Top things to see and do in Geneva, Switzerland

Surrounded by a dreamy backdrop of the Alps, mountains of delicious chocolate, the largest lake in Western Europe, an astonishing fountain and twinkling Christmas lights, Geneva is a beautiful city in Switzerland. It is a diverse and metropolitan city, which is also a major financial hub and home to the United Nations and Red Cross. Geneva offers something special for every traveller – continue reading to see my top picks…

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1. Lake Geneva cruise

A cruise along the shores of Lake Geneva is a great way to explore the city. It begins from Pierres du Niton, cruising towards Pointe à la Bise. It sails past the iconic Jet d’Eau, the United Nations, Mont Blanc, and the breathtaking Swiss Alps.

2. Geneva Christmas market

This year, the Swiss lakeside is transformed into a magical backdrop for the Geneva Christmas market.

From wooden stalls and fondue at the chalet, to traditional carousels and mulled wine, this is one of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets and is the perfect place to celebrate the festive season.

3. Jet d’Eau

Jet d’Eau, meaning ‘water jet’, is Geneva’s most iconic sight. It is situated on the city’s harbour and sprays 500 litres of water per second at 200km/h, reaching 140m into the air. The best spots to see it are either from the lakeside or by hopping onboard the yellow boats, which are free for tourists…

4. Palais des Nations

Palais des Nations is home to the European headquarters of the United Nations and after New York, is the largest UN building. It is located in Geneva’s Ariana Park and is known for its outstanding architecture and iconic flag plaza.

5. CERN

Geneva is home to the largest particle physics laboratory in the world. The European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) was founded in 1954 and is one of the most interesting scientific buildings in the world.

6. Broken Chair

The Broken Chair structure in Geneva only stands on three legs and it is one of the 21st century’s most symbolic works of art. It was made in 1997 by sculptor Daniel Berset and aims to represent the campaign against landmines. It has been a dominant structure in the Place des Nations.

7. Geneva Flower Clock

The Geneva Flower Clock was created in 1955 and is now one of the main attractions in the city. It is located in Jardin Anglais, on the shore of Lake Geneva, and contains around 12,000 flowers and plants. The combination of flowers and clocks makes it a symbol of Geneva’s reputation as the birthplace of watchmaking.

8. St.Pierre Cathedral

St.Pierre Cathedral is the city’s oldest church, dating back to over 850 years. It soars high above Geneva’s Old Town and offers the best panoramic rooftop views across the city…

9. Place de Neuve

Place de Neuve, meaning New Place, is located below the old city walls and it is one of Geneva’s main squares. It is considered to be the city’s cultural epicentre, home to the Grand Theatre, The Rath Museum and the Conservatory of Music.

10. La Treille Bench

This is the longest wooden bench in the world, stretching a vast 120 metres! It runs the entire length of the Promenade de la Treille. This promenade offers beautiful panoramic views of the city’s monuments and parks, below the Old Town.