Geneva-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center

  • Morning: Arrive at Geneva International Airport (GVA) and take a taxi or tram (No. 18 or No. 23) to your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Check-in to your hotel, such as Hotel Metropole or Hotel Cornavin, and freshen up.
  • 2 PM: Visit the iconic Jet d’Eau, a large fountain that shoots water high into the air. (Free admission)
  • 4 PM: Explore the nearby Palace of Nations (UN Office in Geneva) grounds, which offer great views of the city.
  • Evening: Head to the famous Place Cornavin area for dinner and drinks. Try Le Chat-Botte, a cozy bistro serving traditional Swiss cuisine.

Day 2: Lake Geneva and Mont-Blanc Views

  • Morning: Take a scenic walk along the shores of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) from the city center to the charming neighborhood of Carouge.
  • 10 AM: Visit the United Nations European Headquarters, which offers guided tours. (Free admission, but book in advance)
  • Afternoon: Take a short tram ride (No. 2 or No. 13) to the top of Cologny Hill, where you can enjoy stunning views of Mont-Blanc and Lake Geneva.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Cucina, a popular Italian restaurant with outdoor seating.

Day 3: Museums and Art

  • Morning: Visit the Palais des Nations’ adjacent Museum of Peace and Disarmament, which showcases the history of international relations. (Free admission)
  • Afternoon: Head to the Patek Philippe Museum, a stunning art nouveau building housing an impressive collection of timepieces. (Admission CHF 10-15)
  • Evening: Explore the trendy neighborhood of Bulle and enjoy dinner at Le Café des Nègres, a cozy spot serving traditional Swiss cuisine.

Day 4: Markets and Shopping

  • Morning: Visit the bustling Place du Bourg-de-Four, where you can find local vendors selling fresh produce, flowers, and handicrafts.
  • Afternoon: Browse the upscale shopping streets of the Rue de la Cité and Rue des Bourses, which offer a range of high-end boutiques and department stores.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Grand Châtelet, a popular restaurant serving traditional Swiss cuisine.

Day 5: Day Trip to Montreux

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the charming town of Montreux, located on Lake Geneva. (Train tickets CHF 10-20)
  • Visit the Château de Chillon, a stunning medieval castle situated on the lake’s shores.
  • Enjoy lunch and shopping in the picturesque old town.
  • Evening: Return to Geneva and enjoy dinner at Le Bistrot des Halles, a cozy spot serving traditional Swiss cuisine.

Day 6: Last Day in Geneva

  • Morning: Visit the Geneva Botanical Gardens, which offer a peaceful oasis amidst the city.
  • Afternoon: Explore the charming neighborhood of Plainpalais, where you can find local vendors selling fresh produce, flowers, and handicrafts.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Restaurant de l’Hôtel des Trois Crèpes, a popular spot serving traditional Swiss cuisine.

Things to Know

  • Transportation: Geneva has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams. You can purchase tickets at newsagents or online.
  • Weather: Geneva’s climate is generally mild, but it can be cool in the mornings and evenings during spring and autumn. Be sure to pack layers.
  • Currency: The Swiss franc (CHF) is the local currency.

Tips

  • Respect local customs: Switzerland has strict gun laws and a strong tradition of neutrality. Be respectful of these values when interacting with locals.
  • Try local cuisine: Swiss cuisine is delicious, but also try some international dishes at restaurants throughout the city.
  • Explore on foot: Geneva is a compact city, and walking or cycling are great ways to explore its neighborhoods.

Other Recommendations

  • Visit the St. Peter’s Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
  • Take a scenic boat tour on Lake Geneva (CHF 20-30).
  • Explore the charming neighborhood of Carouge, which offers a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants.