Geneva Green Travel Guide

Geneva is a pearl in the Alps, a cosmopolitan city, rich in history , art and culture, reflected on the gleaming waters of Lake Leman and crossed by the Rhone River. It is the capital of the namesake canton of Switzerland, on the border with France and it is also the second largest city of the Country after Zurich. Surrounded by magnificent snow-capped peaks, with a breathtaking view of Mont Blanc, so nice and cozy to visit, it is a destination not to be missed!

1. What to see in Geneva

Geneva is a perfect city to explore on foot or by bicycle. The small town is rich in squares, monuments to visit and graceful ancient buildings. The Cathedral of Saint Pierre is one of them: hence came to life the religious movement of Calvin. From the top of its spires you can enjoy a beautiful view over the city! Not far from the church you can see a very old house: the Maison Tavel, which dates back to 1334. Furthermore, inside the Petit Palais, you will find a pinatocateca, containing works by many famous artists, including Renoir, Picasso and Chagall, as well as the watchmaking museum, typical local crafts. A symbol of the city is also the jet of water that reaches about 140 meters and which can be viewed from almost any point of the town. Geneva is also known for being an international city: many organizations, including the ONU are based here.

Enjoy a walk in the spring sunshine along the breezy shores of the lake. All along you will find green fields, parks and botanical gardens to relax in the shade or in the sunshine: Geneva is the city of parks with about 20% of the territory covered by green areas. 

2. The Canton of Vaud and surroundings

The canton of Vaud, so it is called the area around the city of Geneva, is full of fascinating places to visit as well as natural landscapes in which to venture, both in summer and winter. Worth a visit is for example the castles that rise on the shores of Lake Geneva, as the Chillon Castle, former residence of the English nobility who made it built in order to spend peaceful holidays, away from sooty industrial cities.

The main tourist resorts on the Vaud Alps around Lake Geneva are Villars, Les Diablerets, Leysin and Château-d'Oex. These places can be easily reached by train and they are real paradise for winter sports lovers thanks to their large ski resorts. In summer, guests can explore these areas and enjoy breathtaking landscapes walking on a network of about 500 km of trails and paths towards high peaks, between lush forests and alpine lakes.

3. Traditional taste and local food

Thanks to internationality of the city, in Geneva you will find a wide variety of food from different countres. On the other hand, local tradition goes back mainly to French flavors that you can appreciate especially throughout the area of the countryside around the city. Wines and cheeses are a specialty! Do not miss the fondue and fillets of perch from Lake Geneva, cooked in different ways, as well as Longeole, typical fennel sausages.

4. Where to sleep in Geneva

During your stay in Geneva, enjoy a green break! You will find comfortable hotels, apartments, farm houses among green hills...are you ready to go?

Discover all eco-friendly accommodations in Geneva

Author: Anita Cason

Cover image: Chillon Castle, Geneva Lake