Tips for Visiting Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva, Switzerland is located on Lake Geneva in the French side of the country, surrounded by the Alps and Jura mountains. It’s well known as the headquarters of the United Nations and Red Cross is also a hub for banking.

To be honest, as much as I love Switzerland, I’ve never wanted to stay in Geneva longer than one or two nights.

In this post, I share travel tips I’ve found through my research and personal experience to help make the most out of a stay in Geneva, Switzerland.

Geneva Travel Tips

Free transit passes for hotel guests

The Geneva Transport Card is available free of charge to every guest staying in a hotel, hostel, or campsite in Geneva.

This gets you free tram, bus, train, and yellow taxi boat rides anywhere within Geneva’s city limits.

Additionally, look for a ticket machine in the baggage claim area if you arrive at Geneva International Airport to get a free 80-minute ticket to your hotel.

We were in town for only 24 hours and we made great use of this card, riding the bus from downtown out along the lake to Geneva Beach and then hopping on and off taxi boats all day.

It’s a really great incentive for tourists to see the city!

What to do and what to see in Geneva

1. Ride the boat taxis

As I mentioned above, we made good use of the Geneva Transport Card, primarily on the Mouettes (boat taxis) that cross the lake.

Even in October, the mouettes came around pretty frequently and continued running into the evening.

It’s a truly unique and memorable way to see the city – even better when it’s free!

2. Walk the lakeside

The center of Geneva sits around mouth of the Rhône River where it feeds into Lake Geneva. From there, you can enjoy two nice promenades along either side of the lake.

The southeastern side takes you through the English garden and then along Quai Gustave Ador, which is bordered by a large park on one side and a marina on the other.

If you started instead up the northwestern side of the lake, you would pass the Bains de Paquis (steam baths) and continue on Quai Wilson to another series of parks, eventually connecting to the botanical gardens and the United Nations campus.

At the end of either of these walks, you’ll find yourself near one of the taxi boats or buses that can take you back toward the center of town. And of course, be sure to enjoy the various views of the Jet d’Eau, a geyser-like fountain that shoots up from the lake.

3. Explore Old Town Geneva

We chose our hotel location, the Hotel Sagitta, for its proximity to Geneva’s Old Town because it’s such a charming area to walk around.

Along Rue du Rhône and Rue du Marché you’ll find high-end shopping, but start walking up the hill and you’ll be transported back in time. There you can explore winding, cobblestone streets and charming squares.

4. Go out at night

For some reason, Geneva seems a little more magical and interesting when seen by the glow of the street lights. 

We took a taxi boat after dinner and then returned for another walk through Old Town after dark, and the city took on a new, more romantic atmosphere.

5. Genèveroule

The weather was a bit unpredictable on our last visit to Geneva, but had it been more pleasant, we would have taken advantage of the free bike share program with Genèveroule.

The English side of their website is not super helpful, but essentially you can show up to one of their bike stations with your passport and a $50 deposit. Keep the bicycle for up to 4 hours and get your deposit back when you return. 

Biking would be a great way to explore the parks along the lakeshore and to see the United Nations area, as these are mostly flat, pedestrian areas.

What to expect in Geneva

What is the language in Geneva? Geneva is multilingual, with French being the predominant language. English is also widely understood and spoken by many residents.

What is the currency in Geneva? The official currency is the Swiss Franc. While some establishments accept euros, it’s common to encounter a surcharge. Credit cards are generally accepted, and ATMs are readily available.

What is the climate like in Geneva? Geneva experiences typical European weather patterns, that is, warm summers and cold winters. In winters there is significant rainfall and overcast skies, with temperatures often reaching the 30 Fahrenheit. In summer, it is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 Fahrenheit.

When is the best time to visit Geneva

The best time to visit Geneva depends on your preferences and interests.

Summer (June to August). This is the peak tourist season in Geneva when the weather is warm and sunny. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, such as exploring the city’s parks, enjoying boat cruises on Lake Geneva, and attending outdoor festivals and events. However, keep in mind that summer months can be crowded, and hotel rates tend to be higher.

Spring (April to May). Spring is another pleasant time to visit Geneva, with milder temperatures and blooming flowers. The city is less crowded compared to summer, making it a great time to explore attractions like the Old Town and enjoy outdoor cafes along the waterfront.

Autumn (September to October). Autumn brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a quieter time to visit Geneva. The fall foliage around Lake Geneva adds to the city’s charm, and you can still enjoy outdoor activities before winter sets in. Plus, hotel rates may be more affordable compared to summer.

Winter (November to March). Winter in Geneva is cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. However, if you enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, Geneva serves as a gateway to nearby ski resorts in the Swiss Alps. Additionally, the city is beautifully decorated during the holiday season, with Christmas markets and festive events.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Geneva depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels. Whether you prefer warm summer days or snowy winter landscapes, Geneva offers something for every traveler throughout the year.

How to get around Geneva

Getting around Geneva is relatively easy due to its efficient public transportation system and pedestrian-friendly layout. Here are some ways to navigate the city:

Taxis. Taxis are readily accessible whenever required. You can either call for one or flag them down on the street. By law, taxi drivers are obligated to be proficient in English, ensuring a comfortable experience tourists. It’s important to note that fares typically increase during nighttime, on Sundays, and on holidays.

Public Transportation. Trams, buses, and boats within Geneva are user-friendly and provide convenient way to travel within the city and its suburbs.

Car. For those considering car rental, Geneva boasts well-maintained roads, ensuring a smooth driving experience. However, be mindful of parking rates, which can vary.

Walking and Cycling. For those inclined towards physical activity, walking or cycling are excellent options. Bike rentals are available in the city.

Those are some of my recommendations from a couple brief stays in Geneva. I hope others who know more about the area will share their tips and favorite discoveries in the comments below. 

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