Top 7 things to do in Geneva

Situated close to the French border, Geneva is full of activities and places to visit. Did you know? This international Swiss city is one of the five richest in the world. Surrounded by the Jura mountains and the Alps, it offers splendid views of Mont Blanc. Thanks to its geography and location, many ski resorts lie just outside the city. And how can we not mention the inevitable Lake Geneva, which gives the city its charm and makes it a great place to live? If you come to Geneva, you’ll have the opportunity to take advantage of the many activities that will punctuate your stay, whether with friends, family or lovers. Shall we take you there? We’re off!

What to do and see in Geneva

1 – Visit the old town

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: Through the cobbled streets, you can discover the history of the city and all its secrets. Thanks to the many sites and monuments you’ll come across, explore the Protestant Reformation, the founding of the “Red Cross”, the “Geneva Conventions” and the “Swiss Confederation”. Sites and monuments for which the city is famous, such as the old market square, home to the cathedral and its chapel. Not forgetting the oldest house in Geneva, now a museum. The mosaics in the “Arsenal” tell the story of the Holy Roman Empire.

2 Excursion to the Col du Pillon

Category: €€/Insolite/Sport

Description: There’s nothing like discovering the picturesque Diablerets region in the heart of the Vaud Alps at the Col de Pillon. The whole family can enjoy the Alpine Coaster, the highest toboggan run in Europe. You’ll also discover the beauty of the 3000 glacier and venture out on the Peak Walk, the world’s first suspension bridge linking 2 summits. So when it comes to adventure, you’re on a par with Indiana Jones! But be warned, if you’re not keen on thrills, don’t force yourself. You can enjoy the sublime scenery while strolling along the river in the village of Les Diablerets. It’s a feast for the eyes, and one you’ll want to immortalise with your camera!

3 – Take a cruise on Lake Geneva

Category: €€/Insolite

Description: Let’s leave terra firma for a few hours and venture out onto the cold waters of the magnificent Lake Geneva, the largest lake in Savoie Mont-Blanc, which links France and Switzerland. From the boat, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the Swiss Alps and Geneva’s most emblematic monuments. This activity is perfect for couples, romantic and a great way to explore Geneva and its surroundings. During your walk, you’re sure to discover the Niton stones, the two rocks emerging from the lake and dating from the last ice age. You’ll also have the chance to admire the city’s famous Jet d’Eau fountain and the UN building.

4.on the road Chamonix Mont Blanc

Category: €€/Cultural/Sport

Description: Geneva is the ideal starting point for visiting the alpine ski villages and admiring the scenery of Mont Blanc: whatever season you visit, you’ll be blown away by the changing landscape, the colours transform and nature seems to come alive to the rhythm of the gusts of wind. Stroll through the charming streets of Chamonix and sample some of the region’s many specialities: how about a hearty fondue or raclette to warm your stomach? You can also take the cable car up to the Aiguille du Midi and admire the magnificent scenery.

5 Notre-Dame Basilica

Category: €/Cultural

Description: We invite you to visit the Basilique Notre-Dame, built between 1852 and 1857, just next to the Cornavin station. It is Geneva’s main church and the pride of its people. The Basilica practises Catholic worship and is a stopover for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. That’s right! Its 13th-century Gothic style makes this building a must-see, with a beauty that would thrill anyone venturing there. You can visit it every day, Monday to Saturday from 6.30am to 7.30pm, and on Sundays from 7am to 9.30pm. The many leaflets in different languages available to visitors will give you a better understanding of why the Basilica has lived through centuries of turbulent history.

6 Brunswick Monument

Category: Free/Cultural/Insolite

Description: A visit to this monument is a must if you want to discover the history of Geneva. The Brunswick Monument was built in 1879 in honour of the Duke of Brunswick, a benefactor of Geneva. When he died in the Hotel Beau-Rivage, his will was revealed. In conflict with his family, the wealthy duke bequeathed his entire fortune to the city. A mausoleum was therefore built posthumously, and was the most expensive monument ever built, making it a Swiss cultural asset of national importance. The only mausoleum in Geneva, made of Carrara marble and Verona stone, its neo-Gothic style has an unusual architecture that amazes visitors. See you at the “Quai du Mont-Blanc”!

7 A walk in the Parc des Anglais

Category: Free/Cultural

Description: The Parc des Anglais is located on the shores of Lake Geneva, opposite the Jet d’Eau. If the weather is fine and you fancy a spot of sunbathing, the Jardin des Anglais is one of the city’s most emblematic green spaces. This is also where you’ll find the clock in bloom, a sign of pride. Magnificently designed and dressed in shimmering colours, it is one of Geneva’s most beautiful works of art. The park is laid out in the English style, with curving paths and rows of trees, so you’ll love lounging around on a sunny day: it was originally called “the Promenade du lac” and eventually changed to “the English garden”. What better way to end your stay than with a touch of refined greenery and elegance?