Geneva owes its timeless character to its pristine waters, designer shopping, rich culture and hardworking citizens. With it being the most multicultural city of Switzerland - 196 different nationalities are represented in this region - it attracts tourists from all over the world, jetting in for business or pleasure. While there is no preferred season to visit Geneva, summer makes bathing in the glittery waters somewhat more enjoyable. Here are the best things to do in Geneva to have the best time in the stunning city.
Go for a boat ride on the gorgeous Lac Léman
Lac Léman - which the Genevans shamelessly claim and rename Lac de Genève - is the largest source of freshwater in Europe, and one of the main draws for tourists during summer. It houses the city's famous landmark, the Jet d'Eau, which elegantly stands in the harbour, jetting 500 litres of water per second to an impressive 140 metres of height. To really appreciate the cool breeze, the Mouette boat is a popular choice to get from one bank to the other in just five minutes.
Traipse through the Vieille Ville
Walking into the old town is like entering a whimsical world where cobbled streets, café terraces, and medieval buildings all come together to create unrivalled charm. It's home to an array of independent boutiques selling products ranging from artisan clothing and jewellery to vintage books and decor. The old town also boasts iconic eateries, such as La Clémence, which has been serving coffee, wine and croque monsieurs in an intimate setting since 1950.
Climb up the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre
Towering above the old town is the neo-classical and Roman Saint-Pierre Cathedral, originally built in 1150 but best known for becoming the main protestant church in Geneva in 1536, after the Reformation. It's definitely worth climbing the 157 steps because you won't see such a breathtaking panoramic view of Geneva - or of the Mont Blanc on a clear day - elsewhere.
Admire the view of La Jonction
The Junction: one of the most fascinating sights in the city, the hidden gem where two worlds collide. There, you can observe the Arve's greyish waters and the Rhône's transparent body blend into one majestic river. If this isn't appealing enough, you can also go canoeing down the Rhône, and for the more experienced, go swimming in the safe zones.
Unwind at the Jardin Botanique
A Japanese pagoda, an eight-metre-high neoclassical greenhouse, some pink flamingos and tropical flora inhabit Geneva's living museum. In 1817, Augustin-Pyramus de Candolle created the Botanical Garden to conserve endangered species and protect the plant world. Today, it's Geneva's area of beauty and relaxation where you can admire the 16,000 species of plants.
Sunbathe at the Bains des Pâquis
If there's one place for socialising all year round, it's the Pâquis Baths. More than just a beach, they also offer Turkish baths, morning classes, delicious fondue and diving boards you'll regret walking onto. Between the months of May and October, you can expect a flock of locals along the pier playing card games, reading or just basking in the sun - it's basically a holiday destination.
Caffeinate in Carouge
With its charming squares, quirky streets, unique shops and bustling markets, Carouge blends Sardinian architecture with a creative and relaxed ambience - in other words, it's Geneva's 'dolce vita'. At the centre of the suburb, the Place du Marché offers a selection of cafés, restaurants and ice cream parlours. If you're in the mood for a thirst-quenching cocktail, just make your way down the Rue Vautier where you'll be greeted by an array of friendly bars.
Taste Geneva's finest wines
Geneva is Switzerland's third-largest wine-growing canton, with more than 1,400 hectares of vineyards. The unique climate of the region, due to Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains, creates the perfect environment for viticulture. The picturesque Satigny village is the go-to destination for wine lovers, boasting rolling hills and multiple estates where visitors can enjoy guided tours and tastings.
Reconnect with nature at Parc La Grange
The city's largest and one of its prettiest parks, Parc La Grange reveals resplendent trees, spectacular views over the lake, and the picture-perfect Rose Garden. In the heart of the park lies the elegant Villa La Grange, and there are also concerts hosted regularly at the Ella Fitzgerald stage, which is a popular attraction for music-lovers on a summer's evening.
Visit the Palais des Nations
The historic Palais des Nations - known for being the United Nations' home in Europe - is one of the largest diplomatic conference centres in the world, where 8,000 meetings are held annually. What is bound to grab your attention before you enter is the gigantic 12-metre-high wooden Broken Chair that Daniel Berset sculpted to pay tribute to the victims of anti-personnel mines.
Discover the Mûr des Réformateurs
The imposing hundred-metre-wide Reformation Wall was built in the spacious Parc des Bastions in 1909 to celebrate Jean Calvin's 400th birthday. In the centre are the statues of four great preachers of the Reformation: Guillaume Farel, Jean Calvin, Théodore de Bèze and John Knox. Whilst you're there, if you're up for a game of open-air chess or some perch fillets from the lake, the Kiosque des Bastions will tick those boxes.
Go shopping at Rue du Rhône
The Rue du Rhône is the luxurious shopping scene at the heart of Geneva. Patek Philippe, Louis Vuitton, Versace and many more high-end brands dominate the street. It's also the destination where the 'savoir-faire' is passed on from generation to generation. The iconic Du Rhône shop - founded in 1875 and famous for its pralines and ganaches - is the pioneer of Genevan chocolate.
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