geneva tourist map

Map of Geneva — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Geneva, Switzerland for travelers! Check out Geneva’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Geneva? See our Geneva Trip Planner.

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Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Geneva. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Geneva map:

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Top 18 attractions in Geneva

The geneva water fountain, st pierre cathedral.

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International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent

Reformation wall - paul landowski, the flower clock.

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Conservatory and Botanical garden Geneva

Muséum d'histoire naturelle, patek philippe museum, bains des pâquis, tavel house, musée d'art et d'histoire, kiosque des bastions, musée ariana, palais des nations, broken chair.

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Jardin Anglais

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Explore nearby places

• Chene-Bourg
• Le Grand Saconnex
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• Etrembieres
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• Collonges-sous-Saleve
• Monnetier-Mornex
• Prevessin Moens
• Ville-la-Grand
• Saint-Julien-en-Genevois

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Geneva throughout the year

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15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Geneva

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The city of Geneva may seem more French than Swiss, not surprising, since this corner of Switzerland is almost completely surrounded by France . While it may be surprising that a center for world banking and diplomacy would have so many attractions for tourists, you'll find plenty of things to do in Geneva.

Lake Geneva (Lac Leman) gives the city a waterfront, complete with a promenade, places to swim, access to lake tours, and even a water shuttle connecting different parts of the city. The lakefront, along which you'll find many of Geneva's attractions, is lined with elegant parks and gardens.

Behind this, the old town rises above the Rhone River, and its picturesque old streets and flights of steps are dominated by the cathedral. Geneva's international and commercial life provide some places to visit, as well, with the impressive Palais des Nations, a museum of the Red Cross, and the Patek Philippe Museum of watches and watchmaking.

You can be sure of finding the best places to go with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Geneva.

1. See Lake Geneva by Boat

2. jet d'eau (water jet), 3. temple de saint-pierre, 4. stroll through the jardin anglais (english garden) and parc de la grange, 5. place du bourg-de-four, 6. jardin botanique (botanical gardens), 7. palais des nations, 8. day trip to chamonix and mont blanc, 9. explore the past at the musée d'art et d'histoire (art and history museum), 10. monument de la réformation and parc des bastions, 11. patek philippe museum, 12. international red cross and red crescent museum, 13. ariana museum, 14. day trip to evian-les-bains, 15. quai du mont-blanc, where to stay in geneva for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to geneva, map of attractions & things to do in geneva, geneva, switzerland - climate chart.

The lake is unquestionably the star of Geneva's show. It is the background for many of the loveliest city views and itself has the unmatched backdrop of snow-covered Alps.

You can get from one part of the city to another on its Mouettes Genevoises , motor-launches that have shuttled between lakeside quays since 1897.

Or you can explore the lake on one of the regular boats that connect Geneva with Lausanne, Montreux, and other lakeside towns, some of the most popular places to visit near Geneva . For a taste of lake travel of long ago, opt for a cruise on one of the historic paddle steamers , one of the most romantic things to do for couples. To get even closer to the lake, you can rent a paddleboard and take to the water.

Beside the Jetée des Eaux-Vives, the breakwater enclosing Geneva's harbor, a mighty jet of water soars straight up from the lake surface in a 145-meter plume. This water jet has become the symbol of Geneva and is its most famous landmark. A powerful pump propels the water at a rate of about 500 liters a second, which accounts for the height it reaches.

A good viewpoint is from the Bains des Pâquis , a favorite spot for locals to swim, enjoy a sauna, or have a bite in a café.

Dating back to 1150 as the Cathedral of Saint-Pierre, the Romanesque church at the highest point of Geneva's old town features some Gothic elements. During the Protestant Reformation, in which Geneva played an important role, the name was changed to Temple de Saint-Pierre and it became a protestant church.

John Calvin preached sermons here from 1536 to 1564, and his followers stripped out the altars, paintings, and statuary, leaving only the carved capitals and the stained glass from its original decoration.

The two principal towers, dating from the 13th century, were never completed. You can climb to the top for beautiful views of the lake and town, and a corridor connecting the two towers makes it possible to ascend both without having to return to ground level.

The metal spire over the crossing was built in 1895, replacing a tower destroyed by fire in the 15th century. The original west front and doorway were replaced in 1749-56 by a portico of six Corinthian columns, which is not at all harmonious with the building's architecture but doesn't detract from the unity of the somewhat austere interior.

The galleried nave, with the aisles separated by massive clustered piers, ends in the 12th-century choir and semi-circular apse; the transepts are short and narrow. Be sure to notice the late Romanesque and early Gothic capitals in the nave, aisles, choir, and transepts for their workmanship and the variety of their themes.

The stained glass windows are copies of the 15th-century originals, now in the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire. Against the aisle walls, the fifth bay holds late Gothic choir stalls with delicate carving from the destroyed Chapelle des Florentins. In front of the last pillar of the north aisle is a triangular chair said to have been used by John Calvin.

Adjoining the southwest corner is the Chapelle des Macchabées , from 1406, a superb example of High Gothic religious architecture, with beautiful window traceries. Archaeological excavations below the church reveal an extensive underground labyrinth from the early Christian settlement on the hill, including Roman mosaics and two 4th-century Christian sanctuaries.

Address: Cours St-Pierre 6, Geneva

On the south side of the lake, known as the Rive Gauche, the Promenade du Lac runs east from the Pont du Mont-Blanc, flanked by the Jardin Anglais, where you'll see the large flower clock, almost as emblematic of the city as the Jet d'Eau.

The clock, set on a slight slope for easier viewing, changes with the seasonal blooming plants that form its colorful face. Also in the park is the Monument National, with allegorical figures of Helvetia and Geneva, commemorating Geneva's entry into the Swiss Confederation in 1814.

Along the south lakeshore are the landscaped Parc de la Grange, with a beautiful rose-garden, and the Parc des Eaux-Vives , with stately trees and flower-beds.

In the heart of Geneva's Old Town, near the Temple de Saint-Pierre, you'll find the popular Place du Bourg-de-Four. Possibly the oldest square in the city, and certainly its most charming and atmospheric, it is on the site of the Roman forum and held an important market from the ninth century onward. In the 16th century, exiled Protestants found shelter and refuge here.

Today, tourists and locals find refuge in its cafés and restaurants, many of which spill out onto the pavement in good weather. Along with an 18th-century fountain, a statue, Clementine by Heinz Schwarz, stands in the square. The Palais de Justice, which has housed the law courts since 1860 was built as a convent in the early 1700s.

Southeast of the Ariana, between the Avenue de la Paix and the Chemin de l'Impératrice, you'll find Geneva's botanic garden, established in 1902 to replace a smaller one in the Parc des Bastions. Its greenhouses, gardens, and conservatory cover about 28 hectares and feature more than 12,000 species of plants and trees.

An Alpine Garden shows plants from Switzerland's high elevations, and the herbarium is one of the largest in the world, with six million examples. A small animal area includes fallow deer and other wildlife, a popular place to visit for families.

Address: 1 Chemin de l'Impératrice, Geneva

The large complex of marble buildings that make up the Palais des Nations is the European headquarters of the United Nations, a position it assumed after the demise of the League of Nations, whose world headquarters was here.

As such it has become a center of world diplomacy, the largest UN center after New York, with upwards of 25,000 delegates passing through annually. On a guided tour, you can learn about the work carried on here and see the artworks and interiors donated by countries all over the world.

The Assembly Hall, seating more than 2,000, is used for meetings of the United Nations and its associated organizations. From its lobby is a beautiful view of the Alps. The two heavily gilded bronze doors at the ends were brought back from Italy by Napoleon, and presented to the League of Nations by Clemenceau.

The wall and ceiling painting in sepia on gold by J. M. Sert in the smaller Council Chamber was a gift from Spain, completed in 1936, showing themes of technical, social, and medical progress and world peace. In the ante-chamber are three bas-reliefs by Eric Gill inspired by Michelangelo. The library contains more than a million print items as well as electronic journals and books.

Between the main wings is the Cour d'Honneur, a spacious terrace merging into the park, with a magnificent view of the lake and the Alps. In the middle is a bronze armillary sphere with gilded signs of the Zodiac by American sculptor Paul Manship.

Address: Avenue de la Paix 14, Geneva

You can add another country to your travels on a day trip to the Alpine resort of Chamonix and Europe's tallest peak, Mont Blanc. Chamonix is best known as a chic French ski resort , but the rest of the year, it's also a center for climbers and hikers, as well as tourists.

Sightseeing opportunities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc abound, whether you want to do a little climbing or walk on more gentle trails across Alpine pastures. You can ride one of several gondola lifts for even higher views, or ride the tramway to the Nid d'Aigle at 2,372 meters. A walking path leads from here to the Bionnassay glacier.

A historic red cog railway will take you from Chamonix to Montenvers, where you can see the famous Mer de Glace glacier.

While you can drive from Geneva to Chamonix, an easier option is the Chamonix and Mont Blanc Day Trip , traveling by air-conditioned coach through the scenic Arve Valley on a full-day adventure. Optional add-ons include lunch and various mountain rides.

Read More: From Geneva to Mont Blanc: Best Ways to Get There

One of Switzerland's three largest museums, Geneva's Musée d'Art et d'Histoire owes its exceptional collections to the merger of several regional museums, with added donations from private collectors. The result covers the fields of applied and fine art and archaeology, with a collection of weapons, Greek and Roman art treasures, Middle Eastern and Eastern Mediterranean antiquities, Roman and Etruscan pottery, and Egyptian funerary art.

Archaeological finds and antiquities from Geneva and the surrounding area date back to the Paleolithic and the Iron Ages, extending through Roman and Gallo-Roman times to the Middle Ages. Various arts from Gothic and Renaissance periods are also displayed.

The fine art galleries include Italian, Flemish, and Swabian old masters and works by Flemish, Dutch, and French artists of the 16th to 18th centuries. Paintings by Geneva artists of the 18th and 19th centuries complete the collections.

Address: Rue Charles-Galland 2, Geneva

Through a pillared gateway southwest of Geneva's Hôtel de Ville, the Promenade de la Treille is lined with chestnut trees and offers views of Mont Salève and the Jura. Against the wall under the promenade, in the beautiful Parc des Bastions, stands the Reformation Monument, erected in 1917 in recognition of Geneva's leadership in the Protestant Reformation.

In the middle are figures of John Calvin, Guillaume Farel, Théodore de Bèze, and John Knox, prominent leaders of that movement. These are flanked by those of the statesmen who promoted the cause of reforming the church, along with bas-relief scenes from the history of the Calvinist movement. At the ends are memorials to Luther and Zwingli.

Address: Parc des Bastions, Geneva

There's more to the Patek Philippe Museum than watches and watchmaking by this prestigious Geneva firm. Along with example than watches and watchmaking by this prestigious Geneva firm. Along with examples of the company's timepieces since its founding in 1839, the museum displays Swiss and other watches, automated musical devices, and portrait miniatures from the 16th to the 19th century.

The earliest watches here date from the 1500s, and those shown include enameled and technical watches, as well as those from China and Turkey dating from as early as 1600. Besides watches there is an outstanding collection of portrait miniatures from the 17th through 19th-centuries.

Address: Rue des Vieux-Grenadiers 7, Geneva

Although you'll find historic documents and artifacts displayed here, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum is designed to bring visitors into the contemporary work and mission of the world's primary humanitarian aid organization. Through its well-designed and interactive exhibits, visitors discover not only the works of the Red Cross in the two World Wars and other conflicts, but how they are immersed in the contemporary crises the world faces today.

Three separate areas, under the title "The Humanitarian Adventure," explore three major challenges in today's world: Defending Human Dignity, Restoring Family Links, and Reducing Natural Risks. The exhibits are immersive, raising visitors' awareness by simulating the emotional experience of being part of a humanitarian crisis. A large interactive globe shows the latest developments from the field.

Address: Avenue de la Paix 17, Geneva

Near the Palais des Nations is this museum devoted entirely to ceramics and glass production with a collection of 25,000 examples from Switzerland, elsewhere in Europe, and the Middle and Far East. The objects shown illustrate the history of ceramic arts from the early Middle Ages through the 20th century, tracing both the ceramic formation and glazing processes.

The building in which these are displayed was built between 1877 and 1884 to house the private collections of its founder, Gustave Revilliod. He commissioned it to combine the Neoclassical and New Baroque architectural styles, and the result is an impressive gallery with a vaulted ceiling and colonnades. The museum is also the seat of the International Academy of Ceramics.

Address: Avenue de la Paix 10, CH-1202 Geneva

On the French southern shore of Lake Geneva, 25 miles from Geneva, Evian-les-Bains became a popular health resort because of its mineral-rich thermal springs and its beautiful setting backed by Alpine slopes.

Although its history reaches back to the Middle Ages — the church of Notre Dame de l'Assomption was built in the 13th century — Evian-les-Bains reached its height of popularity in the Belle Epoque.

The town retains its Art Nouveau buildings, including the historic Pump House with its tiled dome, stained glass, and ornate clock tower. The elegant Palais Lumière , built as a spa, hosts art exhibits and cultural events. The equally lavish Antoine Riboud Theater hosts the summer Estivales Théâtrales , and in July, the town hosts a classical music festival.

Along the north bank of the lake, the Rive Droite, the Quai du Mont-Blanc extends northeast from the bridge with a view of the Mont-Blanc mountain chain, a beautiful sight especially in the late afternoon of a clear day. At the landing stage in front of the Hôtel Beau Rivage, the Empress Elisabeth of Austria was assassinated by an Italian anarchist in 1898; she is remembered here by a monument.

Beyond the Quai du Mont-Blanc is the imposing Brunswick Monument, a mausoleum modeled on the Scaligeri tombs in Verona, built for Duke Karl II of Brunswick, who left his money to Geneva. Quai Wilson runs north past the large Palais Wilson in which the League of Nations met from 1925 until 1936.

Expect hotels to be expensive in Geneva, especially those along the lake, close to the old town tourist attractions. The area around the main rail station, while handy for airport and train arrivals and not far from the old town, is a nightlife district with a lot of street life. It's safe, but look elsewhere for a quiet family-oriented neighborhood. Geneva hotels provide guests with transport cards for free public transport, including to the airport. Here are some highly-rated hotels in Geneva:

Luxury Hotels :

• Balconies in the spacious Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva rooms overlook the lake and the Jet d'eau, while the hotel is steps from smart old town shops and attractions. It has a pool, spa, and two restaurants.
• Along with the lake and the Jet d'eau, the luxurious individually decorated rooms and restaurant at Hotel d'Angleterre have views of snow-capped Mont Blanc.
• Close to the old town, lake, and restaurants, the exceptionally maintained Hotel Bristol offers free Wi-Fi and a fitness center with a steam room and sauna.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Less than a 10-minute walk from the lake, near the United Nations and Botanic Gardens, Hotel N'vY offers luxury in a smart, contemporary setting.
• Close to CICG conference center and the United Nations, ibis Geneve Centre Nations 300 is a 15-minute walk to the lake and 10 minutes from the station.
• Hotel Kipling - Manotel Geneva is a five-minute walk from the train station and handy to restaurants.

Budget Hotels:

• Opposite the train station and 10 minutes from the lake, Suisse Hotel includes breakfast. Some rooms have views of the cathedral, and the hotel is a five-minute walk from a wide choice of restaurants.
• In the heart of the old town, not far from the cathedral and lakeside gardens, Hotel Central is in a commercial building amid shopping and restaurants.
• In an older building just across the river from the old town, Des Tourelles offers modest rooms with great river views and free continental breakfast.

Sightseeing on Two Wheels:

• Spend three hours visiting the city's highlights on the Explore Geneva in Style with an E-Bike tour . With a group of no more than six people, you'll pedal an electric bike to the tourist attractions, including the Jet d'Eau, United Nations building, and Cathedrale de St-Pierre, as you get an insider's view of Geneva with a local guide. Electric bicycles give you all the fun and freedom of a cycling tour without the effort.

Lausanne, Montreux, and Château de Chillon Day Trip :

• Since distances are relatively short in Switzerland, you can easily add other picturesque Swiss cities to your itinerary with the Day Trip to Lausanne, Montreux and Château de Chillon . After driving through the beautiful countryside, this full-day tour gives you free time to explore the cities of Lausanne and Montreux, as well as a guided tour of the lakeside Château de Chillon and a paddleboat cruise on Lake Geneva (except November).

Gruyères Day Trip:

• To soak up some charming Swiss towns and traditions, consider the Day Trip to Gruyères including Panoramic Train Ride . This full-day tour begins with a visit to the charming village of Broc for a chocolate tasting. Then you travel to the mountaintop town of Gruyères to sample its famous namesake cheese at a local dairy and enjoy a ride on a panoramic train. Chocolate and cheese tastings and a refreshment are all included in the tour.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Where to Go near Geneva: Along with the many easy day trips from Geneva , several nearby cities and regions are worth exploring. Lausanne , with its excellent museums and historic sites, is a short boat or train ride away, and the Swiss capital of Bern and the mountain paradise around Interlaken are short train rides east. In this Jungfrau region , the villages of Mürren and Wengen are among the most charming towns in Europe .

Places to Visit in France: Because Geneva sits right on the border with France , it is easy to reach several French cities, as well. Lyon is only two hours by train. Dijon , to the north in Burgundy , is only a little farther. Geneva is within easy reach of some of the best ski resorts in France . The French Alps are also filled with year-round attractions.

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21 Top Things To Do in Geneva (+Map & 1 Day Itinerary)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 11, 2023

Are you visiting Switzerland and wondering if it’s worth including Geneva in your itinerary? Or maybe you already decided to visit Geneva and just want to learn what are the best things to do in Geneva or how to see the best of Geneva in one day ? This article should answer all your questions – find out!

This post is written in collaboration with Anna from Expert World Travel . Anna lives in Switzerland and knows Geneva quite well. With her insight and tips, we put together this list of the very best things to do and places to visit in Geneva .

Geneva is probably not the first city that comes to mind when people think of traveling in Switzerland. In fact, many international visitors will often end up in Zurich instead of Geneva , if only because their plane lands there. Or visit Lucerne or Bern , because those cities are closer to the rest of the most popular places…

However, it is well worth spending a day or two here to explore the surprising attractions that Geneva has to offer. Not only is this city rich in history, but it also offers stunning lakeside views and quite a few unique attractions that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

BEST OF GENEVA IN A NUTSHELL: * MUST SEE:  Lake Geneva, Old Town, International Quarters. * FUN TO DO:   Boat tour on the lake & chocolate tour . * MUST TRY:  Swiss chocolates. * WHERE TO STAY:  €€€€€ The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix  €€€€  Fairmont Grand Hotel Geneva  €€€ Edelweiss Manotel €€ ibis Geneve Centre Lac . * BEST CITY TOUR:   Old Town & International Quarters . * NEARBY: Chamonix & Mont Blanc tour .

A mild climate and exceptional location make Geneva one of Switzerland’s most sought-after cities to live in. It’s also very cosmopolitan and has a great international atmosphere, also because of the United Nations and many other international organizations that are located here. Despite this and despite the fact that Geneva is one of Switzerland’s largest cities, it somehow manages to retain the feel of a small cozy town. 

So, rather than passing by this stunning city in the French-speaking part of Switzerland, take some time to discover its charm. And to help entice you to spend more time here, we made a selection of amazing places to see and things to experience in Geneva …

In addition, you can find the map indicating all the places worth seeing in Geneva that are mentioned in this post. At the bottom of this article, you can also find some  suggestions on how to see the best of Geneva in one day . Find out!

Things to do in Geneva – overview:

• How to use this guide
• Map of the best places to see in Geneva

1. Lake Geneva & Jet d’Eau

• 2. Geneva Old Town
• 3. Flower Clock & English Garden

4. St Peter’s Cathedral

5. bourg-de-four square.

• 6. Rue du Rhone

7. Art and History Museum

8. old arsenal, 9. reformation wall, 10. bastions park.

• 11. The Palace of Nations (UN)

12. Conservatory and Botanical Garden

• 13. Red Cross Museum

14. Patek Philippe Museum

• 15. Marché de Plainpalais

17. Natural History Museum

• 18. Bains des Pâquis or Genève-Plage

19. Swiss Chocolate

20. musée ariana, 21. mont salève cable car.

• One day In Geneva: suggested itinerary
• Where to stay
• What to see nearby – Geneva day trips

How to Use This Guide

We ranked the main Geneva attractions in such a way that all the must-sees are on top. All the places on this list are really nice to see, of course, but unless you have a week in Geneva, there is no way to visit them all. So you’ll have to choose what suits your interests best.

To help you with the planning, we also included a map indicating all the main Geneva attractions.

Geneva has so much to offer that you could easily spend several days in the city. However, if you are like most visitors, you are probably just visiting Geneva for one day. So, in order to help you get the most of your time in Geneva, we also have some suggestions on how to best spend one day in Geneva . You can find these suggestions at the bottom of the article.

But if you do have the time, definitely stay in Geneva for at least 2-3 days. There’s plenty to see and do in the city and nearby! At the bottom of this article, you’ll find our tips for places to see near the city and also suggestions on where to stay .

TIP: If you are planning to visit several attractions in Geneva, consider getting the Geneva Pass that includes all the main attractions, public transport, and much more… It’s the best way to see the city and explore the lake at your own pace. It offers really good value, especially if you are in the city for a few days.

Top Things to Do in Geneva on the Map

In order to help you plan your time in Geneva, I created this map indicating all the main Geneva attractions.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

These are the top attractions and the best things to do in Geneva:

Geneva is located on the shores of the Rhone river and the stunning Lake Geneva , so you should definitely take advantage of that. A simple stroll on either side of the Rhone river is definitely worth your time. After all, Lake Geneva is one of the main Geneva attractions!

Most big cities have a landmark that everyone identifies with that city. Geneva’s iconic symbol is  Jet d’Eau – a huge water jet that splashes water to 140 m (460ft) height. You can see it in the distance from almost anywhere along the lake, but it’s worth getting up close to really appreciate how powerful it is. Jet d’Eau is operational in the warmer season only – usually from March till the end of October. 

Along the left bank is a wide promenade with lawns, flower beds, and lots of trees. The right bank of the lake is known for the luxurious mansions of Quai du Mont-Blanc and offers stunning distant views of the surrounding mountains.

Lakeside promenade is a beautiful place that you can explore on foot, but I recommend renting a bike. Otherwise, it will take you several hours just to visit the main Geneva attractions located along the lake.

If you are visiting Geneva in summer, you can pop into the public swimming baths, Bains des Pâquis, which are actually in the lake. More info further below. 

TIP:  A 1-hour boat cruise is the most popular way to explore Lake Geneva. If you are short on time and want to see the main highlights of Geneva in just half a day, check out this city tour that also includes a boat ride on Geneva Lake .

2. Old Town

There are actually lots of different things to see in the old town of Geneva , but before we get to those I wanted to highlight the old town as a destination of its own. Just strolling through the cobbled streets, peering down the alleys and getting lost, is an experience that makes it a must-do in Geneva.

Geneva’s old town is dotted with some incredible architectural gems, many dating back to the 12th – 18th century. At the same time, it’s a very cozy place filled with modern cafés, shops, and restaurants.

Some of the highlights not to be missed in the old town are the public gardens Promenade des Bastions, large city squares Place Neuve and Place du Bourg-de-Four, picturesque Grand’Rue street, the City Hall, several museums, and churches. You’ll find the most important attractions listed further below.

While it may look like a labyrinth at first, the old town of Geneva is actually very hard to get lost in. It is clearly bounded on all sides, so don’t stress about that. Just be prepared to do some uphill walking and plan at least 1,5-2 hours for a visit.

TIP:  Visit the small islands of the Rhone river as well. There are several cafés and restaurants on the islands, or you can grab a takeaway sandwich and join the locals for a picnic on the tiny Ile Rousseau.

3. Geneva Flower Clock & English Garden

Another famous landmark and one of the most must-see tourist attractions in Geneva is the famous flower clock, L’horloge fleurie . It is exactly what it sounds like – a clock made from flowers.

Geneva Flower Clock is an actual functioning clock that has all the background and markings made inside a bed of flowers. This masterpiece, a symbol of Geneva’s clock-making industry, is made of thousands of different flowers. It’s well maintained and since flowers are changed several times a year, the clock is nice to see in any season. But for the most beautiful colors and to see the flower clock in all its splendor, you should visit in summer.

Flower clock might be one of the most famous Geneva attractions, but it’s actually quite small, so don’t expect too much of it. It takes just a few minutes to visit and to take an obligatory picture.

Geneva Flower Clock is located in Jardin Anglais , the English-inspired park that also features a 19th-century fountain, various monuments, and stunning lake views. Jardin Anglais is one of the prettiest public parks in Geneva and is the perfect place to find some peace away from the city crowds. 

Cathédrale St-Pierre is one of the main points of interest in Geneva’s old town. Built in the 12th-13th centuries and partially rebuilt later, it’s a huge building tightly wedged in amongst the old town. Even standing in front of the Cathedral you can’t fully appreciate it’s grandeur…

I recommend trying to circle the building completely and discover the hidden sides of the Cathedral. There is a small staircase behind the Cathedral that leads back down to the street between the Rue du Rhone shopping area and the Place Bourg-de-Four. It’s a little hidden gem of Geneva, so check it out.

For the best picture spot, I recommend the right side of the Cathedral.

TIP: Climb the 156 steps on the winding staircase to the top of the North Tower of the Cathedral. From here you have a magnificent view over the old town, Lake Geneva, and mountains in the distance.

Place Bourg-de-Four is located in the heart of the old town, just next door to the St Pierre Cathedral. This enticing and very French-looking square dates from the Middle Ages and is the oldest town square in Geneva.

This cobblestoned town square with a flower-bedecked fountain in the middle is surrounded by old buildings that host antique shops, art galleries, and cafés.

With so many other great attractions right around the corner, you are bound to cross this square a few times while in Geneva. So there is no excuse not to stop here. Get yourself some coffee or local beer and absorb the city life from one of the many relaxing café terraces of Borg-de-Four square.

6. Window Shopping on Rue du Rhone

Switzerland is an expensive place, so it is no surprise that the main shopping areas attract some of the world’s top brands. Window shopping in a place like Geneva is a great way to spend an afternoon, or you can just pass by and take a quick look on your way to the main tourist attractions in Geneva.

Take a peek into the étalages of Tag Heuer or Rolex shops and dream of watches most of us can’t afford. Or check out what Bulgari or Dior are doing this month and see if you can grab something similar at H&M or Zara…

With everything from art and archeology, and from prehistoric times to the 21st century, there is something for everyone at the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire. This is the largest museum in Geneva, but its collection is organized by period, easily guiding you through the centuries of evolution of art. 

Some of the most famous works of Geneva’s Art & History museum include paintings by Monet, Cézanne, Renoir, and Sisley. In my opinion, this is not a must among places to visit in Geneva, especially if you are only here for a day. But if you have more time and love art, check it out!

The museum is located in the old town, next to Place Bourg-de-Four mentioned above, and the permanent exhibition can be visited free of charge.

There is also a nice park opposite, Parc de l’Observatoire, where you can take a quick break from the midday sun. Even if you are not planning to visit the museum, make sure to check out the stunning building. It’s worth a visit if only to see it from the outside.

If you are up for something a little unusual to do in Geneva, it’s worth popping by the Ancien Arsenal. This tiny museum is tucked right behind the St Peter’s Cathedral and is one of the lesser known places to see in Geneva. 

It’s not a mind-blowing museum or stunning work of art… Still, I recommend it as one of the more unique things to do in Geneva. The display of cannons under the arches with the creative mosaics depicting Geneva’s history on the surrounding walls is something you won’t quickly find elsewhere.

This museum is conveniently located in the old town, it’s free to visit, and only takes a few minutes of your time. You’re in for a real treat – don’t miss this secret little gem when in Geneva!

Among the best places to see in Geneva is also one of its most famous landmarks, The International Monument to the Reformation, known as  Reformation Wall .

It is a huge wall with the figures of Geneva’s most famous reformers (such as John Calvin, the founder of the University of Geneva) sculpted into it, standing over you like four wise old Jedis. It is a reminder of the Reformation period that had a huge influence on Geneva, and Switzerland as a whole, back in the 1500s.

Reformation Wall is located right next to Promenade des Bastions (see below) and makes a nice stop right next to the old town. You can easily reach it on foot – it’s less than 10 minutes walking from the Cathedral.

The Reformation Wall sits right along the edge of Parc des Bastions , so you might as well take advantage of your time here. The park is quite big and has some very relaxing areas where you can take a break from busy city life. It’s also a wonderful place to visit if you are in Geneva with kids.

The promenade running through the center of this park – Promenade des Bastions – is a place where you’ll meet many locals. Some doing sports or out for a leisurely stroll, others hastily passing by on their bikes on their daily commute.

You can find giant chess and checkers here and in winter there is also an ice skating rink. This is a great place to see in Geneva if you have some time to spare.

11. The Palace of Nations, the United Nations Office in Geneva

As a very neutral country that has not participated in a war for centuries, it is perhaps no surprise that Switzerland is also home to one of the main offices of the UN. The  Palais des Nations is located a little further away from the other Geneva attractions, so I recommend either using a bicycle or public transport to get here.

If you want to get inside the UN, you will have to book ahead – they don’t take spontaneous visits. There are two tours available. First is a guided tour focused on UN activities in Geneva, visiting the rooms where important international meetings and negotiations take place. The second is a thematic Art and Architecture tour, focused more on the building itself rather than the United Nations. You can find more information and book a tour of Palais des Nations here .

If you are less interested in politics, history, or architecture, you can just visit the beautiful Ariana park surrounding the UN Geneva office. No need for any special reservations for that. The Palais des Nations is one of the most special places in Geneva and well worth a quick visit when in town.

Don’t miss the huge broken chair on the square outside the building. It is there to commemorate people who have lost limbs to landmines.

TIP: You could spend just an hour or the whole day in this part of Geneva. If you have more time, check out Musée Ariana, the Gandhi statue, and also the nearby Museum of the Red Cross or Botanical Garden (more info on the latter two below).

Geneva’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are spread across some 28 hectares in a beautiful setting in a park near Lake Geneva. The herbarium here is one of the largest in the world, with more than six million samples!

Conservatoire et Jardin Botanique  is also home to a living collection of more than 14,000 species, which includes rock gardens, horticultural plants, medical plants, a zoo near the lake and so much more. It is a living museum full of all kinds of plants and it’s extremely well kept. Without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Geneva, especially if you are visiting in late spring or in summer.

Admission to the conservatory is free of charge – one of the rare places to visit in Geneva where you don’t need a ton of cash to have lots of fun.

TIP: If you like parks, you may also want to check the nearby Parc Villa Barton, La Perle du Lac, and Parc Mon Repos. These parks are on the shore of Lake Geneva and all offer stunning views of the crescent-shaped lake. Perfect for a morning walk, a relaxing bike ride, or some playground time for the children. Park Villa Barton is known for its giant sequoias – very impressive. 

13. International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent

Continuously rated as one of the best museums in Geneva , the Red Cross Museum is one of the most unique places to see in Geneva.

This museum provides a very touching insight into the history of mankind. It is extremely well done with lots of interactive displays. 

You are confronted with the experiences of people who lived through wars and all kinds of disasters and get a very good insight into humanitarian work. It might not be the best place for young kids, but otherwise – not to be missed in Geneva. Count 1-2 hours for a visit.

For opening times and more information, please consult the website of the museum .

You cannot visit Switzerland without getting confronted with what it’s most famous for – Swiss watches. From Omega and Rolex to Swatch and Victorinox, there are more Swiss watch brands than you can name. If you want to get deep into the watch-making history of Switzerland, there is probably no better place to do that than Geneva.

One of the most formative names of watchmaking, Patek Philippe, has a stunning museum in Geneva. I know, that choices of what to see and do in Geneva might get overwhelming, but if you are interested in watches and the history of watchmaking, then the  Patek Philippe Museum is not to be missed. 

Located in a beautifully restored factory, within a walking distance from the old town, the Patek Philippe museum is one of Geneva’s highest-rated attractions. However, it requires at least 2 hours to visit, so it’s probably not something to do if you only have a day in Geneva.

TIP:  Included in your ticket price is a free guided tour. It’s the best way to visit this museum and to get to know the history of the company and interesting facts about selected watches. More info on their website .

15. Marché de Plainpalais – Farmers and Flea Market

If you like shopping, then Marché de Plainpalais is a great spot for you. It is both a flea market and a farmers market in the center of Geneva.

You can buy pretty much anything here – from fresh flowers and spices to a laptop or some new chairs. It’s the best spot in Geneva to do some shopping, mostly because of the extremely low prices.

The market is open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, from 8 AM.

CERN is a European research organization that operates the largest particle physics laboratory in the world. It’s located just outside Geneva city and very close to the Franco-Swiss border. It’s really easy to get there – you can get a bus from Geneva, and then walk for a few minutes.

It is definitely worth the effort to visit CERN if you have more time in Geneva. The large wooden dome is a breathtaking piece of architecture, which looks even better in person than in photos.

If you want to join a guided tour of the laboratory, note that you have to reserve it 15 days in advance. The tours are free of charge but sell out very quickly, so this requires some advance planning. You can find more information about visiting CERN and book your visit here .

This museum in Geneva is actually the largest Museum of Natural History in entire Switzerland. The entrance to the museum is free, but there are no guided tours available. It’s one of the best museums in Geneva for families with kids, but also adults will enjoy it for sure.

Among other things, you can even see a stone from the moon. It was a gift to the museum from NASA – pretty cool, right?

Other than that, there are plenty of other exhibitions in the museum, including fossil rocks, dinosaur fossils, and over 200 hundred stuffed animals. Some of which look way too real!

18. Bains des Pâquis or Genève-Plage

Want to swim in Lake Geneva? Hit up Bains des Pâquis , one of the hottest swimming spots in the city. This is a pier on the lake and it features a lighthouse at its end.

This outdoor bath is located right in the city center and in the summer months, the place is crawling with people who want to relax and cool off, so be prepared for the crowds. 

Another great place for swimming and watersports, albeit a bit further from the city center, is Tropical Corner  or  Genève-Plage. This is just another of Geneva’s wonderful parks on the banks of Lake Geneva. It features a beach, a large outdoor swimming pool, and a restaurant. This is an extremely popular place during summer weekends.

One last thing you absolutely have to do in Geneva (and Switzerland for that matter) is to sample as much Swiss chocolate as you can get your hands on. A wide variety of chocolate shops in Geneva make that a cinch.

I recommend checking out both: the more niche chocolatiers in Geneva, as well as more famous chocolate shops. For a true taste of what hand-made chocolates are like, try Auer Chocolatier, Favarger Chocolate Factory or Du Rhône Chocolatier. Just beware – you may never want to eat mass-produced chocolate again.

Once you have had your fill of those, you can move to the more famous producers like Laderach, Lindt & Sprüngli. You will find these brands in most major cities in Switzerland, so if you don’t have time in Geneva, you’ll be able to find them in other towns as well.

Sprüngli is famous for its Luxemburgerli , which are not chocolates, but macaroons. Don’t let that put you off though, grab a small box of those to try all different kinds, from salted caramel to champagne. They are simply divine!

Also known as the Swiss Museum of Ceramics and Glass, Musée Ariana is located in an Italian palace-style building that dates from the 19th century.

It features a truly unique collection (literally one of a kind) in Switzerland, with more than 20,000 objects. This includes various pieces of glass and ceramics, collected in the past 1200 years. Most of the pieces on display are of European origin, but there are also some stunning pieces from Japan and China.

The museum was originally established in 1884, by Gustave Revilliod, who named it after his mother – hence the unique name of the museum.

It’s virtually impossible to leave Switzerland without riding at least one cable car. And luckily, there is one extremely close to Geneva, at Mont Salève . This is an extremely popular place to visit near Geneva. Tourists and local Genovese go here for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and even paragliding.

Mont Saléve is easily accessible by road, but you can also hike there – if you’re up for the grueling adventure. Oh, and remember to bring your passport, since Mont Salève is technically in France.

The Mont Saléve cable car takes you 1100 meters high in less than five minutes. The ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of Geneva, which are without a doubt worth the price. The ride is actually free with Geneva Pass .

One Day in Geneva: Suggested Itinerary

If you have just one day in Geneva , you’re probably overwhelmed with all these options of the best things to do in the city. Here are our recommendations for how to see the best of Geneva in just one day . 

Wake up early, so that you can really make the most of your day. Since shops and museums aren’t open in the morning, you could visit one of the parks first.  Bastions Park  and  The Reformation Wall  is a good option.

If you are in Geneva on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday, start your day at  Marché de Plainpalais  market. Some chocolate shops serve delicious breakfast, so it might be a nice way to start your day sightseeing in Geneva.

Afterwards explore the  Old Town  and visit the St. Pierre Cathedral . It is an amazing sight both on the inside and the outside and also the view from the top of the tower is not to be missed. Remember to check out the  Ancien Arsenal, as mentioned above. A quick tour fits perfectly into the itinerary and leaves enough time to explore the rest of Geneva.

If you like museums, there are several of them in this area, but with just a day in Geneva, you can probably only visit one. The  Art and History Museum and also the Natural History Museum are both in the old town. Patek Philippe Museum is also within walking distance.

For lunch, we recommend either the Mango Deck or Au Canivore. Both places are on Bourg-de-Four , the city’s main square with high-end shops, restaurants, and cafes. If you rather make it quick and spend more time exploring the city, pop into one of the shops of La Maison du Sandwich for a huge meatball sub.

After lunch check out the Rue du Rhône – the street where you will find most designer boutiques in Geneva, like Chanel, Versace, Philip Patek, and plenty of others. It’s a truly amazing luxe experience, both for the window shoppers and the credit card swipers.

Next up is Lake Geneva . Obviously, you can’t have a perfect day in Geneva without being by the lake. We recommend going to the Jardin Anglais to see the amazing Flower Clock . It is truly an astonishing sight, and the rest of the park is pretty beautiful as well.

From here it’s really close to the Jet d’Eau – the brilliant water fountain, one of Geneva’s most famous landmarks. Try to get as close to it as you can – it’s definitely worth seeing the majestic 140-meter-tall jet up close.

If you still have some time on your hands, it’s best to take a boat tour on the lake or just relax on the lakeshore. Head over to the Place de Jeux des Bains des Pâquis . Definitely check out the lighthouse at the end of the pier. Alternatively, explore to one of the many parks by the lake. It’s the perfect way to end a long day in Geneva.

TIP: If you are really short on time, you can join this 3-hour tour that covers all the main Geneva highlights in the city center and also includes a boat ride on the lake. A tour like this shows you the very best of Geneva in a nutshell. 

Where to Stay

Geneva is a big city with many hotels and other accommodation options. For sightseeing, the absolute best place to stay is in the city center, close to the lake. Of course, the hotels overlooking the lake are also VERY expensive (take a look at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix if you are looking for an ultimate Swiss hotel experience).

Fairmont Grand Hotel Geneva is one of the nicest affordable-luxury hotels with a great location. For a mid-budget alternative in a great location, check out Edelweiss Manotel . On a lower budget (this is however relative in Switzerland), check ibis Geneve Centre Lac .

If you are looking for lower-budget accommodations in Geneva , then you’ll have to look a bit further away from the city center.

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels, apartments, and short-term rental accommodations in Geneva . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay (this map compares all the websites and shows you the best deals). You can also zoom out to see accommodations outside the city center.

What to See Nearby – Geneva Day Trips

If you have two or three days in Geneva, the above list of things to do should give you more than enough inspiration.

If you have even more time or rather expand your horizons and visit some other great places nearby, I recommend  Lausanne , Vevey , or Montreux . They all have lovely town centers to visit as well as their own local attractions, and all are perched right on the lake with alpine views. 

Vevey has its renowned “fork in the lake”, which I will leave you to figure out on Google. Montreux is home to the renowned Jazz Festival in July, and Lausanne is a city of its own worth –  here you can find more information about visiting Lausanne .

A popular day trip from Geneva is to visit Gruyères , an extremely picturesque mountain village. Check out this amazing  Gruyères gold tour with a train ride & chocolate and cheese tastings.

Another popular option is a  guided day trip to Chamonix and Mont-Blanc . If you are looking for a chance to see some incredible Alpine landscapes, then this is one of the best day trips to consider!

So, this is our list of the very best things to see and do in Geneva, Switzerland. As you can see, there is something for everybody in Geneva.

From shopaholics and chocolate lovers to nature and outdoor enthusiasts and everything in between – you will be hard-pressed to find such a beautiful city with such a broad range of things to see and do. Have a wonderful trip!

If you are looking for more inspiration for your trip, please check out our other articles about Switzerland .

More tips for your trip to Switzerland:

• Best Day Trips from Lucerne
• Interlaken Day Trip
• Best Things to Do in Lucerne
• Best Things to Do in Bern
• Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe
• Mount Pilatus, Lucerne
• Mt Pilatus Golden Round Trip
• Mount Titlis
• Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
• Mt Titlis vs. Jungfraujoch
• Zermatt – Things to Do
• Trümmelbach Falls (underground waterfalls!)
• Things to Do in Grindelwald-First
• Schynige Platte (a hidden gem!)

READ ALSO: Swiss Travel Pass (What’s Included and If It’s Worth it)

If you found this list of things to do in Geneva useful, don’t forget to bookmark this post and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

Some of our favorite hikes in Switzerland:

• Oeschinensee: Oeschinen Lake & Panorama Hike  (our favorite hike in Switzerland)
• Matterhorn Glacier Trail (Zermatt)
• Stoos Ridge Trail (Lucerne area)
• Bachalpsee (Grindelwald)
• Schynige Platte Hikes (Interlaken area)
• Hiking in Engelberg (Lucerne area)
• Gornergrat Scenic Trail (Zermatt)
• Riffelsee Lake Trail (Zermatt)
• Randa Suspension Bridge (Zermatt)
• Best Hikes in Zermatt

Winter trip:

• Skiing in Engelberg
• Skiing in Wengen – Grindelwald
• Jungfrau Region in winter
• Skiing in Switzerland on a Budget

Additional tips for planning your trip to Europe:

• Best Time to Visit Europe
• How to Plan a Trip to Europe

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Thursday 12th of May 2022

I love Geneva and been here several times as a visitor or just passing through as I fly into the airport quite often. I done quite a lot of things on this list however on top of my list is the cable car nearby as mentioned. That I do want to do and hopefully we do it on my next visit (really hope its a sunny day). One of my favourite cities in Switzerland and of course, once out of the city, all those mountains and the lake to explore, its truly a city close to nature. :)

Monday 16th of May 2022

Hope you get to enjoy the beautiful scenery from Mont Salève Cable Car on your next visit to Geneva. Happy travels!

Mark Simons

Monday 26th of April 2021

I'm surprised a side trip to Yvoir is not mentioned. From the Swiss side, one takes a short train hope from Geneve to Nyon. Ferry from Nyon (so ou get to get out on the lake) and the medieval town of Yvoir is utterly charming. We found a very nice hotel in Auberge which was very reasonably priced and a short 15 tram ride from Geneve City Centre.

Friday 30th of April 2021

Hi Mark, thanks a lot for sharing your experience. This guide is really mostly focused on the city and a few of the most popular things to do nearby. There's no way to mention all the amazing places to see near Geneva and it's not really the purpose of this city guide. But thanks for the tip. Hopefully it will be useful to some of our readers who are planning a longer stay in the area.

Thursday 12th of March 2020

Hi Jurga Nice post. Thank you for sharing all these tips for Geneva that is particularly useful for my upcoming trip. I hope this virus will stop and allow us to visit Switzerland.

Friday 13th of March 2020

Fingers crossed it all passes quickly. Enjoy Geneva!

Sandra Lankenau

Wednesday 26th of February 2020

Thank You for all the Wonderful Suggestions ~ We will now come away from this beautiful city with a better sense of the people, the culture, and all the beauty it has to offer....and we won't forget to try the chocolate !

Friday 28th of February 2020

Glad you found this useful, Sandra. Enjoy your time in Geneva!

Thursday 25th of July 2019

Quick question: Are all destinations in this one day itinerary walkable (Destination to destination)? at any point do i need to take a bus or taxi?

Saturday 27th of July 2019

Hi Kate, the suggested one-day itinerary is walkable. We listed the places in such a way that you don't have to walk up and down the same way too much. If you decide to visit any of the international institutions and such, you'll need to take a bus or a bike. Enjoy your time in Geneva!

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Like the swans that frolic on its eponymous Alpine lake (Europe's largest), Geneva (Genève) is a rare bird. Constantly perceived as the Swiss capital (it isn't), Switzerland's second-largest city is slick and cosmopolitan, and its people chatter in almost every language among streets paved by gold.

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Experience the real Geneva. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Jet d'Eau

When landing by plane, this lakeside fountain is your first dramatic glimpse of Geneva. The 140m-tall structure shoots up water with incredible force –…

Founded in 1954, the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), 8km west of Geneva, is a laboratory for research into particle physics. It…

Conservatoire et Jardin Botaniques

Geneva's premier botanical park – renowned for its Botanical Conservatory – boasts over 12,000 species of plants from around the world, meticulously…

Musée d'Ethnographie de Genève

Admission is free to the permanent collection of this excellent hands-on museum, which examines the similarities and differences of our planet's myriad of…

Vieille Ville

A stroll around Geneva's beautiful Old Town is a must. Its main street, the Grand-Rue, shelters the Maison de Rousseau et de la Literature at No 40, where…

Cathédrale St-Pierre

Geneva's cathedral is predominantly Gothic with an 18th-century neoclassical facade. Between 1536 and 1564 Protestant John Calvin preached here; see his…

Palais des Nations

Home to the UN since 1966, the Palais des Nations was built between 1929 and 1936 to house the now-defunct League of Nations. Visits are by guided tour …

Quai du Mont-Blanc

Flowers, statues, outdoor art exhibitions and views of Mont Blanc (on clear days only) abound on this picturesque northern lakeshore promenade, which…

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15 Top Tourist Attractions in Geneva

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

An affluent place that is home to many international organizations and embassies – as well as the United Nations – Geneva is the second largest city in the country and is well worth visiting for its plethora of amazing sights. Full of lovely old buildings, museums, parks and more, it is a fantastic place to wander around, with loads to see and do.

On top of all the historic and cultural tourist attractions in Geneva, the River Rhone runs through the city, which also lies on the shores of Lake Geneva. As such, there is lots of nature for visitors to enjoy and beautiful mountains form a stunning backdrop to Geneva. With so much tourist attractions on offer, you’ll have your work cut out trying to fit everything into your trip to this wonderful city.

Map of Geneva

15. Reformation Wall

Located in the fantastic Parc Des Bastions, the Reformation Wall is a must-see when you are in Geneva; the monument depicts an important moment that changed Europe’s history forever.

Built to honor the main individuals who influenced the movement, the Reformation Wall documents the Protestant Reformation and the schism that took place in Western Christianity in the 16th century.

Beautiful to behold, there are numerous statues and bas-reliefs of such influential figures as John Calvin, Oliver Cromwell, and William Farel. Really well done, the wall is definitely worth checking out and it is not far from a lot of the other main attractions in Geneva.

14. Jardin Anglais

Created in 1855, this wonderful little park lies alongside the waterfront not far from the iconic Jet d’Eau. It is a lovely spot at which to sit back, relax and enjoy the sun. Very English in style and look, it is modeled after country manor house gardens and is delightfully landscaped, with little winding paths passing by statues of prominent Genevans and well-tended flowerbeds.

At the center of the park is a beautiful fountain, although the highlight is undoubtedly the Horloge Fleurie – a working clock that ticks its way around its flowerbed face. Intended as an homage to the country’s famous watchmakers, it is the cherry on top of what Jardin Anglais has to offer.

13. International Red Cross Museum

Opened in 1988, this thought-provoking museum is well worth a visit when you’re in Geneva. It was here that the organization was founded all the way back in 1863. As the aim of the ICRC is to protect human life and alleviate suffering, the exhibitions focus on topics pertaining to life-saving, with the three mains parts looking at how to defend human dignity, reconstruct families and reduce natural risks.

The ‘Humanitarian Adventure’ exhibition is very interesting to wander around and is both educational and entertaining in equal measure.

12. Museum of Art and History

Full of interesting old items and artifacts, the Museum of Art and History is a fantastic place to visit and its extensive galleries will keep you entertained for hours. Located in a lovely building in the center of the city, it is the largest art museum in Switzerland; the fine arts and archaeology sections are among its many highlights.

With a huge range of art on show, perusing the exhibitions is mesmerizing; there is even a 3000-year-old Egyptian mummy for you to gaze upon. Genevan artists figure prominently in the collection and there are even works by such renowned names as Rembrandt and Rodin for you to enjoy.

11. Parc Des Bastions

Located right next to Place Neuve, the park is a delightful haven of peace and quiet and is a lovely spot if you want to relax after a day sightseeing around the city. A leafy place that is home to expansive lawns, a restaurant, and a children’s playground, Parc Des Bastions is best known for the beautiful Reformation Wall that is located within its confines.

Throughout the year, various cultural events and festivals take place here. It is a popular park with locals, who come here to escape the busy city streets.

10. Patek Philippe Museum

Famous around the world for its watches, Switzerland – and Geneva in particular – is home to the wonderful Patek Philippe Museum, which will introduce you to the art and history of watchmaking. Spanning over 500 years of history, the museum is a fascinating place to visit and is actually home to the oldest watch in the world, with its antique collection being quite stunning to gaze upon.

With over 2000 exhibits on show, there are loads of lovely watches for you to peruse. The galleries take you through the whole process and evolution of making watches and you can even watch professional watch-makers as they work.

9. Palais des Nations

Built in 1938, the Palais des Nations complex hosts thousands upon thousands of intergovernmental meetings every year; it is one of the most influential places on Earth. It is the second most important United Nations office after the headquarters in New York and there is a fascinating guided tour on offer that takes you around all the main landmarks on show.

Whether it is the stunning Assembly Hall or the impressive Council Chamber, the Palais des Nations will wow you with all that there is to see.

8. Jardin Botanique

Lying on the western lakeshore, the botanical gardens are delightful to wander around and, remarkably, contain over 14,000 different plant species from around the globe. Beautifully landscaped, nature lovers will adore all of its amazing attractions.

There an almost endless array of flowerbeds, ponds and rose gardens for you to explore, with the herbarium housing over six million specimens. With a zoo also on site, the Jardin Botanique is a great place to visit with loads to see and do.

7. Bains des Paquis

Located on the western shore of Lake Geneva, the Bains des Paquis is a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike; it is just a stone’s throw away from the Jet d’Eau. The public baths are lovely to wallow in and many people come here to exercise or relax on the pier or beach.

While it is mostly frequented during the summer, hardy swimmers can still enjoy the baths in winter as there is a sauna and hammam on hand. It is during the summer, however, when Bains des Paquis really comes alive and the area is thronged with people enjoying the sun. Numerous cultural events – such as classic musical recitals and local festivals – only add to the intoxicating atmosphere and feel.

6. Natural History Museum

Opened in 1966, the Natural History Museum houses a fine collection that covers everything from taxidermy and insect specimens to moon rocks, fossils and the evolution of man. A great place for all the family to visit, the exhibitions are very well laid out and lots of display panels explain exactly what it is you’re looking at; young ones will particularly enjoy stopping by the floors devoted to the animal kingdom.

In total, there are over 200 taxidermies on show, as well as countless moon rocks and fossils. One of the most interesting and impressive things to see at the museum is actually a living tortoise called Janus that has two heads who has defied biological norms to live for over 20 years.

5. Mont Saleve

Lying on the edge of the city, Mont Saleve appears before you like an impenetrable wall of rock, which at its zenith reaches a height of 1379 meters. The views from up high are spectacular, with Geneva lying below you and the Jura Mountains and Mont Blanc off in the distance.

While you can hike, bike or drive to its summit, another option is the cable car which will take you to the top in no time at all. With loads of outdoor activities on offer, Mont Saleve is the perfect spot to go rock climbing, mountain biking or paragliding – you can even go skiing at Col de la Corisette if you feel like it.

While ambling through the alpine meadows is delightful, the highlight is undoubtedly the stunning view; it is not without reason that Mont Saleve has been nicknamed the ‘balcony of Geneva’.

4. Cathedrale St-Pierre

St Peter’s Cathedral, as it is known in English is a lovely building in the center of the old town. Its huge North and South Towers loom above the rest of the city. Built between 1160 and 1252, the architecture is largely Gothic in style, although a delightful Neo-Classical facade was added around the 18th century.

Constructed on top of a 4th century basilica, the cathedral is the most important religious building in Geneva, and views from the top of it are absolutely stunning; you can see the Alps off in the distance.

The interior is unassuming and undecorated in comparison with many other cathedrals and churches. As such, it is mainly the lovely architecture on show that people come to see.

3. Vieille Ville

Full of beautiful old buildings, Geneva’s Vieille Ville is the historic center of the city and is well worth walking around for its picturesque squares and winding, cobbled lanes. A veritable labyrinth of a place, wandering around is a delightful experience; historic buildings line the roads and atmospheric cafes are interspersed amongst galleries, museums and more.

Dripping in history, the Vieille Ville is a must-see when in Geneva. Highlights include the stunning St Peter’s Cathedral and the fantastic Bourg-de-Four square, which used to be a Roman marketplace.

The headquarters of the European Organization for Nuclear Research is a fascinating place, where loads of cutting-edge scientific experiments are conducted every single day. It actually hosts the largest particle physics laboratory in the world. Visitors can take a tour around parts of CERN to see what exactly goes on there, with the particle accelerator being particularly interesting to check out.

In addition to the tour, there is a museum on particle physics and the history of the organization, including what it has achieved and what it is working on. The Globe of Science and Innovation somehow manages to break down complex ideas and scientific theories into accessible terms and this serves to make CERN both an entertaining and educational place to visit.

1. Jet d’Eau

This iconic landmark is known around the world and is one of the main attractions that people just have to see when visiting Geneva. Seemingly spurting out from the center of the lake, the Jet d’Eau towers to a height of 140 meters and is actually accessible from a small stone jetty.

If you get too near, however, you are almost certain to get wet, as over 500 liters of water are pumped out every second. Located at the spot where Lake Geneva joins the Rhone, the Jet d’Eau is a wonderful fountain and is a favorite amongst locals and tourists alike.

Best Time to Visit Geneva

Almost completely surrounded by France, Geneva lies at the southern end of the large lake of the same name, amidst the snowy Alps and Jura Mountains. As the weather is warmest in summer, July and August are the most popular months to visit.

With temperatures averaging 24 to 25°C (75 to 77°F), many hike in the nearby mountains or cool off in the lake. Although this is one of the busiest and most expensive times of the year, fun events like the Lake Parade also take place.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn also attract lots of people to Geneva. While April to June and September and October are slightly cooler, more affordable accommodation and fewer crowds more than make up for it. You can still enjoy the great outdoors or attend Fete de la Musique and the Bol d’Or Mirabaud – the world’s largest inland regatta!

November to March is the low season as worsening weather puts most people off. Some winter sports enthusiasts do however head to the city in December and January to go skiing in the nearby mountains.

As each month has 12 to 16 days with at least some rain, pack a coat whenever you visit!

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Geneva   Travel Guide

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Why Go To Geneva

Nestled in a valley at the western edge of Switzerland, Geneva is a serene setting for a slow-paced vacation. Its cobblestone streets are lined with outdoor cafes and independent shops, while the more cosmopolitan stretches of the city are brimming with designer brands and elegant restaurants. Plush seating cradles patrons as world-class orchestras perform inside the Victoria Hall. Even the fine dining here is considered an art. But despite all the luxury, Geneva can also make you sweat – sailing on the lake, walking or jogging in the parks and skiing down the nearby slopes of Mont Blanc are all popular activities.

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• # 10 in Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

Best of Geneva

Best hotels in geneva.

• # 1 in Hotel d'Angleterre
• # 2 in Beau-Rivage Genève
• # 3 in The Ritz-Carlton, Hotel de la Paix, Geneva

Best Things to Do in Geneva

• # 1 in Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)
• # 2 in Mont Salève
• # 3 in Jet d'Eau

Popular Tours

Chamonix and Mont Blanc Day Trip from Geneva

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from $ 118.59

Geneva 3-hour Chocolate Tasting Tour and Old Town Visit

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Chamonix Mont-Blanc Full Day Guided Tour

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Geneva Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Geneva is in the small peak season of July and August. Though you'll rub elbows with hordes of tourists and pay extra to visit during these months, Geneva's weather is at its best for outdoor activities like hiking at Mont Salève and sunbathing at the Pâquis Baths . December to April, meanwhile, are prime times for skiing the nearby Swiss Alps, but you'll encounter chilly temperatures and some crowds. Hotel and airfare deals may be possible if you do not visit around Christmas and Easter. If you'd rather avoid winter's cold weather and summer's high prices, consider arriving between September and November or in May or June, Geneva's shoulder seasons.

Weather in Geneva

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Parlez-vous, français? Although English is widely spoken in Geneva, you should pick up a French dictionary to learn at least a few phrases.

Clean up, clean up, everybody, everywhere The Genevese consider littering to be in very bad taste, so it's best if you sort your clutter into the proper receptacles.

Check for restaurant closures   If you're visiting Geneva in the summer, call restaurants in advance to ensure availability since some dining venues close for parts of July and August.

How to Save Money in Geneva

Walk if off Geneva is a small city, only 6 square miles, and very accessible for pedestrians. Not only is walking free, but you'll get some great exercise.

Buy a Geneva Pass  If you plan on joining multiple city tours or visiting sights like Mont Salève and the Patek Philippe Museum , consider purchasing a one-, two- or three-day Geneva Pass  for 26 to 45 Swiss francs (or $26 to $48).

Book well in advance Because Geneva hosts so many conventions, hotels fill up quickly during major events. It's best to book at least four months in advance when hotels are more willing to drop rates.

Ask for your Geneva Transport Card All hotels, hostels and campgrounds are required to give you this pass at check-in, letting you ride public transportation for free during your stay. If your feet tire from walking, at least you can enjoy complimentary rides on the tramway.

Culture & Customs

Although the headquarters of the United Nations are in New York City , Geneva is where you'll find the Palace of Nations , the second largest U.N. building and institution in the world. As such, the city is hugely international; people that hail from towns and cities all over the world either make Geneva their home or are in the city for numerous conferences throughout the year.

Switzerland has four official languages (French, German, Italian and Rumantsch), but French is the most widely spoken. English is fairly common as well, but it's best to come prepared with a few key French phrases, such as "bonjour"  (hello), "Comment allez-vous?"  (How are you?), "Je ne comprend pas"  (I don't understand), "Parlez-vous anglais?"  (Do you speak English?) and "au revoir"  (goodbye).

Even though one Swiss franc (Switzerland's official currency) equals about one dollar, exact rates can fluctuate, so check the latest exchange rate before visiting. And remember, Geneva is expensive. Restaurants serving up Swiss cuisine tend to charge quite a few more francs than you might be used to paying, but you won't be expected to tip since service charges are included in all published prices.

What to Eat

Geneva is located just miles from the Switzerland-France border, so many of France's highly praised culinary techniques have infiltrated the dining scene. Italy, too, is only about an hour away, so go figure: French and Italian restaurants reign supreme here. For some of the city's best French cuisine, check out Bayview , Le Chat Botte  and Bistrot du Boeuf Rouge . Popular Italian eateries include Il Lago and Luigia .

Iconic Swiss dishes like chocolate and cheese fondue can be found on many restaurant menus. Other local specialties, such as  Älplermagronen  (a gratin, or casserole-like dish, made with potatoes, macaroni, cheese and onions served with stewed apples) and  rösti  (a flat, circular potato dish that's fried in hot butter or fat), are also available at a variety of dining venues. If you're craving Swiss fare, consider sitting down for a meal at highly regarded restaurants like Restaurant Edelweiss , Auberge de Saviese and La Buvette des Bains . Note: Some eateries close for parts of July and August, so call ahead to confirm opening hours.

Geneva is a very safe city, as far as tourists go – though it does see some petty theft and vandalism, especially at train stations, airports and tram and bus stops. However, other cities in Europe (like London and Paris ) have seen a spike in terrorism-related incidents, so it's best to avoid demonstrations and keep an eye on current events while staying in Geneva. To learn more about security concerns and safety tips for Switzerland, check out the U.S. State Department's website .

Getting Around Geneva

The best ways to get around Geneva are on foot and by tram – the city is a small 6 square miles and is easily navigated. In addition to covering tram services, the city's free Geneva Transport Card for tourists can also be used on water taxis, trains and buses, but these services are often slower or less convenient than walking or taking the tram. Taxis can be hailed as well, though you'll pay a premium to use them. Driving in the city center is not necessary and will generally be more of a nuisance than a convenience due to limited parking and rush hour traffic.

If you're getting to Geneva via Genève Aéroport (GVA), plan on grabbing a free 80-minute train ticket from baggage claim's Transports publics genevois (TPG) vending machine. The journey to downtown's Genève train station will take you approximately 10 minutes.

Entry & Exit Requirements

To visit Switzerland, Americans must have a passport that is valid for at least 90 days after staying in the country. Proof of a return airline ticket is also required. A visa is only needed if your visit will last more than 90 days. Visit the U.S. State Department's website for the latest information on entry and exit requirements.

Head to Lake Geneva at sunset to watch an array of colors fill the sky and reflect onto the water.

Explore More of Geneva

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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World Map » Switzerland » City » Geneva » Geneva Tourist Map

Geneva Tourist Map

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Information for tourists and people passing through Geneva

Located at the heart of Europe, Geneva is a great city in which to live. Visitors enjoy the different facets of its heritage and history, but more particularly the range of leisure activities available that appeal to every taste and age group.

More events and activities:

• Agenda des animations et événements
• Que faire à Genève?

Geneva's heritage and monuments

Guided visits of selected monuments and sites.

Breathtaking scenery

While the J et d’Eau fountain , soaring 140 metres into the air, remains the emblem of Geneva, the views and circuits in the city are as magical as they are varied. There is, of course, Lake Geneva, the largest lake in Western Europe but the city also boasts numerous parks, monuments and attractions as well as the old town, all of which can be explored on foot or by bike .

Bloc aperçu

Here is a selection of monuments and sites close to the city centre (except the CERN) – just a part of the rich heritage of the City of Geneva.

Les parcs de la Ville de Genève

The stunning public parks in Geneva contribute to its reputation, its beauty and its quality of life. Throughout its history, the City has benefited from generous donations totalling almost 310 hectares of parkland, making it the “City of Parks”.

Walks and bike rides

Discover Geneva on foot or by bike thanks to a series of themed circuits.

The birthplace of luxury watchmaking

Geneva is also known around the world as the symbol of luxury watchmaking. If this long-standing tradition continues to fascinate people passing through and perpetuates this exceptional image, it is primarily because it still calls on a wide range of specialist professions in which precision is absolutely essential. This know-how can be appreciated simply by taking a look at the boutique windows or visiting the specialist museums.

Fascinating culture

Visitors won’t have time to get bored in Geneva! The cultural calendar includes concerts , festivals , theatre , dance and many other events. Furthermore, some sixty art galleries and forty museums offer visitors the chance to discover original exhibitions and rare collections.

• Diary: all upcoming cultural events

Offre culturelle pour jeunes et familles

Music, shows, dance, exhibitions, festivals: in Geneva, there is a wide-ranging cultural offer and numerous programmes specifically devoted to young people. The City of Geneva proposes a series of measures facilitating access to culture for a young audience.

Geneva, city of culture

The City of Geneva boasts an outstandingly rich range of leisure activities. Regardless of whether you are a history buff, nature lover or budding musician, you are sure to be in your element in Geneva. For the City, providing its citizens with this high-quality offering is an absolute priority.

Capital of peace

Geneva hosts the European headquarters of the United Nations and is home to more than 200 international organisations , most of which can be found around the Place des Nations , the site of the impressive “Broken Chair” , a wooden sculpture standing 12 metres high reminding everyone who sees it of the important fight against anti-personnel mines.

Broken Chair

Symbole de l'engagement de Genève dans la lutte contre les mines anti-personnel, Broken Chair - célèbre chaise en bois reposant sur trois pieds - est installée en 1997 sur la Place des Nations.

Place des Nations

The Place des Nations is the heart of international Geneva. It is the site of the Broken Chair, created by the Geneva-based artist Daniel Berset and a symbol of the fight against anti-personnel mines.

Palais des Nations

A symbol of international Geneva, the Palais de Nations was built between 1929 and 1936 in the Parc de l'Ariana. Since 1966, the Palais has housed the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG). It is the most important centre of the organisation after the headquarters in New York.

Summer activities

With the arrival of summer, Geneva showcases its very best assets. Visitors can relax in its magnificent parks, take a dip and enjoy free concerts and festivals at the heart of the city or by the lake shore.

Summer in Geneva

With the arrival of the fine weather, snack bars, barbecue areas and deck chairs spring up in the city’s parks. From the different bathing sites to the summer events programme, find all the information you need to enjoy summer in Geneva to the full.

Where to go swimming in Geneva?

Find all the useful information and safety measures for going swimming in Geneva, be it in swimming pools, paddling pools, Lake Geneva or one of the local rivers.

Summer refreshments bars in Geneva

With the arrival of the fine weather, numerous refreshment stands open their doors in Geneva’s parks. The public can enjoy drinks, snacks, music and entertainment.

Winter activities

In winter, the city can be seen in its very best light thanks to the Geneva Lux Festival which presents original creations from a number of different artists. The disco on ice evenings and the numerous temporary skating rinks that pop up around town, in particular in the Parc des Bastions, add a touch of magic to those relaxing moments. In December, traditions take pride of place with the Escalade Festival and its historic processions. To round the day off in an idyllic setting, savour a delicious fondue aboard a boat. Winter in Geneva: discover the suggestions of the Geneva Tourist Office

Launched in 2014, the Geneva Lux festival presents works of art made of light, created and staged specifically for Geneva by artists from Switzerland and abroad. These luminous creations are presented in the city centre. From 19 January to 4 February 2024.

Fête de l'Escalade, a living tradition

A sort of carnival in Geneva, the Fête de l'Escalade is a mixture of tradition, humour and official commemoration. Costumes, chocolate pots and renditions of the Cé qu'è lainô are all part of this festival that brings the different generations together.

Ice rinks in Geneva

If you’re itching to get your skates on, the Canton of Geneva boasts several indoor and open-air facilities where you can go skating or play ice hockey.

Winter in Geneva

From the Geneva Lux festival to the Fête de l’Escalade and the end-of-year festivities, Geneva dons its best suit of lights and is always in festive mood, despite the cold. Discover a selection of indoor and outdoor activities, unusual events or convivial festivals organised throughout the winter in the City of Geneva.  

Disco sur glace

Chaque hiver, la Ville de Genève vous invite à danser sur la glace de la patinoire des Vernets.

From Geneva with love

Do you really know the places that surround you? More than just postcards, this series of videos sheds a special or unusual light on places that are part of the daily lives of the people of Geneva.

Useful links

Maps of geneva.

• Map of Geneva
• Discovery Map de Genève Tourisme (FR/EN)

Information desks

• Geneva Tourism website
• Municipal information centre: Espace Ville de Genève
• Public transportation in Geneva: transports publics genevois (TPG)
• Public transportation in Geneva: boats
• Transport in Geneva: cars and motorbikes
• Transport in Geneva: cycling in Geneva
• Getting around Geneva: further information on the Geneva Tourism website

Other information

• Free wifi access in Geneva
• International conferences diary
• Shopping in Geneva
• Weather forecast

Useful contacts

• Geneva Tourism
• Switzerland Tourism
• Geneva Financial Centre
• Geneva Greeters

Article modifié le 15.04.2024 à 15:10

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Geneva Public Transport Map

Official map of Geneva Public Transport , TPG, combining bus map and tram map, as seen on every bus and tram stop across Geneva. Click on the image to enlarge the map for better resolution. You can also download the medium or high resolution image of Geneva Public Transport Map.

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