Geneva

Famed for its scenic lakeside views and breathtaking Alpine surroundings, Geneva is also an immortal enclave of fine taste, flaunting a cosmopolitan allure that is second to none. The amazingly diverse variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm, delivers picturesque pedestrian streets lined with elite retail and delectable fine dining haunts. Synonymous with luxury, class, and a harmonious balance of urban living and natural beauty, the city offers a thrilling array of experiences for everyone.

Rue-Basses

Rue-Basses is one of the most prominent neighborhoods of Geneva, right in the heart of the city at the point where the river Rhone exits the stunningly beautiful Lake Geneva. This neighborhood is well-known for its sophistication, high-end shopping, upscale restaurants, cafes, bars and designer hotels. The 'low streets' of Rue-Basses, Rue du Rhone and Rue de la Croix d'Or are packed with luxury brands, designer boutiques, and exclusive jewelry stores. This is considered one of the best places to stay in Geneva if you are visiting for business or a spot of luxury. It is also home to some of the best high-end hotels in the city. Rue-Basses is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, offering a wide range of shopping and dining options. Overall, Rue-Basses’s central location, scenic views, and upscale amenities make it one of the most desirable areas in Geneva.

Old Town (Vieille Ville)

The Old Town area of Geneva, also known as Vieille Ville, is a historic and picturesque part of the city that offers a glimpse into its rich past. It sits on the left bank of the Rhône River and is characterized by narrow streets, charming squares, and ancient buildings adorned with beautiful masonry facades. The area is home to several important landmarks such as St. Peter's Cathedral, which is particularly notable for its stunning mix of architectural styles, mesmerizing interior and breathtaking view from its towers. The Old Town area is also home to some of the finest cafes and restaurants in the city, several galleries, including the Gallery Jacques de la Béraudière and Insolite, and several high-end boutiques hiding in its narrow streets. All of this makes it one of the most critical areas of Geneva, and it is certainly an unmissable part of any visit here.

Carouge

Carouge, a well-known suburb of Geneva, is famous for its distinct Mediterranean flair, stemming from its Italian-influenced architecture and gardens. Due to this, it is often called Geneva’s Little Italy. The bohemian vibe of Carouge comes alive at night thanks to its many cafes, jazz bars and nightclubs. "Le Vieux Carouge'', the picturesque old town, offers a glimpse into the glorious past with cozy establishments and quaint antique shops, making it a prime spot for experiencing a more laid-back type of nightlife. The serene Arle River provides a perfect escape with scenic walking and cycling paths. Rue St-Joseph is a treasure trove of unique independent stores, offering everything from antiques to boutique trinkets. Carouge’s leisurely pace, rich mix of French and Italian eateries, exceptional restaurants, and lively cultural scene exemplify its status as a multicultural gem worth exploring.

Les Paquis

Les Paquis is a standout central neighborhood, well-known for its vibrant, multicultural vibe. Straddling the right bank of the Rhone and Lake Geneva’s shore perfectly blends natural beauty with urban living. The district boasts one of the city’s most popular baths and beaches on a quaint peninsula, ideal for summertime relaxation. Prestigious accommodations are plentiful here, from global chains like Ritz-Carlton and Fairmont to revered local establishments such as President Wilson and Hotel d’Angleterre. Global culinary delights are abundant, too, ranging from Japanese to Moroccan. Les Paquis also emerges as a nightlife hub, home to numerous bustling bars and clubs, making it a lively corner of Geneva day and night.

Eaux-Vives

Just to the east of the city center, this district stretches along the splendid southern shore of Lake Geneva. Today, boasting a vibrant history, it is known as a relatively relaxed area, famous for its vast green spaces such as Parc La Grange, a perfect spot for nature lovers. Enthusiasts of al fresco performances will discover a delightful offering within the park, which hosts multiple stages dedicated to theatrical plays and musical concerts year-round. Additionally, the park boasts an array of gravel tennis courts for those inclined towards physical activity. A beautiful beach also exists by the lake, perfect for relaxing near the water and enjoying the wonderful sights of the lake itself, the city right next door, and the stunning mountains in the distance.

Geneva's culinary scene is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of dining experiences. From Michelin-starred restaurants serving the finest French cuisine to establishments offering global flavors from China to Italy, Geneva's gastronomy is a high art that exceeds expectations and delights every palate.

Domaine de Châteauvieux

Domaine de Châteauvieux is an unmissable renowned restaurant in Satigny, in the heart of Geneva's countryside and one of Switzerland’s premier wine regions. It is a true culinary mecca, representing the pinnacle of the quest for perfection in the region. The restaurant has been awarded a Michelin Star, a testament to the excellence you can experience here. The restaurant is about 5 miles from Geneva, amid an old vineyard, making it an ideal location for a quiet and relaxing getaway. It offers a wide range of dishes made from the freshest and highest quality ingredients. The impressive wine list features a splendid selection from the region and beyond, perfectly paired with the dishes to enhance the elegant dining experience.

L’Aparte

L'Aparté is the Michelin-star restaurant of the Hotel Royal, in the heart of Geneva’s Les Paquis neighborhood, and it offers an exciting gourmet menu created by renowned chef Armel Bedouet. The restaurant is known for its high-quality cooking, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and minimalist décor that favors sophisticated muted colors and natural materials. L'Aparté has been awarded 17 out of 20 points in the 2024 edition of the Swiss Gault & Millau guide and has held one Michelin star since 2020. The chef personally welcomes guests and shares his latest innovations, making for a truly exceptional dining experience. The restaurant serves only lunch and dinner, highlighting the exclusivity of this elite establishment.

Le Tse Fung

Le Tse Fung is an award-winning restaurant on the beautiful outskirts of Geneva. It is a veritable treasure among the city’s high-class culinary establishments and an excellent example of its multiculturalism. It is the only Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant in Switzerland, and it offers a carefully crafted menu by Frank Xu, an expert in Cantonese haute gastronomy. The menu features the best of Cantonese cuisine, offering a range of precisely flavored spicy gourmet dishes displaying scrupulous respect for tradition and embodying the peak of culinary refinement. The décor of red velvet, black lacquer, and silk hangings takes diners back to the atmosphere of a 1930s Shanghai grand palace hotel. The Tsé Fung teams look forward to welcoming you, whether in the main restaurant, in private rooms for total peace, or on the terrace, offering a wonderful view over the Alps and Lake Geneva.

Le Chat-Botte

Le Chat-Botté, nestled within the luxurious Beau-Rivage Hotel, offers a culinary experience transcending mere dining. Renowned for its exquisite cuisine tailored by master chef Mathieu Croze for the modern palate, this establishment exudes sophistication and charm. With a blend of Art Nouveau elegance and Michelin-starred excellence, Le Chat-Botté captivates guests with a symphony of flavors and impeccable service. A culinary gem in the heart of Geneva, this restaurant promises a gastronomic journey that delights the senses and elevates the dining experience to unparalleled heights.

Bayview by Michel Roth

Bayview by Michel Roth is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a unique gastronomic experience with breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. The restaurant is known for its contemporary style, refined service, and daring cuisine created by renowned chef Michel Roth. The menu features local products and seasonal ingredients, with dishes such as Jussy poultry and Swiss meats. The wine cellar boasts 800 carefully selected bottles, including Petrus and Château Cheval Blanc. The restaurant's commitment to excellence is reflected in its 18/20 rating in the Gault & Millau guide and a Michelin star since 2014.

Il Lago

Il Lago is a Michelin-starred Italian restaurant located in the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel. Known for its exquisite Italian cuisine, the restaurant offers a fine selection of Italian, French, and Swiss wines, including an exclusive selection from several prestigious vineyards. The restaurant is renowned for its stunning views of Lake Geneva, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. With a menu featuring seasonal specialties and a carefully curated wine list, Il Lago offers a memorable dining experience in the heart of Geneva.

Geneva, with its ideal position close to France and Italy, certainly attracts many of the most famous and prestigious brands from these countries, but also from all over the world, allowing for an elite shopping experience that is to be expected of such a modern and cosmopolitan city. Whether you wish to refresh your wardrobe with the latest fashion, buy some of the most deluxe Swiss watches, or try the finest Swiss chocolate, Geneva has you fully covered. Aside from the individual stores scattered throughout Rue-Basses, several high-class department stores offer the finest fashion brands and much more.

Globus

Globus is a prestigious department store in the heart of Geneva, in the Rue-Basses neighborhood, catering to aficionados of premier brands and products. This multi-story department store dazzles with its variety, starting with a ground-floor-covered market that offers fresh produce, a bakery, an extensive watch collection, cosmetics, and a restaurant complemented by a wine bar. Ascend to discover departments dedicated to coveted designer labels like Dior, Chanel, Tom Ford, Ralph Lauren, Boss, and Armani. The presence of elite brands, sophisticated decor, and an upscale ambiance ensure a comprehensive shopping and dining experience. Renowned for its lavish offerings, Globus Geneva stands as an essential visit for those desiring opulence in their shopping ventures in Geneva.

Geneva is a bastion of high culture set against spectacular natural surroundings, flaunting world-class museums, theatres, and galleries. Art collectors and aesthetes will be spoiled for choice between unmatched permanent collections and cutting-edge exhibitions, where both the classical and the contemporary are well-represented. From visual art to opera and ballet, Geneva retains the prestige of imperial capitals of yore with opulent venues on par with the most iconic landmarks. From the Grand Theatre de Geneve to the spectacular Victoria Hall, guests are privy to a robust cultural itinerary attracting the world's foremost soloists, virtuosos, and orchestras.

Grand Theatre de Geneve

The Grand Theatre de Geneve is Geneva’s prime opera house and the biggest one in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. Located in the heart of the city, right next to the Old Town, it is an unmissable destination for visitors looking for high-class entertainment in the form of exclusive productions by famous directors from Switzerland and beyond, both beloved classics and fresh, original works.

Patek Philippe Museum

If you’re looking for a uniquely Swiss experience, the Patek Philippe Museum is an excellent choice. It is a renowned horology museum that showcases the history of watchmaking and the masterpieces of the Patek Philippe brand. Located in the heart of the Plainpalais district, the museum was opened in 2001 and houses the most prestigious creations of the brand's master watchmakers, as well as an extraordinary collection of watches, musical automata, and enamel miniatures from the 16th to the 19th centuries of Genevan, Swiss, and European origins. Visitors can explore masterpieces dating back to the beginnings of mechanical timekeeping, including the oldest watch ever made.

MAMCO Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMCO) is Switzerland's most prominent contemporary art museum in Geneva's wonderful central Plainpalais neighborhood. MAMCO was established in 1994 and has since become a true sanctuary for Swiss and global modern art. Featured in it are permanent installations from well-respected artists such as Robert Filliou, Maurizio Nannucci, Claudio Parmiggiani, Claude Rutault, Philippe Thomas, and Ghislain Mollet-Viéville. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions featuring works from its vast and stunning collection, which includes over 3,500 works of some of the most fascinating modern and contemporary art.

Barbier-Mueller Museum

For all history enthusiasts, The Barbier-Mueller Museum is undoubtedly an unmissable destination. It is a highly regarded museum in the heart of Geneva’s Old Town. Since its founding in 1977, it has become home to a true treasure trove, comprising about 7000 fascinating artifacts and artworks from various civilizations and periods worldwide, with a special focus on ancient civilizations. With a stunning permanent exhibition and several themed installations throughout the year, this museum provides an excellent educational activity during your stay in the city.

Maison Tavel

One of Geneva’s most notable landmarks, this is the city’s oldest conserved private house, dating back to 1334. It is named after the noble Tavel family, which rebuilt it after a fire, and gave it its current look as a stunning urban mansion. It was transformed into a museum in 1986. Its floors are filled with various exhibits, artifacts, and historical objects focusing on Geneva's city history, mostly during medieval times. The museum's highlight is the top floor, hosting a marvelous 3D map of Geneva from 1850, so it is worth visiting for this reason alone.

Victoria Hall

The Victoria Hall is a stunning concert venue in Geneva, featuring a fascinating façade reflective of the late 19th-century architectural style, but it is just as intricately furnished on the inside. It owes its name to Queen Victoria, as the hall was constructed with help from the British consul in Geneva. Its long and famed history was disrupted due to a disastrous arson attack in 1984, destroying much of the interior, including invaluable artwork and a large pipe organ. After intensive reconstruction, the hall is mainly used for various musical performances, covering all genres, from classical to jazz. The grandness of the auditorium is excellently complemented by its acoustic qualities, so you can completely immerse yourself and enjoy any performance to the fullest.

Centre d'Art Contemporain

The Centre d'Art Contemporain is a well-known and respected contemporary art exhibition center in Geneva. It does not have a collection, but several exclusive temporary exhibitions and projects with regional and international artists can be found here throughout the year. The center has gained international renown with exhibitions by acclaimed artists such as Joseph Beuys, Maurizio Cattelan, Roberto Cuoghi, Gilbert & George, On Kawara, Pipilotti Rist, Shirana Shahbazi, Cindy Sherman, Andy Warhol, and Christopher Wool. For fans of something more experimental, the center frequently features video installations and other non-traditional art forms.

Geneva has a wide range of establishments to offer visitors seeking a thrilling night out. Whether you are looking for a lively party where you can dance the night away to music played by world-renowned DJs or a more laid-back experience with incredible and creative cocktails, you will find exactly what you are looking for in this stunning city.

Black Sheep Bar

The Black Sheep Bar is a popular and highly-rated establishment known for its fantastic cocktails and funky vibes. Located in the heart of the city, this atmospheric bar attracts many visitors and locals alike. It offers creatively crafted cocktails that set it apart from other bars in the area. The bar's unique mixology and ambiance make it a standout destination for those looking for a memorable and enjoyable drinking experience in Geneva.

Le Baroque

Le Baroque is a legendary nightclub known for its intimate ambiance and glamorous setting. The club opened its doors in 1993 and has since become one of the leading addresses for nightlife and artistic culture. It is located in the old town of Geneva and boasts a unique character, making it an ideal place for a classy night out. The club is known for its select clientele and Parisian luxury, providing a whole world of authenticity and entertainment. Le Baroque offers a lively atmosphere and a fusion of musical and artistic cultures, making it a must-visit destination in Geneva.

Geneva, the cosmopolitan center of Switzerland, is home to many prestigious annual events, galas, and festivities. From the stunning sights of the Lux Festival, which light up the winter nights in every imaginable color, to the exciting Geneva Motor Show, which features awe-inspiring automobiles that are sure to get your adrenaline going, the city offers something unique for all tastes and preferences.

Geneva International Film Festival

Held annually since 1995, this festival is one of the highlights of Geneva’s exciting event calendar. Usually held over ten days, it truly celebrates worldwide cinematography. Awards are handed out in several different categories for films, TV series, and digital media. What really sets it apart from similar festivals elsewhere is the inclusion of experimental but also quite exciting virtual reality movies, making this a rather exclusive event.

Geneva Motor Show

This is undoubtedly the event for all car enthusiasts when visiting Geneva. Held almost every year since 1905, the Motor Show has a long and rich history, evident in the ever-expanding classic car collection showcased here yearly. Of course, the future of automobiles isn’t neglected either. All the latest innovations and technologies in the automotive industry from many of the world’s most prestigious brands are presented here year after year, including household names like Audi, Bugatti, Lamborghini, Ferrari, Aston Martin, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and many more. Many car manufacturers also choose this event to unveil some of their latest and most exciting models, which are often exclusive and limited edition luxury or high-performance sports cars, making this an excellent opportunity to look for a new addition to your garage.

Lux Festival

The Lux Festival is undoubtedly the highlight of Geneva’s wonderful winters. This annual event illuminates the city with captivating light installations and artworks, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere. Artists from Switzerland and abroad come together to create contemporary light sculptures, transforming public spaces into a vibrant open-air art gallery. The festival typically takes place from the end of January to the beginning of February, showcasing innovative displays of swirling lights, video mapping on fountains and sculptures, and colorful lanterns hanging on trees. Visitors can enjoy guided tours to discover the various mesmerizing light installations throughout the city, making it a delightful experience for families, friends, and individuals.

Geneva is a stunning and vibrant city with a limitless number of opportunities to truly experience the town's charm and the surrounding areas, which are equally rich in unmissable destinations. From the urban to the natural, from chocolate to wine, from private tours in the city to cruises on the lake, Geneva has a little bit of something for everyone, so disappointment is hardly an option when visiting.

Private chocolate-tasting tour

One of Switzerland’s finest and most beloved exports is, without a doubt, chocolate. On a carefully crafted and exclusive tour through the heart of Geneva’s old town, you have a unique opportunity to see the city's fantastic architecture and, most importantly, to taste some of the city's most delectable treats. An experienced guide will take you to some of the oldest and most prestigious chocolate shops that offer only the most high-quality products, sure to delight all chocolate lovers.

Private cruise on Lake Geneva

The gorgeous Lake Geneva is undoubtedly one of the city’s highlights, certainly when it comes to natural sights. There is no better way to experience its charm than by hopping on a private boat with an unobstructed 360-degree view and soaking up the stunning sights, from the deep blue water to beautiful Geneva and the snow-capped mountains in the distance. To further enhance your experience, you can enjoy some of the finest wines and a light but luxurious meal during the cruise, making this an unmissable activity.