geneva international tour

• Movers and Shakers
• L'oeil de la Genève Internationale
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• They came to Geneva
• Architectural history

Discover international Geneva's museums, tours & exhibitions

The humanitarian trail of the Red Cross:

More information

International district of Geneva: walking guided tour, panoramic tour by trolley-bus or Segway, with Geneva Tourism:

The United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG), housed at the Palais des Nations, is one of the most active centres for multilateral diplomacy in the world.

Walk in the chambers where many important historical negotiations took place, discover the incredible gifts presented by various countries to the UN at Geneva or learn about the Palais des Nation's history and the UN's current activities. Whether you are interested in politics and history, or simply want to enjoy a walk in one of Geneva's most beautiful parks, these various guided tours proposed by UNOG and available in different languages are a great way to explore all these aspects. 

Guided tours

What are the great questions of contemporary physics? What is the Higgs Boson and what does it tell us about the origins of the universe? What is the role of the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), its focus and objectives? What are the experiments conducted on its premises?

CERN invites the public to discover the mysteries of the universe and the work of the world's biggest physics laboratory at the Science Gateway.

Visit CERN Science Gateway

Built between 1923 and 1926, the Centre William Rappard was the first building in Geneva designed to house an international organization, the International Labour Organization (ILO). The ILO left the building in 1975 for its new headquarters. It then hosted the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the library of the Graduate Institute of International Studies (IUHEI) and the Secretariat of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT).

In 1995, the Centre William Rappard became the headquarters of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum's permanent exhibition "The Humanitarian Adventure" offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn more about the history and current challenges of humanitarian action.

Located next to the ICRC headquarters in Geneva, the Museum reflects on the major challenges of today's world: Defending human dignity, Restoring family links, Reducing natural risks. These three separate areas were developed by renowned architects from different regions of the world.

An interactive chronology also presents 150 years of humanitarian history, and visitors can track Red Cross and Red Crescent operations around the globe. Visitors can also discover temporary exhibitions at the Museum.

Visit the Museum

INTERNATIONAL GENEVA TOUR (FREE)

See a unique facette of geneva.

•  Free tour, please sign up
•  Check the dates , meeting in front of the Broken Chair, Place des Nation
•  2 to 2.5 hours tour
•  See United Nations HQ, ICRC Headquarters, World Health Organization, International Organization of Migration, International Labour Office, World Intellectual Property Organization, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, World Trade Organization and many more.

We are also happy to offer tailored private tours for groups, please contact us for more details. Free Walk Geneva does not take any liability for accidents, thefts or any other damage during the walk. © (copyright) by Free Walking Tours Switzerland. Free Walking Tours Switzerland is a non-profit organization registered as an association under Swiss law. Free Walking Tours Geneva is part of Free Walking Tours Switzerland. Impressum .

Photo credit:  Geneva  Tourism     

Each season reveals different facets and colours of Geneva.  

Accompanied by a passionate guide, you will appreciate the richness of the sites and stories all around you, including in places that you may pass by regularly without noticing.

A cultural experience to enjoy outdoors with family and friends and with students of all ages !

Please fill in the form on the right or contact me at +41 78 873 33 42.

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The Geneva Story (in a nutshell)

Geneva is known for its lake and the jet d’eau (140 m high fountain), the flower clock and luxury watches and its historical Old Town.   But do you know the stories behind these landmarks and places? And did you ever wonder how this little city-state at the tip of the lake become the smallest of the world’s major international cities?  

Let’s travel together through 2000 years of history along the waterfront where the first inhabitants settled, through the medieval commercial center of the lower city and up the cobbled streets to the heart of the Old town.  

You will be captivated by this cultural and historical tour as you relive the religious, political and economic chapters of the   Geneva story.  

But then maybe you already the know the answers the questions behind these pictures ?

2 hour tour: Starts in front of the Flower Clock in the Jardin Anglais – Ends in the Old Town

For visitors with little time: 1 – 1.5 hour tour in the Old Town 

Why was the small city-state at the tip of the lake one of the most fortified in Europe ?

There have always been bridges crossing the little island on the Rhône river, making this a strategic location for Julius Caesar and his army.   What is this historical episode that gave Geneva its name?

Women of Geneva

Women have played an essential role in the Geneva story.  

Alongside ladies known for their accomplishments in the arts, commerce and science, there are thousands of little known and anonymous women who have contributed to the prosperity and reputation of the city through their work, talent and commitment.  

Let’s bring back to life a small selection of them, in their environment and their time, from the 15th century to the present day.  

Strolling in the commercial streets, up to the Old Town and onto the Parc des Bastions, discover the Geneva story from a different view-point through the lives of ordinary and extraordinary women who lived here.

Possible in German upon request.

2 hour tour : Starts in front of Rousseau’s statue on the Ile Rousseau – rue de la Corraterie/rue de la Cité 

Artists were attracted by this ordinary but intriguing woman.   Why was she popularly known as the queen of the Molard market in the mid-19th century?

Early one August morning in 1535, these terrified women would soon leave the city under the guard of 300 archers.   Who are they and what are they afraid of?

Humanitarian awakening and the Red cross

In the middle of the 19th century, the Red Cross and the Geneva Conventions were founded in the small city-state which had just joined Switzerland.   Since then Geneva has been seen as the historic home of modern day humanitarian action and the capital of international humanitarian law.  

But why here, in this time in history and with such success ?

Enjoy exploring the 19th century streets of the Old Town, meeting fascinating characters and following the plot of this extraordinary story.  

It all starts with a   handful of Geneva citizens, who found themselves at the he right place and time in history.   Their initiatives and determination led to the creation of the world’s largest humanitarian mouvement and lay the principles and rules that have not ceased to adapt to emerging crisis. This story is what set Geneva on the track to its international vocation.  

Possible in German, Spanish and Russian upon request.

2 hour tour: Starts in front of Henry Dunant’s bust at the Place de Neuve – ends at the Hôtel de Ville in the Old Town

The humanitarian trail of the Red Cross : A former ICRC delegate, Catherine is a volunteer guide at the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum, as well as the author of this walking trail available on www.humanitariantrail.ch .

These two men were the driving force behind Red Cross and the Geneva Conventions.   Why did they quickly become lifelong rivals and never speak to each other again?

Why are there two emblems – a cross and a crescent ?   And did you know that a third emblem was created in 2005?

International Geneva

Today Geneva is the center of multilateral diplomacy and international cooperation in the face of global issues and emerging challenges.  

With the presence of 177 diplomatic missions, 39 international organisations, over 430 NGOs (non government organisations) plus numerous platforms allowing these players to interact, Geneva is one of the densest concentration of international actors and poles of expertise in the world.

This story has two main characters: the small city-canton of Geneva and the major world events that continue to impact international relations. Where they meet is what is today known as International Geneva.

You will discover how Geneva contributed to forge a new international entity and system called the League of Nations, followed by the United Nations and its specialised agencies.  

You will understand why civil society plays a crucial role bringing experiences and testimonies from the field to the conference table and expressing their voices in front of the flags of the 193 member states.

As you step into this dynamic multilateral ecosystem, you will get a sense of the role of the different players and observe how this phenomena continues to transform the city.

2 hour tour options : Palais Wilson – Place des Nations

International Red Cross & Red Crescent Museum – Place des Nations

How did the League of Nations bring new international life to Geneva ?

Why is there a giant amputated chair in front of the United Nations?

Hidden gems in the countryside

Geneva is a canton composed of 45 communes, each with its own geography and history. On the left bank they had a common destiny as part of the Duchy of Savoy and then the Kingdom of Sardinia before being incorporated into the new Swiss canton of Geneva in 1815.  

Let’s discover the villages of Corsier and Anières, as well as the hamlet of Chevrens on the old Roman road.

A scenic and historical tour follows the Hermance river which marks the border with France. Enjoy the rural landscape overlooking the lake and discover traditional farms among fields and vineyards where local lives and history meet.

Iitinerary on foot or by bike to be established with the guide based on areas of interest and desired timeframe.

Did you know that not too long ago, Chevrens was an active agricultural village where workers and inhabitants could buy essential goods and enjoy an apéritif together ?

This bridge connecting France and Switzerland is a direct witness to local events that took place during the Second World War.   How did these affect the lives of inhabitants across the border and beyond ?

Geneva, city of pleasure and vice?

Austerity is what comes to mind when the City of Calvin is evoked. But the people of Geneva and the many visitors to the city have never stopped indulging in all types of activities, even when forbidden. Jean Calvin considered Geneva “a perverse nation”.

Let’s take the side streets through different neighbourhoods in   search of the places of pleasure and vice,   discreet or out in the open depending on the period.

Sin City Tour  – 2 hours

This walk through several centuries will take us from the traditional working-class neighbourhoods of Pâquis and St Gervais, along the chic lake-front promenades, to the city’s historical centres in the Rues Basses and the Old Town.

Along the way, we will pass through present and past red light districts, former casinos and gambling places, cabarets … and more.

Red Light District Tour – 1.5 hours

This “hot” trail takes us from one red-light district to another through different time periods. Commercial sex work is legal in Switzerland today, but this was not always the case, especially in the City of Calvin.

Yet, throughout the centuries, Geneva has offered all types of sex-oriented services – visible or hidden – from prostitution to different types of adult entertainment.   This walking tour starts in the Pâquis area and ends in the Old Town, passing through St. Gervais and the Rues Basses.

Sin City – 2 hour tour:

Meet in front of Chez Maxime  at the Place des Alpes and end at the Promenade Saint-Antoine in the Old Town

Red Light District – 2 hour tour:

Meet on the Place de la Navigation in the Pâquis and end at the Promenade Saint-Antoine in the Old Town.

Did you know that prostitution is legal in Switzerland and that it is up to the Cantons to apply the law?  

How is sex work regulated and set up  in Geneva?

Considered a vice, gambling was prohibited or tightly controlled in Geneva depending on the historical period. Yet it never ceased to be practiced in different forms and places.

The night of the Escalade!

Ask any Genevan what the most important date in the Republic’s history is and the answer will almost always be December 12, 1602!  Every year from November onwards, you cannot miss the chocolate cauldrons with marzipan vegetables and the numerous preparations for ctivities and events around “l’Escalade”,  including one of the largest costumed parade in Europe.  

What exactly happened on the night of 11-12 December 1602?  

Let’s travel back to 17th century Geneva and relive this story which has marked the identity of the Republic. We will meet the main characters of this historical event and follow their footsteps as the plot unfolds in the heart of the old city.   

1.5 – 2 hours in the Old Town

Attacking the fortified city required careful preparation and it was decided that the Duke of Savoy’s elite troops would climb over the walls. Where can you still see the original ladders used 400 years ago?

This story has a young hero, but the courage of the Geneva people is represented by a heroine.  How  did this middle-aged lady and her pot of soup become the popular symbols of the “Escalade” events? (2021 Course de l’Escalade poster)

• Français ( French )

THE 10 BEST Geneva Tours & Excursions

Geneva tours.

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Geneva 3-hour Chocolate Tasting Tour and Old Town Visit

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What travelers are saying.

• Geneva 3-hour Chocolate Tasting Tour and Old Town Visit
• Chamonix and Mont Blanc Guided Day Trip from Geneva
• Chamonix and Mont Blanc Day Trip from Geneva
• (STTG04) - Sightseeing Cruise at Geneva with Wine and Aperitif
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Hop On Hop Off Geneva - Bus Tours

Geneva sightseeing bus tours.

We have been unable to find any activities that match your search. Please try again using alternative search criteria or call +1855­ 626­ 0117 where our travel experts are standing by ready to help you.

Experience Geneva in Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

Frequently asked questions, q: what is a geneva sightseeing bus tour and how does it work.

Geneva bus tour provides you with the ease and adaptability to disembark at the closest designated stop. There's no tour guide; you have the freedom to create your own schedule. These stops are strategically positioned at key attractions, simplifying your sightseeing experience. When you're prepared to resume your journey, simply return to a designated bus stop, display your pass, and rejoin the bus to head towards your next destination. Feel free to complete the entire route after obtaining your tour ticket to acquaint yourself with the city and select your preferred places to visit for the duration of your stay.

Q: What is the best time to book a hop-on hop-off Geneva bus tour?

Spring in Geneva brings parks and gardens to life with vibrant blooms and pleasant weather for exploration. Booking your tour early secures your preferred date and time. Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season with warm weather and longer daylight hours. Book well ahead, as it's busy. Autumn (September to November) offers comfortable weather with fewer crowds. Booking your tour during early autumn provides a relaxed experience.

Q: Are these bus tours guided?

In some Geneva hop-on hop-off bus tours, you'll find guided options, where a knowledgeable tour guide delivers live commentary during the excursion. The guide imparts insights about the city's history, landmarks, and points of interest as they come into view. This style of tour encourages interaction with the guide, enabling you to ask questions and create a more personalized experience. Alternatively, many other bus tours in Geneva also offer audio-guided tours. In this scenario, passengers are provided with headphones or earphones along with an audio device. You have the freedom to select your preferred language, and a pre-recorded commentary offers information about the city and its attractions as they appear along the route. This choice provides flexibility, allowing you to listen at your own pace.

Q: Do Geneva bus tours offer free Wi-Fi onboard?

Most of the bus tours include free Wi-Fi on board, but make sure to check with the individual operator.

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Discovering International Geneva

Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the United Nations Office and to the other international organisations in Geneva

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• International Geneva

International Geneva offers various possibilities of guided tours and visits of its institutions and iconic buildings and places, including the following:

Palais des Nations

The Palais des Nations, at the heart of International Geneva, has been the UN's European headquarters since 1946. It functions as a global diplomatic conference centre and operational base for a wide range of economic, social and human rights activities.

Over 120,000 visitors take a tour of the Palais des Nations each year to learn about the work of the UN and UN Office at Geneva and the famous Human Rights Council Chamber.

  Visiting the Palais des Nations

ICRC Museum

Geneva is the birthplace of the Red Cross Movement   and the humanitarian capital of the world. Dedicated to the work of the Movement's founder Henry Dunant, the Interntional Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent provides a unique opportunity to delve into the history of humanitarian action. Situated opposite the Palais des Nations, a museum tour is a perfect way to learn about the work of International Geneva.

The European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) is the world's largest particle physics laboratory and seeks to unlock the mysteries of the universe. CERN provides guided tours and permanent exhibitions, where you can explore the most important outstanding questions of modern physics, gain an understanding of the Higgs boson, and learn more about the organisation and the experiments conducted.

Visiting CERN

Guided tours for schools

The Foundation EDUKI  seeks to promote education and raise young people's awareness about the work of international organisations and international cooperation. Its objective is to strengthen Switzerland's international standing and help establish lifelong links between international organisations and young people.

The EDUKI Foundation is in constant contact with international organisations and NGOs. It arranges visits, meetings and debates, provides information on various subjects, develops tools and supports activities created by or for school children and students.

Arranging visits, meetings or activities with EDUKI

Visiting the Palais des Nations

Red Cross Movement

International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent

UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR)

UNHCR Visitors' Centre

European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN)

EDUKI Foundation

Arranging visits, meetings or activities with EDUKI

Start of page Last update 23.06.2023

Contact visits :

M. Frederic Ballenegger

Second Secretary

Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the UN

Media and communication

Rue de Varembé 9-11 / CP 194 1211 Geneva 20

Mobile : +41 79 726 66 30

[email protected]

Contact press and media :

Mme Paola Ceresetti

Spokesperson

Media and public relations

Rue de Varembé 9-11 / CP 1941211 Geneva 20

Tel. +41 58 482 24 23

Mobile : +41 79 240 19 18

[email protected]

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Geneva.info » Activities » Tours » Mini Train Tours

Geneva Mini Train Tours

Several companies operate mini train tours in Geneva.

Swiss tours transport

operates mini trains going through the Old Town, around right (west) bank of Geneva Lake, through international district and via parks and residences.

Prices of Mini Train Tours in 2015:

Free with Geneva Pass. Geneva Old Town Tour - CHF 10.90 adults, CHF 6.90 children. Geneve Parks & Residence Tours* - CHF 8.90 adults, CHF 5.90 children. Geneva International Tours** - CHF 25 adults, CHF 13 children. All 3 tours combined: CHF 32 adults, CHF 16 children.

*Parks and Residence Tours run daily from 1st March till 31th September. **Geneva International Tours run daily from 1st April till 31th October and on the weekends in the March and from 1st November till 24th December.

Tel.: +41 22 781 04 04 Web: www.trains-tours.ch

Departure points and times from stop Quai du Mont-Blanc:

* July and August

Little Solar Powered Electric Train

30-35 minutes journey around left (east) bank of Geneva Lake - this electric mini train, started in 1995, is running from English Garden to Baby Plage and back. Audio comentary is available in English, French, Italian, Spanish.

Price: Adults CHF 8, Children CHF 5, Free with Geneva Pass.

Tel: +41 22 735 43 00 Web: www.petit-train-geneve.ch/en

You can buy tickets at any ticket poin and at the starting point, which is either Quai du Mont-Blanc ( map ) or Place du Rhône ( map ).

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Jet d'Eau Fountain

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What's on Geneva Fêtes De Genève 16th July - 09th August

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Welcome to the United Nations

Take a tour of the Palais des Nations and learn about the United Nations and the UN's work in Geneva. Our tour guides will inform you about the organization and its activities to maintain world peace, foster international relations and development.

You will discover the Palais des Nations, a unique building, formerly the headquarters of the League of Nations. The Palais des Nations, an outstanding testimony to twentieth century architecture, is situated in the beautiful Ariana park in Geneva, Switzerland. 

Due to the ongoing renovations in the Palais des Nations, our tour offers are limited and subject to changes. Please read the below information carefully and check this page regularly for updates. 

Important Information

During the renovation work, guided tours are temporarily not suitable for persons with reduced mobility., please be informed that tours for individual visitors are currently limited and sell out very quickly. we encourage you to check our website regularly. thank you for your understanding..

Before the tour

Once you have your ticket(s).

As soon as you receive your ticket(s), every person in your group needs to register for an access badge. The registration link for access badges is on the ticket(s). Please register as soon as your receive your ticket(s). Participants will then receive a digital badge with a QR code sent to their email address which they can print out and bring along or store on their mobile phone. The QR code will be scanned on the day to enter the Palais des Nations.

On the tour day

• All visitors must carry a valid passport (UN Member or Observer State). ID cards from the Schengen Zone are also accepted. Passports or ID cards will be checked at the entrance gate.
• Please be at the meeting point  mentioned in your booking confirmation,   30 minutes before your tour to allow time for security screening and transfer to the Visitors’ Center.  

The guided tour lasts for approximately one hour.

Groups can reserve a tour in numerous languages, including Bulgarian, Czech, Dutch, English, French, German (and Swiss German), Italian, Japanese, Romanian, Russian, Spanish and Slovak. 

• Adults  (Ages 18+): 22 CHF
• University students, senior citizens and disabled persons  (University students must show valid student ID): 18 CHF
• School Children and Youth  (Aged 14 to 17): 12 CHF
• School Children and Youth  (Aged 6 to 13): 11 CHF
• Teachers  (For every 10 school children booked, - 1 teacher is free. Extra teachers should be booked as adults)
• Private VIP Tour : 280 CHF
• The Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room, decorated by famous artist Miquel Barcelò.
• The library of the Palais des Nations and the UN Museum.
• Part of the Ariana Park and the monument commemorating the conquest of outer space.
• A film about the history and features of the Assembly Hall, the largest room in the Palais des Nations.
• The plaza and entrance of our new state-of the-art and sustainable Building H.
• You will discover the Sustainable Development Goals.
• You will learn how a conference works at the United Nations.

Visitors Entrance Palais des Nations - Pregny Gate 14 Avenue de la Paix 1211 Genève, Suisse

+41 (0)22 917 48 96 [email protected]

Palais des Nations transit stop is  Appia .

Enter the Palais des Nations through the Visitor's entrance at Pregny Gate, on 14 Avenue de la Paix, 1211 Geneva in front of the International Committee of the Red Cross building and next to the Geneva Hotel School (please see  map  here).

The United Nations Office at Geneva is a workplace. Delegates hold their meetings where visitors go on guided tour. Visitors are therefore kindly reminded to stay with the tour guide at all times, to keep noise levels down, and to respect the professional working environment of the United Nations.

Please arrive 45 minutes before your tour.

​​​​​​​Public transport

Transports Publics Genevois Palais des Nations transit stop are Appia and Nations. Access from Cornavin railway station:

• Bus lines 8, 20, 60 ("Appia" stop)
• Bus line 5 or tram line 15 (“Nations” stop), then a 5 minutes' walk to Pregny Gate

Access from Cointrin airport:

• Bus line 5 (“Nations” stop), then a 5 minutes' walk to Pregny Gate

Other bus lines with stop at “Nations”: 11 and 22, then a 5 minutes' walk to Pregny Gate

In Geneva, unireso public-transport tickets must be purchased prior to boarding a tram, bus or ferry. Ticket machines are available at most stops. Travel cards or passes can be purchased at the main TPG centres (Rive, Cornavin and Bachet de Pesay).  Please note tickets are not available on the bus itself. Hotels, youth hostels or campsites typically offer a Geneva Transport Card, which allows use of public transport in Geneva free of charge during the period of stay.

Geneva public transport

Unfortunately, visitors are not allowed to park inside the premises of the Palais des Nations. A large underground parking is available at the Place des Nations, next to the United Nations, and can be accessed via Rue de Varembé.

Additional Information

Accessibility.

The Palais tour is approximately 2KM (1.24 Miles) of walking and can be difficult for youth or those with mobility issues.

As the Palais des Nations undergoes a complete renovation, areas of the tour will be difficult to access for those who need assistance.

Holiday Calendar 2024

Official Holidays for  2024  at the United Nations Office at Geneva:

Download UN Geneva 2024 holiday schedule

Renovations of the Palais des Nations

The Palais des Nations is currently under renovation but guided tours continue in a limited capacity. We build on your understanding that the tour routes may change. 

Security Information

Visitors should plan for approximately 40 minutes for security screening upon arrival.

Visitors should not be carrying luggage or large bags.

Due to certain events, Visitors’ Service may need to close at short notice, this will not concern pre-registered groups.  Our tour route and schedule may be affected by certain meetings, meaning some rooms may not be accessible, without prior notice.

Please check the updated security information before your tour. 

Find out more

Tour d'Excellence

Get ready for an incredible adventure with the tour d'excellence .

The Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) is a leading motor show since 1905 and celebrating 100 years of international exhibition in 2024, held its first outside of Switzerland venue – the GIMS Qatar – in October 2023.

For the recognition of the outstanding motor show in the Middle East, the partnership of excellence between Geneva and Doha, and to symbolically connect the two host cities, the “Tour d’Excellence” was created and executed in September 2023.

From 28 August to 30 September 2023 , two Volkswagen ID Buzz crew covered more than 8’000km of which more than 4’000km did not offer any suitable charging station, demonstarting the industry’s progress in electromobility under extreme conditions.

The Tour d’Excellence Epilogue will be the final part and is about to start ! Follow the adventure of our intrepid crew across the Middle Eastern countries from April 12 th  to May 2 nd , 2024.

The Tour d’Excellence is a testament of the GIMS long-standing values of excellence , innovation and pioneering spirit .

Updates from drivers

Tour d’Excellence: Arrival in Doha after a 5 weeks’ trip

Hail – Riyadh – Manama – Doha 25.09-30.09 2023 They made it! After 8’000 kilometers and 12 countries, the Tour d’Excellence team finally arrived in Doha. This was no only a great archievement for the team and the cars, but also a wonderful way to…

Tour d’Excellence : Week 4

Aqaba – Neom – Tabuk – Alula – Hail 18.09-24.09 2023 The Tour d’Excellence officially started. Follow our drivers across continents as the cars leave Geneva on the 28th August 2023. About the GIMS Tour d’Excellence: The Tour d’Excellence stands as a living testament to…

Tour d’Excellence : Week 3

Piraeus – Amman – Aqaba – Neom – Tabuk – Alula 11.09-17.09 2023 The Tour d’Excellence officially started. Follow our drivers accross continents as the cars leave Geneva on the 28th February 2023. About the GIMS Tour d’Excellence: The Tour d’Excellence stands as a living…

Tour d’Excellence: Week 2

Alexandropolis – Istanbul – Cesme – Piraeus 04.09-10.09.2023 The Tour d’Excellence officially started. Follow our drivers accross continents as the cars leave Geneva on the 28th February 2023. About the GIMS Tour d’Excellence: The Tour d’Excellence stands as a living testament to the enduring…

Tour d’Excellence: Week 1

Geneva – Venice – Dubrovnik – Tirana – Alexandropolis 08.28-03.09.2023 The Tour d’Excellence officially started. Follow our drivers across continents as the cars leave Geneva on the 28th August 2023. About the GIMS Tour d’Excellence: The Tour d’Excellence stands as a living testament to the…

Tour d’Excellence: Day 1 – Geneva to Ascona

08.28.2023 – Day 1 – Geneva to Ascona, via the Simplon Pass – 315 km 6:15 a.m. Wake-up call – It’s departure day! 7:00 a.m. Appointment at Franco-Swiss customs to obtain authorisation for Sandro Mesquita to drive the German-registered ID Buzz in Switzerland. The customs…

A symbolic bridge between the two host cities

As GIMS is embarking on a new chapter, venturing off its native country, the road to Qatar will be connecting the 100-year legacy to the inaugural show in Doha taking place from 5-14 October 2023.

From the Alps of Switzerland to the sand dunes of Qatar, the Tour d’Excellence will cover nearly 6,500 km, crossing 12 countries and 2 seas, all without any assistance

Let the Journey Begins

Part 1 – Europe / Asia

• Geneva – Venice – Dubrovnik – Tirana – Alexandropolis – Istanbul – Cesme – Piraeus
• Distance: 3’800 km
• Start : August 28th 2023 from Palexpo, Geneva, Switzerland
• Finish : September 11th 2023 Lavrio, Greece

Part 2 – Western Asia

• Amman – Aqaba – Neom – Tabuk – AlUla – Riyadh – Manama – Doha
• Distance: 3’000 km
• Start : September 16th 2023 from Amman, Jordan
• Finish : September 30th 2023 Doha, Qatar

Two iconic ID Buzz

Heir to the VW Combi, an icon of freedom and adventure since the 1950s, the ID Buzz perpetuates tradition by combining it with the modernity of electric propulsion – while committing to carbon neutrality.

The Challenge

While charging infrastructure is well developed in Europe today, the Middle East is still in its early stages. Crossing 2,500 km in the Arabian Peninsula requires creativity and flexibility in order to access electrical power.

The Tour d’Excellence is to prove that even under such challenging circumstances, long distance trips with electric vehicles remain feasible.

Like the Olympic torch travelling around the world to the host city of the Olympic Games, the GIMS Cube will be displayed in each of the stopover cities of the Tour d’Excellence.

It symbolises the connection between Geneva and Doha and acts as an ambassador for GIMS. As it arrives at destination, the Cube will unfold more surprises.

Meet the Team

Two teams of extraordinary individuals are making this adventure possible. With their expertise and determination, they will navigate through various terrains and climates, facing challenges head-on.

Frank M. Rinderknecht

Frank M. Rinderknecht (born 1955) is the founder and CEO of Rinspeed Inc. – based in Zumikon/Switzerland – which he has established in 1977 as young student at the ETH (Technical University of Zurich). While the import of sunroofs from the USA was his first business activity, Rinspeed soon became a pioneer and first mover in the then newly created tuning industry. In 1995 Rinspeed started to build proprietary prototypes and concept cars. The invention of the steering wheel with integrated controls for radio or other functions, sustainable powertrains and driver assistance systems are amongst noteworthy milestones in the company’s history. After having sold all tuning activities in 2008 to a German competitor, Frank’s activities are centered today on being a Think Tank of the automotive and other industries, and create and promote concept vehicles, innovative technologies, materials, and mobility means of tomorrow. He is also a multiple World Record holder. Privately, Frank and his wife Michèle are passionate about spending their time on or at the sea, preferably in the Med.

Pictured with his wife and teammate Michèle Ramseier

Rainer Zietlow

Rainer Zietlow founded his agency, CHALLENGE4 GmbH in Mannheim/Germany, in 2004. He is a specialist in planning and executing worldwide automotive projects with Volkswagen cars. Rainer Zietlow’s automotive success includes several long-distance world records and six Guinness World Records™. Its electric world record drives started in 2020, when Rainer Zietlow completed the longest journey to that date within a country in an all-electric vehicle. He drove in a VW ID.3 over 28.000 Km and visited 830 VW dealers in Germany within 65 days. One year later, in 2021 he undertook a similar tour in the United States, visiting 650 dealers by driving more than 58.000 Km within 97 days, doubling the record of 2020 record and setting a new Guinness World Record. In 2022, Rainer Zietlow set his second Guinness World Record in Bolivia. In an all-electric VW ID.4 GTX, he climbed the dormant Uturuncu volcano to a height of 5,816 meters above sea level. In 2023 he set his third Guinness World Record for crossing Canada from East to West with 18 charging stops. Returning from West to East he visited all 145 VW dealers with an over 29.000 Km long drive.

Anouk Köpfer and Camillo Pohl aka “The Minoukis”

“The Minoukis” – having just finished their own middle eastern journey – cover the “Tour d’Excellence” with their professional eyes and lenses. At their young age of just 22, they represent the “Generation Z” in the small and international team.

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The Genevans Travel Locally and Internationally for Concerts

(BEAVER FALLS, Pa.) – The Genevans , the Geneva College choir, celebrates its 84th concert season with a program entitled “The Word became Flesh and Dwelt among Us.” The choir will begin its concert season at the Reformed Presbyterian Home in Pittsburgh at 7 p.m. on March 2, 2022, before launching a five-day tour of Eastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. The choir will then appear at Geneva College for its annual Spring concerts at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, March 18 and Saturday, March 19, 2022, in John White Chapel.

Anticipating its quadrennial international tour in May, this year planned for Israel, The Genevans will perform songs themed around John 1:14 and the incarnation of Christ. Along these lines, the choir will be featuring “Verbum caro factum est” by Hans Leo Hassler on that passage, and an English setting by Paul Bouman. On similar themes, the choir will sing “The Light Shines in the Darkness” and “Salvation is Created” by two Russian composers, Konstantin Zhigulin and Pavel Chesnokov.

Members of The Genevans look forward to walking in the footsteps of the apostles, patriarchs, and Christ himself. For that reason, the choir is preparing several pieces with lyrics on the words of Christ, such as the excerpted Gordon Young anthem “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life” from Christ’s Upper Room discourse and the piece by Patrick Hawes, “The Pure in Heart” which comes from the Beatitudes of the Sermon on the Mount.

The Genevans bring back Philip Stopford’s “Jesus Christ is Lord” from the choir’s 2020 Philippians program, as well as their perennial favorite, “God so Loved the World” by Sir John Stainer.

The concert winds down with several psalms of trust, from “Sicut Cervus/As the Deer Thirsts” (Psalm 42) by Giovanni Palestrina, to the women’s voices in “O Lord, My Heart” (Psalm 131) composed by Geneva College's own Byron G. Curtis, Professor of Biblical Studies. The men will sing “Not unto Us, Lord,” which is an arrangement of Psalm 115 by Geneva alumnus Brian Wright ’11 on a Patrick Doyle tune. Just before the end, the choir will bring back “O Come, let us Sing for Joy to the Lord” (Psalm 95) by Diane Whitacre, from whom the choir commissioned this setting for the choir’s 80th anniversary. The group of psalms is swiftly followed by a rousing “Alleluja” fugue by J.S. Bach.

The concerts will begin with the choir’s traditional Psalm 96 processional, and end with Christiansen’s arrangement of “Beautiful Savior” and Paul Manz’s “E’en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come.” Performed in the choir’s signature surround-sound style, these closing pieces celebrate the glory of Christ.

The entire program will be sung a cappella , with the exception of the offertory, “For the Mountains shall Depart” from Mendelssohn’s Elijah, sung by Senior Music major baritone Austin Dye, from Walkersville, MD, accompanied on piano by Freshman English major Sarabeth Schuck, whose home is Franktown, CO.

The Genevans’ concerts are open to the public and free of charge, though a love offering will be taken during the offertory. During intermission, concertgoers will enjoy performances by the Grace Notes, a women’s ensemble, and the Eight Bells, a double barbershop quartet.

The Genevans choir exists to glorify God and minister to people through the gift of music. Formed in 1938, the choir continues a rich heritage of choral singing dating from the founding of Geneva College. While engaging audiences with important spiritual truth, The Genevans have acquired a reputation for choral excellence, musical variety and emotional impact.

For more information, including recordings for purchase, and The Genevans’ full concert schedule, visit The Genevans on the web at http://www.geneva.edu/genevans , or contact conductor Dr. David Kenneth Smith at (724) 847-6662 or at [email protected] . Follow the Genevans on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/thegenevans.

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new dior flagship blossoms in geneva with architecture by christian de portzamparc

A new landmark on geneva’s rue du rhône.

Maison Dior has unveiled its newest Swiss boutique in Geneva , a landmark flagship designed by Christian de Portzamparc , the first French architect to receive the Pritzker Prize . The location itself holds significance, situated on Rue du Rhône, the heart of luxury and fashion in Geneva. The building is recognized at once by its facade , a sculptural display of modern architecture. Graceful, curved lines echo the Seoul Dior flagship (see designboom’s coverage here ), while six interwoven petal-like structures rise skyward.

christian de portzamparc’s petal facade

Realizing its Dior flagship in Geneva, the team led by architect Christian de Portzamparc crafts the sculptural facade elements from glass and resin. The flowing surfaces reference the exquisite fabrics which shaped Christian Dior’s couture creations. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day creates a captivating effect, with sunlight filtering through the glass veils. By night, the building transforms into a luminous urban lantern, its light softly diffused through elegant resin shells.

an artistic homage to dior’s legacy

The interior of Christian de Portzamparc’s boutique reflects both Dior’s contemporary vision and the iconic 30 Montaigne address in Paris. A refined atmosphere bathed in light hues creates a welcoming space. A central wall, stretching across all floors, serves as a subtle ‘Ariadne’s thread,’ showcasing pristine white canvases. This design element evokes the initial sketches that bring haute couture collections to life.

The boutique’s decor is an invitation to explore, with artworks by Swiss artists including Pamela Rosenkranz and Ugo Rondinone throughout. These inclusions are a tribute to Christian Dior’s own background as a gallery owner and art collector. The walls also feature archival sketches from Dior himself, alongside iconic photographs by Northern Italian visual artist Brigitte Niedermair . A private salon offers an immersive experience, backdropped by a fresco by Parisian artist François Mascarello .

project info:

project title:  Dior Boutique

architecture:  Christian de Portzamparc | @christian2portzamparc

location:  Geneva, Switzerland

completion:  2024

photography:  © LVMH

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