What to see in Geneva? My way of spontaneous sightseeing
Located on the picturesque Lake Geneva, surrounded by mountain ranges, and home to the United Nations and the European Organization for Nuclear Research CERN, Geneva—the second largest city in Switzerland—offers out-of-this-world attractions at every turn! Ready for a journey where elegance meets scientific adventure? Pack your comfortable shoes and a bit of curiosity—we’re off to explore!
Table of contents:
- How to get from the airport to Geneva quickly and stress-free
- How to explore Geneva without overpaying at every step
- Free public transport in Geneva – how it works and how to make the most of it
- What to see in Geneva? Attractions and a city map to get you started
- Where to stay in Geneva? Places for (almost) every budget
- Where and what to eat in Geneva for great taste without crying over the bill
- New Year’s Eve in Geneva – is it worth it and how to prepare
- Practical information for your stay
How to get from the airport to Geneva quickly and stress-free
Geneva Airport is located just 4 km from the city center, so getting there takes only a moment. And if you choose accommodation in the northern part of Geneva, you can count on an added attraction—you’ll be able to watch planes taking off and landing against the majestic backdrop of the Alps.
Train from the airport to the city center of Geneva
- Travel time: approximately 7 minutes.
- Frequency: trains run every 12 minutes during peak hours.
- Destination station: Genève-Cornavin (the main train station in the city center).
- Ticket: Unireso Zone 10 – 3 CHF, valid for 60 minutes on trains, buses, trams, and boats in Geneva.
Buses from the airport to the city center of Geneva
- Line 5: airport – Palexpo – Nations – Gare Cornavin – Bel-Air – Muséum – Thônex-Vallard.
- Line 10: airport – Balexert – Gare Cornavin – Bel-Air – Rive.
- Travel time: approximately 20 minutes.
- Frequency: every 8–15 minutes during peak hours.
- Ticket: Unireso Zone 10 – 3 CHF, valid for 60 minutes.
Aérobus – free early morning transport
- Operating hours: from 4:30 to 6:30 a.m.
- Lines: A1–A6 (only A1 and A6 pass through Geneva city center).
- Condition: a valid flight ticket or boarding pass for the day must be presented.
- Ticket: the ride is free of charge.
How to explore Geneva without overpaying at every step
Switzerland is not among the cheapest countries. A stay can be expensive, but this can also be partially avoided! How? I’ll try to briefly explain it to you.
Geneva Transport Card – free public transport
First of all, free public transport with the Geneva Transport Card. This card offers free public transportation for tourists visiting Geneva. With it, you can move around the entire city completely free of charge. More information can be found HERE.
Sightseeing on foot
Walking! Yes, you read that right – exploring on foot is the key to budget-friendly sightseeing. Most attractions are concentrated in the center of Geneva. You can easily walk from one to another. See for yourself!
Free attractions
Yes, there are such places too! There are plenty of spots you can visit completely free of charge. Here are a few of them:
- Jet d’Eau – the city’s symbol, a fountain shooting water up to 140 meters high
- Jardin Anglais – an English-style garden with the iconic flower clock
- Parc des Bastions – a park with giant chess boards and the Reformation Wall
- Parc La Grange – the largest park in Geneva, featuring a beautiful rose garden
- St. Peter’s Cathedral – entry to the cathedral is free; only the tower requires a ticket
Free museums – permanent exhibitions
Some museums in Geneva are always free of charge, and it’s worth taking advantage of that:
- Maison Tavel – the oldest preserved house in Geneva, now a museum of the city’s history
- Muséum d’histoire naturelle – natural history museum with an impressive collection
- Musée d’histoire des sciences – museum of the history of science, perfect for the curious
- Musée Ariana – museum of ceramics and glass
- Conservatoire et Jardin botaniques – botanical garden with over 12,000 plant species
Free museums on the first Sunday of the month
Many cultural institutions offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month, both to permanent and temporary exhibitions. Examples include:
- Musée d’ethnographie de Genève (MEG) – fascinating collections of cultures from around the world
- Musée d’Art et d’Histoire – Geneva’s largest museum, with a collection spanning from antiquity to the 19th century
Attention! Not all museums participate in this initiative, so it’s worth checking the latest information on the website of each institution before your visit.
Free viewpoints
How about a free view of the city? Parc des Bastions or the area around St. Peter’s Cathedral are great viewpoints that don’t require paying for an observation deck.
Geneva City Pass – for intensive sightseeing
If you’re planning on intensive sightseeing and visiting many places, it’s worth considering the Geneva City Pass. It grants access to over 60 attractions and discounts – including boat cruises on Lake Geneva, museum and gallery entries, guided tours, bike rentals, and recreational activities. Available in 24-, 48-, and 72-hour versions. You’ll find more details about the Geneva City Pass in a separate section below.
How the TPG app works and why it’s worth having
The app is available on both Google Play and the App Store. What’s more, it’s not just a quick way to buy tickets. It also serves as your personal map of Geneva. You’ll find real-time schedules, route planning, and the option to activate tickets. In addition, the app offers notifications about any changes or delays. Plus, the interface can easily be switched to English.
Registration is not mandatory. However, if you log in, you gain access to your ticket history and can save your favorite routes.
The app offers, among other things:
- single ticket – valid for 60 minutes from activation, for zone 10 (i.e. Geneva), 3.30 CHF
- day pass – unlimited rides for 24 hours, 11 CHF
- day pass from 9:00 a.m. – a cheaper option for later starts, 8.80 CHF
- point-to-point ticket – just select your starting and ending points, and the app will automatically calculate the route and price
From time to time, the app also features special offers, such as discounts on rides during major events in the city – it’s worth keeping an eye on it.
Free public transport in Geneva – how it works and how to make the most of it
A pleasant surprise for anyone planning to visit Geneva is the opportunity to use FREE public transport! It covers the Unireso Zone 10, which includes the entire city of Geneva and all key locations – including, surprise! – the airport. So now, step by step: where, what, and how!
Every tourist staying in an official accommodation in Geneva—hotel, hostel, guesthouse, or campsite—receives the card. It does not apply to private rentals, such as Airbnb. The card is issued per person per night.
With the Geneva Transport Card, you can freely use buses, trams, regional trains (within the city), and even the airport transfer! Getting around Geneva has never been easier!
The card is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Geneva! You’ll receive it upon check-in at your accommodation, but you can also ask to have it sent via email or through the app before arriving in Geneva. That way, you can use it right from the moment you land! In case of an inspection, simply show your booking confirmation. It couldn’t be easier.
How much does the card cost?
The card is free of charge – and that’s the best part! So… before flying to Geneva, think twice about which accommodation you choose.
In my case, I booked accommodation very late and it was quite expensive. I found a cheap place on Airbnb, and I didn’t spend more than 30 CHF on tickets. So it wasn’t that bad after all!
Geneva Transport Card – a summary for those who like specifics
- 🏨 For tourists staying in hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and campsites
- 🛑 Not valid for Airbnb or private rentals
- 🚌 Covers the entire Unireso Zone 10 – including the airport
- 🚋 Valid on buses, trams, regional trains, and boats
- 🎟️ One card = one person = one night
- 🕒 Valid for the entire stay – from check-in to check-out
- 📧 You can request it by email before your arrival
- 🔍 In case of inspection, just show your booking confirmation
- 💸 Cost? Zero. Free. Included with your accommodation
What to see in Geneva? Attractions and a city map to get you started
Geneva truly has a lot to offer – a crystal-clear lake, views of the Alps with snow-capped Mont Blanc, its iconic fountain, CERN, and many other places that can take your breath away. In a few words, I’ll introduce all the attractions I visited during my stay in Geneva.
Below, you’ll find a map with marked public transport points (train station, airport), tourist attractions, as well as recommended accommodations and restaurants! What you choose to see – that’s entirely up to you.
Here’s my sightseeing suggestion, divided by district and arranged in a logical order, so you don’t end up running from one end of the city to the other:
City Center and Old Town (Vieille Ville + surroundings):
- Lake Geneva
- Jet d’Eau
- Jardin Anglais
- Flower Clock (L’Horloge Fleurie)
- Mont Blanc Bridge (Pont du Mont-Blanc)
- Île Rousseau
- Place du Bourg-de-Four
- St. Peter’s Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre)
- Cathedral Tower
- Maison Tavel
- Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville)
- Ancien Arsenal
- Calvin’s Auditorium
- Promenade de la Treille
- Parc des Bastions
- Reformation Wall
- Place de Neuve
- Musée Rath
- Grand Théâtre
- Victoria Hall
- Rue du Rhône
- Rue de la Confédération
- Place du Molard
- CERN
International District (Nations + surroundings):
- Palais des Nations (ONZ)
- Broken Chair
- Musée de la Croix-Rouge et du Croissant-Rouge
- Musée Ariana
- Conservatoire et Jardin botaniques
- Parc Mon Repos
- Place des Nations
- WHO Headquarters
- Phare des Pâquis Lighthouse
- Bains des Pâquis
- Mausoleum of the Duke of Brunswick in Geneva
- The Smurfs Buildings
- Rotunda Mont Blanc
Plainpalais / University / Culture and Science District:
- MAMCO
- Musée d’Ethnographie de Genève (MEG)
- Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle
- Université de Genève
- Bibliothèque de Genève
- Plaine de Plainpalais
- Patek Philippe Museum
- Fondation Baur
City Center and Old Town (Vieille Ville + surroundings):
Lake Geneva – crystal-clear water with a mountain range reflecting in its surface. What more could anyone ask for? This is where most walks through Geneva begin (or end) – the perfect spot to take a breath, snap a photo, and marvel at how beautiful a city can be.
Jet d’Eau – my first impression wasn’t exactly great. It was cold, foggy, and grey, and the fountain blended into the background. But when the sun finally came out, revealing the far shore and the distant mountains – that’s when this incredible fountain truly made an impression!
It was originally built in the late 19th century as a safety valve for the city’s water system, and today it shoots water up to 140 meters high at a speed of 200 km/h, becoming Geneva’s most iconic symbol.
The fountain operates daily – from 10:00 a.m., and in summer already from 9:00 a.m. – until dusk, with breaks in case of strong wind or freezing temperatures.
Jardin Anglais (English Garden) and L’Horloge Fleurie (Flower Clock) are another iconic symbol of Geneva you simply can’t miss. The clock is located in the heart of the garden, right by the lake, and is almost always surrounded by a circle of tourists with cameras. I was lucky – the weather wasn’t great, so I had it almost to myself!
The clock was created in 1955 as a tribute to Geneva’s watchmaking tradition and changes its “face” every season – its appearance depends on the arrangement of flowers. It measures a full 2.5 meters in diameter, and the hands really move – it’s not just for show.
Mont Blanc Bridge (Pont du Mont-Blanc) and Île Rousseau are classic Geneva walking spots, as the bridge and footpath adorned with flags make a stunning impression—especially in the evening, when everything reflects in the lake’s surface. Île Rousseau owes its name to the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who was born in Geneva. Today, his statue stands here, and few people know that this tiny island was once a military fort. Now, it’s the perfect place for a quiet moment in the heart of the city.
Place du Bourg-de-Four is the oldest square in Geneva and, apparently, a favorite spot for local cats and coffee lovers. I didn’t make it there myself, but everything suggests that if you’re looking for a charming corner with café terraces and townhouses that date back to the Reformation era, this is the place to go. It’s a great spot to catch your breath in the middle of exploring the Old Town.
Calvin’s Auditorium (Auditoire de Calvin) is a Gothic chapel from the 15th century, located right next to St. Peter’s Cathedral in Geneva. This site played a key role in the history of the Reformation – it was here that John Calvin gave lectures and founded the Geneva Academy, the predecessor of today’s University of Geneva. The chapel’s interior, though modest, impresses with its Gothic vaults and modern stained-glass windows created by Udo Zembok.
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Admission: free of charge
Cathédrale Saint-Pierre – the cathedral is massive and impressive both inside and out. It’s worth stepping in, even briefly, to see it with your own eyes, as the monumental interior and austere stone walls contrast beautifully with the architectural details. In the basement, you’ll find archaeological excavations, and for an additional fee, you can climb the tower for a panoramic view of all of Geneva.
Opening hours:
Summer (01.06–30.09): Mon–Fri 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Sat 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Sun 12:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Winter (01.10–31.05): Mon–Sat 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Sun 12:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Cathedral Tower – When visiting the cathedral, it’s worth paying a few francs to climb the tower. You’ll face 157 steps, but in return, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the city. I can only imagine how breathtaking it must be in good weather!
Tower opening hours:
Summer (01.06–30.09): Mon–Fri 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Sat 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Sun 12:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Winter (01.10–31.05): Mon–Sat 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Sun 12:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Last entry to the tower: 30 minutes before closing time.
Admission:
Adults: 7 CHF
Children: 5 CHF
Maison Tavel – the oldest preserved house in Geneva. Inside, you’ll find the history of the city and how it has changed over the centuries. There’s a scale model, suits of armor, and loads of fascinating facts. Entry is free, but you can also make a donation in an amount of your choice.
Opening hours:
Tuesday–Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Monday: closed
The Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville) is an architectural gem in the heart of the Old Town and absolutely worth seeing. This 16th-century building played an important role in history, as it was here in 1864 that the first Geneva Convention was signed, marking the beginning of the Red Cross. What’s more, you can still walk up the spiral ramp once used to ride horses up to the upper floor.
Next to the Town Hall, there’s a hidden corner that’s rarely mentioned in guidebooks. Stunning frescoes and cannons catch the eye from afar, so if you’re passing by the Town Hall, make sure not to miss this spot!
This is the Ancien Arsenal, the former weapons depot, which now serves as the city archives. In the courtyard under the arcades, you’ll find historic cannons and murals depicting scenes from Geneva’s history.
Promenade de la Treille is a beautiful, peaceful walkway offering views over the lower part of the city. It’s the perfect place to sit down, relax, and take a breather. Interestingly, it’s home to the longest wooden bench in the world – stretching an impressive 120 meters! The promenade borders Parc des Bastions, so it’s a great idea to combine both spots into one walk.
Parc des Bastions was the first place I visited in Geneva, and it’s where I started to fall in love with the city. Even in winter, when greenery and flowers are scarce, the park has something truly special about it. It’s a popular meeting place and a space of great historical importance, as it played a key role in shaping the city’s identity. What’s more, this is where you’ll find the impressive Reformation Wall, a powerful reminder of Geneva’s Protestant roots.
Place de Neuve was a square I passed almost by accident on my way toward the Old Town. The architecture of the building right on the square caught my eye – I stopped for a moment, trying to guess what it was. As it turns out, it’s home to the Grand Théâtre de Genève, the city’s opera and ballet house. The square itself is quite spacious and surrounded by elegant buildings, but for me, it was more of a passage point than a destination in itself.
Musée Rath is a neoclassical building on Place de Neuve that caught my eye during a walk. Although I didn’t go inside, its monumental façade left an impression. Interestingly, it’s the first building in Switzerland designed specifically as an art museum – it’s been operating since 1826. Today, it hosts only temporary exhibitions, so it’s worth checking the current program before your visit.
Opening hours: only during temporary exhibitions, Tue–Sun 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.; closed on Mondays
Admission: “pay what you wish” (suggested 5–20 CHF); free on the first Sunday of the month
I passed by Victoria Hall by chance and honestly had no idea what the building was. As I later found out, it’s one of Geneva’s most important concert halls, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and classical music performances. Built in the late 19th century in honor of Queen Victoria, it now serves music lovers from all over the world.
Rue du Rhône and Rue de la Confédération are Geneva’s two most famous shopping streets – though each has a completely different vibe. Rue du Rhône is the queen of luxury: boutiques, watches, and displays that look like art galleries. Prices? Sometimes they’ll make your knees weak. Rue de la Confédération, on the other hand, is the more accessible sister – with popular brands, cafés, and a more relaxed urban feel. Both are worth a visit, even if just for a stroll.
Place du Molard is a small but very atmospheric square in the heart of Geneva. Its distinctive clock tower catches the eye and sets the tone for the whole place. In the evening, when the cobblestones light up with quotes in various languages, it becomes truly magical. A perfect spot for a quick break between shopping and sightseeing.
International District (Nations + surroundings):
Palais des Nations, the United Nations headquarters in Geneva, is a place I only managed to see from behind a massive gate. Still, it’s incredibly impressive! The row of colorful flags forming a symbolic corridor toward the building looks absolutely otherworldly. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth walking up to see it with your own eyes – if only to feel its scale and significance.
Broken Chair is one of the most recognizable installations in Geneva – and it’s definitely impossible to miss. It stands on Place des Nations, right next to the UN headquarters. The square itself is a symbolic place for gatherings, demonstrations, and international events. The chair is massive and almost always surrounded by people trying to snap a photo pretending to “hold up” the broken leg. The installation commemorates victims of landmines, and even if you’ve seen it in photos before – it’s far more powerful in person.
Musée Ariana is another place I didn’t have time to visit during my short stay in Geneva. From what I’ve gathered, it’s not your typical museum – it’s a real gem for lovers of ceramics and glass. It’s located right next to the Palais des Nations, so if you’re planning to visit that area, it’s definitely worth considering a stop here as well.
Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Mondays: closed
Admission: permanent exhibition – free of charge; temporary exhibitions – 10 CHF / reduced 7 CHF; free on the first Sunday of the month
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum is a place I didn’t manage to visit, but it looks like something far beyond an ordinary museum. Its interactive exhibition tells the story of the Red Cross and Red Crescent’s work, their mission, and their global impact. It’s located right next to the UN headquarters – making it a perfect combination for a single day’s itinerary.
Opening hours:
April–October: Tue–Sun 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
November–March: Tue–Sun 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Thursdays open until 8:00 p.m., closed on Mondays
Closed on holidays: December 24, 25, 31 and January 1
Admission: 15 CHF / reduced 10 CHF / children under 12 free / exhibition only 5 CHF / free with Geneva City Pass
Due to the weather and limited time during my stay, I didn’t get a chance to visit the Conservatoire et Jardin botaniques. However, I’ve heard it’s an absolute gem. It’s like an open-air living museum, featuring exotic plants, greenhouses, and ponds. If you have more time and the weather is nice, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Opening hours: daily, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. in winter, until 9:00 p.m. in summer
Admission: free of charge
Parc Mon Repos is a lesser-known park located along Lake Geneva, close to the UN headquarters and the Red Cross Museum. I didn’t get a chance to visit it, but from what I’ve heard, it’s a peaceful spot with plenty of greenery, palm trees (yes, really!), and a beautiful view of the lake. It’s perfect for a sightseeing break – ideally with a coffee in hand.
Opening hours: daily, 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Admission: free of charge
The WHO (World Health Organization) headquarters wasn’t on my list, and honestly – it’s quite a remote spot to visit just for that. You can only see the building from the outside, so if you happen to be passing by, it’s worth a quick stop. Otherwise, you can easily skip it.
Phare des Pâquis is a small lighthouse reached by a scenic walkway through Bains des Pâquis – a popular lakeside bathing area with a beach and restaurant. It’s a unique spot worth visiting not just for the lighthouse itself, but also for the view of the famous Jet d’Eau fountain. A walk along this path, especially in good weather, offers a completely different perspective on Geneva.
As you head toward the city center, you’ll definitely spot this remarkable site – the Mausoleum of the Duke of Brunswick in Geneva. This monumental neo-Gothic structure stands right by the promenade and is truly hard to miss. It was built as a tribute to Duke Charles of Brunswick, who left Geneva a large sum of money in exchange for… a worthy monument. And it must be said – he got something no one is likely to top.
The Smurfs Buildings – how could anyone skip this place? These unusual buildings delight everyone with their shapes, colors, and quirky architectural details, resembling a fairytale version of Gaudí. Although they’re not located on the typical tourist trail, it’s worth stopping by, even if just for a moment – if only to snap a photo and ask yourself: “Who came up with this?!”
The Mont Blanc Rotunda is the perfect spot to sit down, relax, and simply take in the view. From here, you can see both the Mont Blanc Bridge and the famous Jet d’Eau fountain, making it a great observation point – ideal for photos and a breather. It’s especially striking on a sunny day.
Plainpalais / University / Culture and Science District:
I wasn’t able to visit the Plainpalais district, but I’d like to give you a quick overview of what it has to offer. Below, you’ll find short descriptions of the most interesting spots – and you can decide for yourselves whether it’s worth a visit. Each location is also marked on the map.
- MAMCO – the largest contemporary art museum in Switzerland. Located in a former factory, it showcases art from the 1960s to today.
Opening hours: Tue–Fri 12:00–6:00 p.m., Sat–Sun 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Admission: 15 CHF, reduced 10 CHF, free for children under 18 - MEG – a modern ethnographic museum with a global collection. It blends culture, history, and current social issues in an engaging way.
Opening hours: Tue–Sun 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Admission: permanent exhibition – free, temporary – 12 CHF, reduced 8 CHF - Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle – one of the largest natural history museums in Europe. Exhibits include paleontology, geology, and zoology.
Opening hours: Tue–Sun 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Admission: permanent exhibition – free, temporary – 10 CHF, reduced 7 CHF - Université de Genève – one of Switzerland’s leading universities. Its campuses are spread throughout the city, and this district showcases that best.
- Bibliothèque de Genève – a historic 16th-century library with a rich collection of manuscripts and maps. Perfect for those seeking a quiet piece of history.
- Plaine de Plainpalais – a large square alive from morning to night. It hosts markets, city events, flea markets, and in between you can stroll or relax on a bench.
- Patek Philippe Museum – a must for lovers of detail and precision. Here you can explore 500 years of watchmaking history.
Opening hours: Tue–Fri 2:00–6:00 p.m., Sat 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Admission: 10 CHF, reduced 7 CHF, free for children under 18 - Fondation Baur – a museum of Far Eastern art housed in an elegant villa. The collection includes Chinese porcelain, Japanese woodblock prints, and other treasures.
Opening hours: Tue–Sun 2:00–6:00 p.m.
Admission: 10 CHF, reduced 5 CHF, free for children under 18
Outside the city
What I regret most is not having the chance to visit CERN during my stay – it’s located outside Geneva’s city center, actually even outside the city limits. Public transport still goes there, so getting there shouldn’t be a problem. This is where the Large Hadron Collider operates – if you’ve watched The Big Bang Theory, you definitely know what I’m talking about! It allows scientists to study how the universe began, and the accelerator itself is considered the most precise machine ever built by humans. It’s something you just have to see – I hope I’ll get the chance one day too!
Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Admission: free of charge
Note: some exhibitions require prior online reservation
Is it worth buying the Geneva City Pass during your stay in Geneva?
If you’re planning on intensive sightseeing, the Geneva City Pass can be a really great option. The card covers over 60 attractions in Geneva – including museums, boat cruises, guided tours, entry to unique sites, recreational activities, and much more.
You can choose between three versions: 24, 48, or 72 hours, so it’s worth planning your itinerary in advance and picking the option that truly pays off. Importantly, the Geneva City Pass is available with or without public transport, which is great news – because if you’re staying in Geneva and already using the free Geneva Transport Card, there’s no need to pay twice.
Prices range from 30 to 65 CHF, depending on the duration and version. You can purchase the pass via the official website or simply through Get Your Guide.
Where to stay in Geneva? Places for (almost) every budget
I’ve found a few hotels for you that mostly offer the Geneva Transport Card. These are places with good reviews, convenient locations, and – for Geneva – fairly reasonable prices. Depending on the season, it’s also worth checking Airbnb – it literally saved me! New Year’s Eve hotel offers started at 500 euros and up, but I found a cozy apartment with mountain views for about 350 euros for 4 nights. Just keep in mind that a spot in a shared room will cost from 50 euros and up, while a private room starts at around 100 euros per night. Geneva isn’t cheap, but it’s definitely manageable.
Where and what to eat in Geneva for great taste without crying over the bill
Full board in Geneva can really stretch your budget. So if breakfast is included in your accommodation – great! And if not, it’s worth doing some grocery shopping at local stores like Migros or Coop and preparing breakfast and dinner on your own. Switzerland isn’t one of the cheapest countries, so every bit of savings counts.
I’m not saying you should skip restaurants altogether – quite the opposite! But it’s better to try something new, enjoy some delicious Swiss chocolate, or buy a meaningful souvenir than spend a fortune on an average hotel breakfast. So – what’s worth eating, and where?
What should you try in Geneva?
Swiss cuisine isn’t just about fondue – although of course, you’ll find that here too. In Geneva, it’s worth trying local dishes you won’t find anywhere else.
- Rösti – crispy potato pancakes, usually served with a fried egg or bacon.
- Raclette – melted cheese served with potatoes, pickles, and pearl onions.
- Cardon Genevois – a traditional dish made with cardoons, especially popular during the holiday season.
- Malakoff – deep-fried cheese balls, crispy on the outside and creamy inside.
- Tomato fondue – a lighter twist on the classic fondue, with added tomatoes.
- Meringue – meringues with whipped cream, most commonly served in the Gruyères region.
- Bircher Müesli – a classic Swiss breakfast made with oats, fruit, and yogurt.
Where to eat well and affordably?
All of the places listed below have good reviews, reliable menus, and most importantly – they won’t break the bank. You’ll find each of them marked on the map as well.
- Chez Ma Cousine – a cult spot in the Old Town, known for its roast chicken and generous portions.
- Parfums de Beyrouth – Lebanese cuisine served fast, tasty, and right in the center of Geneva.
- Les Bains des Pâquis – a lakeside restaurant, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or evening fondue.
- Manor Food – a cafeteria inside a shopping center where you can eat well and pay by weight.
- Inglewood – a soulful burger joint, a great alternative to chain restaurants.
- Baoti – Chinese bao, soups, and snacks – cheap and surprisingly good.
- Mulligans Irish Pub – a cozy place with good beer and hearty bar snacks.
- Lord Nelson Pub – a classic pub, perfect for a relaxed evening.
- Jame’s Pub – casual vibe, often with live music.
- La Clémence – a local favorite café. Great coffee and perfect for people-watching.
Cafés and something sweet
If after a long day of sightseeing you’re craving something sweet or a cup of coffee – these spots will be just perfect.
- Café du Soleil – one of the oldest cafés in Geneva, known for its fondue and charming interior.
- Café Papon – an elegant café overlooking a park, perfect for a relaxing break.
- Café de la Paix – a quiet, classic café in the city center with delicious pastries.
Pro tip: have a picnic in the park
On warmer days, a picnic is a perfect option. All you need are a few snacks from the supermarket, a blanket, and a patch of grass in Parc des Bastions or by the lake itself. The view? Unbeatable. The cost? Minimal.
New Year’s Eve in Geneva – is it worth it and how to prepare
If you’ve managed to score cheap flights to Geneva around the New Year – that’s already half the battle. The other half is accommodation. The sooner you book it, the better your chances of finding something reasonably priced, especially since prices during that period can reach absurd levels.
And how should you prepare for New Year’s Eve in Geneva? First and foremost – dress in layers, and seriously. We’re talking about a fireworks display over the lake, surrounded by mountains, so temperatures can drop quite low – the humidity and wind make it even colder. On the map, I’ve marked the best viewpoint for the free fireworks show over Lake Geneva, which is said to be one of the most beautiful in Europe.
Why “supposedly”? Well… I just wasn’t lucky. On New Year’s Eve, I got hit with really thick fog, and unfortunately, the show wasn’t as spectacular as I’d hoped. Still – it’s absolutely worth it! The fireworks last about 30 minutes and are launched from the western side of the lake. I arrived an hour early, and even then it was starting to get crowded. It’s definitely worth grabbing a good spot ahead of time – don’t leave it to the last minute.
What should you wear?
Seriously – be well prepared so you don’t freeze and come home with a New Year’s cold. Here’s my go-to outfit:
- socks – preferably two pairs, thick and warm
- bottom: thermal base layer, tights or leggings under your pants
- top: tank top, thermal layer, warm sweatshirt, and a down or winter jacket
- accessories: neck warmer, hat, gloves
- plus something to warm you up – a thermos with tea, a small flask, or simply some warm words!
What to do after the show?
Right after the last firework explodes, people start dispersing immediately – those with club or bar reservations keep the party going, while the rest simply head home. You won’t really see anyone wandering aimlessly through the city.
Public transport does run, but be prepared for major delays – sometimes even an hour or more of waiting at the stop. Keep that in mind and, if you’re in a larger group, consider walking. I personally wouldn’t risk it alone, but with company – why not?
And what totally surprised me?
On the morning of January 1st, I went for a walk around the city. And I’m not exaggerating – I have never in my life seen such cleanliness after a New Year’s Eve celebration. Not a single piece of trash, everything spotless, as if nothing had happened. Switzerland, as always, on point.
Practical information for your stay in Geneva
I’ve gathered all the essential information you need before your trip to Geneva in one place – short, clear, and straight to the point. You don’t have to read the entire guide – the most important things are right here!
🧭 Getting from the airport:
The airport is just 4 km from the city center – travel time is literally a few minutes. You can get to the center by bus no. 5, 10 or by train (about 7 minutes, every 10–15 min).
🎫 Free public transport:
If you’re staying in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse, or campsite – you’ll receive the Geneva Transport Card, which allows free travel across the entire city (Zone 10, including the airport!). The card is valid for your entire stay.
📲 TPG App:
Don’t have the card? Download TPG+, an app with timetables and ticket purchasing. It works in English, and single tickets cost 3.30 CHF.
🏨 Accommodation:
Beds in shared rooms start at 50 euros, private rooms from 100 euros and up. Airbnb is often the only sensible option, especially in peak season or over New Year’s.
🍽️ Food:
If breakfast isn’t included – shop at Migros or Coop. For lunch, go for local classics: Chez Ma Cousine, Parfums de Beyrouth, Bains des Pâquis. For coffee? Try Café du Soleil, La Clémence, or Café Papon. More options on the map!
💸 Payments:
Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF). You can pay by card almost everywhere. Cashless payments are generally not a problem in shops and restaurants.
🕰️ Opening hours:
Shops are usually open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (shorter on Saturdays), and most are closed on Sundays. Always check in advance.
🧳 What to pack:
Depends on the season – summer is warm, but evenings can be cool. Winter? Layer up, wear warm shoes, and dress smart. For New Year’s especially – humidity + mountains = freezing air.
📍 Map:
You’ll find everything on my custom map: attractions, restaurants, accommodation, transport stops, and viewpoints – so you won’t waste time wandering aimlessly.
🧼 Cleanliness:
It’s Switzerland – so yes, the city truly shines. Even on the morning of January 1st, the streets were spotless, like after a VIP event cleanup.
🌐 Language:
Mainly French, but most people speak English without issues – especially in the center and tourist areas.
📶 Internet and sockets:
Type J sockets (three prongs), but most of our plugs work too. Internet? It works well, and free Wi-Fi is usually available at the airport and hotels.
If my article helped you plan your route and gather the necessary information, I would be grateful for your support in making my dreams come true by buying me a coffee!
