Welcome to Geneva! Cradle of great masters of Swiss watchmaking and chocolate-making, Geneva is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with an international and romantic atmosphere. It is known to be expensive, but it makes up for it with meticulously maintained parks, a fascinating old town, and a mosaic of postcard-perfect landscapes. This gem between the Swiss Alps and the shores of Lake Geneva promises an unforgettable holiday.
- What to See in Geneva's Old Town
- Geneva Cathedral - "Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Genève"
- Place du Bourg-de-Four and the Shopping Streets
- Parc des Bastions: The Reformation Wall and the "Banc de la Treille"
- Carouge, Geneva's Italian District
- Lake Geneva: What to See Along the Shores of Lac Léman
- Visiting Geneva: Other Must-See Attractions
- Geneva’s Museums
- The United Nations Palace (Palais des Nations)
- The Geneva International Motor Show
- Where to Eat in Geneva: French, Italian, and Swiss Cuisine
- Hotels in Geneva: Budget-Friendly Options Available!
- Getting Around Geneva
- Exploring Geneva and Surroundings: The Best Day Trips
- Gruyères: Cheese Factories and Chocolate Workshops in the Swiss Countryside
- Yvoire: The "Pearl of Lake Geneva"
- Annecy: The Venice of the Alps
- Chamonix and Mont Blanc: Breathtaking Alpine Views
- How to Get to Geneva from Italy
- By Plane
- By Train: Geneva-Milan and Geneva-Turin
What to See in Geneva's Old Town
Our visit begins with a stroll through the "Vieille-ville," the Old Town, which revolves around the Geneva Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre) and the charming pedestrian area of Place du Bourg-de-Four. This is about a 10-15 minute walk from the lakeside promenade, specifically from Promenade du Lac. Here's what to see in Geneva's Old Town:
Geneva Cathedral - "Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Genève"
The interiors are austere and minimalist, intentionally plain as is typical of Calvinist churches; perhaps the most beautiful part to visit is the Chapel of the Maccabees at the end of the right nave, whose decorations contrast with the cathedral's austerity.
- If heights are not an issue, continue by climbing to the top of the north tower of the cathedral for a fee (5 Swiss francs): prepare to tackle quite a few steps - about 157 - but the effort is rewarded with a panoramic view, including vistas of the city and the Alps.
Just two minutes from Geneva Cathedral, you'll stumble upon the Maison Tavel, the oldest private house in Geneva, now transformed into a historical museum with free admission.
Place du Bourg-de-Four and the Shopping Streets
Sitting at one of the outdoor terraces or on the patio of a bistro, tourists and Genevois (Genevans) alike enjoy sipping a beer or having a bite. For many, it feels a bit like being in Paris. Stop by "La Clémence".
Just a stone's throw from Place du Bourg-de-Four, you can reach Rue du Rhône, Rue du Marché, and Rue de la Croix d'Or, Geneva's luxury shopping streets. High-end boutiques, countless jewelers, and the best Swiss watchmakers: the prices might make your head spin, but the window displays are worth a look. Take a stroll here, and you'll see why.
The official currency of Geneva is the Swiss Franc (CHF). However, many prices are also displayed in euros, and some businesses accept payments in euros.
Parc des Bastions: The Reformation Wall and the "Banc de la Treille"
At the foot of the Old Town lies a large green urban space that is a central hub in Geneva's life. In summer, families and children enjoy its shade and picnic lunches, and students can be found here year-round, as the park is home to the University of Geneva.
Spanning an impressive 100 meters in length, it features statues of the "fathers" of the Calvinist Reformation.
On the terrace overlooking the Reformation Monument and Parc des Bastions, you'll be captivated by the "Banc de la Treille," the longest bench in the world, which runs the entire length of the park.
Here, you might also come across the "official chestnut tree of Geneva" (le "marronnier officiel" in French). Each year, its first leaf announces the arrival of spring.
VISIT GENEVA'S OLD TOWN WITH A GUIDED TOUR
Carouge, Geneva's Italian District
Additionally, if you're in Geneva, I recommend taking a trip to Carouge, a Swiss municipality in the Canton of Geneva just a few tram stops from the Old Town.
Famous as Geneva's Italian district, this historic neighborhood of Savoyard origins offers lovely walks among vintage shops, artisan workshops with a bohemian vibe, and Italian-style architecture. No worries for those looking to have lunch or dinner; the options are varied and priced in line with Geneva's standards.
Lake Geneva: What to See Along the Shores of Lac Léman
It's time to head to Lake Léman. A stroll along its shores is a must. If you choose to walk along the Rive Gauche (via Quai Gustave-Ador), you’ll reach the iconic Flower Clock in the Jardin Anglais, one of the top selfie spots in Geneva. Its flowers are meticulously maintained and change with the seasons.
Walk along the Promenade du Lac to the Jet d'Eau, an enormous water jet (140 meters high) that is perhaps Geneva's most famous landmark. Initially, this giant fountain was built as a safety valve for the city's water system. Today, it’s a true tourist attraction. The best spots to photograph it? The Pont du Mont-Blanc and the Promenade du Lac. You can also get closer by booking a lake cruise or taking a Mouette water taxi, public transportation connecting the right and left banks.
Two other green areas worth mentioning on the Rive Gauche are Parc de la Grange and Parc des Eaux Vives, which offer lake views and the opportunity to enjoy picnics or barbecues in designated areas. In summer, free concerts take place at the Théâtre de Verdure in Parc de la Grange.
On the opposite side (via Quai Wilson), you'll find Perle du Lac park, where swimming in the lake is possible. Bains des Pâquis is a popular spot for swimming, with facilities for saunas and drinks in a charming atmosphere. Admission costs two francs, allowing you to soak up the sun for a few hours.
Wondering what to see in Geneva in a day? A good idea might be to optimize your time by booking a guided tour focusing on key attractions and activities between the Old Town and the shores of Lake Léman. One of the most fun and popular options is a Segway tour!
Visiting Geneva: Other Must-See Attractions
Geneva’s Museums
Here are some of the most interesting museums in Geneva, all free with the Geneva Pass, the city’s tourist pass that allows free public transport use and offers free entry and discounts to 50 attractions and activities for 24, 48, or 72 hours. These include Segway tours, boat tours, and guided walking tours of the Old Town.
- Museum of Art and History: located in the Old Town near Place Bourg-de-Four, it’s the largest museum in Geneva. Free entry.
- Patek Philippe Museum, dedicated to Swiss watches.
- Ariana Museum, showcasing ceramics and glass.
- Natural History Museum.
- MEG, the Ethnographic Museum.
- Red Cross Museum.
The United Nations Palace (Palais des Nations)
Guided tours are available from April 1 to September 30, Monday to Saturday, and during the rest of the year, Monday to Friday, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Cost: 15 Swiss francs.
In front of the Palais des Nations, 600 meters away, you can’t miss the “Broken Chair” sculpture, a giant wooden chair with a missing leg. It’s a symbol of peace and a protest against landmines and cluster bombs.
The Geneva International Motor Show
Car enthusiasts? Remember that this Swiss city hosts one of the world’s most famous automotive events: The Geneva International Motor Show! It’s become a tradition over the years.
Where to Eat in Geneva: French, Italian, and Swiss Cuisine
When it comes to gastronomy, Geneva offers a diverse international cuisine, though French and Italian restaurants dominate the scene.
Numerous local restaurants serve traditional Swiss dishes such as chocolate fondue and "moitié-moitié" cheese fondue. Other local specialties include Älplermagronen (a gratin casserole with potatoes, macaroni, cheese, and onions, served with stewed apples) and rösti (crispy grated potato cakes).
Hotels in Geneva: Budget-Friendly Options Available!
Geneva offers a wide range of accommodations. The city center is naturally the most expensive area to stay, with high-end hotels and luxury lodgings. However, there are also budget-friendly options for those traveling on a tighter budget.
The Paquis area, for example, near the main train station (Genève-Cornavin) and around the lakeside area, is an excellent choice for value for money. Among budget-friendly hotels, we recommend: Hotel Les Arcades and Hotel Suisse.
Getting Around Geneva
Exploring Geneva is easy on foot as it is a compact and walkable city, perfect for leisurely strolls. Alternatively, the public transport system, including buses, trams, and trolleybuses (operated by TPG), is highly efficient. Many visitors also prefer to rent a bike from one of the city’s rental points such as "Genève Roule", which offers free bikes for 4 hours. After that, the rate is 2 CHF per additional hour.
Exploring Geneva and Surroundings: The Best Day Trips
For those fortunate enough to stay a few days, there are amazing nearby attractions worth visiting. Several Swiss and French destinations are perfect for a day trip and easily accessible on your own or as part of a guided tour.
Gruyères: Cheese Factories and Chocolate Workshops in the Swiss Countryside
A guided day tour with transport from Geneva is ideal for optimizing your time to explore the medieval village streets, visit the Cailler-Nestlé Chocolate Factory in Broc, and a local cheese-making facility.
- Choose the "Golden Express" option to enjoy a ride aboard the scenic panoramic train with stunning views of Lake Geneva.
JOIN A GUIDED TOUR FROM GENEVA TO GRUYÈRES
Yvoire: The "Pearl of Lake Geneva"
Full of old cottages, ancient walls, and delightful lakefront restaurants, Yvoire is listed among the most beautiful villages in France and can be explored in less than an hour.
JOIN A GUIDED TOUR FROM GENEVA TO YVOIRE
Annecy: The Venice of the Alps
The historic town center nestled between mountains and its eponymous lake is a delight to explore. Join a half-day guided tour from Geneva for a hassle-free experience. After an introductory guided walk, enjoy plenty of free time to discover the city at your own pace.
JOIN A GUIDED TOUR FROM GENEVA TO ANNECY
Chamonix and Mont Blanc: Breathtaking Alpine Views
For those without a car or seeking convenience, a guided tour with transfers from Geneva is an excellent choice.
Travel through the Arve Valley to Chamonix, take a cable car ride to the Aiguille du Midi peak, and enjoy panoramic terraces with spectacular views of the Swiss, French, and Italian Alps, including Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. Chamonix is also one of the most beautiful winter and ski resorts in France!
JOIN A GUIDED TOUR FROM GENEVA TO CHAMONIX
How to Get to Geneva from Italy
By Plane
For air travelers, the Geneva Airport (Cointrin Airport) is located about 4 kilometers northwest of the city center. Direct flights operate from Milan Linate, Venice, and Rome Fiumicino. From the airport, downtown Geneva is easily accessible by bus or train.
By Train: Geneva-Milan and Geneva-Turin
For those departing from northern Italy, the train is a great alternative. The Milan-Geneva train (operated by Trenitalia) takes approximately 4 hours, arriving at Gare Genève CFF (Geneva Cornavin central station). For Turin-Geneva connections, there is no direct route, so you’ll need to transfer via Milan and continue from there.