Location: Geneva
Top Things to do in Geneva
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The 10 Best Things to Do in Geneva, Switzerland
The shores of Lake Geneva have attracted visitors and invaders for millennia. The cheerful city of Geneva sits on the lake's western shore, lofty snowcapped peaks creating a gorgeous backdrop on all sides. The city is perfect for exploring on foot; rent a bike to venture further. The top of any itinerary should be visits to Geneva's lakefront and its famed water fountain, the Flower Clock in the English Garden, St. Peter's Cathedral, Reformation Wall, Place Neuve and the birthplace of the U.N.
Restaurants in Geneva
1. Lake Geneva
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
A scenic mountain lake situated alongside the city of Geneva, it empties into the Rhone River.
Reviewed By Alicehelena1208 - United Kingdom
Lake Geneva is beautiful in any weather. It is so accessible that it is easy to walk from one side of the lake, cross the river and continue through the old town section. The cruises give stunning views of the Geneva front from a distance.
2. Chapel of the Maccabees
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 170 reviews
Reviewed By Budd S - Berkeley, California, United States
The light is the thing that got me -- yellows and browns, blue here or there,but an unforgettable experience just to walk in here and sit down.
3. Mont Saleve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 917 reviews
Reviewed By DTAsia - Geneva, Switzerland
Beautiful short and long walks and spectacular views. particularly wonderful if Geneva is 'socked in' with clouds in the winter. You'll climb up and up, through clouds, fog and perhaps ice...and then usually be blinded by the sun! Great locations to have picnics with family and friends - including watching para gliders take off. A must do.
4. Parc La Grange
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 344 reviews
Reviewed By RealW0rldTraveller - Alberta, Canada
La Grange Park is a large public park with huge trees and beautiful landscaping in the city of Geneva right on the Lake. The park was bequeathed to the city by William Favre in 1917.
Make sure you visit the ruins behind Favre’s 18th Century villa of a Roman villa from 50-60 AD. There are 2 theatres in the park but they are only used in the summer.
5. Jardin Botanique - Villa le Chene
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 467 reviews
Reviewed By Elizabeth E - Melbourne, Australia
The Jardin Botanique is a great spot for a nice head-clearing walk after sitting in meetings at the nearby UN buildings. The Alpine Garden is charming with rocks and alpine plants, and there are a few conservatories where you can find lush green plants to cheer up in the middle of winter.
6. Musee D'ethnographie de Geneve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 139 reviews
Reviewed By derekfr - Paris, France
The ethnographic museum has recently re-opened in a new ultra-modern wing. The permanent collection (free entrance) is a rather eclectic assembly of items from different parts of the world (masks, religious artefacts, utensils etc.) arranged by geographical area (Europe, Africa, the Americas etc.). Whilst, the exhibition (entrance fee, currently 9CHF) focuses on a particular theme. Currently, this is Aboriginal art, with some spectacular bark paintings, interesting and poignant photos and contemporary pieces of differing appeal.
Everything is clearly explained and both the building itself and the exhibition space are really impressive.
The permanent collection would be a good stopover on a rainy day, whilst the exhibition depends more on your personal interests. A very worthwhile few hours.
7. Museum of Natural History (Museum d'Histoire naturelle)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 569 reviews
Reviewed By Francis V - Vienna, Austria
Great that the museum is free of charge, not so great is that everything is in french, c'mon french at a International city like Geneve !!!! I rest my case, great is to see the two !!! headed turtle called Janus, just on the first floor you can't missed it - Really FRENCH ONLY ?????
8. Patek Philippe Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By RealW0rldTraveller - Alberta, Canada
You really need to be horologist to truly appreciate this museum. There is no guided tour and several of the exhibits have few explanations and some are only in French.
9. Archeological Site at St. Pierre's Cathedral
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 386 reviews
Reviewed By jdunns - North Carolina
We read about this in a NYTimes 36-hour article, and decided to visit. A fascinating history of Geneva from pre-Roman times to the construction of the current Cathedral. Explains why Geneva is where it is, the different influences on its development from pagan days thru construction of various generations of Christian churches. Also a window into archeological processes as you wind your way thru the exhibits. Plan on at least 1.5 hours to do this. Well worth the 8CHF/pp admission!
10. Bains des Paquis
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By Ron D
We had a few hours before our flight so went to the spa. It's got lovely hot saunas and you can cool off in lake Geneva by jumping off the diving board after. You get your own cubicle to get changed in and are able to leave all your clothes locked away in here during your visit.
You need 2 towels which can be hired on site.
It is continental Europe so there are naked people in the saunas - lots of them!
Great place!
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