Some cities of Switzerland are often referred to as bland, boring, and dull by travelers around Europe. The truth is, Geneva is none of those things, and it provides visitors with plenty of exciting options whether they are visiting for business or pleasure.
The city has the unofficial title of 'the capital of watchmaking' as it is the home of some of the most storied watchmakers in the world.
One of the main reasons people visited Geneva was the International Motor Show. However, the annual event, which attracted automakers, journalists, and car lovers from around the globe, was discontinued after the 2024 edition. The show struggled to recover after a COVID-induced 4-year absence.
But Geneva has more than an auto show to offer visitors. As the second most populous city in Switzerland, Geneva is an assemblage of peoples from all over the world.
All around the city, travelers will find some of the most beautiful landscapes and natural settings in all of Europe. From lakes to breathtaking views of mountains, there is something for everyone who loves the great outdoors.
Things to do & See
Lake Geneva
Situated on the northern side of the Alps, Lake Geneva sits between France and Switzerland. The lake's waters are usually frigid thanks to the mountain snowmelt that flows into it. However, summertime offers warm temperatures for watersports around the lake.
Boating, swimming, and water skiing are three of the favorite pastimes that can be found around Lake Geneva. Travelers can also sign up for scuba diving tours.
Jet d'Eau
Jet d'Eau is one of Geneva's most famous landmarks. The large fountain is located at the meeting point of Lake Geneva and the Rhone river.
The fountain propels 500 liters of water into the air per second. Jet d'Eau can trace its history back to 1886 when the first fountain was installed. The original Jet d'Eau was used to relieve hydraulic pressure, but the fountain proved to be popular with locals.
It became a landmark not long after. The incredible fountain can be seen from all over Geneva.
Jardin Anglais
While Geneva is an important financial center and home to international organizations like the Red Cross and the United Nations, it offers excellent greenspace escapes from the concrete and powerlines of the city. The Jardin Anglais is one of these great relaxation locations.
Created in 1854, Jardin Anglais was the first English-style park built in Geneva. Situated along the left bank of the Quai Gustave-Ador, Jardin Anglais is a must-see for travelers. While in the park, visitors can explore the Flower Clock, which pays homage to Geneva's clock making history. The clock is made of a variety of flowers and looks different throughout the year.
Place du Bourg-de-Four
Place du Bourg-de-Four is located in the Old Town square of Geneva and gives visitors a glimpse into the city's historical heritage. Today, the area is filled with restaurants and cafes and is a perfect location to sit and take in a beautiful Swiss day. The abundance of high-end boutiques is one of the most popular reasons to visit the Place du Bourg-de-Four.
The square was the former home of two castles that were destroyed centuries ago. Despite their absence, the Place du Bourg-de-Four is still a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (Museum of Art and History)
Musée d'Art et d'Histoire is located in Geneva's city center. The four-story building with a façade decorated with sculptures has a total exhibition space of about 7,000 square meters. The museum provides visitors with the most extensive collection of historical artifacts in town. It has a vast array of antiquities and archaeological findings from around Switzerland on permanent display. Popular paintings from the museum's collection include Konrad Witz's 'The Miraculous Draught of Fishes' and numerous pieces from well-known artists Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn and Paul Cézanne.
Temporary rotating exhibitions at the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire keep things interesting for repeat visitors and offer further excitement and education to any trip.
Palais de Nations
One of the most iconic locations of modern diplomacy, the Palais de Nations is home to the European headquarters of the United Nations. Originally constructed during the formation of the League of Nations after World War Two, the venue now hosts cultural exhibitions in its museum and art gallery. The long row of flags leading to the white stone building alone is worth the visit and gives a photo-worthy visualization of how many countries are on the planet.
Cathédrale Saint-Pierre (St Pierre Cathedral)
Located in the heart of Geneva's Old Town, St Pierre Cathedral is a stunning example of a Gothic church dating back to the 12th century. It used to be a cathelic church before it was converted to a Reformed Protestant church in 1535. Featuring breathtakingly detailed stained-glass windows, the whole structure of the cathedral is a sight to behold. Explore the inside yourself or take a guided tour to understand the history and significance of the building.
During the period of the full moon, the church hosts the Nocturnes de St-Pierre event, where the church towers open to the public to enjoy the panoramic views of the countryside under the illumination of the moon. Hence, if you happen to be in town at that time, it's an opportunity you shouldn't miss.
Maison Tavel
Also located in the Old Town, this historic museum houses exhibits such as art, and interactive displays that will enlighten visitors on the culture and history of Geneva. See the streets of Geneva's Old Town in a brand-new light as the artifacts and their explanations transport you back in time.
Parc La Grange
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, this beautiful park is perfect for a stroll or picnic. The picturesque outdoor space also hosts plenty of outdoor events throughout the year. The stunning gardens and sweeping lake views offer a serene atmosphere most people crave while on vacation.
Airport
Transportation
- Bus: The TPG urban buses serve the airport at a frequency of 8 to 15 minutes. The buses go to locations like downtown Geneva, canton of Geneva and France.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport. A trip to the city centre costs around CHF 40.
- Train: The CFF Railway Station at the airport is accessible from the Check-in and the Arrivals areas.
Ride Hailing
Uber, Blacklane
Popular Local Cuisine
Bircher Muesli
Is there any meal more Swiss than Bircher Muesli? Probably not. Bircher muesli is the most famous food from Switzerland and a must-eat on any visit to Geneva. You are likely to see plenty of people eating it for breakfast in restaurants, bakeries, and other food establishments around the city. Bircher muesli was invented by the Swiss doctor and nutritionist Maximilian Bircher-Benner.
He developed it for patients at the Zurich sanatorium to get more raw fruit into each one's diet with every meal beginning with a bowl of Bircher muesli, much like a modern-day appetizer. Bircher muesli is made with quick oats (today), apple and lemon juice, grated apple, honey, plain yogurt, and cinnamon. Some people add blueberries, strawberries, and nuts to their Bircher muesli for extra flavors.
