How long should I go for? Geneva is worthy of a few nights and is the gateway for a host of skiers in the winter who head south into the Alps. There’s plenty to keep you occupied for a few days and it also provides the perfect place for day trips and hikes in the mountains!
Getting there: Much like the rest of Switzerland, Geneva is very well connected with the rest of the country and neighbouring France. The Swiss Railway system is excellent and there are frequent daily trains to the Alps, Bern, Zurich and beyond. There are also day trains to all the border countries which makes travel to/from Geneva super easy! If you’re starting or ending your trip in the city, EasyJet offer daily budget flights to UK airports and Europe. From the airport, take the free train into town!!
One of the largest lakes in Western Europe, Lake Geneva sits on the border of France and Switzerland. Why not try something different and explore the lake by paddle board? You can also wind surf and wake board if you consider yourself a water sports enthusiast. Lake Geneva is also recognisable by the Jet d’eau. Literally meaning ‘water jet’, this huge Fountain in Lake Geneva, is one of the tallest fountains in the world, propelling water 140m into the air. Pont du Mont-Blanc and Promenade du Lac are the best places to go for a photo with the fountain but, if you’re looking for a close up shot, hop on a boat for the best view.
All nature lovers should make sure to check out Mont-Saleve, at just 20km from Geneva, it makes a great day-trip. Take the cable car and ascend 1,100m to take part in a host of outdoor activities that will satisfy any adrenaline junkie! There’s paragliding, climbing, mountain biking and cross country skiing to keep you entertained. If you prefer a more relaxing day trip, sit back and relax at the restaurant and admire the view of Mont Blanc.
Geneva is the home of the Palais des Nations, the European Headquarters of the United Nations. This centre of diplomacy attracts 120,000 visitors and 25,000 diplomats a year. Take a tour of the Palace and discover behind the scenes of the political action. You’ll visit the Assembly Hall, The Council Chamber and The Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room. You can also explore the grounds of the Ariana Park, the most prestigious park in Geneva.
Start your tour of this picturesque old town in the Place du Bourg-de-Four. The oldest square in Geneva was once a Roman market place but is now lined with pretty cafes and souvenir shops selling sensational Swiss chocolate. Stroll down the rue de hotel de ville until you reach St Peter’s Cathedral. The cathedral stands on the site of an ancient Roman Temple and its beautiful architecture is a result of its Romanesque, Gothic and Neoclassical transformations. Among the winding streets of the vieille ville, you’ll also find the Maison Tavel, documenting Geneva’s history, and the world famous Hotel de Ville.
