Geneva quickly became one of my favorite cities in a short 24 hour visit. Situated around Lake Geneva with sprawling mountains in one direction and France toward the other, it is absolutely breathtaking. Not only is the scenery stunning, but the culture here is so unique with influences of Switzerland, France, and Italy being the neighboring communities. However, the French influence is the most widespread.
In addition, Geneva is home to the United Nations, Red Cross, and several other international organizations making it a hub for European and worldwide diplomacy. It is Switzerland’s second most populous city after Zurich.
Below, I am sharing my leisurely one Day in Geneva itinerary and all the tips you need to know before you travel.Ā
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Basics for Traveling to Geneva Switzerland
A few things to plan for when traveling to Genevaā¦
Language: Mostly French, English spoken as well
Adapter: European Adapter needed
Currency: Swiss Francs
Location: nestled on the western side of Switzerland bordering France and surrounded by the alps
Getting Around: Hotels will provide you with a Geneva Transport Pass allowing you to ride public transportation for free throughout your stay. The buses looked super clean and nice if you get tired of walking.
Read before you go: Swiss Watching by Diccon Bowes is a fun read from the perspective of a British man living in Switzerland. He is very witty and it gives you a good foundation on the history of the country and insight into the culture of the Swiss people – my kind of people! Get it on Amazon.
Best Months to Visit Geneva
I visited Geneva in September and the weather was fabulous! The highs were about 70F and it got a little cooler at night in the 50s. Overall, summer is the best time to visit for ideal warm weather reaching highs of 77F on average. In the winter, expect temperatures in the 30s and 40s making it ideal for a ski trip to the Swiss Alps!Ā
How to Get to Geneva, Switzerland
The best way to get to Geneva is to fly into Geneva International Airport (GVA). It is a major airport of Switzerland (along with Zurich) so you will find plenty of flights across many different carriers. From the airport, the main city center of Geneva is only 15 minutes away by car.
Another option is to train from other European destinations or places in Switzerland. The main train station is Geneve Cornavin and is also located close to the city center.Ā
Where to Stay in Geneva
As an international city, Geneva is home to endless hotel options including well known brands like Four Seasons and many boutique style properties as well. I recommend staying in the city center area closest to the lake for one day in Geneva.
Best Hotels in Geneva
Hotel Longemalle
We chose to stay at the adorable, boutique style Hotel Longemalle. It has so much character that we could not resist. Additionally, it is in the perfect location between Lake Geneva and old town making it the best choice for a one night stay.
Four Seasons Hotel des bergues Geneva
You can not go wrong with the Four Seasons anywhere in the world. Set in a historic building from 1834, this Four Seasons exudes elegance. The hotel overlooks enchanting Lake Geneva and has one of the best restaurants in the city: Izumi.
Ritz Carlton Hotel de la Paix
Next, I also recommend The Ritz Carlton Geneva. A 5-star luxury hotel located in the heart of the city and along the shores of the lake. Itās hard to beat the sleek design of the rooms and service the Ritz brand is known for. Be sure to reserve a balcony room with a lake view.
Booking.comBest Things to Do in Geneva
Geneva is the perfect destination for a leisurely vacation. Steeped in history and surrounded by the alps, youāll find much to explore from slowly wandering the cobblestoned streets to more adventurous skiing at the nearby Mont Blanc. Here are some of my top picks for spending one day in Geneva.
Drinks at Hotel Metropole – MET Rooftop Lounge
I love to visit a rooftop in a city for the birds eye view of my new surroundings. Hotel Metropole has a charming rooftop bar overlooking the fabulous lake and water jet. Have a glass of champagne and watch as the sun sets behind the waterway and ferris wheel.
Run/Walk along Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva is a main attraction so you must take a stroll or even a run around the lake in the morning. There is a beautiful water feature called Jet dāEau, or water jet, in the center of the lake. The French term sounds so much prettier!
Sailing on Lake Geneva Day Trip
I love to get out on the water for the unique perspective it provides of a new city. Take a sail with one of the many providers like Geneva Boats. You will LOVE their luxury boats and yachts for rent with a driver.
Explore Carouge Area
Located right outside of Genevaās borders, you will find Carouge. A bohemian area with local artisans, markets, mediterranean influenced homes and gardens. Go for the picturesque views and pastel colors – even an umbrella filled street!
Have Fondue (if itās winter)
Switzerland is known for their fondue so be sure to try some. Maybe save this activity for winter though so you donāt look completely like a tourist š
Ride the Ferris Wheel
If you arenāt afraid of heights, take a spin on the ferris wheel to admire the lake if its open.
Explore Old Town Geneva
Take a stroll through the Old Town in Geneva. It is founded on cobblestone streets with picturesque squares among the many cafes, museums and churches. It is beautiful to simply stroll around and take it in, however, there are tours and attractions. The next few attractions are some highlights of Old Town.
St. Pierre Cathedral
While in the old town, be sure to visit the beautiful St. Pierre Cathedral dating back to the 12th century. You can climb up the towers for an incredible view of the city.
Jardin Anglais and Parc de La Grange
Jardin Anglais, or English Garden, is located at the marina area of the lake. It’s a beautiful park to stroll through, relax on the benches, or even have a picnic!
Parc de La Grange is the cities largest park right beyond Jardin Anglais. It is landscaped beautifully with massive trees along the lake and has spectacular view points.
Place du Bourg-de-Four
Also located in the old town, this is a charming square with a fountain in the center flanked by cafes, restaurants, and plenty of shops.
Tour Palais des Nations
The Palais des Nations is the United Nations. You can take a guided tour through the immaculate grounds.
Where to Eat in Geneva
Geneva is located within a few miles of the French border so you can imagine the French presence is strong here including in the cuisine. Additionally, Italy is only about an hour away making it a renowned city for foodies!
Osteria della Bottega
Osteria della Bottega is a must-do in the old town. I reached out to a local food blogger for her best recs and chose this for dinner. It is an Italian restaurant with homemade pastas and great wine! Itās located along a cobblestone street with indoor and an outdoor dining space. The inside is super intimate with beautiful hardwood floors and dreamy candle lighting. Outside is on a fun deck in the middle of the roadway so you can people-watch and soak up the city! Highly recommend the risotto!
Izumi
If money is no object, Izumi is a fabulous choice. They serve Japanese fusion with incredible views of Lake Geneva. Itās located at the luxury Four Seasons hotel.
Brasserie Lipp
Brasserie Lipp is the best French restaurant located in the Old Town. Itās tucked away behind an expansive outdoor courtyard with iconically French decor. The mussels and seafood towers look amazing!
Balila
If you like Lebanese, try Balila located in the city center at Hotel Longemalle. The decor is incredibly chic and the menu features favorite small plates like tabbouleh, hummus, falafel, muhammara, and more. Itās a great option if you are vegan or vegetarian, but they do serve plenty of meat options too like lamb and fish.
One Day in Geneva Itinerary Overview
For the purpose of this suggested itinerary, I will assume you are staying overnight so have broken this up into two half days. You could certainly combine it all into one day – start with the day 2 itinerary, then move one with day 1 – which is featured for you as Option 2.
Day 1 – One Day in Geneva Itinerary
- Check in to Hotel Longemalle
- Walk to Hotel Metropole – MET Rooftop Lounge – for drinks above the water jet – Jet dāEau
- Stroll through Old Town on your way to dinner
- Dinner at Osteria della Bottega
Day 2 – One Day in Geneva Itinerary
- Morning walk/run around the lake and Jardin Anglais to Parc de La Grange
- Breakfast at Hotel Longemalle – sit on the terrace admiring the views as the city wakes up
- Take a short drive to explore the neighborhood of Carouge
- Have lunch at Brasserie Lipp
- If time allows, take a private sail on Lake Geneva
- Check out of your hotel and depart on the rest of your journey
Option 2 – One FULL Day in Geneva Itinerary
- Breakfast at Hotel Longemalle – sit on the terrace admiring the views as the city wakes up
- Take a short drive to explore the neighborhood of Carouge
- Have lunch at Brasserie Lipp
- Stroll around the lake and Jardin Anglais to Parc de La Grange
- Embark on a private sail on Lake Geneva
- Walk to Hotel Metropole MET Rooftop Lounge for drinks above the water jet – Jet dāEau
- Stroll through Old Town on your way to dinner
- Dinner at Osteria della Bottega
What to Pack for a Trip to Geneva
- Jeans + Blouses
- Chic Dresses
- Sunglasses
- Sailing outfit – flowy dress + cardigan or white jeans
- Clutch / Crossbody Purse – i’m eyeing this one and this one right now
- Walking Shoes – all the best white sneakers for travel in this blog post
- Wedges / Heels / Espadrilles
- Booties for Cooler Months
- Light Jacket or Cardigan for cooler evenings
- Travel essentials – all my top picks in this post
What to Wear in Geneva, Switzerland
Geneva is an incredibly chic city thanks to the French influences here. It is also a huge financial city with many companies headquartered there (ie: many people wear suits for work). I suggest dressing smart with fashionable pieces. It is definitely more formal thanks to the business nature, so men should wear a jacket to dinners and women should wear dresses with heels/wedges. Here is a few ideas to get you headed in the right direction:
My Favorite Geneva Outfits
Geneva Travel Tips + FAQ
Geneva is home to many international conferences – plan accordingly making reservations well in advance for hotels and restaurants.Ā
Honestly, one day is not enough time to enjoy all that Geneva has to offer. However, sometimes that is all you have and it is definitely worth the visit if you have a layover here or ability to squeeze in a day.Ā
In my opinion, I loved both cities, but preferred Geneva. The cuisine was incredible and it was super clean as you walked around. It also felt less crowded. I loved the romantic, French influences and the way the city wraps around the lake as its source of life. I would move there if I could!Ā
Yes! Geneva is very walkable and I highly recommend you do walk so that you can really take in the stunning architecture and nearby mountain peaks of the alps and Mont Blanc. There is a tram if you tire of walking. The hotels provide you with a pass to use the free public transportation during your stay!Ā
Yes, it is absolutely worth visiting. It is one of my favorite cities in the world. From the cuisine to the lake to the cleanliness to the architecture. There is so much to love about Geneva and Switzerland!
The main tourist attractions in Geneva include history, arts, and culture. Here is a list of the top attractions to add to your list for your itinerary:
Old Town
Carouge
Palais des Nations / United Nations
St. Pierre Cathedral
Lake Geneva
Broken Chair
Jet dāEau
Jardin Anglais
Musee dāArt et dāHistoireĀ
Parc de La Grange
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