City of Geneva
With something for everyone and boasting an ideal location in the heart of Europe, Geneva offers a smorgasbord of unmissable experiences in a one-of-a-kind natural setting. From the shores of the biggest lake in Western Europe in just one hour, find yourself at the foot of Mont-Blanc, the continent's highest peak.
Among the places we recommend are the Jet d’Eau, The Palais de Nations, The Reformation Wall, and The Old Town. See more attractions on the Geneva Tourism website.
THE JET D'EAU, GENEVA'S LANDMARK
The magnificent water jet is 140 metres high, with 500 litres of water per second passing through it at a speed of 200 km per hour! Used initially for distributing the Rhône's propelling force to the city's craftspeople, it became the Jet d'Eau when the workshops required an additional flow. Since 1891 it has graced the centre of Geneva's harbour, and is the must-see tourist attraction!
THE REFORMATION WALL, A MONUMENTAL HOMAGE
At the heart of the Parc des Bastions, the main protagonists of the Reformation, John Calvin, William Farel, Theodore Beza and John Knox, are depicted in giant statues and bas-reliefs. Geneva's 'Post Tenebras Lux' motto is engraved in the wall. As you leave the park, explore the splendid Place de Neuve and its various artistic haunts.
Built between 1929 and 1936 and located at the heart of the Parc de l'Ariana, the Palais des Nations houses the European headquarters of the United Nations, and is the largest UN centre after New York. More than 25,000 delegates pass through the centre each year, and many works of art are on display there. Furthermore, the Palais opens its doors daily and provides fascinating guided tours!
THE OLD TOWN AND ITS TREASURES
The Vieille-Ville is the largest historic town in Switzerland, and is dominated by St. Peter's Cathedral, the symbolic location of the Reformation. Climb the 157 steps to the top of the tower for a unique panorama of the city. Then take a stroll in the charming surrounding alleys and passageways, each telling its own story about Geneva's history.
Around Geneva
Within 150 km from Geneva, there are enough attractions to fill up few weeks of sightseeing and hiking. Most of locations are accessible by the Swiss-accurate trains. Whether it is medieval castles, beautiful lakes or panoramic mountains views, Switzerland has it all and it is within 1-2 hours from Geneva. The neighboring France complements the variety of attractions and Paris is just 3 hours away by the high-speed train. Useful and practical information about sightseeing Switzerland is available on MySwitzerland website. Hiking, biking or cycling in Switzerland are best organized with the help of SwitzerlandMobility website.
Lausanne, the second-largest city on Lake Geneva, combines a dynamic commercial town with the locality of a holiday resort. The capital of the canton of Vaud is also a lively university and convention town. Sports and culture are given a high profile in this Olympic capital that hosts The Olympic Museum.
A picture-perfect medieval town on a small hill with a castle and three totally different museums: In Gruyères, 800-year-old regional history and culture meet Oscar-winning aliens and Buddhist sculptures.
Known as a modest fishing village in the beginning of the century, Yvoire is now ranked as one of the International Laureates of Floral Decorations. It is called one of the “most beautiful villages of France”. This medieval city celebrated its 700 years in 2006. It is accessible from Nyon by ferry.
Chillon Castle is located on a rock on the banks of Lake Geneva. The water castle is the most visited historic building in Switzerland. For nearly four centuries Chillon was the residence and profitable toll station of the Counts of Savoy.
Located just 20km from the center of Geneva, Mont Salève is a popular destination for a day trip. When the sky is clear, there is spectacular view of the surrounding area up to 30 kilometers including the Jura mountains and the Mont Blanc.
For more than 50 years, the most famous and highest of the Aiguilles de Chamonix has been an essential world attraction. From the centre of Chamonix, a 20 minutes ride in the Aiguille du Midi cable car takes you to the gateway to the high Alps at a height of 3,842 m. Note that such altitude is not advisable for people with heart problems.
