Switzerland has always been a dream destination on my bucket list – and an even bigger one for my mom, who was inspired to visit ever since she was a child when watching an old TV show called George, filmed in Switzerland. So, making this trip together was an adventure and we were thrilled to finally turn this lifelong dream into reality not too long ago. Our journey through this stunning country began in the picturesque city of Geneva, which effortlessly combines natural beauty, rich history, and modern and luxurious sophistication. We spent 5 days exploring Geneva (due to a flight change there and back) and took the opportunity to enjoy the tranquil lakeside views, explore the charming Old Town streets, and discover the city’s rich cultural and historical landmarks. Geneva is also nested along the shores of Lake Geneva and surrounded by the stunning Alps, so even if you don’t venture to other parts of Switzerland, you’ll still be treated to breathtaking views and crystal blue waters with a serene atmosphere that captures the essence of Swiss beauty. Some tourists even visit Geneva specifically for its high-end shopping, from luxury watch boutiques and designer stores to exclusive Swiss chocolate shops and artisanal markets, adding a touch of indulgence to their travel experience.
Geneva is often referred to as the “Capital of Peace”, a title that reflects its longstanding history, cultural significance, and pivotal role in international diplomacy. Its strategic location in the heart of Europe has made it a global hub for centuries. Today, it is home to the European headquarters of the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross, further cementing its reputation as a center for peace, humanitarian efforts, and global collaboration. As a multilingual city, Geneva is predominantly French-speaking, but English is widely understood, and other languages such as German and Italian can also be heard throughout the country. Over the years, Geneva has evolved into a modern and cosmopolitan city while retaining its historical charm, where you can also find other cultures and global influences, making it one of the most vibrant and unique cities in the world. It is also the perfect starting point for discovering the magic of Switzerland and setting the tone for an incredible adventure around the country.
Best Time To Visit Geneva, Switzerland
The best time to visit Geneva is between spring and fall, specifically from May to October. Spring (May and early June) and fall (September and October) are ideal for milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed atmosphere. I visited at the end of August into mid-September, and the weather was absolutely perfect – warm but not overwhelming like when I spent the same summer in Europe (starting in Bulgaria, all the way to Ireland).
The summer months, from June to August, are the busiest and hottest, with many places lacking air conditioning – so remember to book a hotel that has air conditioning! However, it’s also the best time to enjoy Geneva’s vibrant festivals and outdoor events.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly trip, October and November are the cheapest months to visit. During this time, some hotels and attractions may be closed, as the weather can be unpredictable and the tourist season slows down. However, these months still offer stunning fall foliage and plenty of food-related events to enjoy. Just remember to pack layers and an umbrella!
How Much Time Is Needed In Geneva, Switzerland
Geneva is a compact city and the amount of time you need largely depends on the pace of your visit. If you’re short on time, you can cover the main highlights in about 2 days, focusing on iconic landmarks and essential sites.
However, for a more relaxed and well-rounded experience, 3 days is ideal to not only explore the must-see attractions but also immerse yourself in Geneva’s rich cultural offerings and culinary scene. Additionally, you’ll have time for leisurely activities such as a boat cruise or exploring nearby vineyards in the surrounding countryside if you’re adventurous.
Where To Stay In Geneva, Switzerland
When visiting Geneva, these neighborhoods offer the best mix of convenience, attractions, and atmosphere:
City Center (Downtown Geneva) – this is the most convenient area for first-timers as it’s close to major attractions and shopping streets. You’ll also have easy access to public transportation and plenty of dining options. One of the hotels we stayed at in Geneva was the Ruby Claire Hotel Geneva in the City Center and it was the perfect location with a very modern setup.
Old Town (Vieille Ville) – for those who want to immerse themselves in Geneva’s history and charm, Old Town would be your preference with the cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and cozy cafés.
Eaux-Vives – This lakeside district is a great choice if you prefer a quieter area while still being close to the city center. You’ll also get scenic lake views, parks, and local restaurants.
How To Get Around Switzerland
Switzerland has a really efficient public transportation network that includes trains, buses, cable cars, gondolas, and boats, making it really easy to get around the country. When I was planning my trip, I initially felt intimidated with the sheer number of options, especially when it came to choosing the right trains for traveling between cities. Fortunately, Switzerland offers the Swiss Travel Pass, which provides unlimited travel across Switzerland and is a great option for tourists who plan to use public transportation frequently. However, if you don’t plan on using public transportation as often, the Swiss Half Fare Card is an excellent alternative where you only pay half the price of your fare any time you need it. I personally opted for the Swiss Half Fare Card, and it turned out to be the perfect choice for my travel style. This Swiss blog offers a free download to help you choose the best transportation option based on your travel plans (you just enter your destinations into an Excel document and it’ll let you know which. It was incredibly helpful for me in figuring out the most cost-effective way to get around.
For the ultimate flexibility, renting a car is a great option, especially for reaching more remote areas. Just remember to look for a hotel that includes parking.
How To Get Around Geneva
Geneva also has an excellent public transportation system which includes trams, buses, and boats. Most hotels will provide a free Geneva Transport Card (the hotel will email you the form to fill out or provide it to you upon arrival – this includes your ride to and from the airport!) which gives you unlimited access to public transport during your stay. For short distances, walking or even renting a bike are great options. During my stay, we just walked everywhere and didn’t even need to use public transportation even though it was readily available.
Your other option to get around if you aren’t walking or biking, is to take a taxi (which you can order by phone or hail them in the street – but rates do increase at night, on Sundays and on holidays).
Must-Eat Foods In Switzerland
Switzerland has a mix of hearty alpine dishes, rich flavors, world-renowned sweets, and is a cheese haven. Although each region may also have their own specialties, there are some must-try foods you can’t leave Switzerland without sampling. Also, note that service charges are not required in Switzerland – some are included in bills if it’s at an upscale restaurant, but most places don’t require tipping or bypass it completely on their own accord.
Fondue – when in Switzerland, of course you can’t miss this classic Swiss dish made of melted choose, served in a communal pot, and enjoyed by dipping bread cubes into the gooey, rich cheese.
Raclette – another cheese lover’s dream, raclette is a melted cheese scraped over boiled potatoes, pickles, and cured meats. “According to legend, it was a winegrower from the Valais named Leon who invented Raclette. On a cold winter’s evening, he put a few potatoes to cook in the hot coals as he was preparing a dinner party. Unfortunately, the cheese had been left too close to the hearth and melted. He sliced up the potatoes and scraped the melted cheese on to a plate. And raclette was born!” It may look small, but it’s very filling! And oftentimes, you can get a refill. I visited Auberge de Saviese, and it was a delicious, traditional Swiss restaurant. Another great option is Café Papon for authentic Swiss food.
Rösti – often considered Switzerland’s national dish, this is a crispy, golden potato pancake that’s simple yet incredibly satisfying. It’s like the Swiss version of hashbrowns in a larger size and it was actually my favorite dish – was crispy to perfection.
Swiss Chocolate – famous for its high-quality chocolate, be sure to try some local brands or visit artisanal chocolatiers for a taste of this decadent treat. Läderach, Sprüngli, or Maison Cailler guarantees quality and are very well-known and are available in many places.
Swiss Cheese – sample Swiss cheese varieties like Emmental, Gruyère, or Appenzeller and visit local markets or cheese shops for an authentic experience
Bircher Müesli – invented in Switzerland, this healthy breakfast dish combines oats, grated apples, yogurts, and nuts. You’ll see this often in hotels if you have your breakfast included. It was pretty good and I actually bought some at the grocery store to take home too!
Swiss Wine – Swiss wine is rarely exported to other countries – it is the least-exported wine in the world (only about 1 to 2%) because Swiss wine is highly valued and consumed domestically so be sure to try it out at restaurants or grab a bottle or two at the grocery store to take home.
Shopping Tips For Switzerland
Geneva, Switzerland is highly regarded for designer and luxury shopping. As one of the most upscale cities in Switzerland, it is reflected in its shopping scene. Here are 8 shopping tips you need to know if you plan to splurge and indulge:
- Geneva is a luxury shopping paradise – head to Rue de Rhône for the ultimate luxury shopping experience. If you visit Zurich, Bahnhofstrasse is also famous for high-end shopping.
- Don’t forget your VAT refund – as a non-EU visitor, you can claim a VAT refund for purchases over CHF 300 (about $475 CAD or $330 USD) from participating stores. Request the tax-fee form at checkout & have it stamped at customs when leaving Switzerland. They will refund your method of payment (usually by credit card) within a few days. If you don’t receive it, it is extremely easy to contact them over their help form online to get it back within a week if you filled everything out correctly.
- Take into consideration your country’s tax exemption when traveling abroad. In Canada, our limit is only $800 CAD for a week out of the country, but it depends on whether the customs agents check you as well. I got lucky with them not even asking in my past few trips.
- Switzerland is globally renowned for its luxury watches like Rolex, Omega, and Patek Philippe. Non-citizens aren’t able to purchase Rolex watches directly from the brand’s official store. Even for locals, wait times are about 1 year due to limited stock.
- Shops in Geneva generally close pretty early, around 6PM on weekdays and even earlier on Saturdays. Most are closed on Sunday so plan your shopping accordingly.
- Switzerland uses Swiss Francs (CHF) but credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Keep some cash on hand for smaller shops or markets that may not accept cards. Try to use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to save even more!
- There are usually seasonal sales during summer (July) and winter (January) – it’s a great time to snag deals in one of Europe’s most expensive cities.
- Geneva’s airport has excellent duty-free shops – save on taxes here!
- Prepare for high prices – Switzerland is expensive, so expect to pay a premium for almost everything, including basic shopping items.
- Bring your own tote if you can as most Swiss stores charge for plastic bags as the country is very eco-conscious.
Best Things To Do In Geneva, Switzerland
Geneva is a city that perfectly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re wandering through its charming streets or soaking in the stunning lakeside views, there’s so much to explore. Here are some of the best things to do in Geneva that you won’t want to miss.
Palais De Nations (United Nations Headquarters)
Time Spent – 2 to 4 hours
Why You Should Visit – Geneva is home to the European headquarters of the United Nations and you can take a guided tour (available in 14 languages) to learn about the UN’s role in global diplomacy and see some of the historic rooms including the Assembly Hall and Council Chamber. It is recommended to arrive 30 to 40 minutes earlier for security screening upon arrival. If you take a group tour, there will be 15 to 40 visitors per time slot. Private options are available as well for up to 5 people at a time.
Quai du Mont-Blanc / Jet D’eau / Lake Geneva Boat Tour
Time Spent – 1 to 3 hours
Why You Should Visit – One of Geneva’s most scenic promenades, you can see breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the mountains across the lake. This lakeside walk has the perfect view of the iconic Jet d’Eau fountain that shoots water 140 meters in the air at 500 liters of water per second, luxury hotels, exclusive restaurants and cafés, and a stunning waterfront.
If you have time or are interested, take a boat tour on Lake Geneva as it is a unique and scenic way to experience the beauty of Geneva. As you cruise along the calm, clear waters, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the city’s skyline, the surrounding Alps, and the shores where you can see charming villas and vineyards. You can also see the iconic landmarks from a different perspective and is a great way to experience the beauty of Geneva’s water. I was constantly in awe with how clear and blue the water was – it’s very tempting to jump in especially on a hot day!
Here’s an Instagram reel of how Lake Geneva and Jet d’Eau looks!
Globus Shopping Mall
Time Spent – 2 to 3 hours
Why You Should Visit – Since 1892, Globus has been Switzerland’s leading department store offering a shopping experience with a long history of luxury and quality. There are 9 locations across Switzerland and you can shop for a wide range of high-end goods, including Swiss-made products to international luxury brands. With over 200 shops in the Geneva location, you can find fashion, beauty, home goods, gourmet food, and restaurants all in one place.
Rue du Rhône
Time Spent– 2 to 3 hours or more, depending on your shopping interests
Why You Should Visit – One of Geneva’s most prestigious and luxurious streets, it is known for its high-end boutiques and designer stores. This iconic shopping street is home to luxury fashion brands, the finest Swiss watchmakers, exclusive jewelry stores and more – making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the ultimate shopping experience. I also found that they have a wider variety of styles that is not available in North America. Here’s my unboxing video of an item I got from Hermès and also Dior during my time in Geneva – I was able to save on VAT taxes for both items!
Old Town (Vieille Ville)
Steeped in history, the Old Town features cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and centuries-old architecture, making it the cultural heart of Geneva and home to its most iconic landmarks. Walking through Old Town feels like stepping back in time, where medieval architecture meets modern-day life. It is a great place for anyone wanting to experience Geneva’s cultural roots, here are some must-visit locations in this area:
Jardin Anglais (English Garden)
Time Spent – 30 minutes to 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – This beautiful lakeside park has stunning flower displays and sculptures, including the famous L’Horloge Fleuri (Flower Clock), which is a symbol of Geneva’s watchmaking tradition. The clock’s intricate design and vibrant flowers make it a must-see. The park also features a giant Ferris wheel, which adds to the charm and can be seen from various points in the city.
St. Pierre Cathedral
Time Spent – 20 to 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit – St. Pierre Cathedral is one of Geneva’s most important historical and architectural landmarks that dates back to the 12th century and had a significant role in the Protestant Reformation when John Calvin preached there. Built in the Romanesque and Gothic style, it has an impressive interior with gorgeous stained-glass windows reflecting beautiful colors on the floor when the sun hits just right. You can also climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city and Lake Geneva.
Place Du Bourg-De-Four
Time Spent – 30 minutes to 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – This is Geneva’s oldest square and was a marketplace and the center of medieval life in Geneva once upon a time. Now you can see a glimpse of the city’s history that serves as the vibrant heart of Old Town. With centuries-old buildings lined with cafés, restaurants, and boutiques, this square is a great spot to soak in the historical atmosphere. This square remains a lively hub and a lovely location to enjoy the outdoor terraces or simply exploring the cobblestone streets.
Promenade de la Treille
Time Spent – 15 minutes
Why You Should Visit – This picturesque park is home to the world’s longest bench, stretching an impressive 120 meters. Completed in 1774 by connecting a series of benches, the bench offers a tranquil spot to relax while taking in the views of the city and the surrounding mountains. A quiet escape from the hustle and bustle, the Promenade de la Treille is perfect for a leisurely stroll or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the unique blend of nature and history in Geneva.
Patek Philippe Museum
Time Spent – 1 to 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – This museum is a must-see for watch enthusiasts and anyone interested in the rich history of Swiss horology. With an impressive collection of timepieces, you’ll see over 500 years of watchmaking craftsmanship, including antique watches and historical artifacts. You’ll also get an immersive look at the artistry, innovation, and evolution of watchmaking, including pieces from Swiss and European makers.
Viaduc de la Jonction
Time Spent – 20 to 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit – This bridge connects the districts of Pâquis and Jonction and offers one of the best panoramic views of Geneva where the Rhône and Arve rivers meet. The view is also especially picturesque at sunset with the surrounding mountains, riverbanks, and cityscape.
Explore Beyond Geneva: The Grand Tour of Switzerland
If you are planning to explore beyond Geneva, embarking on the Grand Tour of Switzerland will lead you across the most scenic and iconic attractions in Switzerland. The Grand Tour is 1,643 kilometers long and includes 46 attractions, 22 lakes, 5 Alpine passes, 13 UNESCO World Heritages, and numerous photo spots that guarantee the best views. This curated travel route was designed as a road trip and takes travelers across 25 cantons in Switzerland and countless charming towns and villages and allows travelers to experience the best of Switzerland in one longer trip. It is also absolutely possible to explore via public transportation as I did – although I didn’t have a Grand Tour intention in mind, I did come across several of them during my trip to Switzerland, starting with the one in Geneva at Jet d’Eau. You can easily choose to complete the full route or just choose specific sections based on your travel itinerary and preferences. Whether you’re into road trips, outdoor adventures, or cultural exploration, the Grand Tour of Switzerland is a comprehensive way to experience the country.
Keep an eye out for my next blog posts on Bern, Lucerne, Zurich, the Jungfrau region (Grindelwald, Interlaken, and Lauterbrunnen), and Zermatt!