24 Hours in Geneva
You may only know of this city because its the home of the United Nations, but there is so much more to see and do here! We used Geneva as our first step in a five week journey around Europe, and in 24 hours we made the most of every second in this enchanting Swiss city.
From the iconic Jet d'Eau fountain to the historic Old Town, and from international organizations to artisan chocolate shops, Geneva is the perfect place to explore in a short amount of time.
Morning
Spend a perfect morning walking through the Old Town (Vieille Ville) and admiring where centuries of history, culture, and architecture converge, offering a glimpse into Geneva's past. The area is easily accessible by foot and is a pedestrian-friendly area, allowing visitors to explore its historic streets at a relaxed pace. Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the Old Town, where you'll discover picturesque alleys, historic buildings, and cozy cafes. The area is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
Make sure to stop by the Promenade de la Treille, an elevated promenade with scenic city views. It also has the longest continuous wooden bench in the world, which is just a casual 120 metres long.
We also suggest paying close attention to the doors in the Old Town, there are some really ornate ones to admire!
Afternoon
By this time you’ll likely have stumbled upon St Pierre’s Cathedral on your own. Do yourself a favour and pay the 7 CHF to climb to the top; the views of Geneva and the lake are unparalleled. The St Pierre Cathedral is one of the most important religious sites in Geneva and has a rich history, dating back to Roman times before becoming a symbol of the Protestant Reformation.
Nearby is also the L'Ancien Arsenal, boasting old cannons and some beautiful mosaics.
Note:
Although we didn’t do either of these things, we think it would be absolutely possible to see the Cathedral and Arsenal in the morning and then head to the United Nations headquarters for a guided tour, or the Red Cross Museum, both of which are about a half hour from the Old Town by public transport.
Evening
Head down to the iconic Jet d'Eau, a massive water fountain that spurts high into the air. Take a leisurely stroll along Lake Geneva’s shores and enjoy the picturesque views while basking in the warm late afternoon sun. Explore the nearby Jardin Anglais park, known for its beautiful floral clock and manicured gardens, then end your day along the illuminated lakeside promenade before exploring Geneva's vibrant nightlife with its many bars and cafés.
Some final notes
Where we stayed: Home Swiss Hotel
If you’re in Geneva around Christmas time, be sure to check out the markets in Jardin Anglais!
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We hope you enjoyed this itinerary and would LOVE to hear from you or see photos from your own adventures in Geneva!
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