Chocolate and cheese are at least two reasons to head to Geneva, Switzerland’s second-biggest city. But besides truffles and fondue, this atmospheric city has a lot to offer! For example, the breathtaking landscapes of Lake Geneva, the picturesque Old Town with winding streets and art galleries, quiet green parks, and cosy cafes. You can also head to Carouge, a nearby bohemian town with a Mediterranean vibe.
With multiple Geneva things to do and see, your holiday in the heart of Switzerland will be filled with new impressions and emotions. If this sounds like your dream trip, consider a few iconic landmarks to visit in the area.
Lake Geneva
Geneva sits on the southwestern edge of the lake, where the Rhone River flows. As one of the clearest mountain lakes in the world, it features an amazing combination of snow-capped mountain peaks and subtropical flora in the background. The water in the lake is quite cool and you can swim here only in July and August, using several platforms and grassy beaches.
However, tourists and locals come there not for a beach holiday, but for the peaceful atmosphere, clean air, and mild climate. While walking along the coastal promenade, you can see how buildings and mountains reflect in the crystal waters. Beautiful yachts moored at the pier complement the picturesque landscape.
For an alternative view of the shore, take a cruise on the lake. You have several options available – from a one-hour tour along the coast to cruises to Lausanne or Nyon. Each of them will give you an unforgettable experience and allow you to relax before continuing your sightseeing.
Les Schtroumpfs
Set aside a couple of hours to explore the local architectural masterpieces. Les Schtroumpfs residential complex is one of the most popular things to see in Geneva, and therefore you should definitely go there.
Each of these futuristic buildings is truly unique. And this is not surprising, because the entire phantasmagorical architectural ensemble was created in the 70s of the 20th century according to the designs of Antonio Gaudi and Friedensreich Hundertwasser.
Unfortunately, the houses haven’t been renovated since their construction, so don’t be surprised to find shabby walls and chipped tiles here. Fortunately, these small flaws won’t spoil the magical impression you will get from contemplating these masterpieces of civil engineering.
Mont Saleve
In case you are travelling with your family and don’t know what to do in Geneva Switzerland for a day, climb Mont Salève. More precisely, you will need to pick up a minibus hire at Geneva Airport and go to the observation deck near this mountain.
Indeed, a family car hire is the best transport solution when you travel with children. However, a large selection of car hire offers allows you to choose the optimal vehicle type for your specific requirements and budget.
And what about Mont Salève? Oh yes, located at an altitude of 1,500 metres, it offers mind-blowing views of the city and surrounding area, for which it has been nicknamed the “balcony of Geneva”. You can also take the cable car to reach the very top in just five minutes. The panoramas of the lake and Mont Blanc are no less amazing, and there’s nothing more exciting than admiring them from an on-site cafe.
Conservatory and Botanical Garden
If you want to spend time surrounded by nature, head to your local botanical garden. Separated from the Palais des Nations building by a railway, it immerses you in a vast green area on the western shore of the lake.
You’re sure to find something to see with over 14,000 plant species collected from all over the world. The local herbarium’s collection of dried flowers and plants includes more than six million plants. In the park itself, you will see hundreds of flower beds, several ponds, and an elegant glass and metal greenhouse representing a magnificent winter garden.
The garden area is divided into several independent thematic sections. For example, the rosarium is especially popular in June and July. Also, the facility hosts a zoo with deer and waterfowl roaming freely around. So, you will also complement your walk with wildlife exploration.
CERN Laboratory
Have you ever heard about the Large Hadron Collider? So, head to the CERN laboratory to see it with your own eyes. Despite its exceptional status, CERN is an absolutely public laboratory that even has a tourist centre. On Saturdays, they conduct group tours in several languages, and on other days, except Monday, you can visit the centre and Hadron Collider on your own.
Be sure to check out the two permanent exhibits – Microcosm and Universe of Particles. The first is a stunning installation of a star system, while the second invites you to a hall dedicated to physical laws, cosmic rays, and nuclear reactions. As stated by the exhibition organisers, a visit to CERN will force you to take the path of understanding the secrets of the universe!
So, now you know what to do in Geneva Switzerland and therefore you’re free to start preparing for your future trip. However, think about how to navigate the area first. We mean, nothing compares to travelling in Switzerland by car. With the right vehicle at hand, your trip will be twice as fun!
