10 Places To Visit In Geneva Switzerland
One of Europe’s most beautiful destinations has to be Geneva, Switzerland. Famous for the chocolate and clocks produced there, the gorgeous scenic landscapes and history of the country mean there is something for absolutely everyone. From the art museums to the lake itself, it is a tough decision to make when it comes to scheduling your visit and deciding where exactly to go.
These 10 destinations, some of them more touristy than others, are everything you need to unlock the full picture of Geneva at its finest. And with regular music and arts festivals, make sure that you keep an eye out for any extra firework events going on.
1. Geneva botanical gardens or ‘Jardin Botanique’
These botanical gardens have a twist, that being the different sections together actually comprise what is known as a ‘living museum’. Amongst the outside segments, you’ll find flowers and plants from all over the world along with some perfect picnic spots where you can pause to sketch and snack.
Don’t miss out on visiting the local farm life and exquisite green houses. Each contains the flora and fauna of different habitats, a personal favourite being the cacti which live in the winter green house. The best part of this whole experience? Not only does it make for some great photographs and interesting plant facts, it is also entirely free!
2. Visit the Jet D’Eau
The Jet D’Eau is one of Switzerland’s most famous landmarks. The Water Jet is partially submerged under the surface of Lake Geneva and sprays over 200 ft into the air. It can be spotted across the city, making it a much desired view from hotel rooms towards the water side.
Whilst originally formed for its industrial use and the safety it helped to provide, it is now recognised as one of the more aesthetically pleasing elements of Switzerland. If you catch it in the right light and weather, you might be lucky enough to see some rainbows.
3. Dip your feet into beautiful Lake Geneva
Of course, when you visit Switzerland you have to start with the place that the most famous city is named after. Lake Geneva stretches across Switzerland across Italy, France and Germany, meaning it is absolutely huge! There are so many ways to experience it, especially if you are interested in sailing or water sports.
But if you’re going for something a bit more chilled and laid back, find a sunny spot with just enough shade where you can dip your feet into the lake whilst you read. Imagine you are Mary Shelley for a while and read some Frankenstein, after all this was the place where that infamous story was written.
4. Explore the old town and Cathedrale St Pierre
The old town has many hidden spots to explore, whether you want to find the museum on the Reformation of Switzerland or to climb the stairs to the top of St Pierre Cathedrale. The architecture is extremely reminiscent of that from the Dutch Golden Age meaning if you have been to Amsterdam before, you might have just a little deja vu.
End your time here with a delicious pastry and cold drink at one of the many cafes and bars nearby. I can guarantee it will be the best thing you eat during your stay as there are so many traditional recipes in this area.
5. CERN
Whether you know everything about everything when it comes to physics or are simply a fan of the Big Bang Theory, CERN is one of Switzerland’s most fascinating places. With limited tourist access due to the high demand, it is important to make sure you get in touch at least a month or so in advance before you visit as you will need to fill in some background paperwork.
Tours are entirely free and if you are successful in securing one, you’ll find yourself learning about some of the most advanced, record breaking science of the past century. If unsuccessful in securing a tour, there are some smaller exhibitions open year round that you can also see for free, so you won’t miss out too much.
6. Museum of art and history
Another of the most recognisable spots in Geneva, Switzerland, is the museum of art and history. Located in the centre of the city, there are over 1 million art pieces here to admire dating from the medieval to the present day.
Lose yourself in some of the finest artwork ever created and definitely do not miss out on the section about Ancient Egypt. Stepping into this is like going back in time and is something you will remember for years to come.
Top tip – Museums are closed every Monday, so check these out on Sunday or another day of your visit.
7. See the flower clock and a Rolex watch store
Especially in summer, the flower clock is a lovely thing to spot on your way around Lake Geneva. This and at least one of the many Rolex watch stores around are where you should take selfies to send to your friends and family.
Postcards tend to be expensive, so why not print off some of your photographs containing these landmarks instead? They can add an extra personal touch too, so it’s a great excuse to tap into your creative side.
8. Take a photo with the broken chair sculpture
Standing in the Palace of Nations, this sculpture is one of the strangest and most important landmarks in Geneva. Originally fashioned to encourage enough signatures on a petition against land mines, it stands now as a reminder of this accomplishment and to promote continued opposition to land mines and cluster bombs.
Switzerland is famous for its neutrality during war time and its promotion of peace, which is perfectly summarised in this statue. Surrounded by the flags of Europe and the wider world, this is an exceptionally moving and unique place to be.
9. Sample and observe the production of some otherworldly Swiss chocolate
Ok, so perhaps I told just a little lie about the recipes in the old town being the best thing you will taste. Those meals are actually in joint first place with the Swiss chocolate dotted around, from the ice cream to the crepes.
If you want to taste the best Swiss chocolate and sample some of it fresh from the cooling, why not head to one of the local chocolate factories? Find one nearest to you that is open to the public and be prepared for a swoon worthy few hours. You’ll never want to leave!
10. Take a day trip and go to the top of Mont Blanc
Catching the bus to the neighbouring area of Chamonix isn’t too difficult and only takes a couple of hours, making it a perfect day trip. If you’re willing to get up early to avoid the queues, the best thing you can do on your trip is head to the top of Mont Blanc.
The highest point in all of the Alps, here you’ll find absolutely stunning views across Swtizerland where even in the middle of summer heat there is still the thickest snow you might see all year! The inspiration for many famous poems and novels, it’s a once in a lifetime place to be so definitely do not miss out if you have the chance.
