Top 7 Activities to Do in Geneva

Located 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 cities in the world. Surrounded by the Jura and Alps mountains, it offers a splendid view of Mont-Blanc. Thanks to its geography and location, many ski resorts are located just outside the city. And how can we not mention the unmissable Lake Geneva which gives it all its charm and where life is good? If you go to Geneva, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the many activities that will punctuate your stay, whether with friends, family or as a couple. Shall we take you there? Let's go!

What to do and visit in Geneva?

1. Visit the old town

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: Through the cobblestone streets, you can discover the city's history and all its secrets. Thanks to the multiple sites and monuments you'll encounter, explore the Protestant Reformation, the founding of the Red Cross, the Geneva Conventions and the Swiss Confederation. Sites and monuments that make the city famous, such as the old market square, which houses the cathedral and its chapel. Don't forget to enter the oldest house in Geneva, which today is transformed into a museum. It's the entire history of the Holy Roman Empire that you'll find there, thanks to the Arsenal mosaics.

2. Excursion to Pillon Pass

Category: €€/Unique/Sport

Description: Nothing better than discovering this picturesque region of Diablerets in the heart of the Vaud Alps at Pillon Pass. With the family, enjoy the Alpine Coaster, Europe's highest toboggan run. You'll also discover the beauty of the 3000 glacier and venture onto the Peak Walk, the world's first suspension bridge connecting 2 summits. Let's just say that in terms of adventure you're almost at the same level as Indiana Jones! But be careful, if you're not fond of thrills, don't force yourself. It's possible to enjoy while strolling along the river in the village of Diablerets and enjoy the sublime landscape. A feast for the eyes, which you'll need to immortalize with your camera!

3. Take a cruise on Lake Geneva

Category: €€/Unique

Description: What if we left dry land for a few hours to venture onto the cold waters of the magnificent Lake Geneva which gives this city its beauty, it's simply the largest lake in Savoie Mont-Blanc, connecting France and Switzerland. From the boat, you'll have a breathtaking view of the Swiss Alps and the most emblematic monuments of Geneva. This activity is perfect for couples, it's romantic and perfect for exploring Geneva and its surroundings. During your walk, you'll surely discover the Niton stones, two rocks emerging from the lake dating from the last glaciation. You'll also have the opportunity to admire the city's famous Jet d'Eau fountain as well as the UN building.

4. Wandering around Chamonix Mont Blanc

Category: €€/Cultural/Sport

Description: Geneva is the ideal starting point to visit the alpine ski villages and admire the Mont-Blanc landscapes: no matter what season you go there, you'll be amazed by this changing landscape, the colors transform and nature seems to come alive to the rhythm of the wind gusts. Stroll through the charming streets of Chamonix and taste the multiple specialties of the region: How about a good hot fondue, or even a raclette, to warm your stomach? You can also use the cable car to enjoy the ascent to Aiguille du Midi and thus contemplate the magnificent landscapes.

5. Notre-Dame Basilica

Category: €/Cultural

Description: We'll meet you right next to Cornavin station, to get acquainted with the Notre-Dame Basilica, which was built between 1852 and 1857. This is Geneva's main church, which makes its inhabitants proud. The Basilica practices Catholic worship and constitutes a stop for pilgrims going to Santiago de Compostela. Yes indeed! Its 13th-century Gothic style makes this building an unmissable place of beauty that would make anyone who ventures there shudder. You can visit it every day, Monday to Saturday from 6:30 am to 7:30 pm, and Sunday from 7 am to 9:30 pm. The numerous leaflets written in different languages available to visitors will help you better understand why the Basilica has lived through centuries of turbulent history.

6. Brunswick Monument

Category: Free/Cultural/Unique

Description: Visiting this monument is a must if you want to discover all the history of Geneva. Indeed, the Brunswick Monument was built in 1879 in honor of the Duke of Brunswick, benefactor of Geneva. Upon his death at the Beau-Rivage hotel, 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, thus establishing itself as a Swiss cultural asset of national importance. Geneva's only mausoleum, made of Carrara marble and Verona stone, its neo-Gothic style has unusual architecture that amazes visitors. Meet us at Quai du Mont-Blanc!

7. Stroll through the English Garden

Category: Free/Cultural

Description: The English Garden is located on the shores of Lake Geneva, facing the Jet d'Eau. If the weather is nice and you want to relax, the English Garden is one of the most emblematic green spaces in the city. It's also here that you'll find the flower clock, a sign of pride. Magnificently well designed and dressed in shimmering colors, it's one of Geneva's most beautiful works of art. The park is composed in the English style with its curved paths and tree alignments, so much so that you'll love to laze there during a sunny day: it was originally called the Lake Promenade to finally change and become the English Garden. What could be better than ending your stay on a fine touch of refined greenery, full of elegance?