Geneva City Guide Home to some of the world’s renowned literary greats, Geneva is one of Switzerland’s most picture-perfect destinations. The historic city is brimming with art and history museums, grand monuments, live...
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Home to some of the world’s renowned literary greats, Geneva is one of Switzerland’s most picture-perfect destinations. The historic city is brimming with art and history museums, grand monuments, lively cafes along cobbled streets, as well as luxury boutiques for shopping enthusiasts.
With all the makings of another typical European city, Geneva is anything but this. It’s a breathtaking lakeside retreat set against a mountainous backdrop. With Mont Blanc sitting in the distance, Geneva attracts its fair share of skiers, snowboarders and hikers. Lake Geneva’s banks, on the other hand, draws in crowds looking to bask in its natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to take a walk through history or get in touch with nature, Geneva is set to please.
Things to Do
Before you strap on your snowboard or take a dip in the lake, Geneva’s Old Town is worth exploring on foot. With an impressive history spanning 2,000 years there are many historic sites to discover. During your walk, you’re bound to stumble upon Saint Pierre’s Cathedral. Climb 147 odd stairs to the tower for spectacular views of the surrounding city and beyond. This is perhaps the only church you can head down below to feast your eyes on archaeological remains dating back to the Roman empire. Don’t forget to enjoy a coffee at one of the quaint cafes in this neighbourhood!
Geneva has many museums and important sites that are open to the public. If you love physics, then you can’t pass up a visit to CERN, the world’s largest physics lab. Another iconic location is the European headquarters of the United Nations. There’s also the Natural History Museum of Geneva or even the Musee d’Art et d’Histoire to quench the thirst of every art and history lover. Whether you’re visiting a museum, exploring excavated churches, or pottering about the Old Town, you can never escape Geneva’s history.
In the mood the relax? There’s no better place to take a load off than at Geneva’s very own lake. This is the spot to sail across the gorgeous stretch of water with jaw-dropping views of the Alps in the distance. Tour the lake with a cruise and a picnic or venture to the northern shore and sip wines from local wineries and vineyards. For an extra dose of tranquility, take a walk through Bastions Park. Whatever the season, this is a happy park all year round.
Geneva is a picturesque city and then some. There are plenty of significant monuments and scenic spots to take the ultimate selfie. Perhaps the most sought-after spot is in front of the Jet d’Eau, the city’s iconic harbour fountain. Shooting water an impressive 140m into the air, this fountain is visible for miles and also when coming into land at Geneva airport.
The city’s proximity to the Swiss and the French Alps make it a hotspot for hikers, skiers and snowboarders alike. The city is a perfect base to explore the surrounding beauty with opportunities for day or weekend trips up the piste.
Getting Around
The city center is pretty compact and so is ideal for getting around on foot. When blessed with good weather, cycling is another great means of getting through the streets and exploring parks. There’s also a bus and tram servicing the city, just don’t forget to snap up your ticket from the machine before boarding.
When to Go
The best time to enjoy the lake is July and August when the weather is mild and breezy. Winter months are however ideal for hitting the slopes. Music lovers can best go in June when the Fete de la Musique, a three-day music fair comes to town. The entire city becomes a stage for performances ranging from children’s choirs to punk rock and even a bit of jazz. Wait until August to experience a week-long party complete with a firework display during the Fete de Geneva.
Sleep
Whether you spend your days eating Swiss chocolates and nights sipping wine is your business. It’s our business to ensure that at the end of your day that you have a good night’s sleep. Browse our listing of available accommodation in Geneva and book the perfect place, with or without a lakeside or mountain view, for your stay.