See and Do in Geneva

Geneva is a culturally fascinating place filled with historic, religious and natural attractions. Expats will certainly find that there are plenty of great things to see and do in Geneva.

You can visit the largest lake in Europe, Lake Geneva; marvel at the water-spurting Jet d'Eau; stroll through Le Jardin Anglais; and have your picture taken at Jean-Jacques Rousseau's statue, to name but a few of Geneva's most popular activities.

Culture-vultures will love the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, the Barbier-Mueller Museum as well as the Museum of Art and History. On the other hand, history buffs should visit the Palais des Nations (United Nations), and should spend some time at the Patek Philippe Museum.
 

Recommended sightseeing in Geneva

Public Parks
More than one quarter of Geneva is made up of public parks, so this city is a great place to get out and stretch the legs after a long day at the office. Visit Bastion Park to see the 328-foot (100m) Reformation Wall, the English Garden to see the flower clock, or Park Moynier for breathtaking views of Mont Blanc.

St Peter's Cathedral
First built in 1160, St Peter's Cathedral has become an eclectic mix of architectural style over the years, featuring Romanesque, Gothic and Neoclassical styles. Climb the 157 steps that lead to the summit of the cathedral's north tower for panoramic views over the city.

Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)
Shared by Switzerland and France, Lake Geneva attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors to its shores each year. One of the lake's many villages can be the perfect destination for the expat eager to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Jet d’Eau
This fountain has, to a large extent, come to represent Geneva. It shoots water 460 feet (140m) into the air at a speed of 124 miles per hour (200km/h). It’s not surprising this is one of Geneva’s best attractions. A great place for a romantic stroll at night, the Jet d’Eau is lit up after dark creating a magical spectacle that is not to be missed.

Palais des Nations (United Nations)
Built between 1929 and 1937 to host the League of Nations, Palais des Nations now houses the United Nations Office at Geneva, and is the biggest United Nations office outside the headquarters in New York city. Come take a tour of the building and enjoy the peacocks who roam freely through the vast gardens.
www.unog.ch
Tel: (0)22 917 4896

Plaine de Plainpalais Flea Market
This bustling flea market is a must on Tuesday and Friday mornings, when fresh fruit and vegetables abound; while Wednesday and Saturdays are the days to come and look for antiques, vintage clothing, clocks, paintings, records and books.

Place Neuve
The best access-point for the Old Town, Place Neuve is home to three of the city’s performance and exhibition halls, namely the Grand Theatre (opera house), Conservatory of Music and Rath Museum.

Barbier-Mueller Museum
Home to 7,000 artworks and artefacts from civilisations around the world, a visit to the Barbier-Mueller Museum is a must for history and culture buffs. Marvel at megalithic monuments from Indonesia, pre-Columbian art from the Americas, statues and items of worship from Oceania and ancient masks and shields from Africa.
www.barbier-mueller.ch
Tel: (0)22 312 0270

Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
Come and visit this glorious museum and spend hours marvelling at the range of contemporary work it houses. Exhibitions are constantly changing, and every four months the museum reinvents itself, making it a great place to visit more than just once.
www.mamco.ch
Tel: (0)22 320 6122