Geneva
Switzerland
The lakeside "Peace Capital" at the center of world diplomacy
Switzerland's second city and main French-speaking metropolis, this proud "Protestant Rome" was once John Calvin's capital, but is now famous as the eminently livable "Capital of Peace." A cosmopolitan center of global diplomacy from the Red Cross to much of the UN, Geneva is the scenic spot where the Rhone leaves Lake Geneva. The watchmaker's Mecca, Geneva offers impressive shopping and fine dining, but one of the best activities is free: walking through the Old Town and by the lake. Most of the city is reminiscent of France (which nearly surrounds it) although the more bohemian Carouge district draws plenty of locals thanks to its Mediterranean atmosphere. An hour's drive away, Mont Blanc (the Alps' highest peak) is easy to spot. CERN's Large Hadron Collider, the world's largest machine, is harder to find as it's entirely underground, but the massive sphere of the visitor's center is much easier to pick out. Another sight that's hard to miss is the 40-foot "Broken Chair," a symbol of the ongoing fight against land mines and cluster bombs, which sits across from the UN's Palace of Nations.
Getting around town is easy, as all hotel guests receive free public transit passes, but getting out is also simple, and there are winning possibilities in all directions. Further north, by Lake Geneva are the beautiful UNESCO-listed Lavaux wine terraces, which can be visited via a small train. Elsewhere on the lake you can find Montreaux (home to the world's second-largest jazz festival) and the charming Chillon Castle. Mont Saleve offers panoramic views of the city (as does its restaurant). For more epic views, head to Chamonix, home to the first Winter Olympics. Riding the rails there offers memorable scenery, and you can ride a cable car to an ice cave once you arrive. If you're not faint of heart, ride a cable car up Mont Blanc, for spectacular views. Across the French border to the south is the town of Annecy, on the beautiful lake of the same name. For a larger lakeside town, visit Lausanne, home to the International Olympic Committee, and dozens of other international sports associations.
Where to stay in Geneva
All of the accommodation options we offer in Geneva have been hand-picked, and provide the perfect base for exploring this beautiful city. From the iconic hotel where Czechoslovakia was born, to a hotel with a Rudyard Kipling theme, we have plenty of memorable options. Once we start preparing your customized itinerary, we will present our recommended options for you to select from.
Classic Heritage Hotel
Beautiful historical hotel with enormous rooms, period decor, and a great location.
Luxury Boutique Hotel
Cute, modern hotel with a great location and spacious, elegant rooms.
Themed Boutique Hotel
Cozy hotel with an exotic atmosphere, central location, and Rudyard Kipling theme.
Things to do in Geneva
Peaceful Geneva has plenty to offer, from walking along the lake and through the Old Town, to visiting the bohemian Carouge district, with its Mediterranean atmosphere. The city is a good base for day trips on either side of the French-Swiss border, whether taking a cable car to a glacier-covered ridge next to Mont-Blanc (the Alps' highest peak) or taking it easy by visiting the utterly charming towns and vineyards along Lake Geneva. When we send you your customized itinerary, you will be able to choose additional excursions to include in your vacation package, or consider adding later.
Lavaux Half Day Small Group Wine Tour
Swiss Riviera Private Tour
Gruyere Private Tour
Chamonix Private Tour
Popular Tour Itineraries Featuring Geneva
Spend some time in Geneva on a tour that takes in other cities in Switzerland and neighboring countries. Our vacation packages including Geneva and other destinations make traveling in Central & Eastern Europe hassle-free. We take care of getting you from place to place, accommodation, excursions and activities.
Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Geneva
How can I get around Geneva?
We recommend buying a Geneva City Pass, which offers unlimited public transportation usage, free museum admission, the use of bike rental facilities, and many other discounts and little gifts.
How long should I stay in Geneva?
Give Geneva three nights (two full days). In addition to spending a full day in the city itself, you should see the Lavaux Wine Region (which runs along Lake Geneva), and perhaps Montreux too, although some people prefer to follow in the footsteps of Empress Sisi.
Are dietary restrictions problematic in Geneva?
With its French and Italian influences, anyone can eat well in Geneva, even with dietary restrictions and intolerances.