lake and the Jet d'eau, the luxurious individually decorated rooms and restaurant at Hotel d'Angleterre have views of snow-capped Mont Blanc.
• Close to the old town, lake, and restaurants, the exceptionally maintained Hotel Bristol offers free Wi-Fi and a fitness center with a steam room and sauna.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Less than a 10-minute walk from the lake, near the United Nations and Botanic Gardens, Hotel N'vY offers luxury in a smart, contemporary setting.
• Close to CICG conference center and the United Nations, ibis Geneve Centre Nations 300 is a 15-minute walk to the lake and 10 minutes from the station.
• Hotel Kipling - Manotel Geneva is a five-minute walk from the train station and handy to restaurants.

Budget Hotels:

• Opposite the train station and 10 minutes from the lake, Suisse Hotel includes breakfast. Some rooms have views of the cathedral, and the hotel is a five-minute walk from a wide choice of restaurants.
• In the heart of the old town, not far from the cathedral and lakeside gardens, Hotel Central is in a commercial building amid shopping and restaurants.
• In an older building just across the river from the old town, Des Tourelles offers modest rooms with great river views and free continental breakfast.

Sightseeing on Two Wheels:

• Spend three hours visiting the city's highlights on the Explore Geneva in Style with an E-Bike tour . With a group of no more than six people, you'll pedal an electric bike to the tourist attractions, including the Jet d'Eau, United Nations building, and Cathedrale de St-Pierre, as you get an insider's view of Geneva with a local guide. Electric bicycles give you all the fun and freedom of a cycling tour without the effort.

Lausanne, Montreux, and Château de Chillon Day Trip :

• Since distances are relatively short in Switzerland, you can easily add other picturesque Swiss cities to your itinerary with the Day Trip to Lausanne, Montreux and Château de Chillon . After driving through the beautiful countryside, this full-day tour gives you free time to explore the cities of Lausanne and Montreux, as well as a guided tour of the lakeside Château de Chillon and a paddleboat cruise on Lake Geneva (except November).

Gruyères Day Trip:

• To soak up some charming Swiss towns and traditions, consider the Day Trip to Gruyères including Panoramic Train Ride . This full-day tour begins with a visit to the charming village of Broc for a chocolate tasting. Then you travel to the mountaintop town of Gruyères to sample its famous namesake cheese at a local dairy and enjoy a ride on a panoramic train. Chocolate and cheese tastings and a refreshment are all included in the tour.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Where to Go near Geneva: Along with the many easy day trips from Geneva , several nearby cities and regions are worth exploring. Lausanne , with its excellent museums and historic sites, is a short boat or train ride away, and the Swiss capital of Bern and the mountain paradise around Interlaken are short train rides east. In this Jungfrau region , the villages of Mürren and Wengen are among the most charming towns in Europe .

Places to Visit in France: Because Geneva sits right on the border with France , it is easy to reach several French cities, as well. Lyon is only two hours by train. Dijon , to the north in Burgundy , is only a little farther. Geneva is within easy reach of some of the best ski resorts in France . The French Alps are also filled with year-round attractions.

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Home » Travel Guides » Switzerland » 25 Best Things to Do in Geneva (Switzerland)

25 Best Things to Do in Geneva (Switzerland)

You’ve probably heard all the stereotypes about Geneva. But it’s only when you come that they can be challenged. Yes there’s wealth, fondue, chocolate and watchmaking. But Geneva is also charged with diversity and creativity, in neighbourhoods like Les Grottes or the Italian-flavoured Carouge.

Lake Geneva and its iconic plume of water will draw your eye on promenades and lush waterside parks, while Mont Salève is a slice of the Alps in the background. Geneva is still a beacon of diplomacy, where organisations like the United Nations and the Red Cross convene. Experts of a different kind come together to answer the great scientific questions of our time at CERN. And hundreds of years ago the course of European history was changed in Geneva during the Protestant Reformation.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Geneva :

1. Lake Geneva

The largest lake in Central Europe brings the drama and awe-inspiring natural splendour of the Alps to the centre of the city.

Nobody could blame you for wanting to get out and experience it, and the easiest way to do that is to catch a boat from the quay at Genève-Mt-Blanc.

These shoot off to a host of places on the shores of the lake: You could keep it local on a “mouette”, shuttling to the other side of the city, or go long distance and cruise to Lausanne in three hours.

The lake’s beauty has affected the design of the city itself, as a promenade was built around the shore in the mid-19th century.

Next to the water are tree-lined promenades with palatial townhouses or serene parks like Eaux-Vives, Jardin Anglais, Perle du Lac or Mon Repos.

2. Jet d’Eau

At the city centre, where the Rhône continues on its course into France is La Rade (The Roadstead). Here, at the end of a long jetty, is a much-imitated monument known the world over.

The Jet d’Eau is five hundred litres of water per second propelled to a height of 140 metres.

If you do want to get a closer look, take care as the plume is susceptible to the wind and you may get wet.

The jet has been at its present spot since 1951, and originally had an important practical use: It started in 1886 as a safety valve for the hydraulic power plant, and became a permanent monument as the city loved the way it looked.

3. St Pierre Cathedral

Geneva Cathedral is one of those religious buildings that needs as much time as you can afford.

Beyond the recent Neoclassical facade things are much older, with architecture that dates to the 12th century.

From 1541 it was the home church of John Calvin, and his personal chair looks like he just got up from it.

The cathedral was constructed on top of much older buildings , among which is a basilica from the 4th century.

This and a variety of ancient vestiges can be explored underground at the archaeological site.

You can also go up the cathedral’s towers to view the Alps, Jura and Geneva against its lake: The south’s viewing platform is open-air, while the north is in a closed room and might be more suitable in winter.

4. Vielle Ville

Allow a couple of hours to satisfy your curiosity in the largest historic centre in Switzerland.

The Vielle Ville twists around the hill capped by the cathedral and was once enveloped by defensive walls.

Getting around on these steep cobblestone streets and stairways is tiring but worthwhile: The old centre is densely packed with intriguing little corners, fountains, terraces with lookouts, as well as places of real historic value.

The 18th-century polymath Jean-Jacques Rousseau was born here, while Bourg-de-Four has a row of evocative historic houses on a friendly square where cattle markets traded in medieval times.

West of the centre of Geneva, in the suburb of Meyrin, you’ll come to the headquarters for the European Organization for Nuclear Research.

Needless to say, this is where historic scientific experiments are being conducted at the world’s largest particle physics laboratory.

The visitor centre offers tours of parts of the facility explaining the mind-bending science in more digestible terms.

There are also two museum exhibitions about the facility and its research.

One explains the current practical applications of CERN’s work, in the field of medical imaging for instance.

And the other goes into detail on the particle accelerator and the hunt for the Higgs boson.

6. Patek Philippe Museum

An early 20th-century factory is the stage for a museum delving into five centuries of watchmaking.

The star is the amazing exhibition of musical automata, watches and portrait miniatures from the 1500s to the 1900s, mostly assembled in Geneva and Switzerland.

But you can also track the origins of Patek Philippe, set up in 1845 by a partnership between the watchmakers Antoni Patek from Poland and Frenchman Adrien Philippe.

On the ground floor are reconstructions of workbenches with all of the instruments needed to make a timepiece, and you can even see a watch-maker on the job in a workshop.

7. Palais des Nations

After New York, Geneva has the second most important United Nations office.

The Palais des Nations dates to the 1930s and was the headquarters for the League of Nations, the UN’s predecessor.

The complex is in constant use, hosting thousands of intergovernmental meetings each year, but is open for hour-long guided tours in 15 different languages.

Your level of access is contingent on the meeting schedule, but typically will involve the Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room, the immense Assembly Hall, the Salle des Pas Perdus and the Council Chamber, where epoch-making negotiations have taken place between nations.

8. Bains des Pâquis

Poking out into La Rade and close enough to the Jet d’Eau to feel the spray, the Bains des Pâquis are public baths along a pier on the west shore of Lake Geneva.

This isn’t just somewhere to exercise, as people meet up to socialise at Bains des Pâquis and cultural events take place in summer.

The outdoor pool is wildly popular when it’s warm, and you can sunbathe on the pier and grab lunch at the restaurant terrace.

In this season there are free poetry and classical music recitals at the baths first thing in the morning.

In winter you’re also free to bathe in the outdoor pool before warming up in the sauna and hammam.

9. Mont Salève

When it’s overcast in Geneva there might be blue skies and sunshine at this mountain peak on the edge of the city.

A big wall of rock on the horizon, Salève is billed as the “balcony of Geneva” and rises to just shy of 1,400 metres.

If that sounds daunting there’s a cable-car that will whisk you to near the summit in just five minutes.

This has been operating in some form since 1932 and replaced the world’s first electric rack railway, completed in 1892. If you’re a hardy walker you’re also free to take the hiking trail to the top.

At the summit are cafes, constant knockout views of Geneva, the lake and Mont Blanc in the distance.

From the peak you could follow a trail into alpine meadows where cattle wear cowbells.

10. Conservatory and Botanical Garden

Geneva’s botanical garden is on the western lakeshore across the railway tracks from the United Nations Office.

Keen gardeners will be spellbound, in a park that contains 14,000 plant species gathered from all over the world.

The gardens’ herbarium catalogues more than six million specimens.

While outside you can lose yourself in flowerbeds, an arboretum, ponds and the graceful metal and glass greenhouse that holds the winter garden.

One themed garden features plants that evoke our senses of smell and touch, while the rose garden is sensory overload in June and July.

The park also has a zoo for conservation, housing deer and waterfowl.

11. International Museum of the Reformation

As the home of John Calvin Geneva is in a unique position to tell the story of the Reformation.

It’s a defining chapter in the city’s past, and is retold at this museum next to the Cathedral of St Pierre.

The exhibitions are given real historical weight thanks to the rich archives of documents that were already in Geneva: There are manuscripts, engravings, paintings and early printed materials to study, as well as a modern 15-minute film outlining the driving forces.

The location is significant too, as the museum is on the site of the Cloître de Saint-Pierre where the vote to approve the reformation of Geneva was taken in 1536.

12. Art and History Museum

At Les Tranchées in the centre of the city, this attraction has vast exhibitions of fine arts, applied arts and archaeology.

The museum’s forte is Swiss and Genevan art, and you can immerse yourself in the work of the portraitist Jean-Étienne Liotard or caricaturist Rodolphe Töpffe.

The work that must not be missed is the 15th-century Miraculous Draft of Fishes by Konrad Witz.

This was on an altarpiece at St Pierre Cathedral and is credited as being the first ever faithful depiction of a landscape in European art.

Byzantine icons, textiles, silverware and musical instruments are in the applied arts section, while the archaeology collection stands out for its 3,000-year-old Egyptian mummy.

13. Natural History Museum

The largest Swiss museum in its field opened in a modern building in the 1960s.

In the collections are insect specimens collected by the 18th and 19th century entomologist Louis Jurine.

But what catches most people’s attention is the army of taxidermies on the ground floor.

The museum also has living animals, and you have to meet Janus, the spur-thighed tortoise with two heads which was born in incubators at the museum in 1997. The first three floors is dedicated to the animal kingdom, while the top two cover everything from geology to astronomy.

At the top you can check out moon rocks and a bronze statue of an Australopithecus fossil (an ancestor of early man, dating back 3.2 million years).

14. Musée Ariana

In a Neo-Baroque palace near the UN’s Palais des Nations is a museum all about ceramics and glassware.

Musée Ariana was set up in the 1880s by the art collector Gustave Revilliod, and named after his mother.

There are 20,000 pieces of ceramics and glassware in the galleries, covering 12 centuries and extending to all corners of the globe.

All forms of ceramics are here, from earthenware to stoneware, china, porcelain and pottery.

Perhaps most interesting is the exhibition of Japanese and Chinese porcelain from the 1500s to thee 1700s, crafted for export and shedding light on trade and the relationship between cultures in that period.

15. Parc de la Grange

The largest of Geneva’s city parks is possibly the most beautiful, on the shore of the lake at Quai Gustave-Ador.

Parc de la Grange is laid out over terraces, with stairways that have been cut from the bedrock.

This space has been settled by wealthy residents for 2,000 years, as the ruins of a Roman villa sit behind the 18th-century villa there now.

In 1918 the villa’s last resident bequeathed the park to the city.

There are two theatres in Parc de la Grange, both staging several productions from May to September.

But the star in summer is the rose garden, which grows more than 10,000 bushes from 200 varieties.

16. Maison Tavel

A branch of the Art and History Museum, Maison Tavel is a historic house on Rue du Puits-Saint-Pierre in the middle of the Old Town.

This is the oldest private home in Geneva, dating mostly to the 14th century after it was rebuilt in the wake of a fire that devastated the city in 1334. Each room tells you something about the history of Geneva.

On the top floor there’s a video projected onto a relief model of Geneva’s natural landscape to show the city’s growth.

Spaces in the house like the cellars, kitchen and apartments are decorated in styles from different epochs, all with period furniture, paintings and everyday utensils in place.

17. Jardin Anglais

In 1854, when the waterfront was being spruced up, an English-style garden was plotted on reclaimed land north of the Old Town.

This took the place of an old wooden harbour and was enhanced a few years later when the Pont du Mont du Mont-Blanc was completed on the west side in 1862. The centrepiece is the fountain, cast at a foundry in Val d’Osne in France in 1862. The park’s curving paths radiate off this monument, out to the promenade where you can get a photo of the Jet d’Eau and contemplate the lake.

Look for the Horloge Fleurie, an outdoor homage to Geneva’s watchmakers from 1955, in the form of a working clock with a flowerbed for its face.

18. International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

This museum for this international humanitarian network goes back to 1988. At the start of the 2010s it was given a complete overhaul and reopened in 2013 with the innovative “Humanitarian Adventure” exhibition.

There are three main areas, each representing one of the organisation’s remits: Defending Human Dignity, Reconstructing Family Links and Reducing Natural Risks.

Each of these sections was drawn up by a world-leading exhibition designer.

They communicate information in unconventional ways, intended to elicit more emotion than if you were looking at plain artefacts and statistics.

19. Parc des Bastions

This park got its name because it was wedged between the 16th-century fortifications and those that followed a century later.

Next to Place de Neuve it is also home to the oldest university building, erected in 1873. On June 21 the Parc des Bastions puts on concerts as part of the international Fête de la Musique.

Life-sized chessboards are available to all passersby, and there are also ping-pong tables and then a skating rink in winter.

You have to spare a moment for the Monument international de la Réformation, erected along the 16th-century defences in 1909. Against a long wall stand the figures of John Calvin, John Knox, Theodore Beza and William Farel, all of whom were instrumental in the Reformation.

20. Quartier des Grottes

One tenth of all Genevans live in this neighbourhood near the centre.

Les Grottes might clash with your notions of Geneva as a posh and ordered city, as this quarter is chaotic, young and bohemian.

From the 1960s it was the home of anarchist communes and squats, and although Les Grottes has been gentrified in recent years it is still a very affordable place to live considering the centre is so close.

Explore this area for cafes, theatres, cinemas, left-field independent shops, but also to see Les Schtroumpfs.

These are housing blocks from the 1980s with sinuous colourful facades that look like they could have been designed by Gaudí.

21. Carouge

Before 1816, this quarter just south of the Vielle Ville was a separate town.

As we see it now Carouge is the product of a wave of construction initiated by the King of Sardinia in 1786. The townscape was modelled on Nice, then also Italian, and the Italian accent endures in its palazzos, the Baroque Holy Cross Church and rows of painted townhouses with wooden shutters.

No shock that Carouge is often called “La Cité Sarde”, the Sardinian City.

In a leisurely ambience Carouge abounds with handicraft shops, vintage boutiques, antiques dealers and a market at Place de Marchéon Wednesdays and Saturdays.

22. Plainpalais Market

Geneva’s main flea and famers’ market trades on Wednesdays and Saturdays, as well as the first Sunday of the month.

If you’re out hunting for a bargain there are scores of stalls selling antiques, furniture, handicrafts, books, jewellery, homeware and clothing.

As with any market your chances of making a discovery hinge on luck and patience, as well as when you visit: On Saturdays for example the traders tend to be more upscale.

But if nothing catches your eye can always console yourself with international street-food from Peru to Morocco.

23. Museum of Far Eastern Art

Switzerland’s biggest hoard of oriental art is in store at a sumptuous turn-of-the-century townhouse.

Many of these Japanese and Chinese items were curated by one man: Born in 1861, Alfred Baur was employed by a trading company and posted in Sri Lanka.

Over the course of his travels he nurtured a love for oriental art, and he proved to have a discerning eye.

When he returned to Switzerland he brought back invaluable Chinese jade, porcelain and ornate snuff bottles dating from the 700s.

In Japan he picked up miniature sculptures (netsuke), swords, woodprints, lacquerware and fine sword fittings.

The exhibition has expanded to more than 9,000 pieces after donations over the last hundred years.

Call it a cliché, but if you find yourself in Geneva in winter there’s no excuse not to go for fondue.

Not just a Swiss creation, fondue was born in the western French-speaking regions.

So there’s no better city in Switzerland to order this steaming pot of melted gruyère combined with wine, garlic and seasoning.

The dish may have rustic associations, but gruyère has never been cheap and so towns like Geneva are where fondue would have first been served.

For somewhere unpretentious and reasonably priced you can’t go wrong at La Buvette in the Bains des Pâquis.

Also good for families are Café du Soleil at Place du Petit-Saconnex in the west, and le Gruyèrien on Chemin de la Bessonnette to the east of the centre.

25. L’Escalade

The big annual event in Geneva happens in December to commemorate the defence of the city in the face of an attack by the Duke of Savoy’s army in 1602. According to legend the “Escalade” took place on the night of December 11-12 at 02:00 when the duke’s crack troops attempted to scale the walls and sneak into the city.

They were seen by humble cook Catherine Cheynel, who dumped a pot of hot soup on them, alerting Geneva’s guards and preventing catastrophe.

The celebrations all go down on the closest weekend to 11 December, with parades in period costume.

The best bit for kids is when they get a “marmite”, a pot made from chocolate and filled with marzipan vegetables as a nod to the Catherine Cheynel’s soup pot.

25 Best Things to Do in Geneva (Switzerland):

• Lake Geneva
• St Pierre Cathedral
• Vielle Ville
• Patek Philippe Museum
• Palais des Nations
• Bains des Pâquis
• Mont Salève
• Conservatory and Botanical Garden
• International Museum of the Reformation
• Art and History Museum
• Natural History Museum
• Musée Ariana
• Parc de la Grange
• Maison Tavel
• Jardin Anglais
• International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum
• Parc des Bastions
• Quartier des Grottes
• Plainpalais Market
• Museum of Far Eastern Art

14 Unmissable Things To Do In Geneva: History, Culture, Food, and More

As the second largest city in Switzerland, Geneva attracts countless tourists who want to stay in a lakeside town with a rich history, fabulous nightlife, and countless museums. It’s the city for everyone, whether you’re into parties, fashion, food, history, culture, adventure sports, or science.

Beautiful views of Lake Geneva, some of Switzerland’s best museums, luxury shopping, and an incredibly rich history are just some of the highlights of a trip to Geneva. Keep reading if you need help planning your trip to this wonderful city, because this detailed guide to top things to do in Geneva covers everything you might need to plan your stay!

Table of Contents

Explore Lake Geneva

This fabulous Swiss city is best known for its namesake lake, so kick off your visit with a thorough exploration of all the best lakeside attractions. My favorite is by far Jardin Anglais with its stunning flower clock and fabulous Lake Geneva views.

The garden is best explored in spring and summer when the countless flowers are in full bloom, plus it also boasts sculptures and fountains. The next best attraction in the city is Jet d’Eau . The iconic fountain in the lake can be seen from most parts of the city that offer a view of the lake, and it’s one of the most famous landmarks in Geneva. It’s possible to walk along the pier all the way to the fountain, although I wouldn’t want to get extremely close to the jet because of the spray.

If you’re staying in the city in the summer and need a break from the heat, Bains des Pâquis is the place to be. The public bath is Geneva’s most popular beach with loads of things to do in addition to swimming, including an artificial rock climbing course in the middle of the lake.

Finally, a casual stroll along the lake shore is perfect for glimpsing all the boats moored at Geneva’s ports. Follow the lakeside promenade from Quai du Mont Blanc to Parc Mon Repos for an easy, 15-minute walk starring boats, sculptures, and fabulous lake and mountain views.

Old Town Geneva

A walking tour of a city’s old town is usually one of the first things you should do whenever you arrive in a new city. You can do your own walking tour of Geneva , or book one of dozens of different guided tours that focus on different aspects of city attractions. You’ve got loads of options, and it should be pretty easy to find a tour that covers all the things that interest you the most.

Place du Bourg-de-Four is the oldest public square in Geneva, and it should be included in every proper tour of the city. There isn’t that much to do here, but at the very least you’ll make a stop at the square and learn a little bit about its history and importance for the city. If you’re touring Geneva on your own, this is a great destination for a quick coffee break.

St. Pierre Cathedral is another important landmark in the city, which should be included in most tours. It is the adopted home of John Calvin, the leader of the Protestant Reformation, and probably the most famous church in the city. Admission to the cathedral is free, and it’s absolutely worth it to go inside and see all the wonderful art.

While you’re walking through the old town of Geneva and exploring all the different alleys, look for signs of secret passages and tunnels. The most famous one is Passage de Monetier (near the Museum of Protestant Reformation), but it’s open to the public only during the Fête de l’Escalade.

Finally, don’t miss out on Hotel de Ville . The 15th-century building used to house the Geneva City Hall, but today it “only” houses the cantonal government. The first Geneva Convention was signed at this very building, and it’s absolutely astonishing to find yourself in such a historical place.

Parc de Bastions & The Reformation Wall

Parc de Bastions is a vast public park near the University of Geneva, and it’s the perfect place for catching a break. If you’re tired of walking around the city and need to rest for a little while, head to this gorgeous park and just lie down on the grass.

Once you’re sufficiently rested, I suggest a quick walk through the park. Try to spot all the different sculptures, statues, and fountains – they’re understated but worth the few minutes it takes to find them. You’ll also find large public chess boards here; if you’re a confident player challenge someone to a game, otherwise, you can just observe the local veteran players enjoying themselves.

Head to the park in the direction of the old town and you’ll be able to see another iconic city landmark – The Reformation Wall . The stone monument is more than a hundred years old, and it was built in honor of John Calvin and the other founders of the Protestant Church.

Palace of Nations

Situated in the northwestern part of Geneva, Palais des Nations is a complex worth visiting if it’s your first time in the city. The headquarters of the United Nations office are here, along with a couple of amazing museums, stunning sculptures, fabulous views of Lake Geneva, a conservatory, and botanical garden.

There’s plenty to see at this complex, especially if you want to visit both the Museum of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent and the Musée Ariana . I suggest heading here first thing in the morning – after breakfast, of course – and then roaming the grounds until you’ve explored as much as possible. There are a few cafes and restaurants on the complex grounds, so you don’t have to worry about lunch.

Geneva Botanical Garden

Geneva Botanical Gardens are situated just below Parc de l’Ariana, so you can easily visit both attractions in a single day. The botanical garden complex is quite big and features a conservatory, a greenhouse, an animal park, and a zen garden.

You’ll find all sorts of plants, trees, and flowers here, including many that wouldn’t stand a chance of surviving in the rough Swiss climate. Palm, trees, cacti, and orchids are just some of the rare and beautiful plants you can expect to find here.

The animal park is part of the largest botanical gardens complex, and it features flamingos, goats, peacocks, and loads of other animals. The entire place is absolutely wonderful and a great destination for travelers who want a quick break from the city crowds, but don’t necessarily want to travel too far outside Geneva.

Carouge is a small hamlet just 15 minutes away from central Geneva by train, and it’s the perfect place to go if you need a change of scenery for a couple of hours. The hamlet mostly attracts artisans and craftsmen, so it’s got a surprising number of galleries, theaters, and boutiques for such a small place.

Artists, craftsmen, and art lovers should definitely try to fit a quick visit to Carouge in their itinerary. Or even better, you could stay here during your trip and save money on accommodation, while being no more than 15 minutes away from the heart of Geneva!

Museums to Visit

Geneva is home to so many museums that I had a very tough time narrowing the list of best ones to visit to just seven, most of which are included in the Geneva City Pass . By far the best one, in my opinion, is the Patek Philippe Museum , and that’s because you can’t see anything like this anywhere else. The museum spans three floors of exhibits and it covers nearly 500 years of watchmaking history with extravagant, unique timepieces.

The Art and History Museum Geneva (Musée d’Art et d’Histoire) is another must-visit. It’s the largest museum in the city with exhibits that cover everything from prehistoric to modern times. Best of all, the museum is free to enter, and you can see most of its exhibits without spending a dime. And if you like this museum, stop by the Natural History Museum as well.

Maison Tavel is a local history museum in the historic center of Geneva, and it’s the best place for travelers who are genuinely interested in the history of Geneva and the local culture and traditions. Spanning six floors, Maison Tavel offers insight into the lives of the locals over the centuries, with miniature models, period furnishings, and pieces of art.

The International Museum of the Reformation is right next to Tavel House, so since you’re already in the area… It’s a very interesting museum with exhibits on the Reformation, and it’s situated in an 18th-century mansion. But it’s not a museum for everyone because of the religious themes.

When you need a break from the crowds of central Geneva, head to Parc Ariana. There you will find two excellent museums – the Ariana Museum with exhibits on glass and ceramics, and the International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent which details the history and importance of these two international organizations. The two museums are just minutes away from one another and can be toured in a single afternoon.

Finally, you can’t travel all the way to Geneva and not visit CERN . Well, I couldn’t, which is why I have to include it in this guide. It might not be an attraction for everyone, but if you’re even remotely interested in engineering and physics, a guided tour of the research center is absolutely worth the time and effort it takes to get there.

Geneva is a great destination for shopping, whether you’re looking for bargains or prefer to spend your money at luxury shops. There’s something for everyone in this city, and Rue de Rhone is where you will find most of the best shops in Geneva. The shopping street runs parallel to the lake shore and it houses dozens of boutiques, from Boucheron to Zara.

Granted, Rue de Rhone is mostly home to high-end and luxury boutiques, so not the best destination for shoppers without thousands to spend. Rue du Marche and Rue de la Croix-d’Or , both of which run parallel to Rue de Rhone, are both better for more affordable shopping opportunities with shops like Footlocker, H&M, Bershka, and countless others.

Finally, if you’re on the prowl for the absolute best deals possible, head to the Plainpalais Flea Market . Here you’ll find everything from antique furniture to military uniforms, and it’s honestly the best place for cheap shopping in Geneva. Just make sure you have cash on hand because most vendors don’t take cards. The flea market is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays and it’s best to visit first thing in the morning.

Gastronomic Experiences

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I really hope you’re not lactose-intolerant because Switzerland is internationally famous for its cheeses and chocolates. No trip to a Swiss city is complete without at least one chocolate or fondue tour, so plan to spend at least an hour or two overdosing on delicious local treats.

Geneva is one of the best Swiss cities for chocolate tours because of its close proximity to several chocolate factories. If you’re genuinely interested in seeing the workings of a true chocolate factory, plan to visit either the Farvager Chocolate Factory or the Maison Cailler . A walking tour of the best chocolate shops in the heart of Geneva is also a delicious option.

The city is very international, which can be observed in the variety of its restaurants. You’ll find loads of different cuisines in Geneva, from Japanese to Italian, with an excellent selection of authentic Swiss restaurants for those who want to try the traditional local cuisine. Swiss fondue is on the menu at most Geneva restaurants, and it’s one of the dishes you absolutely need to try.

Head to Restaurant Les Armures for possibly the best fondue in Geneva . Bayview at Hotel President offers an excellent fine dining experience, while Auberge de Savièse offers a much cozier atmosphere, reminiscent of a chalet somewhere in the Alps.

Nightlife & Entertainment

Geneva is up there with Zurich as one of the best Swiss cities for people who like to party. It has an excellent nightlife scene , with dozens of bars and clubs that stay open until the early hours of the morning.

On the other hand, Geneva also has quite a few lounges and cocktail clubs with a much more sophisticated atmosphere. Then there are all the theaters and event venues where you can watch a play or attend a concert virtually every night of the week. The Grand Théâtre de Genève is by far the best in the city for performance arts, but it’s certainly not the only one.

My point here is, that whatever your idea of a fun night out might be, you’ll find options in Geneva. Attend an opera, dance at a club until 3 AM, or watch a sports event at a local pub – it’s all possible in this fabulous Swiss city.

Wellness & Relaxation

If at any point you need some rest and relaxation from all the sightseeing you’ve been doing, you can always head to a spa or a wellness center for a couple of hours. There’s absolutely no shortage of these places in Geneva, and they range from wellness centers accessible to everyone to luxury establishments where you’re treated to champagne in between treatments.

Bains des Pâquis is the best accessible option in Geneva. It’s easy to reach by public transport and it’s affordable. The wellness center of the public bath includes a hammam, sauna, and a Turkish bath, with optional massages and yoga classes.

Bain-Bleu Hammam & Spa is a bit farther away from the city center, but still easily accessible by public transport. It’s one of the best spa centers in Geneva, with pools, a hammam, and a wellness area that offers loads of different treatments.

The Nescens Spa is very popular for wellness retreats and it’s the perfect destination for travelers whose idea of vacation includes a lot of pampering. The luxury spa offers everything from vast pools to esthetical procedures, and it’s one of the best establishments of its kind on the shore of Lake Geneva.

Festivals and Events

The Swiss really like their carnivals and festivals. Geneva celebrates a few different festivals every year, and being in a city where they are taking place is a wonderful experience.

Fête de l’Escalade is the largest and most important festival in Geneva. It takes place on December 12th (or the weekend closest to this date), and it celebrates the anniversary of the city’s defense from the attempted conquer by the Catholic Duchy of Savoy. The festival includes concerts, costumes, parades, and lots of food.

Geneva Fête de la Musique is a musical festival that traditionally takes place in early summer. The city’s largest musical festival attracts people from all over the world, thanks to the large variety of concerts that range from classical music to rock and roll.

Outdoor Activities

Travelers who prefer to explore off the beaten path will thoroughly enjoy their stay in Geneva. The city is very close to some of Switzerland’s best natural attractions, with easy access to hiking trails, wine-tasting tours, and even ski resorts.

The Geneva Wine Trail is one of the best hikes in the region. It’s the longest vineyard hike in the entire country, and it includes quite a few wine tastings along the way to spice things up. There are a few different iterations of this hike, and it can be completed in the span of four and a half to seven hours.

Cycling through the vineyards is also possible, in case you prefer to get around on wheels. Geneva is a good destination for mountain biking as well, with loads of trails in the city’s vicinity.

On the other hand, if you prefer having fun on the water , you’ll love staying so close to Lake Geneva. There are countless opportunities for kayaking and canoeing , but also rafting if you head closer to the river. Paragliding is also a popular activity in the region, especially in the summer months.

If you happen to visit Geneva in the winter, you’ll be able to enjoy skiing and snowboarding in one of the numerous nearby resorts. There are thousands of kilometers of ski pistes less than an hour and a half outside the city, which include trails that are challenging even for the most experienced skiers.

One of the best things about Geneva is its proximity to other beautiful places in France and Switzerland. Chamonix, the ski resort at the foot of Mont Blanc, is only an hour away from Geneva, and a bus ticket will cost you just 10 CHF. It’s possible to book guided visits to the area, and this is the best option for travelers who don’t want to bother with research and ticket purchases.

Mont Saleve is easily accessible by cable car, and perhaps the best day trip to do from Geneva if you’re into panoramic views. The mountain is in France, and it offers some of the best views of the city of Geneva. The cable car station is at the Le Pas de l’Échelle village, which is just a 40-minute bus ride from central Geneva.

A day trip to Montreux and Chillon castle is different because it includes no trip to mountains, but nonetheless an epic experience. Montreux is a gorgeous town on the shore of Lake Geneva, best known for being Freddie Mercury’s home for a while. Chillon Castle is easily accessible from the town, and it boasts underground vaults, a museum, and stunning lake views. It’s only a 60-minute train ride from Geneva to Montreux.

How to Get to Geneva

Geneva is connected to all the major cities in Switzerland by trains and buses, so traveling to the city should be very simple. If you’re flying into Geneva airport, you can be in the heart of the city in just 10-15 minutes. There’s a train that will take you from the airport to central Geneva , and it runs every 12 minutes. Best of all, anyone who flies to Geneva airport can get this train ticket for free.

You could also get a taxi from the airport, but I genuinely don’t think it makes sense. Taking the train is quicker, especially during rush hour, not to mention that the train is free and the taxi is usually 35-45 CHF.

You can even take a direct train from Zurich to Geneva , and you’ll arrive at the lakeside city in less than three hours. It will also take you around three hours to travel to Geneva (by train) from Basel, Interlaken, and Lucerne, but just two hours from Bern.

Traveling to the city from other places on the shore of Lake Geneva is much faster because you can also do it by boat. Montreux, Vevey, Lausanne, and Morges are all 30-60 minutes away from the city.

It’s important to note that renting a car and driving to Geneva on your own almost always takes longer than train travel, and that’s in perfect road conditions. Travel by bus is an option if you’re just going to other towns along Lake Geneva or to places in France.

Getting Around The City

Geneva has a great network of public transport. The city center is easily walkable and you can get to most of the top attractions in the heart of Geneva by walking, but you will need to ride public transport to get to CERN, visit Carouge, or Parc Ariana.

Trains, buses, trams, and even boats are all options for getting around Geneva, and tourists can usually ride them for free. If you book a stay in accommodation that is registered with the Geneva Tourism & Congress board, they should be able to provide you with a Geneva Transport Card for free! It includes all the public transport in the city of Geneva, as well as a ride into town from the airport.

Where to Stay in Geneva

Geneva offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from campsites to five-star luxury hotels. On the upper end, the best hotels include the Four Seasons, the Mandarin Oriental, The Woodward, the Fairmont Grand Hotel Geneva, the Ritz Carlton, and the Beau-Rivage. A night at one of these hotels starts at 500 CHF and can cost more than 1,000 CHF.

Mid-range hotels are the most prevalent in Geneva and are usually 200-400 CHF per night. Hotel Bristol, The Ambassador, Hilton Geneva, Novotel Geneva, and Hôtel Longemalle Genève are all four-star hotels in and around Geneva’s old town.

There are loads of budget hotels in the city as well, just keep in mind that a night in one of them will set you back 100-200 CHF. That’s the price of a one-star hotel in one of the most expensive cities in Switzerland. The best budget hotels in Geneva are Hotel Ibis, Hotel Central, Hôtel St-Gervais, Nash Pratik Hotel, City Hostel Geneva, and Tor Hôtel Genève. It’s worth noting that some of these are closer to the airport than the city center.

Also, consider staying outside central Geneva to save money. Even Carouge is a great option – it’s just 15 minutes from Geneva by tram, and the accommodation options are about half the price of those in Geneva proper.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days should i spend in geneva.

You need at least three days in Geneva to properly explore the city attractions, and museums, and do one half-day trip. Ideally, you would stay in the city for 3-5 days, and any longer stays are great for day trips to other towns and cities. 

When is the best time to visit Geneva?

Summer is the best time to visit Geneva if you want to have fun on Lake Geneva, but winter is the better season to avoid crowds, go skiing, and see the Christmas Markets. 

What is Geneva famous for?

Geneva is famous for its international vibe, excellent nightlife, Lake Geneva, opulence, luxury, and John Calvin. 

Is it worth going to Geneva?

Yes, going to Geneva is absolutely worth it. It’s a beautiful city with a wide variety of landmarks and interesting attractions that can appeal to virtually anyone. 

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21 Top Things To Do in Geneva (+Map & 1 Day Itinerary)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 5, 2024

Are you visiting Switzerland and wondering if it’s worth including Geneva in your Swiss itinerary ? Or maybe you already decided to visit Geneva and just want to learn what are the best things to do in Geneva or how to see the best of Geneva in one day ? This article should answer all your questions – find out!

This post is written in collaboration with Anna from Expert World Travel . Anna lives in Switzerland and knows Geneva quite well. With her insight and tips, we put together this list of the very best things to do and places to visit in Geneva .

Geneva is probably not the first city that comes to mind when people think of traveling in Switzerland. In fact, many international visitors will often end up in Zurich instead of Geneva , usually simply because their plane lands there. Or visit Lucerne or Bern , because those cities are closer to the rest of the most popular places…

However, it is well worth spending a day or two here to explore the surprising attractions that Geneva has to offer. Not only is this city rich in history, but it also offers stunning lakeside views and quite a few unique attractions that you won’t find anywhere else in the world!

BEST OF GENEVA IN A NUTSHELL: * MUST SEE:  Lake Geneva, Old Town, International Quarters. * FUN TO DO:   Boat tour on the lake & chocolate tour . * MUST TRY:  Swiss chocolates. * WHERE TO STAY:  €€€€  Fairmont Grand Hotel €€€ Edelweiss Manotel €€ ibis Geneve Centre Lac . * BEST CITY TOUR:   Old Town & International Quarters . * BEST DAY TRIP: Chamonix & Mont Blanc day trip .

A mild climate and exceptional location make Geneva one of Switzerland’s most sought-after cities to live in. It’s also very cosmopolitan and has a great international atmosphere, also because of the United Nations and many other international organizations that are located here.

Despite this and despite the fact that Geneva is one of Switzerland’s largest cities, it somehow manages to retain the feel of a small cozy town. 

So, rather than passing by this stunning city in the French-speaking part of Switzerland, take some time to discover its charm. And to help entice you to spend more time here, we made a selection of amazing places to see and things to experience in Geneva …

In addition, you can find the map indicating all the places worth seeing in Geneva that are mentioned in this post. At the bottom of this article, you can also find some  suggestions on how to see the best of Geneva in one day . Find out!

Things to do in Geneva – overview:

• How to use this guide
• Map of the best places to see in Geneva

1. Lake Geneva & Jet d’Eau

• 2. Geneva Old Town
• 3. Flower Clock & English Garden

4. St Peter’s Cathedral

5. bourg-de-four square.

• 6. Rue du Rhone

7. Art and History Museum

8. old arsenal, 9. reformation wall, 10. bastions park.

• 11. The Palace of Nations (UN)

12. Conservatory and Botanical Garden

• 13. Red Cross Museum

14. Patek Philippe Museum

• 15. Marché de Plainpalais

17. Natural History Museum

• 18. Bains des Pâquis or Genève-Plage

19. Swiss Chocolate

20. musée ariana, 21. mont salève cable car.

• One day In Geneva: suggested itinerary
• Where to stay
• What to see nearby – Geneva day trips

How to Use This Guide

We ranked the main Geneva attractions in such a way that all the must-sees are on top. All the places on this list are really nice to see, of course, but unless you have a week in Geneva, there is no way to visit them all. So you’ll have to choose what suits your interests best.

To help you with the planning, we also included a map indicating all the main Geneva attractions.

Geneva has so much to offer that you could easily spend several days in the city. However, if you are like most visitors, you are probably just visiting Geneva for one day. So, in order to help you get the most of your time in Geneva, we also have some suggestions on how to best spend one day in Geneva . You can find these suggestions at the bottom of the article.

But if you do have the time, definitely stay in Geneva for at least 2-3 days. There’s plenty to see and do in the city and nearby! At the bottom of this article, you’ll find our tips for places to see near the city and also suggestions on where to stay .

TIP: If you are planning to visit several attractions in Geneva, consider getting the Geneva Pass that includes all the main attractions, public transport, and much more… It’s the best way to see the city and explore the lake at your own pace. It offers really good value, especially if you are in the city for a few days.

Top Things to Do in Geneva on the Map

In order to help you plan your time in Geneva, I created this map indicating all the main Geneva attractions.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

These are the top attractions and the best things to do in Geneva:

Geneva is located on the shores of the Rhone river and the stunning Lake Geneva , so you should definitely take advantage of that. A simple stroll on either side of the Rhone river is definitely worth your time. After all, Lake Geneva is one of the main Geneva attractions!

Most big cities have a landmark that everyone identifies with that city. Geneva’s iconic symbol is  Jet d’Eau – a huge water jet that splashes water to 140 m (460ft) height. You can see it in the distance from almost anywhere along the lake, but it’s worth getting up close to really appreciate how powerful it is. Jet d’Eau is operational in the warmer season only – usually from March till the end of October. 

Along the left bank is a wide promenade with lawns, flower beds, and lots of trees. The right bank of the lake is known for the luxurious mansions of Quai du Mont-Blanc and offers stunning distant views of the surrounding mountains.

Lakeside promenade is a beautiful place that you can explore on foot, but I recommend renting a bike. Otherwise, it will take you several hours just to visit the main Geneva attractions located along the lake.

If you are visiting Geneva in summer, you can pop into the public swimming baths, Bains des Pâquis, which are actually in the lake. More info further below. 

TIP:  A 1-hour boat cruise is the most popular way to explore Lake Geneva. If you are short on time and want to see the main highlights of Geneva in just half a day, check out this city tour that also includes a boat ride on Geneva Lake .

2. Old Town

There are actually lots of different things to see in the old town of Geneva , but before we get to those I wanted to highlight the old town as a destination of its own. Just strolling through the cobbled streets, peering down the alleys and getting lost, is an experience that makes it a must-do in Geneva.

Geneva’s old town is dotted with some incredible architectural gems, many dating back to the 12th – 18th century. At the same time, it’s a very cozy place filled with modern cafés, shops, and restaurants.

Some of the highlights not to be missed in the old town are the public gardens Promenade des Bastions, large city squares Place Neuve and Place du Bourg-de-Four, picturesque Grand’Rue street, the City Hall, several museums, and churches. You’ll find the most important attractions listed further below.

While it may look like a labyrinth at first, the old town of Geneva is actually very hard to get lost in. It is clearly bounded on all sides, so don’t stress about that. Just be prepared to do some uphill walking and plan at least 1,5-2 hours for a visit.

TIP:  Visit the small islands of the Rhone river as well. There are several cafés and restaurants on the islands, or you can grab a takeaway sandwich and join the locals for a picnic on the tiny Ile Rousseau.

3. Geneva Flower Clock & English Garden

Another famous landmark and one of the most must-see tourist attractions in Geneva is the famous flower clock, L’horloge fleurie . It is exactly what it sounds like – a clock made from flowers.

Geneva Flower Clock is an actual functioning clock that has all the background and markings made inside a bed of flowers. This masterpiece, a symbol of Geneva’s clock-making industry, is made of thousands of different flowers. It’s well maintained and since flowers are changed several times a year, the clock is nice to see in any season. But for the most beautiful colors and to see the flower clock in all its splendor, you should visit in summer.

Flower clock might be one of the most famous Geneva attractions, but it’s actually quite small, so don’t expect too much of it. It takes just a few minutes to visit and to take an obligatory picture.

Geneva Flower Clock is located in Jardin Anglais , the English-inspired park that also features a 19th-century fountain, various monuments, and stunning lake views. Jardin Anglais is one of the prettiest public parks in Geneva and is the perfect place to find some peace away from the city crowds. 

Cathédrale St-Pierre is one of the main points of interest in Geneva’s old town. Built in the 12th-13th centuries and partially rebuilt later, it’s a huge building tightly wedged in amongst the old town. Even standing in front of the Cathedral you can’t fully appreciate it’s grandeur…

I recommend trying to circle the building completely and discover the hidden sides of the Cathedral. There is a small staircase behind the Cathedral that leads back down to the street between the Rue du Rhone shopping area and the Place Bourg-de-Four. It’s a little hidden gem of Geneva, so check it out.

For the best picture spot, I recommend the right side of the Cathedral.

TIP: Climb the 156 steps on the winding staircase to the top of the North Tower of the Cathedral. From here you have a magnificent view over the old town, Lake Geneva, and mountains in the distance.

Place Bourg-de-Four is located in the heart of the old town, just next door to the St Pierre Cathedral. This enticing and very French-looking square dates from the Middle Ages and is the oldest town square in Geneva.

This cobblestoned town square with a flower-bedecked fountain in the middle is surrounded by old buildings that host antique shops, art galleries, and cafés.

With so many other great attractions right around the corner, you are bound to cross this square a few times while in Geneva. So there is no excuse not to stop here. Get yourself some coffee or local beer and absorb the city life from one of the many relaxing café terraces of Borg-de-Four square.

6. Window Shopping on Rue du Rhone

Switzerland is an expensive place, so it is no surprise that the main shopping areas attract some of the world’s top brands. Window shopping in a place like Geneva is a great way to spend an afternoon, or you can just pass by and take a quick look on your way to the main tourist attractions in Geneva.

Take a peek into the étalages of Tag Heuer or Rolex shops and dream of watches most of us can’t afford. Or check out what Bulgari or Dior are doing this month and see if you can grab something similar at H&M or Zara…

With everything from art and archeology, and from prehistoric times to the 21st century, there is something for everyone at the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire. This is the largest museum in Geneva, but its collection is organized by period, easily guiding you through the centuries of evolution of art. 

Some of the most famous works of Geneva’s Art & History museum include paintings by Monet, Cézanne, Renoir, and Sisley. In my opinion, this is not a must among places to visit in Geneva, especially if you are only here for a day. But if you have more time and love art, check it out!

The museum is located in the old town, next to Place Bourg-de-Four mentioned above, and the permanent exhibition can be visited free of charge.

There is also a nice park opposite, Parc de l’Observatoire, where you can take a quick break from the midday sun. Even if you are not planning to visit the museum, make sure to check out the stunning building. It’s worth a visit if only to see it from the outside.

If you are up for something a little unusual to do in Geneva, it’s worth popping by the Ancien Arsenal. This tiny museum is tucked right behind the St Peter’s Cathedral and is one of the lesser known places to see in Geneva. 

It’s not a mind-blowing museum or stunning work of art… Still, I recommend it as one of the more unique things to do in Geneva. The display of cannons under the arches with the creative mosaics depicting Geneva’s history on the surrounding walls is something you won’t quickly find elsewhere.

This museum is conveniently located in the old town, it’s free to visit, and only takes a few minutes of your time. You’re in for a real treat – don’t miss this secret little gem when in Geneva!

Among the best places to see in Geneva is also one of its most famous landmarks, The International Monument to the Reformation, known as  Reformation Wall .

It is a huge wall with the figures of Geneva’s most famous reformers (such as John Calvin, the founder of the University of Geneva) sculpted into it, standing over you like four wise old Jedis. It is a reminder of the Reformation period that had a huge influence on Geneva, and Switzerland as a whole, back in the 1500s.

Reformation Wall is located right next to Promenade des Bastions (see below) and makes a nice stop right next to the old town. You can easily reach it on foot – it’s less than 10 minutes walking from the Cathedral.

The Reformation Wall sits right along the edge of Parc des Bastions , so you might as well take advantage of your time here. The park is quite big and has some very relaxing areas where you can take a break from busy city life. It’s also a wonderful place to visit if you are in Geneva with kids.

The promenade running through the center of this park – Promenade des Bastions – is a place where you’ll meet many locals. Some doing sports or out for a leisurely stroll, others hastily passing by on their bikes on their daily commute.

You can find giant chess and checkers here and in winter there is also an ice skating rink. This is a great place to see in Geneva if you have some time to spare.

11. The Palace of Nations, the United Nations Office in Geneva

As a very neutral country that has not participated in a war for centuries, it is perhaps no surprise that Switzerland is also home to one of the main offices of the UN. The  Palais des Nations is located a little further away from the other Geneva attractions, so I recommend either using a bicycle or public transport to get here.

If you want to get inside the UN, you will have to book ahead – they don’t take spontaneous visits. There are two tours available. First is a guided tour focused on UN activities in Geneva, visiting the rooms where important international meetings and negotiations take place. The second is a thematic Art and Architecture tour, focused more on the building itself rather than the United Nations. You can find more information and book a tour of Palais des Nations here .

If you are less interested in politics, history, or architecture, you can just visit the beautiful Ariana park surrounding the UN Geneva office. No need for any special reservations for that. The Palais des Nations is one of the most special places in Geneva and well worth a quick visit when in town.

Don’t miss the huge broken chair on the square outside the building. It is there to commemorate people who have lost limbs to landmines.

TIP: You could spend just an hour or the whole day in this part of Geneva. If you have more time, check out Musée Ariana, the Gandhi statue, and also the nearby Museum of the Red Cross or Botanical Garden (more info on the latter two below).

Geneva’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are spread across some 28 hectares in a beautiful setting in a park near Lake Geneva. The herbarium here is one of the largest in the world, with more than six million samples!

Conservatoire et Jardin Botanique  is also home to a living collection of more than 14,000 species, which includes rock gardens, horticultural plants, medical plants, a zoo near the lake and so much more. It is a living museum full of all kinds of plants and it’s extremely well kept. Without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Geneva, especially if you are visiting in late spring or in summer.

Admission to the conservatory is free of charge – one of the rare places to visit in Geneva where you don’t need a ton of cash to have lots of fun.

TIP: If you like parks, you may also want to check the nearby Parc Villa Barton, La Perle du Lac, and Parc Mon Repos. These parks are on the shore of Lake Geneva and all offer stunning views of the crescent-shaped lake. Perfect for a morning walk, a relaxing bike ride, or some playground time for the children. Park Villa Barton is known for its giant sequoias – very impressive. 

13. International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent

Continuously rated as one of the best museums in Geneva , the Red Cross Museum is one of the most unique places to see in Geneva.

This museum provides a very touching insight into the history of mankind. It is extremely well done with lots of interactive displays. 

You are confronted with the experiences of people who lived through wars and all kinds of disasters and get a very good insight into humanitarian work. It might not be the best place for young kids, but otherwise – not to be missed in Geneva. Count 1-2 hours for a visit.

For opening times and more information, please consult the website of the museum .

You cannot visit Switzerland without getting confronted with what it’s most famous for – Swiss watches. From Omega and Rolex to Swatch and Victorinox, there are more Swiss watch brands than you can name. If you want to get deep into the watch-making history of Switzerland, there is probably no better place to do that than Geneva.

One of the most formative names of watchmaking, Patek Philippe, has a stunning museum in Geneva. I know, that choices of what to see and do in Geneva might get overwhelming, but if you are interested in watches and the history of watchmaking, then the  Patek Philippe Museum is not to be missed. 

Located in a beautifully restored factory, within a walking distance from the old town, the Patek Philippe museum is one of Geneva’s highest-rated attractions. However, it requires at least 2 hours to visit, so it’s probably not something to do if you only have a day in Geneva.

TIP:  Included in your ticket price is a free guided tour. It’s the best way to visit this museum and to get to know the history of the company and interesting facts about selected watches. More info on their website .

15. Marché de Plainpalais – Farmers and Flea Market

If you like shopping, then Marché de Plainpalais is a great spot for you. It is both a flea market and a farmers market in the center of Geneva.

You can buy pretty much anything here – from fresh flowers and spices to a laptop or some new chairs. It’s the best spot in Geneva to do some shopping, mostly because of the extremely low prices.

The market is open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, from 8 AM.

CERN is a European research organization that operates the largest particle physics laboratory in the world. It’s located just outside Geneva city and very close to the French-Swiss border. It’s really easy to get there – you can get a bus from Geneva, and then walk for a few minutes.

It is definitely worth the effort to visit CERN if you have more time in Geneva. The large wooden dome is a breathtaking piece of architecture, which looks even better in person than in photos.

If you want to join a guided tour of the laboratory, note that you have to reserve it 15 days in advance. The tours are free of charge but sell out very quickly, so this requires some advance planning. You can find more information about visiting CERN and book your visit here .

This museum in Geneva is actually the largest Museum of Natural History in entire Switzerland. The entrance to the museum is free, but there are no guided tours available. It’s one of the best museums in Geneva for families with kids, but also adults will enjoy it for sure.

Among other things, you can even see a stone from the moon. It was a gift to the museum from NASA – pretty cool, right?

Other than that, there are plenty of other exhibitions in the museum, including fossil rocks, dinosaur fossils, and over 200 hundred stuffed animals. Some of which look way too real!

18. Bains des Pâquis or Genève-Plage

Want to swim in Lake Geneva? Hit up Bains des Pâquis , one of the hottest swimming spots in the city. This is a pier on the lake and it features a lighthouse at its end.

This outdoor bath is located right in the city center and in the summer months, the place is crawling with people who want to relax and cool off, so be prepared for the crowds. 

Another great place for swimming and watersports, albeit a bit further from the city center, is Tropical Corner  or  Genève-Plage. This is just another of Geneva’s wonderful parks on the banks of Lake Geneva. It features a beach, a large outdoor swimming pool, and a restaurant. This is an extremely popular place during summer weekends.

One last thing you absolutely have to do in Geneva (and Switzerland for that matter) is to sample as much Swiss chocolate as you can get your hands on. A wide variety of chocolate shops in Geneva make that a cinch.

I recommend checking out both: the more niche chocolatiers in Geneva, as well as more famous chocolate shops. For a true taste of what hand-made chocolates are like, try Auer Chocolatier, Favarger Chocolate Factory or Du Rhône Chocolatier. Just beware – you may never want to eat mass-produced chocolate again.

Once you have had your fill of those, you can move to the more famous producers like Laderach, Lindt & Sprüngli. You will find these brands in most major cities in Switzerland, so if you don’t have time in Geneva, you’ll be able to find them in other towns as well.

Sprüngli is famous for its Luxemburgerli , which are not chocolates, but macaroons. Don’t let that put you off though, grab a small box of those to try all different kinds, from salted caramel to champagne. They are simply divine!

Also known as the Swiss Museum of Ceramics and Glass, Musée Ariana is located in an Italian palace-style building that dates from the 19th century.

It features a truly unique collection (literally one of a kind) in Switzerland, with more than 20,000 objects. This includes various pieces of glass and ceramics, collected in the past 1200 years. Most of the pieces on display are of European origin, but there are also some stunning pieces from Japan and China.

The museum was originally established in 1884, by Gustave Revilliod, who named it after his mother – hence the unique name of the museum.

It’s virtually impossible to leave Switzerland without riding at least one cable car. And luckily, there is one extremely close to Geneva, at Mont Salève . This is an extremely popular place to visit near Geneva. Tourists and local Genovese go here for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and even paragliding.

Mont Saléve is easily accessible by road, but you can also hike there – if you’re up for the grueling adventure. Oh, and remember to bring your passport, since Mont Salève is technically in France.

The Mont Saléve cable car takes you 1100 meters high in less than five minutes. The ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of Geneva, which are without a doubt worth the price. The ride is actually free with Geneva Pass .

One Day in Geneva: Suggested Itinerary

If you have just one day in Geneva , you’re probably overwhelmed with all these options of the best things to do in the city. Here are our recommendations for how to see the best of Geneva in just one day . 

Wake up early, so that you can really make the most of your day. Since shops and museums aren’t open in the morning, you could visit one of the parks first.  Bastions Park  and  The Reformation Wall  is a good option.

If you are in Geneva on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday, start your day at  Marché de Plainpalais  market. Some chocolate shops serve delicious breakfast, so it might be a nice way to start your day sightseeing in Geneva.

Afterwards explore the  Old Town  and visit the St. Pierre Cathedral . It is an amazing sight both on the inside and the outside and also the view from the top of the tower is not to be missed. Remember to check out the  Ancien Arsenal, as mentioned above. A quick tour fits perfectly into the itinerary and leaves enough time to explore the rest of Geneva.

If you like museums, there are several of them in this area, but with just a day in Geneva, you can probably only visit one. The  Art and History Museum and also the Natural History Museum are both in the old town. Patek Philippe Museum is also within walking distance.

For lunch, we recommend either the Mango Deck or Au Canivore. Both places are on Bourg-de-Four , the city’s main square with high-end shops, restaurants, and cafes. If you rather make it quick and spend more time exploring the city, pop into one of the shops of La Maison du Sandwich for a huge meatball sub.

After lunch check out the Rue du Rhône – the street where you will find most designer boutiques in Geneva, like Chanel, Versace, Philip Patek, and plenty of others. It’s a truly amazing luxe experience, both for the window shoppers and the credit card swipers.

Next up is Lake Geneva . Obviously, you can’t have a perfect day in Geneva without being by the lake. We recommend going to the Jardin Anglais to see the amazing Flower Clock . It is truly an astonishing sight, and the rest of the park is pretty beautiful as well.

From here it’s really close to the Jet d’Eau – the brilliant water fountain, one of Geneva’s most famous landmarks. Try to get as close to it as you can – it’s definitely worth seeing the majestic 140-meter-tall jet up close.

If you still have some time on your hands, it’s best to take a boat tour on the lake or just relax on the lakeshore. Head over to the Place de Jeux des Bains des Pâquis . Definitely check out the lighthouse at the end of the pier. Alternatively, explore to one of the many parks by the lake. It’s the perfect way to end a long day in Geneva.

TIP: If you are really short on time, you can join this 3-hour tour that covers all the main Geneva highlights in the city center and also includes a boat ride on the lake. A tour like this shows you the very best of Geneva in a nutshell. 

Where to Stay

Geneva is a big city with many hotels and other accommodation options. For sightseeing, the absolute best place to stay is in the city center, close to the lake. Of course, the hotels overlooking the lake are also VERY expensive (take a look at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix if you are looking for an ultimate Swiss hotel experience).

Fairmont Grand Hotel Geneva is one of the nicest affordable-luxury hotels with a great location. For a mid-budget alternative in a great location, check out Edelweiss Manotel . On a lower budget (this is however relative in Switzerland), check ibis Geneve Centre Lac .

If you are looking for lower-budget accommodations in Geneva , then you’ll have to look a bit further away from the city center.

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels, apartments, and short-term rental accommodations in Geneva . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay (this map compares all the websites and shows you the best deals). You can also zoom out to see accommodations outside the city center.

What to See Nearby – Geneva Day Trips

If you have two or three days in Geneva, the above list of things to do should give you more than enough inspiration.

If you have even more time or rather expand your horizons and visit some other great places nearby, I recommend  Lausanne , Vevey , or Montreux . They all have lovely town centers to visit as well as their own local attractions, and all are perched right on the lake with alpine views. 

Vevey has its renowned “fork in the lake”, which I will leave you to figure out on Google. Montreux is home to the renowned Jazz Festival in July, and Lausanne is a city of its own worth –  here you can find more information about visiting Lausanne .

A popular day trip from Geneva is to visit Gruyères , an extremely picturesque mountain village. Check out this amazing  Gruyères gold tour with a train ride & chocolate and cheese tastings.

Another popular option is a  guided day trip to Chamonix and Mont-Blanc . If you are looking for a chance to see some incredible Alpine landscapes, then this is one of the best day trips to consider!

LEARN MORE: How to See the Best of Chamonix in 1 Day

So, this is our list of the very best things to see and do in Geneva, Switzerland. As you can see, there is something for everybody in Geneva.

From shopaholics and chocolate lovers to nature and outdoor enthusiasts and everything in between – you will be hard-pressed to find such a beautiful city with such a broad range of things to see and do. Have a wonderful trip!

If you are looking for more inspiration for your trip, please check out our other articles about Switzerland .

More tips for your trip to Switzerland:

• Best Day Trips from Lucerne
• Interlaken Day Trip
• Best Things to Do in Lucerne
• Best Things to Do in Bern
• Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe
• Mount Pilatus, Lucerne
• Mt Pilatus Golden Round Trip
• Mount Titlis
• Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
• Mt Titlis vs. Jungfraujoch
• Zermatt – Things to Do
• Trümmelbach Falls (underground waterfalls!)
• Things to Do in Grindelwald-First
• Schynige Platte (a hidden gem!)

READ ALSO: Swiss Travel Pass & Swiss Half Fare Card (what’s included and when it’s worth it)

If you found this list of things to do in Geneva useful, don’t forget to bookmark this post and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

Some of our favorite hikes in Switzerland:

• Oeschinensee: Oeschinen Lake & Panorama Hike  (our favorite hike in Switzerland)
• Matterhorn Glacier Trail (Zermatt)
• Stoos Ridge Trail (Lucerne area)
• Bachalpsee (Grindelwald)
• Schynige Platte Hikes (Interlaken area)
• Hiking in Engelberg (Lucerne area)
• Gornergrat Scenic Trail (Zermatt)
• Riffelsee Lake Trail (Zermatt)
• Randa Suspension Bridge (Zermatt)
• Best Hikes in Zermatt

Winter trip:

• Skiing in Engelberg
• Skiing in Wengen – Grindelwald
• Jungfrau Region in winter
• Skiing in Switzerland on a Budget

Additional tips for planning your trip to Europe:

• Best Time to Visit Europe
• How to Plan a Trip to Europe

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Thursday 12th of May 2022

I love Geneva and been here several times as a visitor or just passing through as I fly into the airport quite often. I done quite a lot of things on this list however on top of my list is the cable car nearby as mentioned. That I do want to do and hopefully we do it on my next visit (really hope its a sunny day). One of my favourite cities in Switzerland and of course, once out of the city, all those mountains and the lake to explore, its truly a city close to nature. :)

Monday 16th of May 2022

Hope you get to enjoy the beautiful scenery from Mont Salève Cable Car on your next visit to Geneva. Happy travels!

Mark Simons

Monday 26th of April 2021

I'm surprised a side trip to Yvoir is not mentioned. From the Swiss side, one takes a short train hope from Geneve to Nyon. Ferry from Nyon (so ou get to get out on the lake) and the medieval town of Yvoir is utterly charming. We found a very nice hotel in Auberge which was very reasonably priced and a short 15 tram ride from Geneve City Centre.

Friday 30th of April 2021

Hi Mark, thanks a lot for sharing your experience. This guide is really mostly focused on the city and a few of the most popular things to do nearby. There's no way to mention all the amazing places to see near Geneva and it's not really the purpose of this city guide. But thanks for the tip. Hopefully it will be useful to some of our readers who are planning a longer stay in the area.

Thursday 12th of March 2020

Hi Jurga Nice post. Thank you for sharing all these tips for Geneva that is particularly useful for my upcoming trip. I hope this virus will stop and allow us to visit Switzerland.

Friday 13th of March 2020

Fingers crossed it all passes quickly. Enjoy Geneva!

Sandra Lankenau

Wednesday 26th of February 2020

Thank You for all the Wonderful Suggestions ~ We will now come away from this beautiful city with a better sense of the people, the culture, and all the beauty it has to offer....and we won't forget to try the chocolate !

Friday 28th of February 2020

Glad you found this useful, Sandra. Enjoy your time in Geneva!

Thursday 25th of July 2019

Quick question: Are all destinations in this one day itinerary walkable (Destination to destination)? at any point do i need to take a bus or taxi?

Saturday 27th of July 2019

Hi Kate, the suggested one-day itinerary is walkable. We listed the places in such a way that you don't have to walk up and down the same way too much. If you decide to visit any of the international institutions and such, you'll need to take a bus or a bike. Enjoy your time in Geneva!

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

15 Top Tourist Attractions in Geneva

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 22, 2024

An affluent place that is home to many international organizations and embassies – as well as the United Nations – Geneva is the second largest city in the country and is well worth visiting for its plethora of amazing sights. Full of lovely old buildings, museums, parks and more, it is a fantastic place to wander around, with loads to see and do.

On top of all the historic and cultural tourist attractions in Geneva, the River Rhone runs through the city, which also lies on the shores of Lake Geneva. As such, there is lots of nature for visitors to enjoy and beautiful mountains form a stunning backdrop to Geneva. With so much tourist attractions on offer, you’ll have your work cut out trying to fit everything into your trip to this wonderful city.

Map of Geneva

15. Reformation Wall

Located in the fantastic Parc Des Bastions, the Reformation Wall is a must-see when you are in Geneva; the monument depicts an important moment that changed Europe’s history forever.

Built to honor the main individuals who influenced the movement, the Reformation Wall documents the Protestant Reformation and the schism that took place in Western Christianity in the 16th century.

Beautiful to behold, there are numerous statues and bas-reliefs of such influential figures as John Calvin, Oliver Cromwell, and William Farel. Really well done, the wall is definitely worth checking out and it is not far from a lot of the other main attractions in Geneva.

14. Jardin Anglais

Created in 1855, this wonderful little park lies alongside the waterfront not far from the iconic Jet d’Eau. It is a lovely spot at which to sit back, relax and enjoy the sun. Very English in style and look, it is modeled after country manor house gardens and is delightfully landscaped, with little winding paths passing by statues of prominent Genevans and well-tended flowerbeds.

At the center of the park is a beautiful fountain, although the highlight is undoubtedly the Horloge Fleurie – a working clock that ticks its way around its flowerbed face. Intended as an homage to the country’s famous watchmakers, it is the cherry on top of what Jardin Anglais has to offer.

13. International Red Cross Museum

Opened in 1988, this thought-provoking museum is well worth a visit when you’re in Geneva. It was here that the organization was founded all the way back in 1863. As the aim of the ICRC is to protect human life and alleviate suffering, the exhibitions focus on topics pertaining to life-saving, with the three mains parts looking at how to defend human dignity, reconstruct families and reduce natural risks.

The ‘Humanitarian Adventure’ exhibition is very interesting to wander around and is both educational and entertaining in equal measure.

12. Museum of Art and History

Full of interesting old items and artifacts, the Museum of Art and History is a fantastic place to visit and its extensive galleries will keep you entertained for hours. Located in a lovely building in the center of the city, it is the largest art museum in Switzerland; the fine arts and archaeology sections are among its many highlights.

With a huge range of art on show, perusing the exhibitions is mesmerizing; there is even a 3000-year-old Egyptian mummy for you to gaze upon. Genevan artists figure prominently in the collection and there are even works by such renowned names as Rembrandt and Rodin for you to enjoy.

11. Parc Des Bastions

Located right next to Place Neuve, the park is a delightful haven of peace and quiet and is a lovely spot if you want to relax after a day sightseeing around the city. A leafy place that is home to expansive lawns, a restaurant, and a children’s playground, Parc Des Bastions is best known for the beautiful Reformation Wall that is located within its confines.

Throughout the year, various cultural events and festivals take place here. It is a popular park with locals, who come here to escape the busy city streets.

10. Patek Philippe Museum

Famous around the world for its watches, Switzerland – and Geneva in particular – is home to the wonderful Patek Philippe Museum, which will introduce you to the art and history of watchmaking. Spanning over 500 years of history, the museum is a fascinating place to visit and is actually home to the oldest watch in the world, with its antique collection being quite stunning to gaze upon.

With over 2000 exhibits on show, there are loads of lovely watches for you to peruse. The galleries take you through the whole process and evolution of making watches and you can even watch professional watch-makers as they work.

9. Palais des Nations

Built in 1938, the Palais des Nations complex hosts thousands upon thousands of intergovernmental meetings every year; it is one of the most influential places on Earth. It is the second most important United Nations office after the headquarters in New York and there is a fascinating guided tour on offer that takes you around all the main landmarks on show.

Whether it is the stunning Assembly Hall or the impressive Council Chamber, the Palais des Nations will wow you with all that there is to see.

8. Jardin Botanique

Lying on the western lakeshore, the botanical gardens are delightful to wander around and, remarkably, contain over 14,000 different plant species from around the globe. Beautifully landscaped, nature lovers will adore all of its amazing attractions.

There an almost endless array of flowerbeds, ponds and rose gardens for you to explore, with the herbarium housing over six million specimens. With a zoo also on site, the Jardin Botanique is a great place to visit with loads to see and do.

7. Bains des Paquis

Located on the western shore of Lake Geneva, the Bains des Paquis is a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike; it is just a stone’s throw away from the Jet d’Eau. The public baths are lovely to wallow in and many people come here to exercise or relax on the pier or beach.

While it is mostly frequented during the summer, hardy swimmers can still enjoy the baths in winter as there is a sauna and hammam on hand. It is during the summer, however, when Bains des Paquis really comes alive and the area is thronged with people enjoying the sun. Numerous cultural events – such as classic musical recitals and local festivals – only add to the intoxicating atmosphere and feel.

6. Natural History Museum

Opened in 1966, the Natural History Museum houses a fine collection that covers everything from taxidermy and insect specimens to moon rocks, fossils and the evolution of man. A great place for all the family to visit, the exhibitions are very well laid out and lots of display panels explain exactly what it is you’re looking at; young ones will particularly enjoy stopping by the floors devoted to the animal kingdom.

In total, there are over 200 taxidermies on show, as well as countless moon rocks and fossils. One of the most interesting and impressive things to see at the museum is actually a living tortoise called Janus that has two heads who has defied biological norms to live for over 20 years.

5. Mont Saleve

Lying on the edge of the city, Mont Saleve appears before you like an impenetrable wall of rock, which at its zenith reaches a height of 1379 meters. The views from up high are spectacular, with Geneva lying below you and the Jura Mountains and Mont Blanc off in the distance.

While you can hike, bike or drive to its summit, another option is the cable car which will take you to the top in no time at all. With loads of outdoor activities on offer, Mont Saleve is the perfect spot to go rock climbing, mountain biking or paragliding – you can even go skiing at Col de la Corisette if you feel like it.

While ambling through the alpine meadows is delightful, the highlight is undoubtedly the stunning view; it is not without reason that Mont Saleve has been nicknamed the ‘balcony of Geneva’.

4. Cathedrale St-Pierre

St Peter’s Cathedral, as it is known in English is a lovely building in the center of the old town. Its huge North and South Towers loom above the rest of the city. Built between 1160 and 1252, the architecture is largely Gothic in style, although a delightful Neo-Classical facade was added around the 18th century.

Constructed on top of a 4th century basilica, the cathedral is the most important religious building in Geneva, and views from the top of it are absolutely stunning; you can see the Alps off in the distance.

The interior is unassuming and undecorated in comparison with many other cathedrals and churches. As such, it is mainly the lovely architecture on show that people come to see.

3. Vieille Ville

Full of beautiful old buildings, Geneva’s Vieille Ville is the historic center of the city and is well worth walking around for its picturesque squares and winding, cobbled lanes. A veritable labyrinth of a place, wandering around is a delightful experience; historic buildings line the roads and atmospheric cafes are interspersed amongst galleries, museums and more.

Dripping in history, the Vieille Ville is a must-see when in Geneva. Highlights include the stunning St Peter’s Cathedral and the fantastic Bourg-de-Four square, which used to be a Roman marketplace.

The headquarters of the European Organization for Nuclear Research is a fascinating place, where loads of cutting-edge scientific experiments are conducted every single day. It actually hosts the largest particle physics laboratory in the world. Visitors can take a tour around parts of CERN to see what exactly goes on there, with the particle accelerator being particularly interesting to check out.

In addition to the tour, there is a museum on particle physics and the history of the organization, including what it has achieved and what it is working on. The Globe of Science and Innovation somehow manages to break down complex ideas and scientific theories into accessible terms and this serves to make CERN both an entertaining and educational place to visit.

1. Jet d’Eau

This iconic landmark is known around the world and is one of the main attractions that people just have to see when visiting Geneva. Seemingly spurting out from the center of the lake, the Jet d’Eau towers to a height of 140 meters and is actually accessible from a small stone jetty.

If you get too near, however, you are almost certain to get wet, as over 500 liters of water are pumped out every second. Located at the spot where Lake Geneva joins the Rhone, the Jet d’Eau is a wonderful fountain and is a favorite amongst locals and tourists alike.

Best Time to Visit Geneva

Almost completely surrounded by France, Geneva lies at the southern end of the large lake of the same name, amidst the snowy Alps and Jura Mountains. As the weather is warmest in summer, July and August are the most popular months to visit.

With temperatures averaging 24 to 25°C (75 to 77°F), many hike in the nearby mountains or cool off in the lake. Although this is one of the busiest and most expensive times of the year, fun events like the Lake Parade also take place.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn also attract lots of people to Geneva. While April to June and September and October are slightly cooler, more affordable accommodation and fewer crowds more than make up for it. You can still enjoy the great outdoors or attend Fete de la Musique and the Bol d’Or Mirabaud – the world’s largest inland regatta!

November to March is the low season as worsening weather puts most people off. Some winter sports enthusiasts do however head to the city in December and January to go skiing in the nearby mountains.

As each month has 12 to 16 days with at least some rain, pack a coat whenever you visit!

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The Top 15 Things to Do in Geneva, Switzerland

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The second-largest city in Switzerland after Zurich , Geneva has an enviable position on the southwestern end of Lake Geneva, in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. With the Jura Mountains to the north and the French Alps to the south, the city offers stunning scenery on all sides. As the European headquarters of the United Nations and the home of the International Red Cross, it's the diplomatic center of Switzerland and all of Europe. Geneva is also known as a wealthy and cosmopolitan city and a destination for luxury shopping and lavish 5-star hotels. Historically, Geneva was the center of the Swiss Reformation and played a significant role in the formation of modern Switzerland.

Visitors to Geneva will find an expensive, clean and elegant city, with an enticing mix of museums, monuments, and outdoor activities. Here are 15 of the best things to do in Geneva.

Catch the Spray From the Jet d'Eau

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Installed in 1886 to control the outflow of water from a nearby power plant, the Jet d'Eau (water jet) soon became a symbol of the city of Geneva. It shoots water nearly 460 feet (140 meters) into the air and is the tallest fountain in the world. Unless winds are too strong, the Jet d'Eau runs every day and is illuminated at night. It's visible from almost every part of the lakefront, but the promenade in front of the Jardin Anglais is one of the best spots for seeing it day or night. If you get close enough, or if it's a windy day, you'll get hit with a refreshing (or cold!) spray from the jet.

Tour the Palais des Nations (UN Headquarters)

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Constructed in the 1930s as the headquarters of the short-lived League of Nations, the Palais des Nations (Palace of Nations) is the second-largest UN headquarters outside of New York City. It's a vast campus of grand administrative buildings amid a parklike setting. Visitors are free to wander the grounds or may jump in on an hour-long guided tour of several of the buildings and assembly halls. Highlights of the tour include the Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room, the main Assembly Hall, and the Council Chamber.

Go Up and Down at St. Pierre Cathedral

 ©GenèveTourisme; ©www.geneve.com

There's been a church of some form on this site since the 4th century CE, and the present church, mostly from the 15th century, is an architectural wonder. But St. Pierre Cathedral's history is most famously linked to the Protestant Reformation. The church was the seat of tireless Reformist John Calvin from 1541 until his death in 1564. Today, it's possible to tour the extensive archaeological site underneath the church, hear the massive pipe organ, visit the elaborate Chapel of the Maccabees, and climb 157 steps to the cathedral roof for sweeping views of the city and lake.

Salute Heroes at the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

©GenèveTourisme; ©www.geneve.com 

Adjacent to the park surrounding the Palais des Nations, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum traces the more than 150-year history of the international humanitarian movement, which was founded in Geneva. Exhibits offer a mix of historical data and artifacts, as well as poignant and thought-provoking installations that confront the causes and effects of human conflict.

Take a Break at the Jardin Anglais & the Flower Clock

All roads in Geneva seems to lead to the Jardin Anglais—the English Garden—the small, prettily planted lakefront garden in the center of Geneva. Crowds flock here for the flower clock (the horloge fleurie ), an oversized timepiece planted with seasonal flowers. Plenty of sitting areas, mature shade trees, and a monumental central fountain make this a relaxing place to take a break from sightseeing.

Stroll the Lakefront and Riverside

The Jardin Anglais is just one of several places to admire the lake and the Jet d'Eau. The entire lakefront is strollable, thanks to wide promenades and quays made for walking. Geneva and its close-in bedroom communities wrap around the whole southwestern tip of Lake Geneva, and there are 6 miles of pedestrian-only walking and bike paths along the entire lakefront. Where the lake empties into the mighty Rhone River, the city is built up on both sides. Sidewalks on both sides of the river allow for pleasant walking. Swans paddle by during the day, and at night, the riverfront and surrounding buildings are romantically lit.

Wander Through Vielle Ville (Old Town)

Set in a defensive position high above the lake, the Vielle Ville, or Old Town, is where Geneva was founded by Gallic tribes in the 2nd century BCE or earlier. The Romans later took the settlement, and it then fell into the hands of the Franks and the Burgundians. Its center was Ville Ville, and today, most of Geneva's most important historical sites are located along these narrow, stone-clad streets and alleys. Here you'll find St. Pierre Cathedral, Place du Bourg-de-Four, and the Museum of the Reformation, as well as art galleries, gift shops, and restaurants. Nearby, Rue du Marche (also called Rue de la Croix-d'Or or Rue de Rive) is Geneva's busiest shopping street.

Pause in an Outdoor Cafe at Place du Bourg-de-Four

Place du Bourg-de-Four probably began life as a 9th-century cattle market, and today remains the oldest and most historic square in the Old Town. It's lined with sidewalk cafes, and in good weather, it's one of the prettiest places in Geneva to take a break and enjoy a coffee or a cocktail. The fountain in the middle of the square is from the 1700s.

Unravel Mysteries of the Universe at CERN

CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is the world's largest physics lab—home to the Large Hadron Collider, the birthplace of the World Wide Web, and the site where the Higgs boson particle was identified. Parts of the vast campus are open to the public for free tours, include the massive Globe of Science and Innovation, with exhibits that explain the heady work of CERN, testing facilities, and simulators. CERN is about 5 miles outside Geneva in the suburb of Meyrin.

Take a Dip at Bains des Paquis

As in every city in Switzerland that has a lake or river, Genevans take advantage of warm sunny weather by jumping in the water. There are swimming across the lakefront, but the Bains des Pâquis, on the western shore of Lake Geneva, are among the largest and most popular. A bain , or public bath, in Switzerland is as much a social center as it is a place to take a dip. At Bains des Pâquis, there is a sandy beach and a concrete pier for sunbathing, lake swimming, and four protected pools into which lake water flows. There's also a snack bar, spa services, and a sauna and steam rooms. In the summertime, concerts, fairs, and other special events take place here. In the winter, the courageous can take a dip in the lake-pool before (or after) warming up in the sauna.

Stop and Smell the Roses at the Botanical Garden

On 18.5 acres within the larger Parc de l'Ariana near UN headquarters, Geneva's Conservatory and Botanical Garden contain more than 14,000 plant specimens from around the world. There are endless, colorful flowerbeds, mature shade trees, ponds, and 19th-century greenhouses, as well as a playground, a bookstore, and a restaurant. A small zoo is home to woodland fauna.

Get Down to Earth at the Natural History Museum

Geneva's stunning, modern National History Museum is the largest of its kind in Switzerland. It has a vast collection of taxidermied animals and insect specimens, but they are presented in engaging and informative displays. Exhibits also explore the origins of human life and the history and future of the natural sciences. There are plenty of hands-on activities for kids and adults, as well as a museum shop, a cafeteria, and grounds with picnicking areas.

Retrace History at Maison Tavel

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The oldest private home in Geneva, Maison Tavel is now a museum tracing centuries of daily urban life in the city. Set across six floors of an Old Town building dating to the 13th and 14th centuries and filled with antiques, the museum recreates historic household rooms and objects related to everyday life. A highlight is the detailed scale diorama of medieval Geneva.

Tour Lake Geneva via Mouette or Steamer

On a clear day or a balmy evening, a boat ride on Lake Geneva is a nearly-obligatory activity. If you just want to get from A to B, or take to the lake like a local, catch a mouette —one of the cheerful yellow shuttle boats that transport commuters from one side of the lake to the other. For a cruise that takes in other parts of the lake and includes narration, and the options of lunch, dinner, or a sunset cocktail cruise, try CGN , whose fleet of historic steamships ply the length of the lake.

Have a Seat on the World's Longest Bench

You'll likely always find room on the Treille Bench—at 393 feet, it's the world's longest bench. Called the Marronnier de la Treille in French, the bench was first built in 1767 and has been hosting tired walkers ever since. Set near Old Town, the bench offers lovely views over the rooftops of Geneva and to the distant Alps.

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The 21 top things to do in Geneva

Your ultimate guide to things to do in Geneva – from the lakeside city’s best restaurants and shops to museums and sightseeing

Get under Geneva’s skin and you’ll discover a huge array of great things to do, from the international to the local. It’s a bustling city filled with businesspeople and young professionals, and those who dig deep will find its alternative side – live music in offbeat clubs like L’Usine , the vintage shops and flea market of Plainpalais , the city’s burgeoning cocktail scene and the artisan workshops of Carouge. And, despite the tourists, Geneva’s famous attractions are famous because they’re thoroughly important – where else could you tour a world-leading particle physics lab and the room where UN bods make world-changing decisions?

Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere.

You can also find out more about  how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world , or take a look at our list of the  50 best things to do in the world right now .

1.  Explore the Old Town

The most traditionally scenic part of the city is Geneva’s Old Town, clustered on a hill around the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre and the pretty pedestrian Place du Bourg-de-Four. It’s well worth a potter for its independent boutiques including La Muse , Jill Wolf Jewels and Septième Etage , its pretty architecture, its numerous cafés and restaurants, and the chance to people-watch over a coffee at La Clémence . Delve into Geneva’s history with a visit to the archaeological remains beneath the cathedral, before wandering along the promenade for lovely views of the Bastions park below and the Jura mountain range in the distance.

2.  Take a selfie at the Jet d'Eau

It’s hardly the leaning tower of Pisa, but Geneva’s Jet d’Eau  is impressive in its own way. Visible from the air as you fly into Geneva airport, this enormous water fountain in Lake Geneva spouts its froth 140m into the air. The best spots for a photo are the Pont du Mont-Blanc and the Promenade du Lac alongside the lake’s left bank. You can get closer still by riding a boat on the lake – jump on a Mouette taxi-boat for a short hop from right bank to left bank or take your snap from a CGN ferry as part of a day trip to any number of destinations around the lake.

3.  Rummage in the Plainpalais fleamarket

On Saturday mornings there’s no better place to be than the Plaine de Plainpalais , which hosts one of Switzerland’s biggest and best flea markets. From bric-a-brac to vintage clothes, second-hand toys to ethnic jewellery, plus larger pieces of furniture, a regular rummage among the hundreds of stalls could rustle you up a real one-off. When you’ve worn yourself out, prolong the vintage vibe by heading to 1930s café and ice-cream parlour Remor to watch the world go by from its outdoor terrace.

4.  Take a walk in Bastions park

The swatch of leafy loveliness that is Bastions park is a tranquil spot to stretch the legs. Popular with students, whose university buildings sit nearby, there’s a happy atmosphere at all times of year. In summer, stop for coffee at the pretty Café Restaurant du Parc des Bastions , while in winter the outdoor terrace of the same café is transformed into an ice rink that’s popular with families.

5.  See Geneva’s Italian side in Carouge

Just a short tram ride from the centre of Geneva it feels as though you’ve stepped into a different country – and you kind of have. This area was developed by Italians from Turin in the 18th century, and as such is architecturally Italian in style, all stone archways, painted shutters and red roofs. Its outsider status attracts artisans and bohemians in droves, and a wander around its streets will throw up second-hand bookshops, markets, antique restorers, glass blowers, watchmakers and indie clothes designers. Hunt out vintage designer togs at posh second-hand shop Numéro 6 , get interior design ideas at Teo Jakob  and find classy children’s clothes and treats at Boutique O-Little-Top . When you’re all shopped out, the area has a vast number of bistros, cafés and restaurants offering a much more relaxed vibe than the centre of town, including tapas and cocktail bar Le Cheval Blanc .

6.  Sip bohemian cocktails at La Verre à Monique

If there’s one thing Geneva does well, it’s cocktails – and not in the way you might imagine. Yes, you can pretend you’re royalty and sip a martini in the bar of one of the city’s most exclusive waterfront hotels – but there are also more imaginative ways to go about it. Try delving into the less tourist-centric neighbourhoods of Eaux-Vives, Carouge and Plainpalais and you’ll turn up a few surprises, from the wonderfully eccentric creations at the speakeasy-styled La Verre à Monique  (dress in your best spats/flapper dress and you’ll fit right in) to the well-priced and inventive drinks at L’Atelier Cocktail Club .

7.  Pamper yourself at the Bains des Pâquis

Geneva has tons of spas way more luxurious than the Bains des Pâquis , but none are as interesting, kitsch or reasonably-priced as this 1930s public swimming baths, set on Lake Geneva. Open year-round, it’s great for a dip, sauna, massage, fondue or a cheap lunch in friendly, casual surroundings. Plenty of events take place year-round, including early-morning music and poetry readings in summer. 

8.  Head into the mountains

Geneva’s proximity to numerous ski resorts in Switzerland and France is one of its main selling points, but you don’t need to neglect the city altogether on a skiing break, as it’s entirely possible to head off for a day’s skiing and be back in town by the evening. The pretty French resorts of Samoëns, La Clusaz and Chamonix are just an hour away, while St Cergue, in the Swiss Jura, is even closer. And they’re not just good for skiing. Head off in summer to sample hiking, paragliding, summer tobogganing and mountain biking, or cast off your downhill skis in winter in favour of snowshoeing, sledging, cross-country skiing or ice skating on the frozen Lac de Joux, just 90 minutes drive away.

9.  Go spoilt-for-choice shopping

It’s not hard to flex your plastic in Geneva’s shops, even if it may be safer to stick to window shopping. If you’ve got the reddies, head for the flashy Rue du Rhône to browse the high-end clothes boutiques, watchmakers and jewellery shops, including designer emporium L’Apollinaire , or head to Bon Génie , the Harvey Nicks of Geneva, which is crammed with labels. A more realistic shopping experience in the city centre is department store Globus , where you could spend hours browsing the clothes, homeware and cosmetics. If you’re not into shopping, it’s worth visiting Globus anyway for the incredible food hall, offering gourmet focaccia, a noodle bar, sushi, freshly flipped crêpes and upmarket burgers from Swiss celebrity chef Philippe Chevrier. Meanwhile vintage seekers should head to Plainpalais to pick out vintage homeware at Les Enfants Terribles and Le Panapé de Caméla , affordable retro dresses and bags at Le Grand Magasin and high-end vintage brands such as Ossie Clark and Chanel Couture at Julia’s Dressing .

10.  Explore the Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

For various reasons – its famed neutrality, its location in the centre of Europe – Geneva is the seat of many international organisations, some of which are open to visitors. Head up to Nations to visit two of the best. The outstanding International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum is unmissable for its moving and sometimes shocking permanent exhibition, which charts the vital humanitarian work carried out by the organisation for the past 150 years. Combine this with a guided tour of the Palais des Nations , the European seat of the United Nations, for an insight into how the biggest issues facing the world today are tackled. 

11.  Hike on the Salève

One great thing about Geneva is how easy it is to escape the clutches of the city and disappear into the hills. Frankenstein’s monster thought so, too. The creature in Mary Shelley’s thriller fled to the Salève  mountain and was seen hanging off its cliff-face in chapter seven. It’s an understandable move, as the Salève is a peaceful retreat just a short bus ride away from the city centre – so close in fact that it’s known as Geneva’s local mountain even though it’s actually just over the border in France. From the cable car base station at Veyrier it’s a short ride up to 1,379m for a superlative view of the city and lake – the Jet d’Eau looks pretty small from up here. On the summit, you can hike, paraglide, bird-spot, picnic or just sit in one of its cafés and contemplate the view. On a clear day Mont Blanc looms large.

12.  Celebrate in the streets at the Escalade

Geneva likes a good knees-up, just like anywhere else. In winter the Escalade, held on the second weekend in December, is a pre-Christmas party in honour of a failed siege of the city in the early 17th century. Join the crowds to watch costumed revellers parade through the Old Town before warming your cockles with a glass of vin chaud and some melted cheese. In summer, don’t miss the huge fireworks display on the second weekend in August, marking the end of Geneva’s summer festival. This is one time when you’ll thank the banks and hedge funds for their presence in the city, as the display’s copious corporate sponsorship translates into one of the biggest and brashest fireworks displays you’ll likely see anywhere. 

13.  Paddleboard on Lake Geneva

Hawaii's current craze for stand-up paddleboarding has settled on Lake Geneva. The idea is to stand upright on a long surfboard and use a paddle to propel yourself across the water. It's a fun way to travel, as long as you're prepared to fall in once in a while – plus, it’s also a great upper-body workout. There are plenty of other watersports o n the lake, too, such as windsurfing and wakeboarding. Reward yourself afterwards with a drink on the palm-fringed beach, a more secluded location than the main yacht-crammed marina.

14.  Catch live music at L’Usine

There are countless opportunities to watch live music in Geneva, from top-quality orchestras to big name international bands. But away from the norm, it’s possible to search out something a bit more alternative. The eclectic L’Usine  is about as far from Geneva’s mainstream as its possible to get. A multi-purpose arts venue, its diverse programme covers everything from rock to reggae, metal to punk, disco to house. It’s loud, cheap and rather grubby, but so much the better for it. If jazz and soul is more your thing, head out to the Chat Noir  in Carouge, a brilliant laid-back venue with a friendly crowd of locals who flock to regular live music and comedy nights held in the basement. 

15.  Eat a fondue at Les Armures

Practically compulsory in Geneva, twirling chunks of bread in a pot of melted cheese isn’t just for tourists – it’s a real thing. There are many places in town serving a good moitié-moitié (half gruyère, half vacherin), but one of the best is Les Armures , the restaurant attached to the five-star hotel of the same name which serves a top-flight caquelon (fondue pot) in an appropriately traditional environment. 

16.  Uncover a secret beach at Perle du Lac

This is the Lake Geneva beach where the local city residents love to go – the kind of plsce tourists usually never find out about. To get to this hidden spot, you’ll need a few acrobatic moves: after crossing the steep gate of the Perle du lac’s small yet emblematic port, a 100-metre stretch of stony lakefront reveals itself, and a quick climb down gives you access. Usually empty – even in the summer – this spot is perfect for a peaceful afternoon swim, all without having to leave the city centre.

17.  Cheer on Genève-Servette HC at Patinoire des Vernets

Ice hockey is the biggest sport in Switzerland and Geneva’s team, Genève-Servette Hockey Club (dubbed The Eagles), is one of the top teams in the country. Attend a game and let yourself be swept over by the wild atmosphere in the arena.

18.  Dine in a historic building at Café Papon

Set in the middle of the Old Town next to the Town Hall, this café-restaurant has achieved mythical status in Geneva, thanks to its long history (it opened in 1808) and status as the café of choice for Swiss politicians throughout the ages. But this isn’t a fusty, old-fashioned kind of place. Since its renovation and reopening in 2005, Papon has complemented its historical roots – evident in its beautiful stone cellar location – with modern Swiss flair. The menus draw on local, seasonal produce and change every couple of weeks. A well-priced set menu of the day draws in local office workers, as does the quiet and sunny outdoor terrace which leads on to the leafy promenade overlooking pretty Bastions park. Book ahead to get a seat outside in summer.

19.  Learn about particle physics at CERN

Here’s another thing that Geneva is remarkable for: a 27-mile ring of superconducting magnets that’s accelerating particles at the speed of light. It seems incredible that a world-renowned physics laboratory attempting to solve the secrets of the universe should be open to the likes of us mere mortals, but it is. A tram ride out of town in the district of Meyrin, CERN is open for guided tours, and while you might not see the Large Hadron Collider (it’s closed to the public when operational), a visit round the lab takes in various other accelerators and is still fascinating.

20.  Dig through vintage gems at La Fiancée du Crocodile

Betty Draper wannabes should take note of this retro hotspot in Eaux-Vives, a cavernous store styled like a period boudoir. Check out the range of original vintage goods sourced from Paris and reproduction ’50s-style prom dresses with modern fabrics –  for prices that mean you can still afford a drink when you wear your new dress out on the town.

21.  Eco-relax at Les Recyclables

An antidote to big-name chain cafés and a pocket of calm amid the bustle of Rue de Carouge, Les Recyclables is a delight. Half café, half secondhand bookshop, it lures you in for a drink or lunch and tempts you with a selection of new reading material. The café itself is friendly and cheerful, and the food is imaginative and well-presented – plus, there’s a well-priced dish of the day every lunchtime. On selected evenings you’ll be serenaded as you eat by genuinely talented musicians playing jazz, bossa nova and Brazilian ‘choro’. 

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The 15 Best Things to do in Geneva, Switzerland

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With intriguing museums, graceful parks, gorgeous scenery, and heavenly chocolate just waiting to be devoured, Geneva is one of Switzerland ’s most sparkling hidden gems. The second-largest city in the country, Geneva is flanked by a dazzling lake and dramatic mountains, both of which give the city a new look and feel each season.

Visit during spring or summer, and you’ll be able to make the most of the warm weather, with lazy days spent on Lake Geneva’s shores and late-night concerts in the city’s parks. Travel in winter for the chance to experience a real snowy wonderland, with outdoor steam baths and chocolate-tasting tours that will warm you right up!

With such a huge choice of things to see and do, it can be tough to know where to begin. So I’ve created a list of the best things to do in Geneva. Add these attractions and activities to your Geneva bucket list, and you’re guaranteed to have an incredible time exploring one of Europe’s most compelling cities. 

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to do in Geneva, Switzerland

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The Top 15 things to do in Geneva

1. take a tour around cern.

One of the coolest things to do in Geneva is to take a walk around the largest particle physics lab in the world. Whether or not you’re a fan of physics, CERN , the headquarters for the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a truly fascinating place to visit! 

The best way to see the lab is on a tour. Suitable for people of all ages and levels, these organized visits will help you understand the mind-boggling research and experiments that are being carried out in simpler terms. You can arrange a guided tour directly with CERN when you arrive. 

CERN’s museum exhibitions are also definitely worth a visit. Microcosm lets you peek behind the scenes to see exactly what CERN is doing. It tells you about the Large Hadron Collider and what it’s being used for today. Universe of Particles invites you to discover the big physics questions CERN is currently attempting to answer and why.

The best part? Both museum exhibitions are free!

2. Gaze at the Jet d’Eau

Jet d’Eau (literally “water jet” in English) is one of the most famous Geneva attractions. Set on the Jetée des Eaux Vives, the water jet was originally built in 1886, when it was used as a safety valve for the city’s water facility. Back then, it was only 100 feet high and not nearly as impressive as it is today.

Fast forward to the 21st century, and the Jet d’Eau is now an eye-catching landmark. The current version was built in the 1950s and shoots water 460 feet into the sky. Each second, the jet projects more than 130 gallons of water into the air at a staggering speed of around 125 mph. 

Jet d’Eau has become a symbol of Geneva, acting as a reminder of the city’s strength, ambition, and vitality. It makes a great background for a selfie. Just make sure you don’t get too close on a windy day, or you could get soaked!

3. Stroll around the Geneva Botanical Gardens

Nestled in between Lake Geneva and Palais des Nations is the Geneva Botanical Gardens , a tranquil part of the city where you can relax and take a break from sightseeing. Ideally positioned for visiting after a trip to the United Nations headquarters, these gardens are wonderfully laid out and contain more than 16,000 different species of plants from all over the world. 

There are several individual greenhouses designed to recreate various international climates, as well as a Japanese garden, rockery, arboretum, and herbarium with more than six million different plants and fungi. You’ll also find a handful of collections that are fascinating to explore. Our favorites were the Garden of Smell and Touch and the Historic Rose Garden.

If you haven’t got much time, we recommend you head straight for the Winter Garden. Built in 1913, this garden is set inside one of the oldest buildings of its kind and is home to a huge variety of fruits and tropical plants. 

4. Take a Cruise across Lake Geneva

Sailing across the lake is one of the absolute must-do things in Geneva! It’s a great way to get a view of the city and its highlights from a whole new angle. There are tons of different boat trips to choose from, depending on the experience you’re looking for. 

A standard one-hour Lake Geneva cruise is perfect if you’re short on time. This affordable boat trip begins at Pierres du Niton, passes by iconic landmarks such as the Jet d’Eau and the United Nations, and rewards you with gorgeous views of Mont Blanc and the Swiss Alps. 

For something a little longer, choose a tour that incorporates a boat trip into a full-day excursion . This tour takes you to the alluring town of Annecy, also known as the Venice of the Alps, before returning to Geneva for a city tour and lake cruise.

If none of those are quite what you’re looking for, you can rent a private boat and captain . Most hotels will be happy to arrange this for you. Alternately, you can organize it yourself online before you go.

5. Check out the International Balloon Festival

If you’re planning to visit Geneva in January, you’ve got to time your visit with the International Balloon Festival. Held at the end of January each year in Château-d’Oex, this fascinating festival gives you a remarkable Geneva sightseeing opportunity you don’t get at any other time of the year! 

For nine days, the Geneva sky is filled with around 100 magical hot air balloons from all around the world. Pilots from across the globe travel to the Swiss city for the chance to show off their one-of-a-kind hot air balloons that come in every shape, size, color, and design imaginable. 

There’s plenty for you to get involved with during the festival, too. From dedicated children’s days with special activities, mini balloon demonstrations, whimsical balloon flights, and dance performances to competitions to win free flights, air shows, firework displays, and paragliding acts, the International Balloon Festival is filled with fun activities everyone can take part in!

6. Indulge in Delicious Raclette

Raclette is like fondue – only better! Named after the slightly nutty Swiss cow’s cheese, which is used to make the dish, raclette involves taking a large wheel of cheese, slicing it in half, and heating the cut side until it melts. When melted, the cheese is then scraped off and used to smother potatoes.

The emblematic Swiss dish was created by mountain shepherds who kept their cheese by the fire when roasting potatoes. When the potatoes were done, the shepherds noticed their cheese had started to melt and used it to top their potatoes instead of letting it go to waste. The result was one of the most decadent and delicious dishes ever created!

Auberge de Saviese is one of the best places to try raclette in Geneva, where it’s served with boiled potatoes, pickles, and onions. Zufthausrestaurant is another great place to give the cheesy specialty a try. You can order a raclette tasting platter which includes traditional raclette, garlic raclette, and smoked raclette.

7. Relax at Parc de La Grange

When all the Geneva activities have tired you out, head to Parc de La Grange for a well-deserved break. Located on the banks of Lake Geneva, just a short walk away from Jet d’Eau, this park is one of the most beautiful in the city, whatever time of year you visit.

The largest garden in Geneva, Parc de La Grange is home to a sprawling rose garden with more than 10,000 roses from 200 species, two theaters where plays are performed throughout the year, and the ancient ruins of a Roman villa.

Summer is our favorite season to visit because it’s the best time to use the specially-designed BBQ area and grill yourself up a feast. If you haven’t got any cooking equipment, you can still have a wonderful picnic in the park.

There’s a fun children’s playground open all year with the added bonus of a paddling pool available in summer. During the warmer months, there’s even a chance you’ll see sheep wandering through the park!

8. Get Lost in Geneva Old Town

One of the best things to do in Geneva is simply to wander around Old Town and see what you find. The biggest historic center in all of Switzerland, Geneva Old Town is full of steep cobblestone streets, hidden terraces with breathtaking views, and bubbling fountains, which look too beautiful to be real!

You could easily spend an entire day here just wandering the streets and taking photos. But if you prefer your days out to be a little more scheduled, here’s a list of some things to add to your itinerary: Maison Tavel (the oldest private house in Geneva which is currently a museum), Place du Bourg-de-Four (a quaint square full of cafes, restaurants, and fountains), and Collège Calvin (the oldest college in Geneva which dates back to the 16th century).

If you like quirky and unusual attractions, make a note of the street names as you’re exploring Geneva Old Town. Some of the most obscure and interesting ones we found included Rue du Purgatoire (Purgatory) and Rue d’Enfer (Hell)!

9. Try Tomato Fondue

You might have tried a cheese fondue, but we bet you’ve never tried a tomato fondue! One of the most unique things to do in Geneva, digging into a traditional Swiss fondue made of fresh tomatoes (or tomato paste), garlic, butter, white wine, shallots, and a little bit of melted cheese, is a foodie experience you’ll never forget.

Unlike regular cheese fondue, which is served with bread and meat, Geneva’s tomato fondue is often served with potatoes. But if you’ve got any leftover bread from any other meal on the table, it’s worth dipping in, too. It’s delicious!

Au Vieux Carouge is a wonderful place to try tomato fondue. If you run out of potatoes, don’t be afraid to ask for more. They’ll bring you as many as you like. 

Restaurant Les Armures inside Hotel Les Armures is another excellent place to indulge in the dish. You’ll find it on the menu alongside many other fantastic cheese-based Swiss dishes.

10. Cool Down or Warm Up at Bains des Pâquis

Whatever time of year you visit the city, one of the most fun things to do in Geneva is to spend some time at Bains des Pâquis. The public baths on the western shore of Lake Geneva are much more than a place to exercise. They’re a spot to spend time as a family, to hang out with friends, and to feel the vibrancy of Geneva.

During summer, the Bains des Pâquis is a wonderful place to take a refreshing dip, sunbathe on the pier, and grab a light lunch at an open-air terrace restaurant. Throughout the warmest months, the public baths also host poetry recitals and classical music concerts first thing in the morning.

In winter, the baths are transformed into a magical spa-like place with a sauna, steam bath, and massages. If you’re brave enough, you can take a quick swim in the icy lake before warming yourself up in the sauna. Locals will tell you it’s great for your circulation!

11. Visit St. Peter’s Cathedral of Geneva

In the very center of Old Town, you’ll find one of the most underrated things to see in Geneva – St. Peter’s Cathedral of Geneva. Known locally as Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Genève, this cathedral is likely to be very different from others you’ve seen.

Being a Protestant church since 1535, St. Peter’s Cathedral is remarkably simple, with no ostentatious ornaments or luxurious additions at all. The main reason to visit the cathedral is for the chance to climb the steps to the top of the towers. 

From here, you’ll have an astounding view of Geneva and the Swiss Alps. Choose the south viewing platform for an open-air experience if the weather’s nice or the north viewing platform for an indoor experience in case of bad weather.

St. Peter’s Cathedral was built on top of much older buildings, one of the most important being a basilica that dates back to the 4th century. If you head downstairs to the archaeological site, you can see remnants of the ancient buildings and even explore some of the vestiges.

12. Treat Yourself to Swiss Chocolate at Festichoc

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, one of the top things to do in Geneva is to treat yourself at Festichoc – an amazing chocolate festival held in the small town of Versoix on Lake Geneva each March. During the drool-worthy festival, around 40 local chocolatiers group together to highlight their chocolate offerings.

For many, the best part about Festichoc is the free samples offered by the talented chocolatiers. You can try as many as you like and ask all the questions you have without any obligation to buy. But if you do want to make a purchase, you’ll be spoiled for choice with all the incredible goodies on offer!

Inside a large marquee tent known as Salon des Artisans, the chocolatiers set up stalls selling all kinds of incredible chocolate treats. From gourmet bars speckled with dried raspberries and gold leaf to incredible chocolate statues available to buy as gifts, you’ll be amazed at all the delicious things you can do with chocolate.

13. Explore the Art and History Museum

One of the most important museums in Switzerland, Geneva’s Museum of Art and History encourages you to step back in time with an astounding collection that includes more than 7,000 pieces of art and archeological discoveries.

The impressive museum first opened its doors in 1910 and focuses on Genevan and Swiss art, with masterpieces from local caricaturist Rodolphe Töpffe and portraitist Jean-Étienne Liotard. Another highlight is the Miraculous Draft of Fishes by Konrad Witz, which dates back to the 15th century. This piece was previously set above the altar at St. Pierre Cathedral and is widely regarded as being the first religious painting of a landscape in European art.

The applied arts section of the museum is laden with Byzantine art, musical instruments, icons, and silverware. However, our favorite item can be found in the archaeological section, where there’s an Egyptian mummy on display said to be more than 3,000 years old!

14. Be Amazed at the Patek Philippe Museum

Switzerland is known for its remarkable watchmaking skills, and the best place to learn more about this delicate art is at the Patek Philippe Museum . One of the best things to do in Geneva, spending a day here will open your eyes to the history of the creation of timepieces from the 15th century up until today.

The museum is named after Antoine Norbert de Patek, a Polish watchmaking pioneer who settled in Switzerland, and Adrien Philippe, a French horologist who teamed up with Patek to create intricate timepieces.  

The first floor is dedicated to the history of Geneva’s clocks – how they first began and how they changed over time. The second floor moves onto the history of the Patek Philippe factory, with a wonderful collection of all the pieces the duo used to make.

On the top floor of the museum, you’ll discover a library with books that detail clock mechanics, as well as genuine correspondence from Patek and Philippe and the tools they used to create their pieces.

15. Relive History with L’Escalade

If you’re visiting Geneva in December, you’ve got to make room in your schedule for L’Escalade. A huge annual event that commemorates the city’s defense in the face of a 1602 attack by the Duke of Savoy, the festival invites you to learn a little about Geneva’s history while having fun at the same time.

According to the story of L’Escalade, the Duke’s troops tried to scale the walls of Geneva and sneak in during the early hours one December morning. The troops were spotted by cook Catherine Cheynel who dumped a giant vat of hot soup on them and alerted Geneva’s guards, preventing the city from being taken over.  

The legend is celebrated with extravagant parades throughout the streets, with local people dressed in period costumes. At this time of year, you’ll also see “marmites” on sale in various shops. These chocolate pots are filled with marzipan vegetables in honor of Catherine Cheynel’s soup pot!

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Geneva. What’s your favorite thing to do?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Jet d’Eau (literally “water jet” in English) is one of the most famous Geneva attractions. Set on the Jetée des Eaux Vives, the water jet was originally built in 1886, when it was used as a safety valve for the city’s water facility. Back then, it was only 100 feet high and not nearly as impressive as it is today. Fast forward to the 21st century, and the Jet d’Eau is now an eye-catching landmark.

Sailing across the lake is one of the absolute must-do things in Geneva! It’s a great way to get a view of the city and its highlights from a whole new angle. There are tons of different boat trips to choose from, depending on the experience you’re looking for.

If you’re planning to visit Geneva in January, you’ve got to time your visit with the International Balloon Festival. Held at the end of January each year in Château-d’Oex, this fascinating festival gives you a remarkable Geneva sightseeing opportunity you don’t get at any other time of the year!

One of the most important museums in Switzerland, Geneva’s Museum of Art and History encourages you to step back in time with an astounding collection that includes more than 7,000 pieces of art and archeological discoveries.The impressive museum first opened its doors in 1910 and focuses on Genevan and Swiss art, with masterpieces from local caricaturist Rodolphe Töpffe and portraitist Jean-Étienne Liotard.

Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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Visit Geneva: Top 23 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in geneva.

Geneva , a cosmopolitan and international city in Switzerland, is located on the shores of Lake Geneva, close to the French border. Known worldwide for its wealth, it is one of the 5 richest cities in the world. It also has quite much to offer to tourists!

To help you organize your stay in the city, I have made a list of the 23 best things to do in Geneva.

In addition to the must-see attractions, I will also give you my best tips and advices as well as recommended itineraries to visit Geneva and its surroundings in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days or more.

As you know it, Geneva is one of the most expensive city in the world, so I have prepared for you a selection of the hotels that offers the best bang for your buck at the end of the article.

Let’s plan your trip to Geneva!

1. The Jet d’Eau of Geneva

2. geneva old town, 3. geneva saint peter’s cathedral, 4. treille promenade, 5. bastions park – parc des bastions, 6. the jardin anglais and the flower clock, 7. parc de la grange and parc des eaux-vives, 8. bains des pâquis, 9. visit the united nations office, 10. broken chair sculpture, 11. geneva botanical garden, 12. geneva museums, 13. do a cruise on lake geneva, 14. attend a concert at geneva victoria hall, 15. going to geneva international motor show, the geneva pass, 16. mont salève, 18. visit lavaux vineyard terraces and its typical villages, 20. chamonix and the mont blanc, 21. gruyères medieval town, 22. swiss riviera, 23. glacier 3000, geneva: what to do in 1 day, 2 days in geneva, 3 days in geneva, where to stay in geneva, where to eat in geneva, how to go to geneva, geneva tourist map.

Geneva’s Jet d’Eau fountain (litteraly “water jet”) is the symbol of the city since the creation of its decorative version in 1891. You may not know it, but its first intent wasn’t to be aesthetic.

It was in fact a solution to a technical problem! The first version, 30m high, acted as a safety valve for a water facility located in the city.

The current version, dating from the 1950s, is 140m high . Every second, more than 500 litres of water are expelled at a speed of 200 km/h. In every moment, 7 tons of water form this magnificent water jet!

Located on the Jetée des Eaux Vives (Eaux Vives jetty), the water jet is nowadays a must-see tourist attraction in Geneva.

Geneva Old Town, the largest historic centre in Switzerland, is where you will find some of the most emblematic places to see during your visit to Geneva. It’s very easy to visit on foot !

Here are the old town highlights:

• Geneva Saint Peter’s Cathedral and the Chapel of the Maccabees
• Calvin College (“Collège Calvin” in French), which dates from the 16th century and is the oldest in the city
• The Bastion Park
• The Reformation Wall
• Place du Bourg-de-Four , a square with fountains and numerous cafes and restaurants. The facade of the Museum of Art and History is superb. From there, the famous secret passage “Degrés de poules” leads to the cathedral.
• Treille Promenade
• The Tavel House (Maison Tavel), the oldest private house in Geneva, now converted into a museum
• The Molard Tower : Well, it’s not exactly in the old town, but just at the exit, on Molard Square . It was built in 1591, has a clock and is decorated with arms linked to the history of The Reformation and Geneva.

During your visit to Geneva Old Town, you should also pay attention to the streets names : rue du Purgatoire (Purgatory) and rue d’Enfer (Hell) are next to rue de la Croix d’Or (Golden cross) and rue de Toutes Âmes (Every Souls)!

Some of these tourist attractions definitely deserve a dedicated paragraph, so I will give you more information about them a bit further in this guide.

If you want to learn everything about Geneva , you can opt for a guided vist.

During a 2-hour sightseeing tour, you will discover Geneva’s top attractions such as the Jet D’eau fountain, St. Pierre’s Cathedral, the Flower Clock as well as the international section of the city, including the United Nations Office.

To book your guided visit, you just have to click the button below:

And if you are looking for something really fun , I strongly recommend you to book this Segway tour! In a small group with an experienced guide, you will discover the best tourist attractions of Geneva Old Town.

At the heart of the old town, you can find the is the St. Peter’s Cathedral of Geneva (“Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Genève”). Built for the Catholic rite, it then became a Protestant place of worship in 1535.

If you have never seen a Protestant church, you may be surprised once inside : according to Calvinist spiritual codes, the interior is extremely simple: all the ornaments and signs of opulence have been removed.

Things to see during your visit:

• Climb the 157 steps leading up to the towers , which will give you a nice view of Geneva
• The chapel of the Maccabees , whose decoration contrasts with the austerity of the cathedral. That’s what I liked best during the visit!
• Visit the archaeological site in the basement , where you can see the foundations of the old cathedral.

In addition to this, the visit to Geneva St. Peter’s Cathedral is an opportunity to learn more about the history of Protestantism. The International Museum of the Reformation is located right next door, in the Mallet House (“Maison Mallet”).

Another important place in the history of Protestantism, the Auditoire de Calvin (Calvin’s Auditorium) is also close to the Cathedral.

The Treille Promenade (“Promenade de la Treille”) is located on the outskirts of the old town , not far from the town hall. In addition to being the oldest in Geneva, it is especially known for its 2 curiosities:

You can find the longest wooden bench in the world on this promenade: 120m!

This is also where “Geneva official chestnut tree” (le “marronnier officiel” in french) is located. Each year, Its first leaf announce the arrival of spring in Geneva .

You’re going to Geneva?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Geneva on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Geneva.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Geneva, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Geneva!

Located at the foot of the old town, under the Treille Promenade, the Parc des Bastions is particularly appreciated by students, because of its proximity to the university.

There are 2 main attractions to see in this park:

• The 100m-long Reformation Wall was erected in honour of the men who worked for the Reformation and the creation of Protestantism. In the middle of the wall, you can admire the 5m tall statues of 4 great preachers: Jean Calvin, Guillaume Farel, Théodore de Bèze and John Knox
• The Giant chess games: The Bastions Park has a playground with 6 giant chess games. This is the opportunity to play (or watch) a game in an original setting during your visit to Geneva!

Every year, the music festival (fête de la musique) takes place in this park.

Thanks to its proximity to Lake Geneva and its many shaded areas, the Jardin Anglais (“English Garden” literally) is a popular public garden for tourists and locals. Whether you want to rest for a few minutes or take a short stroll by the lake, it is a must-see when you visit Geneva.

In this garden, you can also find the famous Flower Clock (“Horloge Fleurie”). It’s Geveva’s classic selfie spot, being, with the Jet d’Eau, one of the most photographed places in Geneva! It commemorates in an original way the watchmaking tradition of the city.

In the Jardin Anglais , you will also find the National Monument (“Monument National”), which commemorates Geneva’s attachment to Switzerland in 1814. At the north-western end of the park, you can cross the Mont-Blanc bridge , which crosses Lake Geneva.

If you’re in town during summer, in the evening, you may have the chance to attend a free concert in the old music kiosk.

These two parks are located on the banks of Lake Geneva , on the Quai Gustave-Ador (left bank), less than 10 minutes walk from the Jet d’Eau.

For me, these are the 2 most beautiful public gardens in Geneva . Another big advantage: even in the middle of summer, they are never crowded!

The Parc de la Grange , the largest in the city, has some very nice attractions:

• Its rose garden , the largest in Geneva, is open access.
• The Théâtre de l’ Orangerie and Théâtre de Verdure
• The ruins of an ancient Roman villa
• In summer, you can even find sheeps in the park!

Another good point: it’s possible to picnic and even have barbecues on the specially designed barbecue area. There is also a children’s playground and a paddling pool. Perfect for a family stay in Geneva!

The Parc des Eaux Vives , where the excellent restaurant hotel des Eaux-Vives is located, is also worth a visit. It’s very well laid out, has a large lawn and many large conifers for you to rest in the shades.

The flower beds are very well maintained and there is even a place with a waterfall! Special mention for the small wooden bridges, they are super aesthetic. Geneva is a rich city, and it shows.

Voyage Tips Advice In summer, you can enjoy free concerts at the Théâtre de Verdure in Parc de La Grange , also known as the Ella Fitzgerald stage.

The Bains des Pâquis (Pâquis Bath) is a very important place in Geneva city life. In addition of being the ideal swimming spot in the heart of the city, it’s also very pleasant for its friendly and joyful atmosphere . Everyone, at every age, is coming here! Very far from the bling-bling Geneva we are used to see!

Admission costs 2 francs and it’s also possible to eat there. It’s simple, tastes good, and the prices are also very reasonable for Geneva.

The site offers other services, such as nautical activities, massages etc… There is enough things to do to spend a whole day there in the summer.

And in winter, it’s Sauna, steam bath and Turkish bath!

All information on services, schedules and prices are available on the Bains des Pâquis official website (in French)

Voyage Tips Advice In the evening, they serve a Swiss fondue with fantastic Crémant. It’s not too expensive, so it’s really a good deal! However, I recommend you to make a reservation.

The Palace of Nations (“Palais des Nations”), a superb building from the beginning of the 20th century, is the United Nations headquarters in Geneva.

Considered one of the world’s most important diplomatic centres, it is also home to many international political, economic and scientific institutions.

If I tell you about it in this list of the best things to do in Geneva , it’s because many guided tours are organized there . You will have the choice between the following visits:

• Palais des Nations visit : Ideal if you would like to learn more about UN activities
• The history of the Palais des Nations : art and architecture oriented, this guided tour allows you to discover the history of this emblematic building.
• UN History: In addition to visiting the Palais des Nations, you will also visit the League of Nations Museum , which exhibits the history of the UN through archival documents.
• Guided tour of the Ariana Park : Find out more about the history and management of the 45-hectares park surrounding the Palais des Nations. Visit possible from April to September.

The Broken Chair sculpture , a giant 12-metre-high wooden chair with a torn foot, stands next to the United Nations headquarters in Nations Square.

Sponsored by Handicap International, it was placed in front of the Geneva Palais des Nation in 1997 and symbolizes the fight against the use of anti-personnel mines.

The Botanical Garden of Geneva is located between the Palais des Nations and Lake Geneva . Little known to tourists, it is an oasis of greenery that is worth a look after the visit to the United Nations headquarters.

It is very well laid out, has several greenhouses reproducing various climates (tropical, temperate etc…), a small Japanese garden and much more! And you know what? Admission is free.

In addition to the ones I mentioned in the previous paragraphs, here are a few other museums that I found interesting in Geneva . They’re all free when you have the Geneva Pass , which I’ll tell you more about a bit later in the article.

• CERN Particle Universe: An excellent exhibition about the origin of the universe and particle physics, and no need to be a physics engineer to appreciate! It is outside Geneva city centre, but easily accessible by bus number 18. Plus, it’s free for everyone.
• CERN Microcosm: While you’re at CERN, have a look at the second permanent exhibition! Also free.
• La Cité du Temps (The City of Time): A small museum, an exhibition space and a restaurant, including a collection of Swatch watches that showcases the design evolution over 30 years. Situated in the middle of the Rhone, it’s accessed via the Machine Bridge.
• Patek Philippe Museum: As you know, Geneva is one of the most important places in luxury watchmaking and this museum is a fine tribute to the know-how of Swiss watchmakers.
• Art and History Museum: Located in the heart of the old town, close to Place Bourg-de-Four, it is the largest museum in Geneva. The permanent exhibition is free for everyone.
• Ariana Museum: It’s the museum of ceramics and glass, it may not seem so exciting at first sight, but the interior architecture alone deserves a look. It’s close to the Palais des Nations.
• Russian Church of Geneva: This Orthodox church is not strictly speaking a museum, but it is well worth to be included in this list, if only for its remarkable and unorthodox architecture (Ahahahahaha😋) here.

Whether it’s to see the city and the Jet d’Eau from a new angle or to visit the surroundings of Geneva , there are many themed cruises on Lake Geneva. Here are a few of them:

• “Geneva Tour” Cruise , to visit the Geneva shores in 1 hour
• Evening cruise: a good meal and a stroll on Lake Geneva. What else could you ask for?
• Numerous cruises to visit Geneva’s surroundings , such as Nyon, Yvoire, Lausanne or the vineyards on the lake shore
• Cruise on the Rhone: From Geneva, it is also possible to make a mini cruise on the Rhone, up to Verbois.

It’s also possible to rent private boats (including a pilot) for a family or romantic escapade on Lake Geneva.

All information about the Geneva cruises is available on this website .

Built between 1891 and 1894 as a tribute to Queen Victoria, Geneva Victoria Hall is the most beautiful concert hall in the city, renowned worldwide for its excellent acoustics.

Unfortunately it can’t be visited, but it is really worth to attend a classical concert music , if only to admire its grandiose interior architecture!

It should be noted that the Victoria Hall is not the main concert hall in Geneva. It’s the Grand Theatre, but it is not of great architectural interest.

You can find the Victoria Hall programme on Geneva official website .

Every year in March, the Geneva Motor Show (“Salon de l’Automobile de Genève”in french) , one of the world’s most important car shows, takes place at the Palexpo in Geneva.

If it has such a good reputation, it’s not so much for its exhibition area or the number of visitors (there are bigger car shows in the world), but for its high-end and exclusive positioning.

For the big manufacturers, this is really a not-to-be missed event, a great place to present their most beautiful concept cars. Go have a look if you enjoy exclusive cars!

The Geneva Pass allows you to enjoy free admission and discounts on 50 attractions and activities in Geneva for 24, 48 or 72 hours. For example:

• Admission to all museums and sites mentioned in this guide is free of charge
• Several guided city tours by train, bus and on foot
• Several cruises on Lake Geneva
• 1 hour of canoeing or half an hour of pedal boat
• Discounts on numerous activities and tours , such as Segway city sightseeing, Rafting on the Arve river and several escapades around Geneva

The Geneva Pass also offers free public transport for the duration of its validity.

You can click on the button below to purchase the pass:

Once you will have purchased your pass, you will have to exchange the vouchers at Geneva Tourist Information Center , located at 18 rue du Mont-Blanc, 1211 Genève.

Things to do around Geneva

As I have lived next to Lake Geneva for 4 years, here are my 3 favorite things to do around Geneva.

Sometimes called “the balcony of Geneva”, Mount Salève is the best place to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city and Lake Geneva , all the way to to the Jura. This is a great day trip from Geneva.

You can go there by car, by cable car or even on foot , for the bravest amongst you!

If you wish to do so, you will find the detailed itinerary, as well as a short family walk starting at the top of the cable car in this PDF document . Quick tip: save it on your smartphone, it may be useful the day of your visit!

Once you reach the top of the cable car (1100m above sea level), you will be able to do various activities in addition to a nice walk:

• Paragliding
• Biking , bikes are available for rent on Saturday and Sunday
• And in winter, sledding and initiation to skiing!

Rates of the Mont Salève cable car:

Full price: 11,30€. Details of special rates can be found on their website .

Cable car schedule:

Open every day, from 9:30am to 7pm. Thursday, Friday and Saturday until 11pm.

Take a look at their website before you go, it will give you the latest information you need for your visit.

The magnificent medieval village of Yvoire , one of the most beautiful villages in France, is situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, about 45 minutes by car or bus from Geneva.

Nicknamed the “Pearl of Lac Leman”, this ancient fishing village is today a famous tourist attraction of Lake Geneva region . This is the perfect destination if you want to escape from Geneva for an afternoon.

What you shouldn’t miss in Yvoire:

• Yvoire castle
• The garden of Five Senses , recognized as a “remarkable garden” by the Ministry of Culture
• Small craft shops
• “Les Galets” ice cream shop/creperie , which is excellent!

Another superb day trip from Geneva, Lavaux Vineyard Terraces (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and its typical villages. You don’t need to be a wine lover to enjoy the place, the reasons people go there is first and foremost for the magnificent landscapes.

With the terraced vineyards that seem to descend into the lake and the Alps in the background, the Lavaux vineyards simply offers the most beautiful views of Lake Geneva coast.

Here are the 5 typical villages to see during your day:

• Saint Saphorin

During your trip, you can also make a stop in Montreux, a nice city, well known for its Casino.

If you don’t have a car, you can visit Lavaux vineyard terraces with a private tour.

They will come pick you up at your hotel and you will spend the day in Lavaux to discover the vineyard, the best viewpoints and do some tastings!

As it’s a private tour, it can of course be 100% personalized. The price is per group – The more people you are, the cheaper it is per person.

To book this tour to Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, you just have to click the button below:

You can also choose a cheaper, not private tour that also pass by Lavaux Vineyard, as well as other places in the Swiss Riviera (I give you more details at the #22 of this article).

You can book it there:

Voyage Tips Advice Here is a place not very well known to tourists , that you shouldn’t miss if you visit Lavaux Vineyards:

go down the “chemin de la dame” , to enjoy a plunging view on the vineyards, the village of Rivaz, the lake and the Alps in the background. It is one of the most beautiful views of the region!

Nicknamed “ The Venice of the Alps” , Annecy is a beautiful town to visit near Geneva.

You will for sure enjoy to stroll on the lake shore while contemplating the turquoise waters surrounded by the mountains! The old town is also worth a look, with its paved stone alleys and canals.

From Geneva , if you don’t have a car, the best is to book an organized day trip to Annecy . Transportation is included as well as a guided visit on foot + some free time to enjoy the town at your own pace.

To book this tour to Annecy from Geneva , you need to click on the button below:

To know everything about the best things to do in Annecy, you should read my travel guide: Visit Annecy: The definitive guide

From Geneva, you can also go on a day trip to Chamonix and the Mont Blanc.

During this organized day trip, you will be lucky to go throught the beautiful Arve Valley , between Geneva and Chamonix, before reaching the foot of the highest summit of the Alps.

You will then take the Aiguille du Midi cable car and will be able to enjoy the incredible view over the Mont Blanc from the panoramic terrace.

Then, you will take the famous “Mer De Glace train” (the “Sea of Ice Train” in English) to visit t he largest French glacier.

Everything is included in the price: The transportation, the Ticket for Aiguille du Midi cable car and the Ticket for the Mer De Glace train

It’s the most impressive day trip you can do from Geneva!

To book it, simply click the button below:

Another great day trip to do from Geneva is the visit of Gruyères medieval town.

This village regroups the 2 most famou food specialities of Switzerland: chocolate and Gruyère cheese!

During this organized day trip, you will visit a chocolate factory and a cheese factory.

In addition, you will also enjoy the most traditionnal swiss dish for lunch: the cheese fondue!

You will also have some free time to visit Gruyères medieval town . At the end of the day, you will come back to Geneva with the Golden Express train , offering a magnificent view over lake Geneva.

To book this day trip to Gruyères, click the button below:

The Swiss Riviera, in the canton of Vaud, is another nice place to visit near Geneva. The famous towns are for sure Vevey and Montreux , located on the shore of the lake!

If you don’t have a car, your best option is to do a guided day trip from Geneva . It includes:

• Transportation (minibus)
• Passing by the magnificent Lavaux Vineyards
• Glass of wine
• Visit to Vevey town and the Charlie Chaplin museum
• A cruise on the lake in an authentic steamboat
• The visit to Chillon Castle , an 11th century castle – the most visited monument in Switzerland
• Visit to Montreux

It’s simple, during this tour, you will really visit all the best places of the Swiss Riviera!

This tour needs to be booked by clicking the button below:

If you want to mix a visit to the Swiss Riviera with a trip to the Swiss mountains , this day trip is made for you!

Here is the plan for the day:

• Take the cable car to reach the Glacier 3000 .
• Enjoy a ride on a Snow-bus over the perpetual ice up to the Quille du Diable (the Devil’s Keel in English)
• Taste local products while enjoying panoramic views at an amazing mountain-top restaurant.
• Stop by Montreux town for a guided visit on your way back to Geneva.
• Ride the famous Alpine Coaster, Europe’s highest tracked toboggan run
• Cross over the Peak Walk, the world’s first suspension bridge connecting two peaks,

It’s fore sure the most complete tour you can do from Geneva to visit this beautiful part of Switzerland!

To book it, simply click on the button below:

If you are planning to visit Geneva in one day , the best is to focus on the Old Town and the left bank, with a quick nautical activity on Lake Geneva at the end of the day. You don’t have a lot of time, so let’s see how to optimize your itinerary!

• Start your visit in the old town, at Place Bourg-de-four.
• Continue on the Treille Promenade
• From there, you can go down to Parc des bastions to see the Reformation Wall.
• Return to the old town and end the morning with a visit to Geneva Cathedral or the Tavel House according to your preferences.
• Lunch break in the old town
• Time to head to Lake Geneva and the Jardin Anglais . You can make a mini detour to see the Molard Tower .
• don’t forget to take a picture in front of the Flower Clock!
• We continue along the lake with the Jet d’Eau , symbol of Geneva and the Parc de La Grange and Parc des Eaux-Vives.
• If you are motivated, you can finish your day with a cruise on Lake Geneva (departure across the lake, on the Quai du Mont Blanc), or a short pedal boat ride! (close to the Jet d’Eau, better choice if you stay in Geneva for more than a day).

In 2 days in Geneva , you will have time to discover the must-see attractions on the right bank of the lake. In addition to the previous schedule, I recommend you:

• Start your day in style with a breakfast on Lake Geneva at Bains des Pâquis
• It’s also an opportunity to go swim a bit during summer!
• Going now to Geneva botanical garden , about 30 minutes walk: Walk up the Quai Wilson on foot and then in the magnificent Parc de la Perle du Lac , which, as its name suggests, is at the water’s edge.
• It’s now time for lunch! For a gastronomic break, I recommend “Le Vieux Bois” restaurant , behind the Palais des Nations . I will tell you more about it in the “Where to eat” section of this article.
• Then, for your afternoon, you can visit the Ariana Museum , see the Broken Chair and visit the Palais des Nations , in the order that will suit you best depending on where you had your lunch.
• If you didn’t do it on the first day, take the bus to reach the Quai du Mont Blanc and take a boat trip on Lake Geneva!

If you have 3 days in Geneva , in addition to the itineraries of the previous days, I recommend you one of the 5 excursions around Geneva that I mention in this article, namely:

• The Mont Salève , perfect if you have taken the Geneva Pass and would like to make a short excursion with your family.
• The medieval village of Yvoire , a good choice for a quiet day, without running everywhere. Best to see off-season, or at least during the week.
• Lavaux Vineyard Terraces , the place that offers the most beautiful views of Lake Geneva . There is plenty to see, so it’s easy to avoid tourists there!
• Visit Annecy with this superb organized day trip .
• Go to Chamonix and the Mont Blanc with the best day trip from Geneva.
• Visit Gruyères Medieval village + the chocolate and cheese factories
• Discover the Swiss Riviera: Vevey, Montreux and Chillon Castle
• Spend the day at Glacier 3000 , do unique activities and visit Montreux

And if you are lucky enough to spend 4-5 days in Geneva or even a week, you will have the time to do everything I mentioned in this guide!

In order to allow you to move around in Geneva easily, your hotel will provide you with the Geneva Transport Card free of charge . This card allows you to benefit from free public transport during your stay. It is 100% free and offered by all hotels.

• Geneva Hostel : Youth hostel located in the “Les pâquis” district, at 250 meters from Lake Geneva. Bed in dormitory from 30€ per night, breakfast included. The pluses: the view on the lake from the terrace, quiet, private parking and a good breakfast. Without a doubt, you will not find cheaper in Geneva!
• Jade Manotel : 5 minutes walk from Lake Geneva and 10 minutes from Geneva train station. A huge room with a meticulous decoration and furnished according to the principles of Feng Shui from 156€ per night, breakfast for an extra 16€. The plus: the geographical location, the serenity of the rooms. It’s our favorite for being the best value for money in Geneva!
• Hotel Rotary Geneva MGallery by Sofitel : Located in the centre of Geneva, right next to the lake. Classic and elegant room from 230€ per night with breakfast at 30€. The pluses: near the lake, the comfort of the rooms, the friendliness of the staff, breakfast “à la carte”. And all the little additional things that makes a luxury hotel!
• Hôtel de la Cigogne : 5 stars hotel located in the city centre, close to the Geneva lake. Belle Époque style room starting at 470€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the location, the amazing restaurant and the very helpful staff. It’s my recommendation for a luxury stay in Geneva!
• Restaurant des Bains des Pâquis : I told you about it in the article, and it’s really a super place to eat well and relatively cheap in Geneva. Great also for a breakfast by the lake!
• Le Vieux Bois : If you are looking for a gastronomic restaurant, in a magnificent setting, this is my favourite in Geneva! Located in Ariana park behind the Palais des Nations , it’s Geneva Hotel School’s students restaurant. The setting is beautiful and the food delicious! You have to make a reservation.

Unless you live nearby, the best way to get to Geneva is by plane . There are a lot of low cost flights going there, especially with Easy Jet.

Geneva Airport is also a small but excellent international airport , from which you can take cheap flights to many destinations!

Once there, you will have to take the train (5 minutes) to reach Cornavin Station , in Geneva city centre.

When you arrive at the airport, next to the baggage pickups carousel, you will find a free public transport tickets dispenser . They are valid for 80 minutes and this includes the train to Geneva station!

To help you plan your visit of the city, I have made a tourist map of Geneva, with all the must-see attractions I talk about in this article. You can display the map legend by clicking on the button with a small arrow, in the the top left corner.

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 4 comments.

Hi, I would like to visit Geneva by staying at french border near Lyon. I would like to know about the border restrictions because i planned to visit Geneva by walking from French border.

Hello Taara,

Geneva is very far from Lyon, about 150km, almost 2 hours by car, so you will need to take the bus. There isn’t really any border control when you go to Switzerland, especially if you take the bus or cross when walking.

Enjoy your trip to France and Switzerland!

Driving by car from Nimes, staying Lyon first, then Geneva, need an hotel with car parking, around the old town of Geneva, please. From there up to Interlaken, same car parking and an hotel too. After that onwards to Grindelwald, staying with family in Apartments CARVE. Many thanks.

Hello Cherry,

In order for me to help you find a hotel for your stay in Geneva and another one in Interlaken, can you please give me the following information: – The dates of your stay in each city – Your budget per night

Of course, you can also have a look at the hotels I recommend in my article, to see if they might be of interest to you.

Have a nice day!

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26 Best Things to Do in Geneva, Switzerland in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Switzerland

Updated On: June 11, 2024

Of all the  beautiful places in Switzerland , Geneva is still rated as one of the top. Only a few cities are as beautifully situated as Geneva. The city is within day trip distance of Mont Blanc, has a gorgeous rose garden, and sits on the shores of Lake Geneva. It is also the base of the United Nations Headquarters, and you can find many fun facts before visiting Geneva  here . So, besides Geneva’s beautiful setting and natural scenery, what else is there to love? That’s where the best things to do in Geneva come in.

Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in Geneva, Switzerland

Whether you want Geneva museums or Swiss food, these best things to do in Geneva will keep you entertained and enjoy any visit to Switzerland . This guide covers everything from the Patek Philippe Museum to the Palais des Nations and the Parc de la Grange. Get ready for some serious variety.

Planning Your Trip To Geneva Right Now?

Below are some of the top tours in Geneva, Switzerland . Don’t forget to plan ahead when  visiting Switzerland!

Top Activities and Tours in Geneva:

• Geneva: 50-Minute Lake Geneva Cruise (Most Popular in Geneva)
• Chocolate Flavors Walking Tour of Geneva (Our Favorite)
• Geneva: City Pass with 60 Activities (Likely to Sell Out)
• Swiss Travel Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train, Bus & Boat (Best Deal)

1. Vallorbe Caves

The Vallorbe Caves, aka the Grottes de Vallorbe, are some of the prettiest caves you can visit. This cave system has underground waterfalls, halls, and a subterranean river. If you fancy an outdoorsy attraction, you’ll remember forever, the Vallorbe Caves are the one for you.

The low lighting and miles of underground paths make for the perfect 3-4 hours of entertainment, and just 2 hours away by public transport or 1 hour and 20 minutes away by car. The Vallorbe Caves are convenient and really have that wow factor. If you haven’t visited a cave system before, you need to experience this once. Going caving is quite bizarre to be featured first on a city break list. Still, there you have it – the perfect example of how incredible Geneva is as a city.

2. Broken Chair Sculpture

A giant red chair in the middle of a city center is anything but standard. This sculpture stands a dramatic 12 meters above street level and, as if this wasn’t striking enough, is notably broken. One leg is severed dramatically, showing splintered wood and leaving the chair seemingly precariously balanced on its remaining three legs. So, what exactly is the message behind this contemporary art? The Broken Chair sculpture symbolizes the protest of cluster bombs and land mines. As the European United Nations Headquarters seat, Geneva takes an active stance on humanitarian issues. And the Broken Chair is a much-loved artistic reminder of Geneva’s firm stance.

The Broken Chair is situated next to a pretty fountain. It is well-combined with a visit to its nearby United Nations building. Don’t get us wrong, this is an attraction you should spend at most 30 minutes admiring (and probably more like 10 minutes). However, it is a significant place to visit and understand Geneva’s underlying political and humanitarian values. And besides, who doesn’t love novel sculptures like broken chairs?

3. Musee Rath

Musee Rath is a beautiful art and history museum in a striking building that resembles an Ancient Greek temple. It doesn’t get more stereotypically cultural than Musee Rath; even its exterior is visit-worthy. The museum building dates back to the 19th century, and even if you snap pictures of its beautiful columned entrance, we suggest weaving it into your itinerary. And if you have an hour or two, even better, because that is long enough to wander around inside. There’s a mix of permanent and temporary exhibits, including a recent exhibition on silence. The combination of history and art blends seamlessly, and the fact that it is quite a small collection is perfect for juggling a packed itinerary.

Reaching Musee Rath is a piece of cake. The art and history museum is located in the city center and just a short walk from Place de Neuve station. We’d recommend ending your day with some serene culture, as the museum stays open until 6 p.m. on weekends and 7 p.m. from Wednesday to Friday. Wander through Musee Rath and head to one of the best restaurants nearby.

4. Promenade de la Treille

Promenade de la Trielle is a beautiful walkway in the old town. It holds the surprising title of being home to one of the longest benches in the world. Still, more importantly, it has stunning views of the city below and Geneva’s waterfront. Open 24 hours a day, it is ideal for a sunrise or sunset walk – especially if you can grab a takeout café from somewhere nearby. It is also a stunning midday spot thanks to its shady trees and friendly crowds.

Exploring a city on foot is one of the best ways to experience its unique atmosphere and community, and Promenade de la Trielle is one of the best ways to experience Geneva. Allow an hour or two to enjoy this stunning section of the walkway, and consider combining it with some of its nearby Geneva museums like Tavel House or the Museum of International Reformation. It is easily reached if you are staying centrally. You can catch public transport to Palais Eynard.

5. Chateau de Nyon

Chateau de Nyon is something straight out of a fairytale. The turrets and white exterior are bound to relight your childhood imagination, and it goes without saying that if you visit Geneva with children, Chateau de Nyon is a must. The 12th-century fort was once home to real-life knights, but now its job is to keep that middle-age magic alive. You can wander its historic walkways and halls and admire armor, porcelain antiques, and lingering grandeur. Chateau de Nyon is located just 20 minutes out of Geneva by train and is the ideal day trip to expand your Swiss experience outside the city limits.

This attraction is in Nyon, a tiny, walkable little town along the shores of Lake Geneva. While visiting Chateau de Nyon, allow some time to walk around and see the town’s other attractions. It is home to Musee du Leman and some beautiful gardens.

6. Jura Mountains

The Jura Mountains are the best for outdoor activity and that’s for locals and tourists alike. If you want a day trip out in fresh air, the Jura Mountains are perfect for hiking and mountain biking in spring to late fall and skiing over winter. The mountain range spans the French and Swiss border and is home to the iconic Fort de Joux – a colossal castle dating back to the 13th century. The range is stunning, with sub-alpine peaks and even opportunities for wildlife spotting with a rumored 80 wolves.

It is best to visit the Jura Mountains by car, so be prepared to rent a car in Genev a. Depending on where you go, the mountain range is around 2 hours away from the city center by car. You’ll be driving almost the entire length of Lake Geneva and heading up to the shores of Lake de Neuchatel, a smaller lake northeast of Geneva. The good news is it’s a beautiful drive.

7. Mont Saleve Cable Car

Mont Saleve Cable Car is a hot topic. This attraction has been closed for years to undergo serious renovations. Still, excitingly, it reopened in 2023 and offers stunning rides to visiting tourists once more. The cable car reaches an altitude of 1,100 meters, and the journey only takes 5 minutes, so prepare to make the most of a fleeting experience. It is definitely worth it, though, and Mont Saleve is ideal for enjoying beautiful views of the Mont-Blanc massif. And, if you fancy adding to the adventure, you can enjoy skiing in winter and paragliding, climbing, hiking, and mountain biking throughout the rest of the year.

The’ meeting point’ for the Mont Saleve Cable Car is just 40 minutes from Geneva’s city center by bus. You just catch the number 8 bus from the Mont Blanc bus stop by the lakefront. Alternatively, you can drive or catch a 20-minute Uber.

8. Parc des Eaux Vives

Parc des Eaux-Vives is a beautiful, manicured park outside Geneva city center. The park has been passed down through successive owners and is the ideal place to spend a sunny afternoon. The manor house was built in 1750, and the park was later jazzed up by a designer in 1865 and an engineer in the late 19th century. The grounds are stunning, with acres upon acres of expansive, open lawns with the beautiful backdrop of the Parc des Eaux-Vives mansion. The mansion now houses a fine dining restaurant – so you can always treat yourself to a luxurious meal out if you want the whole Parc des Eaux-Vives experience.

Parc des Eaux-Vives is just a 15-minute drive or bus ride from the city center on the number 2 or 6 bus. It is easy to slot into a busy Geneva itinerary and perfect if you visit in summer or late spring, warmer months ideal for enjoying the city’s green space.

9. Reformation Wall

The Reformation Wall is one of the most poignant attractions in Geneva. Whatever your religion, there’s no denying the impact of religious history on the socio-politics of the world. The Reformation Wall is a massive monument commemorating the Protestant Reformation and the movement’s founders, including the famous John Calvin. While only around 100 meters in length, it really packs a punch, with stunning carvings and historical scenes carved into the wall. The wall is free to visit and is in Geneva’s city center. Drop by for a quick 15-30-minute admire of the carvings and learn more about the Protestant Reformation.

The Reformation Wall is easily reached from anywhere in the city center. It is also well combined with visits to the Musee Rath, Tavel House, and Place du Bourg-de-Four. Get ready for some insightful architecture.

10. International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent

The Red Cross Museum is one of the most fascinating humanitarian museums you can ever visit – and the fact a humanitarian museum is already such a niche category proves its importance. The Red Cross is one of the oldest charities in the world, and its international efforts to support communities in need are astounding. The museum has permanent exhibitions and works with artists to encapsulate the charity’s values and meanings through profound artwork and informative exhibits.

The Red Crescent Museum is heavily symbolic and conjures some really heavy emotions. We recommend researching the history of the Red Cross and what the charity does before visiting. This way, you’ll get as much out of the visit as possible and have all the necessary background information to understand the more complex exhibits. Overall, though, for charity lovers, Red Cross fans, and creatives, this museum is a wonderfully thought-provoking attraction in Geneva. It is just a 20-minute ride on the 20 bus from the Geneva city center. It is well-combined with its neighboring botanical garden.

11. Place du Bourg de Four

Place du Bourg-de-Four is the oldest square in the city and an absolute must when it comes to choosing the best things to do in Geneva. The square is centered around a single fountain. It has upscale shops and cafes around the edge, with pedestrians constantly bustling around for luxe purchases and quick refreshments. Place du Bourg-de-Four has a lively yet historical atmosphere, and it is one of the best places to experience inner-city, old-town Geneva and the city’s history.

Place du Bourg-de-Four isn’t precisely a standalone attraction. You’ll need to combine it with something else to make it worthwhile. Otherwise, you can just appreciate it in under 5 minutes. We suggest going shopping or sitting al fresco for food or drink in one of its restaurants and cafes. And after, you can take advantage of the square’s brilliant location to explore more of the old town’s attractions and the city centre.

12. Jet d’Eau

Jet d’Eau is another one of these fleeting attractions. This iconic water fountain is right in the middle of Lake Geneva. It pumps water up in a 140-meter arc, impressively pumping out half a cubic meter of water per second. This is a mighty water fountain; even more impressively, it lights up at night. It is Geneva’s skyline attraction – its answer to how London has Westminster and the London Eye and Paris has the Eiffel Tower. It represents Swiss identity and is a massive symbol of pride.

So, how do you see this beautiful fountain? The best way to visit Jet d’Eau is to walk the walkway that juts out into Lake Geneva. You can also take a lake cruise if you’d prefer to experience Jet d’Eau from the water. The fountain is just a 20-minute walk from Geneva city center, so it is easy to add to your itinerary. Remember that sometimes the fountain is turned off due to weather conditions, but you should get lucky as this is rare.

13. Go Chocolate Shop Hopping

When you visit Switzerland , you have to try the chocolate. Geneva is packed with dozens of different chocolate shops, most of which are independently run and have been running since the early 19th century. The country’s dairy links make chocolate a huge deal. And many of these chocolate shops have recipes passed down over generations. It is a definite artisanal process, and just walking into the shops, you’ll soon see how beautiful and artistic chocolate-making is. You don’t have to have a sweet tooth to enjoy this Geneva activity. However, it certainly helps when it comes to the inevitable chocolate tastings.

You can chocolate shop hop by foot with ease, as the leading chocolate shops are scattered at high density through the Geneva Old Town. Pace yourself and pick the best beforehand. You can visit independently, book a chocolate tour , or experience at a specific store.

14. Parc des Bastions

Parc des Bastions is a stunning historical park in the middle of Geneva city centre. It is located right next to Geneva University. So it attracts a regular young crowd of socializers and has a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. There are even giant chess boards – Parc des Bastions has some brilliant vibes for a sunny day out. If you want to enjoy greenspace as a solo traveler, Parc des Bastions is an ideal choice in daylight hours. It is also the city’s largest park within the city center limits. You can always find a quiet spot somewhere, even at peak times.

Parc des Bastions is easily accessed on foot if you are staying in the city center. Alternatively, you can visit using public transport and stop at Place de Neuve station.

15. Saint Pierre Cathedral

Saint Pierre Cathedral is a stunning piece of architecture and one of Geneva’s most revered city landmarks. You can admire the cathedral outside or head inside to embrace ornate architecture, furnishings, and bright stained-glass windows. With high-vaulted ceilings and elaborate décor, it is a beautiful place to stop by and just have a quiet moment of appreciation – whether you are religious or not. Everyone is welcome at Saint Pierre Cathedral, and tickets are moderately priced. You can even head to the top levels for expansive views over Geneva.

Of course, the fact that Saint Pierre Cathedral is so beautiful justifies a visit. However, some history also makes it even more attractive to visitors. It was the adopted home church of the leader of the Protestant Reformation, John Calvin, who we mentioned earlier when discussing the Reformation Wall. It is one of the best things to do in Geneva – an essential location for religious history and a considerable part of Geneva’s history.

16. Palais des Nations

If you know just a few things about Geneva already, you will know its importance to the United Nations. The United Nations is a global organization that was founded after WW2 as a way to transcend national borders, ensure humanitarian standards, and protect the safety and best interests of humanity. Palais des Nations is the United Nations Headquarters and where all the international meetings occur. There are 193 countries in the organization, and country representatives travel regularly to partake in meetings that shape how we run the globe. There are over 10,000 meetings here annually – so the United Nations puts the work in.

As you can see, the UN is important, and if you visit Geneva, it definitely warrants a visit. You can actually go inside to visit the United Nations Office and Palais des Nations. Tickets are reasonably priced at around $16, and you can take a guided walking tour of the complex, exhibits, and most essential rooms. A guided tour is the best way to experience Palais des Nations and easily one of the most impressive and the best things to do in Geneva.

17. The Flower Clock in Jardins Anglais

Visiting the famous flower clock is one of the best things to do in Geneva, and you won’t change our minds. The ‘clock’ was designed in 1955 and has been in bloom ever since. The beautiful design uses bright flowers in ever-changing patterns to create the clock face, and it has clock hands made as permanent sculptures. The clock is in the Jardin Anglais, a beautiful park along the Lake Geneva waterfront. You can visit the clock, snap a few pictures, and then wander the trails through the park for an hour or two.

The Geneva Flower Clock is easy to reach from the city center, and it is just a 10-minute walk – which we’d recommend taking as an Uber or driving actually takes longer with traffic. This is the perfect attraction to introduce you to Geneva city life.

18. Geneva Botanical Garden

The Conservatory and Botanical Garden Geneva is this wonderful city’s most beautiful part-indoor, part-outdoor attraction. It is one of the prettiest things to do in Geneva, especially in spring, when flowers bloom. You can admire tons of exhibits, including a stunning rose garden. Even better, entering and taking advantage of seasonal guided tours is free. The Geneva Botanical Garden is the perfect solution if the weather is unpredictable. The conservatory is a beautiful place to shelter from any blustery showers.

You’ll use public transport when traveling to the Conservatory and Botanical Garden Geneva. The botanical gardens are a 40-minute walk away, which we don’t recommend. Instead, hop on the train or tram; you’ll arrive in under 10 minutes.

19. Walk the Footpaths Along Quai du Mont Blanc

Quai du Mont-Blanc is an iconic lakefront street outside Geneva’s city center in the nightlife-famous Paquis. The street is lined by beautiful footpaths overlooking Lake Geneva with lovely views. It is also where you can find meeting points for many boat tours – where you can head out to get closer to the famed Lake Geneva fountain and experience Geneva from a different perspective. We’d suggest walking the entire length of the footpaths from Mont Blanc station to Parc Mon Repos. You’ll get an excellent insight into the best Quai du Mont-Blanc views and a quieter experience of Geneva. Pick up a takeout coffee to enjoy as you walk if you can. It only takes 20 minutes or so to complete this walk one way, and it is accessible for wheelchair users and those with pushchairs.

You can take the ferry, bus, or drive to get to Mont Blanc Station. All options take around 10 minutes, obviously dependent on the whereabouts in Geneva where you are staying.

20. International Museum of the Reformation

The International Museum of the Reformation links into the Protestant Reformation that we’ve already discussed. Visiting is one of the most informative things to do in Geneva, and if you are visiting Geneva, learning about its religious history is a really insightful activity to prioritize. The museum is set in an 18th-century mansion – get ready for some serious wow factor. Instead of just looking at artwork like the Reformation Wall, you’ll get engaging exhibits and everything from paintings and artifacts that tell a fuller story of what happened in the Reformation.

Getting to the International Museum of the Reformation is just a 10-minute walk from Geneva city center, so it is an absolute breeze. It is also easily combined with visits to other reformation-related attractions, including St. Pierre Cathedral and the Reformation Wall.

21. Nyon Roman Museum

We’ve already mentioned Nyon, but the Nyon Roman Museum is so impressive that it deserves a whole section. This museum houses a widely revered archaeological site. Transport yourself back to the Roman era and embrace lingering Italian heritage by walking through Nyon Roman Museum’s collection of ancient ruins. The vast columns and remains are magical to walk through. For any history lovers, this is the most engaging museum you can visit near Geneva. The outside ruins are a charming addition to the indoor section of the museum, which houses artifacts like pottery that were uncovered in the archaeological dig. It is one of the most engaging history museums in Switzerland.

The Nyon Roman Museum is just 20 minutes from central Geneva if you catch public transport. This is half the time it takes to drive to the museum, so choose the quicker and more environmentally friendly option. This is one of the easiest and most rewarding Geneva day trip options.

22. Travel House

Travel House is a leading museum in Geneva and a personal favorite. The house is a time capsule of medieval Swiss life. It is set over 6 floors with engaging social history exhibits on each one. The house was once the property of a wealthy Geneva resident. Still, now, it has a full-time job educating visitors to Geneva. You can enjoy a mix of temporary and permanent exhibits and immerse yourself in a historical side of Geneva that most modern visitors miss out on.

Travel House has a super exclusive feel, which is hard not to love. It feels like a private museum rather than one of Geneva’s most popular museums, and that is half of its allure. We’ll also add that it is very convenient to visit and is within walking distance of all the major attractions in the Geneva Old Town.

23. Patek Philippe Museum

Patek Philippe Museum is easily one of the most interesting museums in Geneva, which is a huge statement considering its incredible museum scene. The museum houses exhibits telling the story of Patek Philippe – a successful watchmaker who shaped the city’s watch industry. This incredible talent and vocation is one of the most famous industries in Switzerland, and the Patek Philippe Museum showcases one of the significant personalities the city saw, as well as general watchmaking from the 16th century onwards.

The museum is centrally located in the middle of Geneva’s Old Town, so you won’t have any issues visiting, even with a busy schedule. Tickets are really reasonable, too, considering that Geneva is seen as really expensive, costing around $10 per person when you can easily enjoy the Patek Philippe Museum for two hours.

24. Parc de la Grange

Parc de la Grange is one of the fanciest parks in Geneva and a firm favorite amongst locals and tourists alike. The park is next to Lake Geneva and is home to a vast outdoor theatre that comes to life during summer for raging concerts and a brilliant sense of community. If you love music and good views, Parc de la Grange is incredible in summer – just check out the schedule online and see what events coincide with your visit. Even outside of summer, Parc de la Grange is beautiful. You can enjoy a large rose garden and peaceful trails that snake around the park with Lake Geneva views.

Getting to Parc de la Grange is just a 30-minute walk from the city center or a 20-minute bus ride on the number 2 bus from Bel-Air station.

25. Musee de Carouge

Musee de Carouge is a tiny addition to Geneva’s beautiful art galleries. It is the perfect solution if you want a slightly off-the-beaten-track attraction in Geneva. The small art gallery hosts temporary exhibitions reflecting unique perspectives and spotlighting lesser-known and local artists. Musee de Carouge does a fantastic job providing a voice to more artists, and the passion behind the project is evident. It is tiny, so you’ll need less than an hour to visit this museum. However, it is well worth a detour from the city center, especially if you are staying in trendy Carouge anyway.

If you are staying in central Geneva, Musee de Carouge is just a 15-minute ride away on public transport or a 30-minute walk. Easy peasy.

26. Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is always a constant presence in Geneva. But if you want to maximize your visit, take the time to explore Lake Geneva from the water. You can rent a paddleboard, pedal boat, or even try windsurfing or wakeboarding – Geneva is as much a water sporting destination as it is a stereotypical city break. Enjoying watersports on Lake Geneva is the perfect way to get your dose of adrenaline and also have the freedom to explore the lake that makes the Swiss capital as iconic as it is.

Tropical Corner, Wake Up, and Les Corsaires are all brilliant places to arrange watersports activities and equipment rentals. Most of these are just a 15-minute ride away from the city center on public transport.

Visiting Geneva

Visiting Geneva is super exciting, and if you tick off even just one of these attractions and activities, you’ll have a fantastic time. Geneva’s fast-paced city center is a total contrast to its beautiful, slow-paced areas of natural beauty. We love its balance and how varied Geneva itineraries are. Before you go, though, check out these FAQs.

How to Get to Geneva

Geneva Airport is the usual answer when it comes to the question of how to get to Geneva. You can fly directly into Geneva from all over the world. However, you can also take the train if you are visiting from somewhere in Europe. If this is the case, we recommend spending a little bit longer and traveling by rail for environmental reasons – plus you’ll get more of an adventure anyway. You can catch connections from major cities like Paris, and there are even fancy overnight trains with little hotel room-style cabins onboard. Traveling to Geneva by train is the best way if you are already based in Europe, while those overseas can fly directly to its international airport.

If you are planning on traveling around Switzerland we do recommend the Swiss Travel Pass , which covers all of this:

• Unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat
• Unlimited travel on premium panorama trains (seat reservation fees and/or surcharges apply)
• Unlimited use of public transport in more than 90 towns & cities
• Free admission to more than  500 museums.
• Mountain excursions included: Rigi, Stanserhorn and Stoos
• Up to 50% discount on many other mountain excursions
• Up to 30% discount on  SBB RailAway offers . Available at all ticket counters within Switzerland

Where to Stay in Geneva

Anywhere you stay in Geneva will let you enjoy the best of the city’s attractions, and Switzerland has a notoriously high level of hospitality quality. Overall, though, the Old Town is where to stay for a traditional vibe, Paquis is where to stay for nightlife, Carogue is where to stay for a trendy vibe, and the area around Geneve Aeroport is where to stay on a budget. As for hotel choices, these are our top recommendations per budget level:

• $:  Ibis Styles Geneve Palexpo Aeroport
• $$:  Auberge Communale de Carouge
• $$$:  Les Armures

Where to Eat in Geneva

Swiss food has an outstanding reputation as one of the world’s tastiest cuisines. Switzerland is famed for its dairy products, chocolate, and strong connection to locally sourced ingredients and farmers. You  have  to try traditional Swiss food when staying in Geneva. You should mainly keep an eye out for cheese fondue, rosti, and – of course – Swiss chocolate. Aside from these top dishes, though, these are the places you should eat at when visiting Geneva:

• Vieux Carogue : A beautiful Swiss restaurant with famous cheese fondue and homely vibes.
• Le Thermometre : An inner-city family-run restaurant with traditional Swiss cuisine with a distinct French influence.
• Cafe du Soleil : A beautiful cafe with a leafy terrace for warm days.

Best Time to Visit Geneva

Geneva is beautiful all year round, but it depends on your desired experiences and what things to do in Geneva have caught your eye. Winter months like December are the best if you want snow and cozy fires with dipping cheese. You’ll have Christmas markets and a beautiful vibe at this time of year, especially in the old town.

However, if you want to enjoy watersports and hiking, May or September are ideal. These two months are shoulder months, meaning fewer crowds and perfect temperatures. In short, for a cozy winter wonderland, December is busy but worth the trade-off for its atmosphere. May and September are top choices if you want a quieter experience and more free-rein weather (and crowd).

FAQ’s About Things to Do In Geneva

Is 2 days enough for geneva.

Two days isn’t quite enough to see Geneva. However, if you are on a time limit, two days is enough for 4-5 attractions or 2-3 attractions and a single-day trip.

Is Geneva, Switzerland, worth going to?

Geneva is 100% worth going to. This capital is full of amazing things to do and see, and you can enjoy things like Lake Geneva and access by day trip to mountains like Mont Blanc.

Is Geneva more fun than Zurich?

Geneva can be more fun than Zurich . Geneva is surrounded by outdoor activities and adrenaline experiences. You can also easily go on a day trip to France.

What is Geneva, Switzerland, best known for?

Geneva is best known for its nature and its food scene. It is a beautiful old town yet is also full of green space.

Is Geneva, Switzerland, a walkable city?

Geneva’s old town and city center are very walkable. The rest of the city is accessible by public transport.

Is Geneva better than Zurich for tourists?

Geneva is surrounded by day trip opportunities, ideal for combining a trip to Switzerland with France. Zurich is also a great city more geared towards the urban tourist than Geneva is.

Geneva is such an exciting place to visit in Switzerland. The beautiful city is just a dream, with its shimmering Lake Geneva, mountainous surrounds, and an array of day trip opportunities. Whether you decide to indulge in watersports on Lake Geneva or even things like paragliding or just wandering Geneva’s stunning natural history museum, you’ll have a wonderful time in this city. We hope you are feeling inspired and ready for your Geneva trip. You can save a lot on these attractions if you purchase the Geneva Pass , which acts like a tourist membership card, giving you access to many attractions and benefits in exchange for a single one-off payment. 

If you are still looking for inspiration on visiting Switzerland, check out these guides on the  ultimate Switzerland road trip  and  things to do in Zurich . Don’t forget to learn about  visiting Geneva on a budget  – we all know how expensive Switzerland is.

Plan Your Next Trip to Switzerland With These Resources

• 24 Incredible and Fun Facts About Switzerland
• The Best Things to Do in Zurich, Switzerland
• Things to do in Grindelwald, Switzerland – Complete 4-Day Itinerary
• The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary
• 23 Incredible Things to do in Zermatt, Switzerland

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

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About The Planet D

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23 AMAZING Things to Do in Geneva, Switzerland [2024 Guide]

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

Make the most of your time in this gorgeous Swiss city with our best things to do in Geneva, Switzerland – home to the UN, CERN, the beautiful Lake Geneva, an impressive Old Town, and more.

When we first locked in our trip to Geneva, one of Switzerland’s largest and most significant cities, we were most excited to check out CERN, as that was all we really knew for what to do.

After we arrived we were instantly amazed at just how many incredible things to see and do there are in this beautiful city, perfectly suited to travellers of all kinds.

Set on the edge of the gorgeous Lake Geneva and surrounded by the Swiss Alps, there is an abundance of natural beauty here.

You can take day trips to the Alps to see peaks, valleys, and glaciers, jump on the cable car up into the forests, or try out some water sports right in town on Lake Geneva.

Geneva is also a huge center for international diplomacy and has a vast history.

You can visit the United Nations office or visit a number of interesting museums. The Old Town of Geneva is also one of the largest and oldest in all of Europe.

Geneva is also home to some incredible green spaces, such as Parc de la Grange and Parc des Bastions.

You can check out the Botanical Garden and the famous Jet D’eau Fountain during your sightseeing, or go on a local chocolate-tasting tour.

There is really so much to do when you visit Geneva. It is a stunning city with a rich history and lots of culture as well as natural beauty.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Interlaken !

Table of Contents

1) Visit the Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

2) admire the jet d’eau, 3) take a tour of the united nations building, 4) taste swiss chocolate, 5) explore old town geneva, 6) bathe in the bains des pâquis, 7) visit the parks, 8) see the flower clock, 9) go e-biking, 10) ride the mont salève cable car, 11) visit the international museum of reformation, 12) try stand up paddle boarding, 13) visit the art and history museum, 14) stroll through the botanical garden and conservatory, 15) take a day trip to mont blanc, 16) wakeboard or wakesurf on lake geneva, 17) tour the cern institute, 18) check out the patek philippe museum, 19) try foil boarding, 20) see the st. pierre cathedral, 21) visit the natural history museum, 22) go on a running tour, 23) take a boat cruise on lake geneva, cottage cafe, brasserie bagatelle, hotel de ville restaurant, la potineiere, balila geneva, cafe du centre, the best things to do in geneva, switzerland.

In this article, we’ll dive into most of the best things to do in Geneva, from exploring the Old Town to visiting the museums to getting out on Lake Geneva for some water sports.

Also, consider  getting the Geneva Pass  before your visit. The Geneva Pass gets you discounts and free offers at some of the top attractions in the city.

So if you plan on visiting lots of museums, taking public transport, or booking any tours or cruises, the Geneva Pass can save you money during your trip.

Let’s uncover what to see in Geneva, Switzerland!

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum is one of the top Geneva attractions.

This museum unites history, science, and humanitarian efforts. There is lots of art and content to discover here that tells the stories of people from all different cultures and backgrounds.

You can find permanent and temporary exhibitions, all of which dive into the concept of humanitarianism and how it ties to emotions and current events.

If you want to start off your visit to Geneva with some deep reflection on the world, the Red Cross Museum is a great place to start.

• Address:  Av. de la Paix 17, 1202 Genève, Switzerland
• Hours:  10am – 6pm (Closed Mondays)
• Cost:  15 CHF

One of the most unforgettable things to see in Geneva is the Jet D’eau. This massive fountain on Lake Geneva is one of the tallest fountains in the world.

It was originally built in 1886 with the purpose of releasing pressure from a nearby hydraulic plant. But since then, the Jet D’eau has become a symbol of the city.

Jet D’eau pumps through 500 liters of water per second. The water shoots up into the air at such a velocity that it can reach 140 meters.

While sightseeing in Geneva, you are sure to see the Jet D’eau shooting into the sky from wherever you are.

Be sure to take a moment to admire and appreciate the famous fountain, as it is a beloved landmark in the city.

The United Nations is an international organization founded at the end of WWII. It serves as a platform for different countries to address their issues, in the hopes of creating more peace and cooperation for the world.

The United Nations is an important part of international relations today. Though its headquarters are in New York, there is another United Nations office in Geneva that is home to multiple branches of the organization.

The office is located in the Palais des Nations, which is one of the top conference centers for world leaders.

Palais des Nations was originally the meeting point for the League of Nations in the 1930s, so it has always served as a vital center for international diplomacy.

You can  book a one-hour guided tour  of the Palais des Nations online.

Also be sure to check out the Broken Chair sculpture across the street, which symbolizes the importance of looking out for the victims of violence around the world.

• Address : Palais des Nations, 1211 Genève, Switzerland
• Hours:  Hours vary based on the department,  check the website for details .
• Cost : A guided tour is 16 CHF

You can’t visit Switzerland without indulging in lots of delicious Swiss chocolate!

While exploring the wonderful city of Geneva, stop into many of the local chocolate shops to taste and shop for some amazing chocolate.

Or better yet, book a guided tour of the chocolate culture of Geneva. A  chocolate walking tour of Geneva  will take you to all the best shops and cafes in the city. You’ll also get to taste lots of the best chocolate treats around.

READ MORE: Check our our detailed guide on hiking in Switzerland

Wandering through the picturesque Old Town is one of the best things to do in Geneva.

Referred to as  Vieille Ville  in French, the charming Old Town is full of narrow, cobbled streets, historic buildings, unique museums, local cafes, art galleries, cafes, secret passageways, cool architecture, and so much more.

Place du Bourg de Four is the heart of the Old Town. As the oldest square in the city centre, Place de Bourg de Four is beloved by locals and tourists alike.

The Old Town encompasses thousands of years of history, and you can explore the whole thing on foot.

No matter what time of year you are visiting Geneva, you have to take a dip in the Bains des Pâquis.

Located on a man-made peninsula that jets out into Lake Geneva, the Bains des Pâquis is a spot with public baths, saunas, and a beach.

In the summer you can lie on the beach and soak in the sun. In the winter you can relax in the saunas and rejuvenate. There are also showers, toilets, changing rooms, and sports and recreation facilities.

The entire Bains des Pâquis area is open year-round, and it is free in the wintertime. It is located on the beautiful lakefront promenade, Quai du Mont Blanc.

• Address:  Quai du Mont-Blanc 30, 1201 Genève, Switzerland
• Hours:  10am – 9pm (opens at 9am on Sundays)
• Cost:  Free in winter, 2 CHF in summer

Another one of the best things to do in Geneva is visiting all the beautiful green spaces. Geneva is a relatively big city, but it doesn’t feel that way with all the amazing parks.

Parc de la Grange is one of the most gorgeous places in Geneva. As the largest green space in the city. Parc de la Grange has lots to see.

There is an 18th-century villa and numerous gardens, including the biggest rose garden in Geneva. Branching off from Parc de la Grange is Parc des Eaux Vives, a grassy area with impressively old and majestic trees.

Parc des Bastions is another great park to visit. It is located right near the Old Town and has gardens, lounge chairs, and playgrounds.

Right next to Parc des Bastions is Promenade de la Treille, one of the longest benches in the world that offers fantastic city views.

Geneva’s famous flower clock is a must-see landmark in the city.

Located on the western side of the Jardin Anglais (the English Garden, another lovely green space in Geneva), this giant clock made up of colorful flower beds is a beautiful sight to see.

It is made up of thousands of flowers and is well-maintained year-round, though the plants change along with the seasons. It is free to visit and open 24/7 for access.

• Address:  Quai du Général-Guisan 28, 1204 Genève, Switzerland

Though many attractions in Geneva are within walking distance, biking is a fun way to explore the city and cover more ground.

E-Bike Tour  is an awesome local company where you can book e-biking tours around Geneva.

E-bikes give you that little extra bit of power and speed while biking so you can travel further without getting too tired.

They offer many different types of e-biking tours, including wine tours, art tours, chocolate tours, and Geneva highlights tours. Contact them to personalise your tour as well!

You can also go mountain biking in the mountains and trails around Geneva if you want to explore even more.

Hitching a ride up the majestic Mont   Salève on the cable car is one of the most fun things to do in Geneva.

Mont   Salève is a mountain in France that is just a 30-minute drive outside Geneva.

Fun things to do on the mountain include paragliding, hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, skiing, and more.

The cable car takes you up Mont   Salève in just a few minutes. The views are beautiful, and it’s a fun little excursion to take outside Geneva.

The cable car is currently closed  for renovation work but will be reopening in 2023. Check  this website  for updates.

• Address:  Téléphérique du Salève, Route du Téléphérique, 74100 Etrembières, France
• Hours:  Spring hours are 9:30am – 6pm on Wednesdays and Fridays, 9:30am – 7pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Summer hours are 9:30am – 7pm every day, with 11pm closing times on Fridays and Saturdays.

The International Museum of Reformation is another unique museum to visit in Geneva. It is located right next to the Cathedrale de St. Pierre in the Old Town.

This museum focuses on the Protestant Reformation, which was a monumental movement in Europe in the 1500s that sparked religious reform. The movement was greatly influenced by John Calvin, a French minister in Geneva.

Geneva became a refuge for protestants during the reformation, and the teachings and actions of John Calvin helped make Geneva a center for enlightenment in Europe.

To learn more about John Calvin, the Protestant Reformation, and how it ties into Geneva and Europe’s history, this museum is worth a visit.

• Address:  Rue du Cloître 4, 1204 Geneva, Switzerland
• Hours/Cost:  The museum is currently closed for renovations, but  more info can be found on the website .

This was what we got up to on our first day in Geneva, and we absolutely loved it.

Stand-up paddle boarding is a lovely way to experience the Rhone River, a major river in France and Switzerland that flows through the Alps.

For a fun and active day out in nature, book a stand-up paddle boarding tour with  Rafting.Ch .

The tours run every day and leave from the Geneva city centre. You will then paddle for 7-12 km down the river, which takes around 2-3 hours. All your gear is provided!

If you end up loving SUPing (and let’s face it, you will) and want to get into it a bit more these guys have a great guide on what to look for when buying a stand up paddle board .

As the largest art museum in the city, the Art and History Museum is one of the best things to do in Geneva for those who love to learn.

There are over 1 million pieces in this fascinating museum. The Art and History Museum covers the art and culture of Western civilization throughout history, with pieces dating back to ancient times.

See religious paintings, fine art sculptures, ancient pottery, and even Ancient Egyptian sphinxes and pharaohs. There is also a restaurant and a kid’s playground in the museum.

• Address:  Rue Charles-Galland 2, 1206 Genève, Switzerland
• Hours:  11am – 6pm on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. 12pm – 9pm on Thursdays, closed Mondays.
• Cost:  Free

READ MORE: Travelling elsewhere in Europe? Check out our guide on the best things to do in Berlin !

Often referred to as a “Living Museum”, the Botanical Garden and Conservatory of Geneva is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon.

With over 16,000 different plant species, landscaped gardens, and peaceful walking trails, you can immerse yourself in nature at the Botanical Garden.

There is an Herbarium with one of the world’s largest collections of plant and fungi species, as well as a historic rose garden and unique, rotating exhibitions.

The garden is located next to Avenue De La Paix in downtown Geneva.

• Address:  Chem. de l’Impératrice 1, 1292 Pregny-Chambésy, Switzerland
• Hours:  8am – 7:30pm

One of the top Geneva activities is taking a day trip out to Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps.

If you don’t have a car when visiting Geneva, you can easily book a guided tour that will bring you to the incredible mountain.

Most  day tours to Mont Blanc  will bring you to the mountain resort town of Chamonix at the foot of Mont Blanc. Then you can take the cable car up to enjoy panoramic views of the Alps.

You could also book a  Mont Blanc day trip that includes Glacier 3000 . This 3,000-meter-high glacier is under 2 hours away from Geneva.

You will cross over the Peak Walk, a scenic walking platform that gives you the best views of the mountains and the glacier.

Whether you have a car and want to drive out there yourself, or you want to book a tour, a day trip to Mont Blanc is one of the top things to do in Geneva.

One of the best ways to explore Lake Geneva is by wakeboarding or wake surfing. If you’re craving something a little different from museums and gardens, get your adrenaline going by riding the waves behind a boat on Lake Geneva.

GenevaBoats  is a local boat rental company that also offers wakeboarding and wake surfing tours as well as water skiing and water tubing.

For any adventurous, sports-loving travelers out there wondering what to do in Geneva, these water sports are a great option.

• Address:  27-29, Quai du Mont-Blanc, 1201 Genève, Switzerland
• Contact info:  +41 79 775 04 12 or [email protected]

The European Organization for Nuclear Research, often referred to as CERN, is the world’s largest particle physics lab. 

The CERN Institute was established in 1954 and is located in Geneva. If you’re at all interested in physics and science, this is one of the top institutions in the world!

There are free guided tours of CERN every day that last 1.5 hours. Tours are extremely popular and availability is limited, but you can only  book your spot on site . 

CERN is also opening up a  new visitor center  in summer 2023, so keep your eyes peeled for that!

• Address:  Espl. des Particules 1, 1211 Meyrin, Switzerland
• Hours:  8am – 6pm Monday – Saturday
• Cost : Free

Another one of the coolest museums in Geneva is the Patek Philippe Museum. It showcases the history of Swiss watchmaking and manufacturing, from the 16th Century to the present day. 

Patek Philippe is one of the world’s oldest watch manufacturers, and the Patek Philippe Museum is one of the world’s most prestigious horology museums. 

There is an astonishing collection of antique watches, and the museum houses around 2,500 watches in total. You can also go on an educational tour or a private guided tour. 

It is a fascinating place to learn about the art and history of Swiss watches. 

• Address : Rue des Vieux-Grenadiers 7, 1205 Genève, Switzerland
• Hours:  2pm – 6pm (Closed Mondays, opens at 10am on Saturdays)
• Cost:  10 CHF

READ MORE: Hitting the road for a while? Here are our top travel tips from 15 years travelling!

Tropical Corner is an awesome local tour company in Geneva that specializes in a variety of water sports such as windsurfing, paddleboarding, and foil boarding. 

Foil boarding is a less well-known type of water sport, so if you’re looking to try something new,  book a lesson with Tropical Corner !

A foil board is like a surfboard with a foil that extends down into the water, so you are surfing while raised above the surface of the water. It’s a super fun activity that makes you feel like you’re flying above the lake. 

If you’re an experienced foil boarder and you don’t need lessons, Tropical Corner also has rentals. This is an awesome way to spend a day out on the beautiful Lake Geneva. 

The Saint Pierre Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city center.

It was originally a Roman Catholic cathedral when it was built in the 12th Century. But the St. Pierre Cathedral transformed into a Reformed Protestant church during the pivotal Protestant Reformation of the 16th Century. 

St. Pierre Cathedral is the main church of Geneva and sports multiple different architectural styles including Neoclassic, Gothic, and Roman. 

While exploring the Old Town, definitely take the time to check out this monumental landmark. 

• Address:  Cr de Saint-Pierre, 1204 Genève, Switzerland
• Hours:  10am – 5:30pm (Opens at 12pm on Sundays)

Many cities around the world have a Natural History Museum, and Geneva is no exception. 

To discover more about the fascinating world of plants, animals, minerals, and other natural things, spend a few hours in this massive museum. 

Check out the interactive exhibits, taxidermy displays, and unique collections of items from the natural world. 

It’s the largest natural history museum in the country, so it’s a highlight of visiting Switzerland if you love museums. 

• Address:  Rte de Malagnou 1, 1208 Genève, Switzerland
• Hours:  10am – 5pm (Closed Mondays)

To get a workout in while sightseeing in Geneva, consider going on a running tour!  Go Running Tours  is an awesome local company that loves to present Geneva in a unique way. 

They offer a variety of different running tours based on what you want to see and your fitness level. 

If you’re an experienced runner and you want an epic challenge, take the “Climb of Your Life Tour”. It’s an 8km run that takes you up 900 metres so you can get an amazing view of Lake Geneva. 

There are runs ranging from 7km – 16km. If you want a more leisurely tour, go on the City Highlights walking tour which is only 5km. 

Either way, this is the best way to soak in the city life while running or walking with a local. 

• Address:  Rue de la Faucille 14, 1201 Genève, Switzerland
• Hours:  7am – 10pm

One of the best ways to tackle your Geneva sightseeing is by taking a boat cruise on Lake Geneva.

If you’ve already tried paddle boarding, foil boarding, or wakeboarding, try enjoying the famous lake by just relaxing on a boat.

You can sit back, take in the sights of the city and the surrounding Alps, and just enjoy your epic trip to Switzerland.

A  boat cruise of Lake Geneva  usually lasts around one hour, so it’s an easy excursion to slide into your full days of sightseeing.

Where to Stay in Geneva – hôtel Cornavin

Geneva isn’t exactly a budget-friendly destination, but that’s ok – the quality of hotels is fantatic.

We personally stayed at the hôtel Cornavin , which was a great place to call home for a few nights in Geneva.

Famous for being featured in the Tin Tin comics, this centrally-located historical hotel has been refurbished and offers bright, comfortable rooms with great views over the city.

The included breakfast is pretty decent, staff are friendly and wifi is fast. It’s also located right next to the train station and near a major bus and tram stop, so perfect if you’re planning on getting around the city or elsewhere in Switzerland.

Where to Eat in Geneva:

Now that you know about the best things to do in Geneva, let’s discuss something that almost all travellers love to do: eat!

Switzerland has some incredible food and you have to indulge in some delicious local cuisine. Here are some of our favorite places to eat in Geneva.

This adorable cafe sits on the edge of a small park that surrounds the 19th-Century Brunswick Monument. 

It has a cozy outdoor terrace where you can enjoy light breakfast and lunch meals. 

For some classic French food, head to the Brasserie Bagatelle. This restaurant is located right next to the Notre Dame de Genève Cathedral and has a large selection of wines and desserts in addition to food. 

You can’t leave Switzerland without tasting some classic fondue! This traditional local restaurant offers a delicious cheese fondue as well as other classic Swiss dishes. 

Located right next to the English Garden and Lake Geneva, this charming cafe is the perfect place to grab lunch or cocktails with a view. They also do brunch and live music in the evenings. 

You may not think of amazing Lebanese cuisine when visiting Geneva, but this restaurant has some of the best food in the city. 

Balila Geneva is a Lebanese restaurant in the heart of Geneva that unites eastern cuisine and culture with the local French and Swiss influences. 

This local favorite has been open since the 1930s. It’s a restaurant with history as well as incredible food. They focus on fresh seafood and meat dishes with local flavors.

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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One Day in Geneva Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Geneva, Switzerland

In recent years, enchanting photos of Switzerland have been flooding the Internet, inspiring people all over the world with breathtaking images of green meadows, sharp snow-capped alpine peaks, mountain cottages, mesmerizing train rides, and charming towns seemingly trapped in time. However, Switzerland has been a favorite destination long before the ascent of the Internet and self-absorbed Instagram selfies with inspirational quotes. And Geneva has always been one of the country’s most effortlessly, unassumingly beautiful cities. The most populous city in Romandy, the francophone part of Switzerland, Geneva is second only to Zürich in terms of size, while it can certainly compete with the best in Europe when it comes to charm and sheer number of historic landmarks and tourist attractions. If you plan on visiting Switzerland, one day in Geneva will show you why it was named “the Best European City for Weekend Tours” by the World Travel Awards.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

What to do in Geneva for a day? A lot! See how you can make the most of even the shortest trip to this great city.

1. What’s the best time to visit Geneva? 2. A few facts about Geneva 3. One Day in Geneva Itinerary 3.1. Don’t Be Afraid to Squeeze in More Attractions Than Usual 3.2. Visit Lake Geneva To Start the Day 3.3. Take Some Photos at the Geneva Water Fountain or Jet d’Eau 3.4. Take a Short 10-Minute Walk to See the Flower Clock 3.5. Explore the Old Town 3.6. Set Aside an Hour or Two for Lunch 3.7. Move on to Bourg-de-Four Square After Lunch 3.8. Visit the Natural History Museum 3.9. Take a Walk to Promenade des Bastions 4.0. Explore the Promenade des Bastions & Reformation Wall 4.1. Take the Tram to Parc de I’Ariana 4.2. Conclude Your One Day in Geneva with a Nice Dinner 4.3. Return Downtown for a Couple of Drinks 5. Where to stay in Geneva? 6. Day trips from Geneva 7. Extra tips for visiting Geneva

What’s the best time to visit Geneva?

Although there are plenty of things to do in Geneva in every season, some periods certainly make it easier to enjoy the sights and experience more of what the city and the surrounding area have to offer. For example, the period from June to August , while very busy, is absolutely unbeatable if you want to go for a cruise on Lake Geneva or experience the city’s most important festivals, Lake Parade in July and Fêtes de Genève in August. After summer, the temperatures drop pretty fast. Still, autumn temperatures are quite manageable and usually hover between 10 and 12 degrees Celsius.

If you want to dodge the crowds , then this is the best time to visit Geneva. Winter and early spring also have their perks. While you can expect below-zero temperatures made worse by chilly winds blowing from Lake Geneva, it is the best time for skiing near the Jungfraujoch region. This season experiences three short periods of price spikes and higher hotel rates, primarily around Christmas and Easter. Late spring (May-June) is in some ways similar to fall, with agreeable temperatures and better prices compared to the peak tourism season.

A few facts about Geneva

Many European cities are known for their rich history and ancient origins, and Geneva is no exception. In fact, the city’s earliest beginnings date back more than four millennia . As a tourist destination, Geneva is mostly known for its gorgeous architecture, numerous monuments and museums, and manicured gardens and botanic retreats. Nature has always played an important symbolic role in Geneva. For example, for centuries now, the coming of spring has been officially announced as soon as the first leaf blooms on the city’s official chestnut tree. While there are several exceptions, this usually happens in March. Another example is Geneva’s English Garden, home to the largest Flower Clock in the world . The “Clock’s” 6,500 flowers all bloom at different times, which makes for a pretty unique way to measure the passage of time.

Everybody knows about the Geneva Convention and the fact that the city is home to the headquarters of the European branch of the International Red Cross and the United Nations, as well as the World Health Organization. However, there are numerous trivial and lesser-known facts about the city, for example, the fact that the headquarters of the Raëlian Movement is located in Geneva. Members of the movement believe in the existence of life on other planets and promote its spiritual significance.

Furthermore, the famous Reformation Wall , honoring the Protestant Revolution, is also located in Geneva – at The University of Geneva. The Tavel House is one of the oldest structures in Geneva, which has welcomed travelers from all over the world for more than nine hundred years. Still, those travelers never got to experience the benefits of the Geneva Transport Card , which is a gift to everyone paying for accommodation in the city – no matter where you are staying, including campsites, inns, and hotels. The Card lets visitors use public transport free of charge, not to mention pretty generous discounts at most tourist attractions .

One Day in Geneva Itinerary

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do on your one day in Geneva.

Don’t Be Afraid to Squeeze in More Attractions Than Usual

Before kicking things off, it may be appropriate to get one minor technicality out of the way. Due to the fact that Geneva is very compact and well-connected , getting from one attraction to the next shouldn’t take more than a couple of minutes in most cases. This makes Geneva one of the more rewarding places for sightseeing, with little time wasted in between. That is why the number of sites you can visit on your one day in Geneva exceeds what is usually possible in other cities, particularly outside of Europe.

Visit Lake Geneva To Start the Day

When it comes to things to see in Geneva, the city’s eponymous lake takes the cake. The sprawling, crescent-shaped Lake Geneva is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful areas in all of Switzerland. Known for gorgeous beaches and numerous spas and luxury shops, you can get to the lake from any of the beautiful coastal towns, with astounding mountain views making the boat tours across the lake absolutely mesmerising. These can take as much as three hours from the lake’s northernmost to its southernmost shore.

The area surrounding the lake is very popular for walking, jogging, and enjoying the sunrise . In the morning, make your way to the lake and take some time to feed the ducks and enjoy the magical atmosphere. In case there are boat tours available, treat yourself to a short boat tour for some amazing photos of the coastline from a distance. There are usually several yellow boats cruising between the banks of Lake Geneva. The boats are part of Geneva’s public transport network, meaning you can board them for free if you have the pass.

Take Some Photos at the Geneva Water Fountain or Jet d’Eau

The Geneva Water Fountain or Jet d’Eau , located at the site where Lake Geneva meets the Rhône river, is among the most recognizable Geneva attractions . When the city hosted the 2008 UEFA Championships, Jet d’Eau was on the city’s official logo. The fountain’s water jet is so powerful that it is visible from almost anywhere in the city, even from the air at an altitude of 10 km. The original fountain was erected in 1886 , although the location of the new Jet d’Eau was moved slightly upstream.

The first Jet d’Eau served an important purpose as a safety valve for the city’s hydraulic power network. The fountain would spout water more than 30 meters straight into the air. It wasn’t long before the city fathers recognized the fountain’s aesthetic potential, moving it to its present location in 1891. The fountain of today was installed in 1951. It is capable of pumping half a cubic meter of water (from the lake) every second more than 140 meters into the air. The view from the pier is as impressive as the fountain itself. If you happen to come there in the evening, you can enjoy the amazing spectacle of light as the fountain’s massive water jet lights up.

Take a Short 10-Minute Walk to See the Flower Clock

After the fountain, it takes about 10 minutes to get to Geneva’s English Garden, i.e. Park Jardin Anglais , where the famous Flower Clock is located. Just walk along the waterfront due southwest, you can’t miss it. The iconic Flower Clock was designed in 1955 . The flower bed is designed to imitate both the shapes and the numbers of a clock face. Under the ground, there is a hidden clock mechanism that keeps the clock hands turning, allowing them to show time. The mechanical seconds hand is 2.5 meters long, making it the longest seconds hand in the world . Although it is certainly very impressive, the Flower Clock is not the only one of its kind in the world.

After the first flower clock was erected in Edinburgh, several other similar clocks have appeared in different parts of the world, including Ukraine and Mexico. The one in Geneva serves as an excellent reminder of Switzerland’s long tradition and mastery of watchmaking. The headquarters of exclusive clock manufacturers Patek Philippe and Rolex are located directly opposite of the Flower Clock, so you might as well pay them a visit as well.

Explore the Old Town

Vieille Ville or Geneva’s Old Town is the most picturesque and iconic part of the city, located less than 10 minutes on foot from the English Garden. If you’re wondering what to do in Geneva, you can’t go wrong with the Old Town tour! The ancient district is filled with narrow, interconnected alleyways, quaint little squares, warm, welcoming cafés, and numerous historical landmarks. Let the city’s timeless charm and detailed, gorgeous facades whisk you away to a different time era. St. Pierre Cathedral is one of the most notable landmarks in the Old Town. It is famous as the home church of John Calvin, the controversial and influential Reformation leader.

However, the cathedral’s long history predates both the Reformation and Calvin, having been established in the 12 th century by the Prince-Bishop of Geneva. Several seminal archeological discoveries beneath the church indicate that it was built on top of a much older structure from the 4 th century. The church as we see it today took a century to complete, and several newer elements have been added since, including the neo-classical façade in 1750 and the square towers in 1800.

Set Aside an Hour or Two for Lunch

Considering how close these several attractions are, it shouldn’t be much later than 1 PM after you’re done exploring the St. Pierre Cathedral. In other words, the perfect time for a well-deserved lunch break. There are several great options not far from the cathedral, but two stand out in particular. La Bottega , located on Rue de la Corraterie, is perfect for contemporary Italian cuisine in a cozy setting. Francesco Gasbaro, the restaurant’s chef, leads an excellent team that will take care of every little detail for you. The 5-course chef menu is the ideal choice if you are looking for an unforgettable dining experience . The dishes are seasonal, with high-quality locally-sourced ingredients. The staff will help you choose the wine which complements each dish perfectly.

For French cuisine, Brasserie Lipp Genève, located in Confédération Centre, stands out as one of the stronger contenders. The restaurant’s fortes include classic French dishes, foie gras, oysters, and shellfish of every kind. The restaurant is luxuriously decorated and has a very upscale, yet welcoming vibe.

Move on to Bourg-de-Four Square After Lunch

Place du Bourg-de-Four or Bourg-de-Four Square , located just south of Cathédrale Saint-Pierre Genève, is the oldest square in Geneva . The whole area of the square is exceptionally vibrant, with numerous high-end shops, gorgeous fountains, and lovable cafés. In fact, the oldest café in Geneva, called La Clémence , is located on Bourg-de-Four Square. In the middle of the square, you will see a small fountain, dating back to the 18 th century. The square’s modest size belies its historic significance. Place du Bourg-de-Four has been one of Geneva’s most important meeting places for centuries. In antiquity, it was a cattle market and Roman forum . Its significance grew as the years went by and it developed into a medieval town square. The square was very important during the 16 th century, when many Protestants settled in Geneva to escape persecution in other European countries.

Visit the Natural History Museum

Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle , located in Parc Malagnou, is the largest natural history museum in Switzerland. You can also get there on foot – it is about 700 meters east of Bourg-de-Four Square. The surrounding park is absolutely beautiful, with several hothouses and an atelier. The museum itself houses exhibitions on geology, human history, biology, science, and local flora and fauna. All of the specimens on display are in excellent condition.

Highlights include taxidermized mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles, as well as a large mineral collection on the top floor. It is a great place for children , who will love the fossils, especially the dinosaur bones. Not to mention the stone which was brought back to Earth from the Moon by NASA’s own astronauts and later gifted to the museum. Best of all, entry to the museum is completely free of charge .

Take a Walk to Promenade des Bastions

Promenade des Bastions is a large open green space and a famous landmark in front of the old University of Geneva building, formerly a multi-disciplinary theological school established by John Calvin. It takes about 15 minutes to get there from the Natural History Museum. If you take the Rue Ferdinand-Hodler and turn onto Boulevard Emile-Jaques-Dalcroze, you will pass in front of the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire, the city’s Museum of Art and History.

It is the largest museum in Geneva, with prehistoric items, cannons, suits of armor, old tools and machines, and even Egyptian mummies. The art section houses both classical and modern paintings. If you have the time, you can check out this museum, as well. Entrance is free on first Sundays of the month. Franz Liszt and Marie D’Agoult’s House of Love is in the immediate vicinity, on Place Franz-Liszt 1204 .

Explore the Promenade des Bastions & Reformation Wall

Promenade des Bastions is a lush park with 6 giant chess boards, a botanical garden, a children’s playground, and lounge chairs where you can relax for a little while after sightseeing. The park is bordered by the university building, the renowned Café Restaurant du Parc des Bastions, the Palais Eynard (city government office), and the Reformation Wall. The wall is a large monument honoring the Protestant Reformation and its key figures. The founders of the Reformation are represented as huge statues and bas-reliefs protruding from the wall. You may recognize John Calvin, Théodore de Bèze, John Knox, and William Farel, occupying the central position in the wall, a metaphor for the instrumental role they played during the tumultuous times.

Take the Tram to Parc de I’Ariana

Parc de I’Ariana , the last stop in this guide, is the only major attraction not located in Geneva Old Town. Getting there from Promenade des Bastions on foot would take 40 minutes, which makes taking the tram a much more attractive option. You can take the tram from Plainpalais to Collège Sismondi (8 stops). Parc de I’Ariana is a beautiful park with the magnificent Palais des Nations at its center.

The Palais des Nations is a sprawling United Nations office complex , notable for its gorgeous white marble façade and numerous statues (e.g. Statue de Gandhi), museums, and restaurants that surround it. The biggest attraction, however, is the Broken Chair , a huge wooden sculpture which is a symbol of peace and protest against land mines and cluster bombs. The legendary Swiss artist Daniel Berset designed the statue, and it was constructed by carpenter Louis Genève, who used up 5.5 tons of wood to get it finished. The chair was commissioned in 1996 and erected in August of 1997.

Conclude Your One Day in Geneva with a Nice Dinner

Directly in front of the United Nations Office at Geneva, with pleasing outdoor seating, you will find Restaurant Vieux Bois Genève – Restaurant d’application de l’Ecole Hôtelière de Genève. Sure, it is quite the tongue twister, but the food is delicious and well-presented. The restaurant belongs to the nearby Hotel Management School of Geneva. While you can expect to see the students working in there, they are held to a higher standard than service staff anywhere else in the city. The restaurant is very popular for business lunches and apparently more than good enough for United Nations diplomats. The menu changes every 6 weeks, but frequently gets top grades from gourmets visiting the restaurant. More than anything, the place is beautiful both on the outside and on the inside, and it feels almost like a warm, homey dollhouse.

Return Downtown for a Couple of Drinks

If you want to experience Geneva’s nightlife, make your way back downtown , where most of the city’s best nightclubs and live music venues are located. One of them is La Bretelle Bar Associatif , a friendly, charming bar with tasteful vintage furniture and a tempered retro feel. With a steady influx of new local beers and wines, it is one of the best places in Geneva for trying something new. The bar’s small stage hosts original concerts on weekends, in addition to good local DJs on most nights. While it is not sleek or fancy, the bar’s warm, down-to-earth atmosphere makes it one of Geneva’s favorites, for locals and visitors alike. 

Where to stay in Geneva?

TIP: Click here to find the best accommodation options in Geneva.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva

11 Quai du Mont-Blanc, Saint-Gervais / des Grottes

At the same time historic and completely new, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix was completely renovated in 2017, with respect to the hotel’s long tradition and significance. The hotel’s tasteful, comfortable, and spacious rooms, marble bathrooms, and unrestricted views of Lake Geneva or the Montblanc Square are among its biggest assets. Little details such as the premier fabrics, Illy coffee machines, and Asprey toiletries define modern luxury , unimposing, yet self-evident wherever you look.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Royal Manotel

Rue de Lausanne 41-43, Paquis

The images of Marilyn Monroe adorning the walls of Royal Manotel ’s charming bar/lobby set the tone for this property. The exquisite period furniture, the gorgeous staircase, the opulent red carpets; all of it looks just right, without feeling excessive or flamboyant. Like a trip back in time with only the best elements hand-picked, the hotel merges the elegance of old Geneva with all the modern amenities that can be expected in a hotel of its rank – including air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, a sauna and a steam bath, and modern, well-equipped wellness and fitness facilities . 

Hotel Suisse

10 Place Cornavin, Saint-Gervais / des Grottes

While Hotel Suisse ’s location can be counted among its biggest advantages, it is not the only thing about this hotel that is worth mentioning. As one satisfied reviewer noted, this may be a 3-star hotel, but it is undoubtedly at the upper end of the rating scale. The clean, modern, and spacious rooms offer great views of the city and the mountains in the distance, and several suites come with a charming external balcony. The excellent, rich buffet breakfast comes with plenty of choices, and the breakfast room provides sweeping views of Geneva Old Town. 

City Hostel Geneva

Rue Ferrier 2, Paquis

Fresh, modern, clean, and comfortable, City Hostel Geneva is a very homey, welcoming environment somewhat reminiscent of a cozy student dormitory. The bathrooms are impeccable, and the staff go above and beyond to make sure that everybody feels like home and everything runs smoothly – you even get a free towel. It is also worth mentioning that City Hostel Geneva provides its guests with free Wi-Fi, a spacious lounge with personal computers, and a well-equipped shared kitchen. The hostel is a great choice for an overnight stay, especially due to its amazing location just 700 meters from Lake Geneva and only an 8-minute walk from the city’s train station.

Day trips from Geneva

If a whole day in one of the most beautiful cities in Central Europe can’t quite satisfy you, fear not: Switzerland has much, much more to offer. Pick your poison: chocolate, wine, cheese, skiing; the sky’s the limit. You can book a private tour of the Swiss countryside , with a visit to some of the country’s premier chocolate and cheese factories. Annecy, known as ‘Venice of the Alps’ , is a very popular destination for day trips from Geneva, enchanting visitors with its gorgeous medieval monuments and unique half-timbered houses. If you want to try something new, consider a scenic cruise aboard an old steamboat to Lavaux and Montreux and experience Lake Geneva the way it is supposed to be experienced. Of course, these are just some of the numerous options available.

Extra tips for visiting Geneva

Lest you forget, keep in mind that the Geneva Transport Card is handed out to every guest staying in the city’s hotels, hostels and campsites. The card guarantees free bus, train, tram, and yellow boat rides within city limits.

Convert your money to Suisse francs , as many businesses don’t accept US dollars or Euros. Even if they do, they can charge an extra fee when paying for goods and services in a foreign currency.

Reportedly, foreign visitors are occasionally scammed by swindlers posing as police officers . When approached by a police officer, make sure to ask for identification before handing over your personal items, especially your wallet.

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If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Geneva Itinerary, feel free to share them in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

Geneva is shit. Everything is too expensive and this city is so small. Oh, also Geneva stinks.

True, Geneva is trash. It always makes me laugh when people say that Geneva is the best city in the world, when Geneva is garbage. And I’m not even talking about the Genevans. For all these reasons, Geneva sucks ass. Better go somewhere else in Switzerland.

Fuck Geneva.

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Geneva.info » Sights » Top 10 sights

Geneva Top 10 Sights & Attractions

The top 10 sights and attractions in geneva, the jet d'eau water jet.

This is the attraction to see in Geneva. At the same time, you can hardly miss it, because we see the jet of water from any point of the city. This huge jet of water finds its base at the end of a jetty on the left bank of Lake Geneva. The jet is up to 140 meters high and is the emblem of the city of Geneva, the United Nations headquarters from just after. If you want a truly unforgettable experience, go to the pier, and get as close as possible to the water jet: you will feel the power of hundreds of tons of water pressure that are projected into the air, and you will undoubtedly tempered. You can not come within three meters of the jet for security reasons.

Geneva Lake Of course, you couldn’t talk about the top attractions in Geneva without mentioning Lake Geneva (Lac Léman). The lake is a central focus of the city, surrounded by a stunning backdrop of mountains, and has fantastic promenades for a gentle walk or cycle around the perimeter. Throughout the year, there are many boat trips on offer that give a unique viewpoint of the city’s lakeside buildings and the aforementioned Jet D’eau. In the summer months there are also a whole host of water sports such as inner tubing and jet-skiing available.

The Old Town Geneva’s Old Town is definitely not to be missed. As Switzerland’s biggest historical city and the home of the Reformation movement, there is so much to be uncovered here. Every nook and cranny of its cobbled streets are littered with Swiss shops and cafes, and it is also home to a town square that was originally a Roman forum (Place du Bourg-de-four).

St. Peter's Cathedral The Old Town also has other treasures on offer such as Saint Peter’s Cathedral which lies at the heart of the Old Town. An architectural beauty, this cathedral took over 400 years to build and is nearly 1000 years old. The Cathedral is also known for the Archaeological Museum that it houses in its basement as well as the stellar panoramic views on offer from the North Tower.

Mont Saleve

Parc des bastions.

And as for those who like seeing greenery brought into the city... Parc des Bastions is a beautiful tree-lined park founded in the 1700’s that is also home to the Reformation Wall which commemorates the main founders of the Protestant faith, including John Calvin.

Geneva Museums

If culture and history is something that intrigues you then there are plenty of museums on offer for you to peruse. For example, there is the Musee des Arts d’Extreme-Orient, home to art from Japan and China that is renowned internationally. Alternatively there is the Museum of Natural History, the Barbier-Mueller Museum and the Museum of Art and History.

Reformation Wall

The Reformation Wall (Mur de la Réformation) serves as a monumental reminder of Geneva’s colourful history as the homeland of the Reformation. Constructed in the early 1900‘s, the wall spans a magnificent 325 feet in length and 30 feet in height. The walls are home to many statues and carved images that depict events and individuals that were integral to the movement. Located in the grounds of the University of Geneva, and built into Geneva’s old city walls, it is open to whomever so wishes to visit.

Palais Des Nations

The Palais Des Nations serves as the home of the United Nations Office and was built in the early 1900’s as a headquarter for the League Of Nations (the UN’s predecessor). After New York, it is the most important seat for the UN. For those who wish to visit, there are guided tours that can take visitors around an exhibit of official gifts, the Council Chamber and the Assembly Hall. Furthermore, the palace is nestled inside of Ariana Park, a beautiful city oasis complete with free roaming peacocks that is continuously open to anyone and everyone for no cost at all.

Within Geneva itself is Carouge; a bohemian haven in the midst of the city that has its own distinct atmosphere. With its Italian architecture, you will feel as if you have landed in the middle of a mediterranean town. The streets are littered with craft stalls, fashion boutiques, bistros, cafes and shops selling all sorts of wares not found in the rest of Geneva, and when the evening comes it is the perfect spot to spend the night in one of its many trendy bars.

Of course, there are far more sights to see in Geneva than this article can convey but we hope this gives you a fantastic head start and whets your appetite. And don’t forget that sometimes simply taking a stroll through the city streets and seeing where you end up can provide some of the most magical memories of all.

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Home » Europe » Switzerland » Geneva

11 BEST Places to Visit in Geneva (2024)

On the shores of a lake with the same name, Geneva is one of Switzerland’s most intriguing cities. From a charismatic and picturesque Old Town to alpine outdoor activities, to cool restaurants and cocktail bars, Geneva has it all. Also, tourist attractions in Geneva aren’t just interesting, or cultural, but important when it comes to current world events. From science centres to the United Nations, to international charities, you’ll find the best places to visit in Geneva play a key role on world affairs.

In this post, we’ll take a look at the best places to visit in Geneva. Hopefully, we’ll make it easier for you to plan your trip to one of Switzerland’s most interesting cities!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Geneva:

These are the best places to visit in geneva, faq on the best places to visit in geneva.

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The Old Town of Geneva is the historical part of the city, dating back almost 2000 years. It is one of the largest old towns in Europe, and it is a real pleasure to walk around its streets on a sunny afternoon.

• Visit the Cathedral Saint Pierre
• Stop for a coffee on Place du Bourg de Four, Geneva’s oldest square
• Learn about Protestantism at the International Museum of the Reformation

If Old Town Geneva isn’t really your vibe, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Be sure to check out the coolest areas to stay in Geneva and find somewhere just right for you!

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#1 – CERN – A fascinating educational place to visit in Geneva

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• The world’s largest particle physics laboratory
• Take a tour to learn about the work at CERN
• One of the best places in Geneva for science buffs

Why it’s awesome: Outside of the scientific community, CERN wasn’t really in the public consciousness until this century. However, when the ‘Black Hole Machine’ became more popular, the centre’s popularity rocketed, and it was always in the news! CERN is way more than that though. It’s the result of 12 countries who have been working together since 1954 to uncover secrets of the Big Bang and discover new particles. The best-known part of CERN is probably the Large Hadron Collider, a 27km underground tunnel where particles are smashed into each other at 80% the speed of light!

What to do there: Well first off, you definitely can’t go in that tunnel! However, if you want to find out more about the work CERN does, you can take a tour of the facility. The knowledgeable guides will put it in the simplest terms possible for our normal brains to understand! There are a couple of museum exhibitions about the company’s work too. One is about the search for the elusive Higgs’ Boson, and the other talks about practical use of CERN’s research. Don’t miss this fascinating place off your Geneva itinerary!

#2 – Lake Geneva – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Geneva

• Largest lake in Central Europe
• Take a boat trip on the lake
• Have a leisurely stroll along the promenade that surrounds the lake

Why it’s awesome: Minutes away from the city centre, you can be surrounded by natural beauty and the backdrop of the Alps. If you’re wondering how to see Geneva from a different angle, look no further than the lake. There’s so much to do too, that you could easily spend most of your time here! Because the lake is so big, you can take a cruise out onto it and escape Geneva’s hustle and bustle or attempt to hike on some of the mountains surrounding it. It’s without a doubt one of the best places in Geneva!

What to do there: It depends on what kind of holiday you want! If you’ve already spent a few days in Geneva, why not take a 3-hour boat cruise to the town of Lausanne? If you get seasick on long journeys, you can always just take a local mouette boat to the other side of town. Those who are particularly adventurous and fearless can try a spot of stand-up paddleboarding on the lake. A secret among locals is Perle du Lac, a small and often deserted beach. It requires a climb down to get to, but it’s worth it for the peace and quiet!

With a Geneva City Pass , you can experience the best of Geneva at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Vieille Ville (Old Town) – One of Geneva’s coolest historical sites

• The largest historic centre in Switzerland
• Explore Geneva’s cobblestoned streets, fountains, and lookout spots
• Home to some of the best places to eat in Geneva

Why it’s awesome: Some of this place dates back to the 11 th century, so you won’t want to miss out on one of the coolest historic places in Geneva! The area is home to a stunning cathedral, lots of art galleries and museums, boutique shops, and of course, some of the best places to eat in Geneva. Get lost in the narrow cobblestoned medieval alleyways, which connects squares, fountains, and even lookout points. These are where you’ll get some romantic and magical views of Lake Geneva!

What to do there: It’s easy to just explore Vielle Ville and see what you’ll come across, but if you want to create a Geneva itinerary, here are a few places you need to put on it. Start at Place du Bourg de Four one of the most charming squares in town. It used to be the location of the city’s Roman Forum and nowadays boasts the Palais de Justice. Don’t miss the medieval Maison Travel either, the oldest private residence and an exquisite example of medieval architecture!

#4 – Mont Salève – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Geneva

• Hike up to the Balcony of Geneva for awesome views of the city, lake, and Alps
• Take a cable car if you don’t want to walk
• Have a rest in a café with a view at the summit

Why it’s awesome: If you’re in Geneva, you can’t miss heading out into the Alps. Mont Salève is the perfect chance to do this in just a day, and you won’t be too far away from the city centre! However, that’s not the only reason you should go. Oh no, the views from the top are absolutely stunning and it’s one of the best places in Geneva for photographers! Mont Salève has its place in the history of literature too. It’s here that Frankenstein’s Monster fled to in Mary Shelley’s famous novel.

What to do there: Mont Salève is great for hiking, and it’s possible to get from the centre to the summit without stepping foot on public transport. However, if the hike sounds like too much hard work (and it’s not for everyone), there are alternatives! If you’ve only got a morning or afternoon, then you’re probably best ascending Mont Salève via the cable car. There’s also the world’s first electric rack railway up here! Whatever you do, make sure you get some stunning photos not only of Lake Geneva and the town but also across the border into neighbouring France!

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#5 – International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

• Visit Geneva’s most moving and sometimes shocking exhibition
• Discover the work that this humanitarian charity is doing across the world
• Combine a visit with the Palais des Nations

Why it’s awesome: One of the more sobering experiences you’re likely to have in Geneva, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum is an informative and powerful museum which showcases the work of this international charity. Rather than just artefacts and statistics, information is communicated unconventionally, making for quite an emotional museum experience. Combining a ticket with the Palais des Nations is a good idea too, as this shows the problems that the UN and Red Cross are facing together.

What to do there: Visit the three permanent exhibitions of the Red Cross Museum while you’re here. Each one of these represents a certain area of the organisation’s core values. These are defending human dignity, reducing natural risks, and reconstructing family links. It’s one of the most famous places in Geneva, not to mention one of the most important too. You won’t regret adding this fascinating museum to your Geneva itinerary!

#6 – Jet d’Eau

• See this from the aeroplane as you arrive or leave Geneva
• One of the most famous landmarks in Geneva
• Water shoots up to 145m high!

Why it’s awesome: The Jet d’Eau dates all the way back to 1886. However, it hasn’t always been one of the most famous attractions in Geneva! It actually started out as a safety valve for a hydraulic power plant. The city fell in love with it, and now it’s one of the most popular things to see in the city. The fountain shoots water 500 litres of water 145m into the air every second, and you can even see it as you’re touching down or taking off from Geneva Airport!

What to do there: If you’re brave enough to get close to the Jet d’Eau, the chances are you’ll get very wet. The water can be blown by the wind, but there are boat tours that get your pretty close. There are some other spots where you can enjoy views of one of the most famous landmarks in Geneva if you want to stay dry. The promenade around the lake is always a good shout, or perhaps the next stop on our list…

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#7 – Bains des Pâquis – Cool place to see in Geneva with friends

• A popular place for locals and tourists alike
• Cheaper than the fancy hotel spas in Geneva’s city centre
• Get an unparalleled view of the Jet d’Eau

Why it’s awesome: If you spend a lot of time looking at the lake and wishing you could take a dip… then you’re in luck! On the west shores of Lake Geneva, you’ll find the Bains des Pâquis – an outdoor public bath that is popular with locals and tourists alike. It’s a fabulous spot to get views of the Jet d’Eau, and on a windy day, you may even feel the spray! There are a number of spas in town but visiting Geneva’s coolest outdoor baths will save you a bit of dollar!

What to do there: In summer, the outdoor pool is crazy popular but if you can find somewhere to jump in, grab it with both hands! If you can’t find any space, you’ll be pleased to know that you can sunbathe on the pier while you wait. The Bains des Pâquis are open in winter too, although you’ll probably not want to spend too long in the pool! Instead, check out the hammam and sauna instead. The Bains host public events too – poetry readings and classical music performances take place here. One of the coolest attractions in Geneva!

#8 – Jardin Anglais and Parc de La Grange

• See the emblematic flower clock
• Enjoy the Rose Garden
• One of the best places in Geneva to relax and enjoy a picnic

Why it’s awesome: There are a number of lovely parks and green spaces on the southern edge of Lake Geneva. Two of the best are the Jardin Anglais and Parc de La Grange. The Jardin Anglais is between the city’s harbour and a forest, and is home to one of the most recognisable landmarks in Geneva. That’s the flower clock! Each season, the clock is recreated with the flowers that are in bloom, meaning you can keep revisiting the city and seeing a different incarnation of the clock each time!

What to do there: If you’ve forgotten your watch or your phone, this is a great place to see the time! You’ll be spellbound by the beautiful clock, surely. If not, taking a walk through the park and relaxing with friends or alone with a book is a relaxing activity you can do in either park. For a true piece of Swiss history, search for the Monument National, which commemorates Geneva’s inclusion into the Swiss Confederation in the early 19 th century!

#9 – St. Pierre Cathedral – One of the best religious places to see in Geneva!

• The highest point of Geneva’s Old Town
• Cathedral dating all the way back to 1150
• Viewing platforms in the towers give excellent Alpine and lake views

Why it’s awesome: If you’re into history and architecture, you can’t really do much better than St. Pierre Cathedral! Constructed across buildings that date back to the 4 th century AD, the cathedral has been a part of the Vielle Ville since the 12 th century. However, since then a neoclassical façade has been added and Gothic architecture too after the church was ravaged by fires centuries after its initial construction. It’s the highest point in the Old Town and a great place for photographers. Don’t miss visiting one of the most iconic landmarks in Geneva!

What to do there: Learn about the church’s history, including the protestant reformation of the 16 th century. It was here that John Calvin removed the original decorations and preached sermons, and you can still see his personal chair. Even if you’re not interested in the building’s religious history, you shouldn’t miss this out when visiting Geneva. The views from the Cathedral’s towers are amazing. In summer, head to the southern open-air viewing platform, and for a chilly winter visit, try the northern platform. Geneva in winter is cold, and it’ll be a bit warmer!

#10 – Palais des Nations – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Geneva

• One of the most important United Nations offices in the world
• Guided tours available in 15 languages
• One of the most important points of interest in Geneva

Why it’s awesome: Only the United Nations office in New York is considered more important than the Palais des Nations. Originally constructed in the 1930s for the UN’s predecessor, the League of Nations, the avenue leading to the palace is awash with the colourful flags of all the world’s countries. The building is always in use and there are often intergovernmental meetings going on, which may affect where you can actually go into the palace during your visit! It’s one of the best places in Geneva to learn about world affairs.

What to do there: If one of Switzerland’s four official languages isn’t your mother tongue, that may not be a problem. You can take an hour-long guided tour of the palace which is available in 15 different languages! If there are no meetings during your visit, you’ll be able to explore the Assembly Hall and the council chamber, among other cool spots. It’s a great idea to combine this with a visit to the Red Cross Museum, also included on our list!

#11 – Le Frigo

• Enjoy a custom-made cocktail
• A secret bar in one of the best places to eat in Geneva
• A cool and off the beaten track attraction

Why it’s awesome: Let’s end with something cool and quirky. After you’ve spent the day exploring the museums of Geneva, or done a tricky hike, you might fancy a drink. And who could blame you?! The only thing is picking a good bar. Well, head to the cool Blue Nuit restaurant and you’ll be in for the best drinks of your life. All you have to do is head through the restaurant’s refrigerator (yes, really), to find the hidden ‘Le Frigo’.

What to do there: The bartenders at Le Frigo are expert mixologists. Rather than a menu, just tell them your preferences and they’ll create your ideal custom cocktail. This means you can enjoy a way more memorable (and possibly tastier) cocktail than a regular bar, at one of the most secretive hotspots in Geneva!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Geneva

What is Geneva famous for?

Geneva is a political hub, being the HQ of the United Nations and the Red Cross.

Is Geneva a safe place to visit?

Yes, Geneva is a safe place to visit. Firearms are illegal and there’s rarely any violent crimes in the city.

Is Geneva worth visiting?

If you have the money to spare, then Geneva is a great place to visit for a weekend.

Is Geneva an expensive place to visit?

Geneva is ranked in the top 15 most expensive citites in the world, so you’ll need to save some pennies to visit here.

Final Thoughts

So, that’s all for our list of the best places to visit in Geneva. Hopefully, you’ll see that it’s not hard at all to find enough places to visit in Geneva in 3 days. The perfect amount of time for a city break. You should also have an idea of the best places to stay in Geneva too! Also, Switzerland is safe (one of the safest countries in Europe), an added bonus to anyone’s vacation in Geneva.

As well as important places to visit like CERN and the Palais des Nations, you’ll see that Geneva is good for relaxing too – with cool spots like parks and public baths!

So, now that you’ve got a better idea of how to plan your trip to Geneva, all that’s left is for us to wish you a fantastic vacation. And don’t forget to have a copy of our extensive and informative list on the best places to visit in Geneva at hand!

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Geneva   Travel Guide

Courtesy of bluejayphoto | Getty Images

Why Go To Geneva

Nestled in a valley at the western edge of Switzerland, Geneva is a serene setting for a slow-paced vacation. Its cobblestone streets are lined with outdoor cafes and independent shops, while the more cosmopolitan stretches of the city are brimming with designer brands and elegant restaurants. Plush seating cradles patrons as world-class orchestras perform inside the Victoria Hall. Even the fine dining here is considered an art. But despite all the luxury, Geneva can also make you sweat – sailing on the lake, walking or jogging in the parks and skiing down the nearby slopes of Mont Blanc are all popular activities.

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• # 5 in Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

Best of Geneva

Best hotels in geneva.

• # 1 in Hotel d'Angleterre
• # 2 in Beau-Rivage Genève
• # 3 in The Ritz-Carlton, Hotel de la Paix, Geneva

Best Things to Do in Geneva

• # 1 in Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)
• # 2 in Mont Salève
• # 3 in Jet d'Eau

Popular Tours

Chamonix and Mont Blanc Day Trip from Geneva

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Chamonix Mont-Blanc Full Day Guided Tour

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Geneva 3-hour Chocolate Tasting Tour and Old Town Visit

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Geneva Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Geneva is in the small peak season of July and August. Though you'll rub elbows with hordes of tourists and pay extra to visit during these months, Geneva's weather is at its best for outdoor activities like hiking at Mont Salève and sunbathing at the Pâquis Baths . December to April, meanwhile, are prime times for skiing the nearby Swiss Alps, but you'll encounter chilly temperatures and some crowds. Hotel and airfare deals may be possible if you do not visit around Christmas and Easter. If you'd rather avoid winter's cold weather and summer's high prices, consider arriving between September and November or in May or June, Geneva's shoulder seasons.

Weather in Geneva

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Parlez-vous, français? Although English is widely spoken in Geneva, you should pick up a French dictionary to learn at least a few phrases.

Clean up, clean up, everybody, everywhere The Genevese consider littering to be in very bad taste, so it's best if you sort your clutter into the proper receptacles.

Check for restaurant closures   If you're visiting Geneva in the summer, call restaurants in advance to ensure availability since some dining venues close for parts of July and August.

How to Save Money in Geneva

Walk if off Geneva is a small city, only 6 square miles, and very accessible for pedestrians. Not only is walking free, but you'll get some great exercise.

Buy a Geneva Pass  If you plan on joining multiple city tours or visiting sights like Mont Salève and the Patek Philippe Museum , consider purchasing a one-, two- or three-day Geneva Pass  for 26 to 45 Swiss francs (or $26 to $48).

Book well in advance Because Geneva hosts so many conventions, hotels fill up quickly during major events. It's best to book at least four months in advance when hotels are more willing to drop rates.

Ask for your Geneva Transport Card All hotels, hostels and campgrounds are required to give you this pass at check-in, letting you ride public transportation for free during your stay. If your feet tire from walking, at least you can enjoy complimentary rides on the tramway.

Culture & Customs

Although the headquarters of the United Nations are in New York City , Geneva is where you'll find the Palace of Nations , the second largest U.N. building and institution in the world. As such, the city is hugely international; people that hail from towns and cities all over the world either make Geneva their home or are in the city for numerous conferences throughout the year.

Switzerland has four official languages (French, German, Italian and Rumantsch), but French is the most widely spoken. English is fairly common as well, but it's best to come prepared with a few key French phrases, such as "bonjour"  (hello), "Comment allez-vous?"  (How are you?), "Je ne comprend pas"  (I don't understand), "Parlez-vous anglais?"  (Do you speak English?) and "au revoir"  (goodbye).

Even though one Swiss franc (Switzerland's official currency) equals about one dollar, exact rates can fluctuate, so check the latest exchange rate before visiting. And remember, Geneva is expensive. Restaurants serving up Swiss cuisine tend to charge quite a few more francs than you might be used to paying, but you won't be expected to tip since service charges are included in all published prices.

What to Eat

Geneva is located just miles from the Switzerland-France border, so many of France's highly praised culinary techniques have infiltrated the dining scene. Italy, too, is only about an hour away, so go figure: French and Italian restaurants reign supreme here. For some of the city's best French cuisine, check out Bayview , Le Chat Botte  and Bistrot du Boeuf Rouge . Popular Italian eateries include Il Lago and Luigia .

Iconic Swiss dishes like chocolate and cheese fondue can be found on many restaurant menus. Other local specialties, such as  Älplermagronen  (a gratin, or casserole-like dish, made with potatoes, macaroni, cheese and onions served with stewed apples) and  rösti  (a flat, circular potato dish that's fried in hot butter or fat), are also available at a variety of dining venues. If you're craving Swiss fare, consider sitting down for a meal at highly regarded restaurants like Restaurant Edelweiss , Auberge de Saviese and La Buvette des Bains . Note: Some eateries close for parts of July and August, so call ahead to confirm opening hours.

Geneva is a very safe city, as far as tourists go – though it does see some petty theft and vandalism, especially at train stations, airports and tram and bus stops. However, other cities in Europe (like London and Paris ) have seen a spike in terrorism-related incidents, so it's best to avoid demonstrations and keep an eye on current events while staying in Geneva. To learn more about security concerns and safety tips for Switzerland, check out the U.S. State Department's website .

Getting Around Geneva

The best ways to get around Geneva are on foot and by tram – the city is a small 6 square miles and is easily navigated. In addition to covering tram services, the city's free Geneva Transport Card for tourists can also be used on water taxis, trains and buses, but these services are often slower or less convenient than walking or taking the tram. Taxis can be hailed as well, though you'll pay a premium to use them. Driving in the city center is not necessary and will generally be more of a nuisance than a convenience due to limited parking and rush hour traffic.

If you're getting to Geneva via Genève Aéroport (GVA), plan on grabbing a free 80-minute train ticket from baggage claim's Transports publics genevois (TPG) vending machine. The journey to downtown's Genève train station will take you approximately 10 minutes.

Entry & Exit Requirements

To visit Switzerland, Americans must have a passport that is valid for at least 90 days after staying in the country. Proof of a return airline ticket is also required. A visa is only needed if your visit will last more than 90 days. Visit the U.S. State Department's website for the latest information on entry and exit requirements.

Head to Lake Geneva at sunset to watch an array of colors fill the sky and reflect onto the water.

Explore More of Geneva

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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# 4 in  Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

# 1 in  World's Best Places to Visit

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Discover Geneva by bike: a cyclist's paradise!

Whether you're an avid bike enthusiast or simply looking for a new way to explore the city, cycling through Geneva offers a truly unique experience. From the historic city center to the picturesque vineyards nearby, every route reveals cultural and natural treasures. 

Useful addresses

Genève Roule Your biking adventure begins as soon as you arrive in Geneva with Genève Roule, located near Cornavin train station.You can even book your bike online ahead of your trip. Electric bikes, as well as cargo bikes or bikes with child seats, are available. 

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