As one of the most expensive countries in Europe, Switzerland is often skipped over by budget travelers.
Yet, while it is not a cheap destination, Switzerland is one of the most beautiful places on earth.
This land-locked country is home to more than 7,000 shimmering lakes, picturesque mountains (hello Alps!), medieval towns, historic cities, soaring peaks, rolling green fields, delicious chocolate and cheese, incredible beer, and friendly people.
Switzerland is known for its ski resorts, hiking trails, banking and finance centers, and, of course, Swiss watches. It is also ranked as the second safest country in all of Europe!
As I mentioned earlier, Switzerland is not a budget-friendly travel destination, so I had to be extra cautious while planning this excursion.
I spent two days in the beautiful city of Geneva, often referred to as the world’s most compact metropolis and the “Peace Capital.”
There are so many different things to do in Geneva so it can be overwhelming to decide just what to see, especially if you’ve never visited before, so I’ve compiled this ultimate guide to Geneva here for your next trip to Switzerland!
What to Expect in Geneva
Language: Geneva is a highly international destination, so it is not uncommon to hear multiple languages being spoken by passerby. French and English are the most common.
Currency: The primary currency is the Swiss Franc. Most establishments will accept the Euro, but you may have to pay a premium rate. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are abundant.
Climate: The winters can be rainy and gray, with highs in the 30s. Summer is quite warm and sunny, with highs in the 70s and 80s (Fahrenheit).
Travel Tip: To learn more about what to expect before you go, visit the Geneva Tourism website.
Getting Around Geneva
Public Transportation: I used public transportation the entire time I was in Geneva! Trams, boats, and buses around Geneva are easy to use.
Taxi: Taxi’s are readily available when needed and they are required to speak English by law, making it more comfortable if you don’t speak French.
Walk/Bike: If you want to get a bit of exercise, you can walk around the city or rent a bike at the Cornavin Railway Station.
Travel Tip: If you are staying in a hotel, you will be provided with a FREE transport card. It includes free travel on buses, boats, trams, etc.
What to do in Geneva
Visit Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva is the largest body of water in Switzerland. It curves along the border of France and is overlooked by the glistening snow-capped Alps.
A stunning feature of Lake Geneva is the Jet d’Eau (a 460 foot tall Water Fountain).
This lake is perfect for swimming, boating, and water sports. Plus, there are tons of hiking and cycling trails that surround the shorelines.
Explore Old Town
Geneva’s Old Town is an ancient maze of small streets and picturesque squares, filled with homey cafes, restaurants, galleries, museums, and historical sights.
Be sure to stop by St. Peter’s Cathedral located in the center of the Old Town, slightly on the hill overseeing the rest of the city.
Attend a festival
There are dozens of Swiss traditions that call for celebrations and festivals around the city.
When I visited Geneva, it happened to be The Escalade Festival, which is basically Geneva’s Independence Day (December 11-12). There was tons of live music, food vendors, street performers, and even some fireworks at the end of the day!
Bains des Pâquis
One of the most popular spots in Geneva, the Bains des Pâquis is an artificial peninsula surrounded by a lively beach. Here, you can find more restaurants, easy access to the water, and you will be able to get a magnificent view of the Jet d’Eau that I mentioned previously.
Plainpalais Market
Every Wednesday and Saturday, and every first Sunday of the month since 1970, this market teems with vendor stalls and crowds of people. This is one of Switzerland’s largest flea markets and is a great way to spend an afternoon shopping and people watching.
Geneva is a worldwide center for diplomacy due to the presence of numerous international organizations, including the headquarters of many agencies of the United Nations and the Red Cross. This city proudly hosts the highest number of international organizations in the world!
Overall, Geneva may be one of the most unique places that I have ever had the opportunity to visit. Between the glimmering lakes and scaling mountains that surround the entire city, it’s tough to find a place not to like in Switzerland.
Enlightened Escape 