Accommodation in Geneva

Finding the perfect base is essential to any trip, and in Geneva, there’s an abode to fit every traveller’s taste and budget. From luxurious lakeside hotels to quaint guesthouses in the Old Town, your ideal Geneva stay awaits.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay

• Old Town (Vieille Ville): A historical maze of cobbled streets, charming squares, and ancient monuments. Ideal for history buffs and first-timers.
• Paquis: Known for its multicultural vibe, this area is brimming with restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Close to the train station and the lake.
• Eaux-Vives: A serene and upscale neighbourhood, home to beautiful parks and a portion of Lake Geneva’s shore.

Luxury Hotels

Luxury in Geneva translates to impeccable service, stunning views, and an ambience of sheer opulence.

• Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva
  Located on Lake Geneva, this iconic hotel offers breathtaking views, a rooftop spa, and three gourmet restaurants.
• The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva
  With its prime location in Eaux-Vives, this hotel boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant and elegantly designed rooms.
• Mandarin Oriental, Geneva
  Situated in the city’s heart, it promises luxury and convenience with its spa, fine dining, and river views.

Mid-Range Accommodations

Experience comfort without the hefty price tag. These establishments offer a balance of quality and value.

• Hotel Bristol
  Located near the Old Town, this hotel provides spacious rooms, a wellness area, and a piano bar for relaxation.
• Aparthotel Adagio Genève Mont-Blanc
  Ideal for extended stays, these serviced apartments in Paquis come with a kitchenette and are a short walk from the lake.
• Hotel N’vY Manotel
  Artistic and vibrant, this hotel in Paquis offers modern amenities, a trendy bar, and proximity to the main attractions.

Budget Stays & Hostels

Geneva offers cosy and economical options for those travelling on a tighter budget that doesn’t skimp on comfort.

• City Hostel Geneva
  Situated near the train station, this hostel is perfect for backpackers. It offers both dormitory and private rooms.
• Hotel St. Gervais
  Located in the city centre, this budget hotel promises basic amenities and is a stone’s throw from the Old Town.
• Geneva Hostel
  Overlooking the lake and Mont Blanc, this hostel provides dormitory beds, complimentary breakfast, and a communal kitchen.

Booking Tips and Tricks

• Early Bird Discounts: Geneva is a popular destination, so consider booking your stay well in advance to snag some attractive deals.
• City Passes: Some hotels offer city passes with discounts or free access to major attractions and public transportation.
• Reviews Matter: Read recent reviews on platforms like Booking.com to get a genuine feel for the property.

Book your stay in Geneva using the map below or visit booking.com

Things to do in Geneva

Geneva, a city that seamlessly blends rich history with cosmopolitan elegance, beckons travellers with various experiences. From meandering through the cobbled alleys of the Old Town, marvelling at the towering Jet d’Eau on Lake Geneva, to exploring world-class museums and indulging in retail therapy at chic boutiques, the city is a treasure trove of activities.

Not to mention the myriad cultural events and festivals that punctuate its calendar. And if you yearn for nature’s embrace, the surrounding Swiss landscapes, dotted with vineyards and marked by the majestic Alps, offer scenic escapades just a stone’s throw away.

Based on Viator.com, here are some tailored experiences and activities that you can indulge in:

Cultural & Theme Tours

1. Geneva Highlights City Tour
   – Discover Geneva’s highlights via coach, including Jet d’Eau, a walking tour of the Old Town, and a mini-train ride showcasing landmarks like St Pierre Cathedral.
2. The Highlights Tour in a TaxiBike
   – Dive into the world of diplomacy with this informative tour. Explore the European headquarters of the UN, the Red Cross Museum, and gain insight into Geneva’s role in global governance.

Day Trips & Excursions

1. Chamonix and Mont Blanc Day Trip
   – Experience the highest peak of the Alps. This day trip takes you from Geneva to Chamonix, a picturesque alpine town, and then ascends to the snowy heights of Mont Blanc via cable car.
2. Annecy Half-Day Tour from Geneva
   – Often called the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy charms with its canals, pastel-coloured houses, and medieval architecture. Wander through its streets and enjoy lakeside views.

Outdoor Activities

1. Geneva City Tour and Boat Cruise
   – Begin with a city bus tour covering major landmarks and set sail on Lake Geneva. Revel in the panoramic views of the city skyline against the backdrop of soaring Alps.
2. Audioguided sightseeing cruise of Geneva
   – Book your Lake Geneva cruise online for easy boarding, and download the audio guide to your phone to enjoy stress-free sightseeing and learn about Geneva’s highlights.

Food, Wine & Nightlife

1. Chocolate Flavours Tours Geneva: Tasting and Old Town Visit
   – Explore Geneva by land and water, dive into the world of Swiss chocolate, visit artisan shops, and savor traditional chocolate treats.
2. Geneva private TukTuk tour with fondue and drinks
   – Explore the city on a private eTukTuk tour, savoring Swiss fondue and wine, and gain insider tips from your guide about Geneva’s top spots.

Remember, these activities are but a glimpse into the myriad experiences Geneva offers. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a gastronome, Geneva has something tailor-made for you.

Shopping in Geneva

From Luxury Boutiques to Local Crafts

Geneva is not just a hub for international diplomacy; it’s also a shopper’s paradise. The city effortlessly fuses luxury with tradition, catering to high-end shoppers and those looking for authentic Swiss keepsakes.

Luxury Shopping

The city is famed for its luxury boutiques, particularly those related to watches, jewellery, and fashion.

• Rue du Rhône & Rue du Marché
  – These two streets form the heart of Geneva’s luxury shopping district.
  Bucherer: One of the world’s most famous watch and jewellery retailers, Bucherer offers a stunning collection of Swiss watches and luxury jewellery pieces.
• Patek Philippe Salon
  – An exclusive boutique where you can purchase some of the world’s most intricate and sought-after timepieces.
• Bongénie Grieder
  – A luxury department store that houses numerous high-end fashion brands, from Chanel to Gucci.

Swiss Souvenirs

No trip to Geneva is complete without taking home a piece of Swiss tradition.

Chocolates

Swiss chocolates are revered globally. While you can find renowned brands like Lindt and Toblerone, there are local chocolatiers that offer unique flavours and combinations.

• La Bonbonnière: A family-run chocolatier since 1921, it offers a plethora of chocolates, pralines, and other sweet treats.
• Stettler: Founded in 1947, it’s famous for its Geneva pralines and rich chocolate bars.

Watches & Clocks

Apart from luxury watches, numerous stores offer quality Swiss-made timepieces at various price points.

• Swatch: Known for its innovative designs and affordability, it’s a great place to pick up a trendy Swiss watch.
• L’Heure Bleue: An elegant boutique offering a curated selection of Swiss watches and clocks.

Local Crafts and Art

For those keen on taking home something uniquely Genevan.

Carouge District

This bohemian quarter is filled with artisan shops, boutiques, and studios where you can find handcrafted goods, from pottery to bespoke clothing.

• La Traverse: A shop that showcases handmade items by local artisans, from ceramics to jewellery.
• Boutique Foound: A concept store with a diverse range of products from local creators, including art prints, clothing, and home decor.

Shopping Tips

• VAT Refund: Non-EU tourists can benefit from tax-free shopping. Ensure you get a tax-free form when purchasing and claim your VAT refund upon departure.
• Shop Hours: Most shops in Geneva open around 9 or 10 am and close by 7 pm, with shorter hours on Saturdays and closed on Sundays.

Embarking on a shopping spree in Geneva can be as rewarding as exploring its cultural landmarks. The city offers an eclectic mix of the luxurious and the artisanal, ensuring every shopper returns home with memorable keepsakes.

Where to eat in Geneva

Savoring Geneva’s Gastronomy

Geneva’s culinary scene is as diverse as its population, offering a delightful mélange of flavours from around the world combined with traditional Swiss dishes. Nestled between the Alps and Jura Mountains and bordered by France, Italy, and Germany, Geneva’s gastronomy is richly influenced by its neighbours. From cheese-laden fondue pots to delicious international cuisine, there’s something to tickle every palate.

Traditional Swiss Dishes

Fondue: A beloved winter staple, fondue is a communal dish where bread cubes are dipped into a pot of melted cheese, typically a mix of Gruyère and Emmental. Enjoy it with pickles and baby onions, and wash it down with white wine or tea.

• Café du Soleil: One of the oldest restaurants in Geneva and arguably the best place for fondue, with a recipe that has stood the test of time.
• Restaurant Les Armures: Set in a 13th-century building, this eatery offers an authentic ambiance to enjoy traditional Swiss fondue.

Raclette: Melted cheese is scraped off a wheel and served with potatoes, pickles, and onions. Originally from the Valais region, it’s a must-try for cheese lovers.

• Le Gruyérien: Renowned for its raclette evenings, this restaurant serves up the dish in a truly traditional style.
• Auberge de Savièse: A cozy spot that offers both fondue and raclette, but many locals swear by its raclette.

Rösti: A Swiss-style hash brown, this crispy potato dish is versatile, often served as a side or topped with eggs, cheese, or meat.

• Chez Ma Cousine: While famous for its chicken, this spot also serves a mean rösti, crispy and flavorful.
• Café de la Press: A bustling eatery known for its hearty breakfasts, including a delightful rösti.

International Cuisine

Geneva’s international dining scene reflects its cosmopolitan nature, offering a diverse range of cuisines worldwide.

French

Given its proximity to France, it’s no surprise Geneva boasts numerous French bistros and eateries. From croissants and escargot to coq au vin, the city brings authentic French flavours to the plate.

• Chez Jacky: Renowned for its authentic French seafood dishes and an extensive wine list.
  Bistrot du Boeuf Rouge: A classic French bistro ambiance, famous for its steak frites and French onion soup.

Italian

The love for Italian food is evident in Geneva with an array of trattorias, pizzerias, and fine dining spots.

• Luigia: Famous for its delicious Neapolitan pizzas and a buzzing atmosphere.
• Trattoria Cavour: A traditional spot known for its rich pasta dishes and Italian regional specialties.

Middle Eastern

Middle Eastern cuisine’s aromatic spices and diverse flavours can be explored in Geneva, reflecting the city’s multicultural populace.

• Parfums de Beyrouth: A popular spot for authentic Lebanese dishes such as shawarma and falafel.
• Al Dar: Offers a variety of Syrian dishes with a cozy ambiance reminiscent of Middle Eastern homes.

Drink Specialties

• Swiss Wine: Surprisingly lesser-known internationally, Switzerland produces excellent wines. In Geneva, try a glass of crisp white Chasselas or a robust red Pinot Noir.
• Absinthe: Once banned, this anise-flavored spirit has made a comeback and can be tried in various bars around the city.
• Hot Chocolate: Swiss chocolate in liquid form, this rich drink is a must-have, especially during colder months.

Dining Tips

• Tipping: Service charge is usually included in your bill, but it’s customary to round up or leave small change.
• Reservations: Popular restaurants, especially in the city center, can get crowded. It’s advisable to book a table in advance.
• Lunch Deals: Many restaurants offer midday prix fixe menus, providing good value for money.

Geneva promises a culinary journey as rich and varied as its cultural tapestry. Whether you’re indulging in a hearty Swiss meal, sampling international delicacies, or sipping on a local wine, Geneva’s gastronomy won’t disappoint.

Nightlife in Geneva

Geneva’s nightlife is a vibrant tapestry of experiences catering to all tastes, from the laid-back wine enthusiast to the energetic club-goer. Geneva has it all, whether you’re in the mood for a quiet drink, live music, or a night of dancing.

Wine Bars

With its proximity to French and Italian wine regions, Geneva boasts an impressive selection of wine bars.

• L’Atelier Cocktail Club: A chic and cosy spot with an extensive wine list, it’s the perfect place to explore vintages from the surrounding regions and beyond.
• Le Verre à Monique: Nestled in a quaint neighbourhood, this bar offers a curated selection of wines in a relaxed and intimate setting.

Brewpubs & Beer Bars

For those who prefer hops over grapes, Geneva has a growing craft beer scene.

• Les Brasseurs: Offering home-brewed beers and a lively atmosphere, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors.
• La Makhno: Known for its vast range of local and international beers, this bar also frequently hosts live music, making it a favourite among the younger crowd.

Cocktail Bars

Head to one of Geneva’s upscale cocktail bars for crafted concoctions and mixology magic.

• Black Sheep Rive: An elegant cocktail bar with expert mixologists crafting innovative and classic cocktails.
• Little Barrel: Specializing in rum and gin-based drinks, this bar offers a Caribbean ambience right in the heart of Geneva.

Live Music Venues

For those who like their drinks with a side of live music.

Chat Noir: A well-known spot for its eclectic music ranging from jazz to funk. Its intimate setting makes it a favourite for music enthusiasts.
La Gravière: A club famous for its live music sessions spanning various genres and late-night DJ sets.

Dance Clubs

For the night owls looking to dance the night away.

• MAD Club: One of the most iconic nightclubs in Geneva, MAD Club offers multiple dance floors and hosts international DJs.
• Bypass Geneva: A chic and modern club known for its electrifying music, LED light shows, and energetic atmosphere.

Tips for Night Owls

• Dress Code: While many bars in Geneva have a relaxed dress code, some upscale clubs require smart attire. It’s always wise to check beforehand.
• Last Call: Many bars serve until 2 a.m., but clubs can continue until early morning hours.
• Age Restrictions: The legal drinking age in Geneva is 16 for beer and wine and 18 for spirits. Most clubs set the entrance age at 18 or 21.

Geneva’s nightlife is as diverse and international as its populace. With countless options dotting the city, every night promises a unique experience.