Geneva travel guide
Meet GenevaGeneva weather reportGetting into GenevaTop attractions in GenevaGetting around Geneva Where to eat in GenevaPage 2: More information on Geneva
Meet Geneva
If you are looking for urban grit and grime – you might want to bypass Geneva, but what a mistake that would be. Nice, but never ever boring, it is a place where diamonds and bohemia mix quite peacefully. In neutral Switzerland many mistake Geneva for the capital, it isn’t but it certainly feels it. This is home to the United Nations, World Health Organization, International Red Cross and a good couple of hundred others; all the big world organizations are here. It is this international centre that makes Geneva the cosmopolitan hub that it is, with 184 nationalities making up 45% of its population.
This well-heeled Swiss city boasts some of the world’s most luxury watch labels, chocolate shops and banks. There is a whiff of class and distinction in the air. In yesteryear – as today, Geneva has attracted some wonderful writers and artists. Famously, English poets Lord Byron and Percy Shelley spent time here, breathing in crisp mountain air whilst strolling around the big lake with their lovers.
Perhaps it’s the sense of wealth from all the heart-achingly expensive shops, or the majesty of the Jura Mountains forming the backdrop, but Geneva makes you feel clean. It is not often one can walk around a city and feel they are breathing in fresh air. Tranquillity and picture postcard perfect, if you’ve yet to pay this city a visit, what are you waiting for?
Geneva weather report
In winter (November to February) prepare for icy temperatures. The famous lake freezes over, the mountains are covered in white and the city is suddenly like a big urban ice palace. If you were hoping to spend some time skiing during your visit then obviously this is the time to go.
In the summer the mountains are green and fresh looking, one can almost hear Heidi yodelling from her hut up on the hill. Temperatures are typical of a Mediterranean summer and from June to September expect hot temperatures.
For exploring the city on foot, summer sports on the lake and hiking in the mountains then this is the time to pay your visit. Hikers should beware that even in June there may still be some snow and ice at high altitudes that has yet to thaw.
For the latest weather info use the Pampo weather forecast tool.
Getting into Geneva
Aeroport International de Geneve is a huge international airport, and is the main arrival point for those off to the Alps for a spot of skiing. It has connections to most of Europe’s biggest cities as well as many more world-wide. Upon arrival, catch the train which takes you from the airport to the Gare de Cornavin in the centre of town. This takes eight minutes and will set you back 30 Swiss Francs.
There is also a cheaper bus service (only Sfr3) which will also take you to the Gare de Cornavin within around 10 minutes. A metered taxi should cost from around Sfr30-50.
Top attractions in Geneva
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You cannot miss (literally) Lake Geneva, or Lac Leman if you come over all Francophone. It is the biggest lake in Western Europe and at its side is a truly enormous 140m tall fountain. Stand on the pier below and get soaked, or if you’re feeling adventurous, hire a pedal, motor or sailing boat and venture out onto the historic waters.
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Climb the 157 steps to the top of Cathedral St Pierre – the stunning gothic Cathedral dating back to 11c. From this height you can enjoy amazing views over the city and looking out at the mountains.
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With Swiss time-keeping being as legendary as it is, why not visit the Patek Philippe museum, with history of the famous watchmakers.
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If you’re an art lover, get lost in the spectacular collections of the Musee d’Art et d’Histoire. With classical and contemporary art rooms, as well as constantly changing exhibitions. Go to to see what’s on.
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With all the humanitarianism organisations knocking around, it is no surprise to learn that there is a museum dedicated to the first of its kind: The Red Cross. Photography, films, sculptures and curiosities document the world throughout its history. Fascinating stuff.
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Cine Lac is an open-air summertime cinema on the edge of the lake, could it be anymore idyllic? Check the website for film listings (there may be an English film on with French subtitles).
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Never thought chocolate could be a beauty treatment? Think again. At the ‘After the Rain Spa’ you can enjoy chocolate baths and body wraps. The ultimate in sweet-tooth luxury.
Getting around Geneva
Buses and trams are run by Transports Public Genevois, tickets for which can be purchased at stops and at the TPG office. A one hour ticket for unlimited rides costs Sfr3.
Shuttle boats nicknamed Les Mouettes (The Seagulls) cross the lake every 10 minutes between 7.30am and 6pm. Tickets can be bought from dispensers at boat bays.
In the summer a great way to get around the city is by bike. These can be rented from Geneve Roule for Sfr 12 per day.
Where to eat in Geneva
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Chez Ma Cousine – Nice big homely portions of chicken and potatoes at pocket friendly prices.
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Chez Kei – Geneva’s second-longest running Chinese food restaurant. Still going strong.
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Au Grutli – Stylish mezzanine seating and eclectic menu choices from Mousakka to scallops.
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Cafe de Paris – a popular choice since it opened in 1930. Punters eat from a set menu of salad, entrecote and chips.