More than being the home base of many public and private international organizations, Geneva is an idyllic French-speaking Swiss capital with a lot of old-school charm. Its cobblestone streets lead to well-preserved historical buildings and landmarks that tell the story of its rise as a cultural melting pot and diplomatic powerhouse. Your list of things to do in Geneva won’t fall short of museum trips, peaceful afternoon walks in the park, gastronomic adventures with cheese and wine, and watersports by the lake. Don’t miss out on the attractions in Geneva with this handy travel guide!
The Jet d’Eau or Geneva Water Fountain is one of the tallest fountains in the world. Located in the middle of the lake, this iconic fountain is an emblem of Switzerland’s strength as a country. Its height spans up to 140 meters, using up to 500 liters of water in every shower. The public flock to see the light shows on weekends that run from 10:00am to 10:30pm. Swirls of color and rainbow displays entertain visitors of all ages, making it one of the best free attractions in Geneva.
Its beginnings as a Roman Catholic space comes as a surprise to visitors of St Pierre Cathedral. It’s more known for being the home of John Calvin, an important figure in the history of Protestant Reformation church and founder of Calvinism. Nowadays the cathedral is open for public viewing and regarded for its panoramic view of Geneva via the North and South towers. It’s also an archaeological site, since remains of the previous basilica that once stood in its place are now excavated and placed in a small museum within the cathedral grounds.
Built to house the now-defunct League of Nations, the Palais des Nations is the repurposed headquarters of the United Nations. Guided tours in various languages are available to the public, which allows insight into the history and diplomatic ties of the UN, as well as artworks that centers around peace and human rights. It is here that the global organization comes up with solutions and policies. Don’t miss the Celestial Sphere at Ariana Park, a monument that symbolizes Geneva’s role as the center of dialogue and peace.
The International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent is an ode to the past -- honoring the tribulations and victories of people affected during times of war. This museum holds permanent exhibits and interactive displays that highlight adversity. The birth and becoming of the Red Cross organization is also displayed through an interactive exhibit. Learn about the human side of Geneva’s history and the Red Cross’ humanitarian work through an audio guide.
The Protestant Reformation movement is commemorated through the Reformation Wall, a sculptured bas-relief built into the old city walls at the University of Geneva. Statues of John Calvin, William Farl, Théodore de Bèze and John Knox are at the center of this historical landmark, founders that promoted the right preaching of the Gospel through Calvinism. Learn more about the country’s shift towards Protestantism through the engraved history on the wall and follow it up with a stroll along Parc des Bastions and Place de Neuve.
With a name that translates to English Garden, the Jardin Anglais is undeniably inspired by the landscape style. This urban park is decked with colorful blooming plants and trees that look straight out of a fairytale book. Explore its wide expanse of manicured greenery and discover a lake that runs through its heart. Whether you’re joining a sightseeing tour or strolling on your own, you’ll be sure to find pockets of sunshine and serenity in this famous landmark. The Jardin Anglais The English-inspired landmark park features an 1862 fountain, a flower-clock sculpture & lake views.
Check out L'horloge fleurie, an outdoor clock modeled after an English garden. This carefully grown landscape art is a symbol of Geneva’s watchmakers who pushed the country’s name in the limelight through their expertise. Its clock face hosts a new kind of shrubbery every season and has been in every visitor’s itinerary list since 1955. At 2.5 meters in length, its second hand is the longest in the world. Tourists flock this attraction daily, so make sure to visit early to avoid waiting in a long line/
Every city trip in Geneva starts in Place du Bourg-de-Four, the heart of the city’s old town. This town square has been doubling as a marketplace since the 9th century, where a variety of restaurants and cafes with a terrace soak up the foot traffic of people and the sun. Classic Swiss buildings have increased in height to accommodate the growing population in the community. Drop by with a bike for a scenic ride along the cobblestone streets and grab a coffee to keep you going throughout the day.
Born out of Geneva’s love of arts and culture, the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire is home to 7,000 displayed exhibits that range from prehistoric gems, war weapons, to paintings inspired by modern art. Renowned artists like Claude Monet, Felix Valloton and the Swiss painter Jean-Etienne Liotard’s paintings are open for public viewing, as well as many other geniuses in various art forms. You can also find archaeological materials and other antiquities from prehistoric to early historic time at the Archaeology Department.
When in Geneva, do as the locals do -- go for a swim in Lake Geneva and enjoy a fondue at Bains des Pâquis. Fall in love with the pool resort’s old school charm and laid-back set up, where visitors can freely sunbathe by the pier. Catch a tan while exploring its 500-meter pebble beach or treat yourself to a well-deserved massage. In winter, it has become a tradition for locals and a must-try for tourists to either enjoy a sauna bath or a hammam (Turkish bath). Both services offer warmth and relaxation you’ll be craving for once you leave the city.
Famously known for being the center of international relations, Geneva is the headquarters of various public and private organizations from around the world. Its diplomatic seat has cemented its power as a neutral city-state, making it the go-to middleground by businessmen. Besides that, it’s picturesque natural landscape and lake are breathtaking wonders.
Its luscious greenery blooms best from summer to spring, but unlike most parts of Europe, Geneva’s weather is sunny and just the right amount of warmth. However, the bise or harsh north wind sometimes makes its presence known through cold gushes of wind from the Alps.
Every first-time visitor or history lover must find lodging in the old town center of Geneva. This postcard-perfect area connects Place du Bourg de Four, Saint Pierre Cathedral, and a lot of other well-preserved period landmarks. But if you’re keen on visiting the city’s parks and botanical gardens, the Palais de Nations’ neighborhood will allow you easy access to the greenest parts of the city.