Curator’s statement
Geneva is a vibrant city, full of inspiration, art and a unique atmosphere. Its natural environment, surrounded by the Alps, with its snow-capped peaks in contrast to Lake Geneva, fills you with energy and positivism. Its location makes it perfect for discovering the surroundings that will leave you, if anything, speechless.
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Where to stay In Geneva
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Things to do In Geneva
Visit Saint-Pierre Cathedral: Explore the iconic Cathedral of St. Peter in Geneva. Inside, you'll find the largest collection of Romanesque and Gothic treasures in Switzerland.
Reformation Wall: Stretching 100 meters long, this wall pays tribute to the great leaders of the Protestant Reformation.
Place du Bourg-de-Four: It's the oldest square in Geneva, located in the heart of the old town, just a few meters from the cathedral. It boasts several terraces where you can enjoy a coffee in the sun.
Palais de l’Athénée: It's the Palace of the Society of Arts. Within its walls, the Red Cross committee was founded, among others.
Palais Wilson: Currently serving as the headquarters of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. It used to be the headquarters of the League of Nations. Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, it leads to a pleasant stroll around the waterfront.
UN Office: Take a guided tour of the United Nations Office at the Palace of Nations. It's recommended to book three months in advance.
Botanical Garden: A spectacular garden featuring plants from all over the world. Enter its mini glass palaces and climb to the top for a breathtaking view.
Parc and Villa La Grange: A vast park filled with trees and flowers on lush green lawns, ideal for a picnic.
Baby Plage: A sandy beach on the shores of Lake Geneva. Its crystal-clear waters will captivate you. Here, you can swim among swans, but be careful not to feed them!
Bains des Páquis: A space to enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine while overlooking the lake, with a bathing area and sauna available in winter.
Day Trips:
Chamonix-Mont Blanc
Dedicate a day to visiting Chamonix Mont Blanc. Take a bus from the center of Geneva to Chamonix. It takes just over an hour. You can go early in the morning and make the most of the whole day there. Chamonix is a lively ski resort. Its dark wooden houses contrast with the snow-capped peaks of the Alps, creating a unique image. Take a stroll through the center, stop at a restaurant serving Crepes, and enjoy a good specialty coffee at Shoukà. Take the cogwheel train to the top and visit the glacier. For the more adventurous, you can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car and ascend to 3842 meters in altitude to have a 360º view of the French Alps.
Places to eat & drink In Geneva
Coffee and brunch
Oh Martine!: Lot of options for breakfast and special drinks like Golden Latte, Matcha, etc. Great atmosphere as well. Very big space but with a lot of enchant.
Utopia Coffee : Good coffee & brunch. Great spot to stop for a good specialty coffee in the area of Eaux Vives.
Boreal Coffee : Organic coffee roasters in Geneva. Best coffee in town.
Patisserie
Boulangerie pâtisserie Eric Emery: Renown patisserie near United Nations. Very very good patisserie and friendly workers!
Christies Bakery: Delicious cupcakes, cakes, macaroons, cookies, etc.
Fondue
Auberge de Saviese: Most popular and true, best fondue in town!
Drinks
Cottage Café: Cozy small bar where you can enjoy a nice drink with finger food in the middle of a park and nice views to the lake.
Travel Advisor
Aida Panal
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Switzerland. In need of further inspiration? Check out Lily Zenner’s trip report, Grand Geneva: Making Memories at the Most Diverse Ski Lodge in Wisconsin.