Things to do in Geneva, Switzerland – TOP activities

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Geneva is a great place in Switzerland and you can do a lot of things in this beautiful swiss town. It is the capital of the Republic and Canton of Geneva and the second most populated city in Switzerland (after Zürich). It’s best known for its international organizations – such as Red Cross or United Nations. It’s also hosting the highest number of such offices in the world.

In this article, you will find out about the best things you can do in Geneva, Switzerland!

1. A few facts to know about the city

Geneva is the second largest city in Switzerland, one of the most cultured and appreciated cities in the world thanks to its historic sites and attractions. Geneva dates back more than 4000 years and its presence remains today in its monuments, museums and architectural treasures.

It is located at the southwestern end of Lake Geneva, at its junction with the Rhône River, and it has an altitude of about 375 metres, being surrounded by mountains and great natural views. 

Geneva has its own airport, so it’s easy to get there from many other european cities. From the airport, you can use private transfers, to get you to the closest main attractions or to other cities around.

2. Best things to do in Geneva – TOP 10 ACTIVITIES

There are a lot of activities and attractions that you can easily try in Geneva. Thankfully, it’s a place full of options for you, and it’s impossible not to find something that suits you perfectly. It doesn’t matter if you are attracted to the city itself, or to the great sites around Geneva – you will discover all the best recommendations with basic research. Let’s find out together the 10 best things to do in Geneva:

The Jet D’Eau water fountain

This water fountain is a main attraction of Geneva and it’s definitely a must-see. The water jet is 140 metres high, with 500 litre of water that passes through per second, at a speed of 200 km/h. The fountain was initially created with the purpose of being a hydraulic pumping station to power up the factory machines. At the end of each day, the pressure was released up in the air. Through time, it has been transformed to a basic and loved attraction – now known as a fountain.

Lake Geneva and the famous Water Jet at dawn

The Flower Clock

The Flower Clock is 2,5 metres long and is situated in the Jardin Anglais. It was created in 1955 and it’s made of approximately 12,000 flowers and plants that change according to the season. It is a beautiful creation, but also a symbol of swiss time precision.

Geneva Flower Clock on a blue bird day

The Palais Des Nations

The Palais des Nations is a great building that dates back to the 30’s, and it’s still a representative place for hosting governmental meetings. You can visit it and find out more information through guided tours in 15 different languages.

The UN building in Geneva view from the main entrance

CERN

CERN is an acronym for Conseil Européen pour la Recherche Nucléaire and it’s an important scientific organisation. The main area of research is particle physics and the study of basic constituents of matter. Beyond their research, they offer great tours and exhibitions to see. So, it’s perfect for those who like science and want to find out more about what’s happening at CERN!

The Globe of Science and Innovation - CERN visitor center in Geneva

The longest wooden bench in the world

In the old town, on the La promenade de la Treille you will find the longest wooden bench in the world. It was built in 1767 and it is 413 feet long, being made of 180 wooden boards. It surely awaits you to take a good sit in the Old Town square of Geneva.

The longest wooden bench in the world is in Geneva

St. Pierre Cathedral

This is the best cathedral in Geneva and you must visit it. Its architecture dates back to the 12th century, even though its neoclassical facades give it a new look. You can visit its towers, but it also has an archaeological underground site, which is a perfect place for exploring ancient vestiges.

Saint Pierre Cathedral main entrance on a cloudy day

Trip to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc it’s the perfect place for a day trip in any season. In the winter you can go and check out the ski resort and in the summer you can visit the city and the mountains, lakes, and rivers around, go for a hike, rent a mountain bike or just eat a delicious traditional meal in the local restaurants. And best of all, there are great transfer options from Geneva.

A Mont Blanc view from Chamonix town centre

Museums

Museums are great when you are looking for cultural indoor activities and an easy way to learn more about history, art, architecture, etc. You can visit the International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, the Natural History museum, the Art and History museum, and many other great ones.

Main entrance for the International Museum of the Red Cross

Parks and gardens

If you enjoy a good walk in the park, don’t forget to check out the Parc des Bastions, the Jardin Anglaise, the Botanical Garden, or Parc de la Grange, as well as some other beautiful parks and gardens in Geneva. 

The English Garden park in Geneva in autumn

Quartier des Grottes

Quartier des Grottes is a special neighborhood and quarter, with a young and bohemian touch. The blocks were built in 1980 and they have some colorful painted facades, which offer you a great joyful feeling. It is also a great area for shops, restaurants, theatres and cinemas.

 

Building in Quartier des Grottes with yellow, pink and red window frames

All in all, Geneva is a wonderful city, full of colour, science, art and history, with great places to see and things to be done. It is a good starting point for other places nearby, but it also keeps his own charm inside.

So, you have many reasons to visit Geneva as soon as possible!

 

Photo source: shutterstock.com