ABOUT GENEVA
Embedded between nearby Alpine peaks and the hilly terrain of the Jura, the French-speaking city of Geneva lies in the bay where the Rhone leaves Lake Geneva. With its humanitarian tradition and cosmopolitan flair, the European seat of the UNO and headquarters of the Red Cross is known as the «capital of peace».
Geneva is Switzerland’s most international city, as it is where the European seat of the UNO is based. Even the International Red Cross directs its humanitarian campaigns from here. Besides being a congress city, Geneva is also a centre for culture and history, for trade fairs and exhibitions.
The symbol of the «world’s smallest metropolis» is the “Jet d’eau” – a fountain with a 140-metre-high water jet at the periphery of Lake Geneva. Most of the large hotels and many restaurants are situated on the right-hand shore of the lake. The old town, the heart of Geneva with the shopping and business quarter, holds sway over the left-hand shore. It is dominated by St. Peter’s Cathedral, however the actual centre of the old town is the Place du Bourg-de-Four, which is the oldest square in the city. Quays, lakeside promenades, countless parks, lively side streets in the old town and elegant shops invite guests to stroll. One of the best-maintained streets is the Grand-Rue, where Jean-Jacques Rousseau was born. The «mouettes», a type of water taxi, enable crossings to be made from one lakeshore to the other, while larger vessels invite visitors to enjoy cruises on Lake Geneva.
Culturally, this city on the westernmost fringe of Switzerland has much to offer. International artists perform in the Grand Théâtre and Geneva Opera House, and an extremely diverse range of museums such as the “Musée international de l’horlogerie”, a watch museum with a collection of jewellery watches and musical clocks, and the International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, which provides an insight into the work of these humanitarian organisations, invite city guests to visit them.
Highlights
- Jet d’eau – visible from afar, the 140-metre-high water jet is the ‘landmark’ of Geneva.
- St. Pierre Cathedral – the north tower of the three-naved basilica in the old town of Geneva offers up an unique vista over the city and lake.
- Palace of the United Nations – on passing through the paled gate of the Palace of the UNO, visitors enter international territory.
- International Museum of the Red Cross – the birthplace of the International Red Cross houses the only museum dedicated to the history and work of this organisation.
- Cruises on Lake Geneva – from the cruise boats, visitors can marvel at the unique scenery of castles and magnificent residences set against wonderful landscape and mountain panoramas.
- Mont-Salève – close to the city, the Salève offers delightful walks for hikers and affords breathtaking landscapes.
- Carouge and its bohemian atmosphere – Italian Royal City near Geneva.
- The birthplace of fine watchmaking – from the Flower Clock to the watchmakers’ shops.
- Geneva à la carte – the “Geneva Amazing Experiences”, the 11 maps focus on different aspects of the city and all carry full descriptions in English.
HOTELS IN GENEVA
Hotel d’Angleterre
Elegantly poised at the edge of Lake Leman with magnificent views of the famous Jet d’Eau and Mont Blanc, our beautiful boutique hotel showcases British charm with the finest Swiss hospitality. Enjoy exquisitely decorated rooms and suites, delicious international cuisine in Windows restaurant, and cocktails in our famous Leopard Bar and Cigar Lounge.
4 Seasons Hotel des Bergues
The city’s first hotel, and still the first choice of sophisticated travellers and world statesmen, has been a landmark on Lake Geneva since 1834. Now, as Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues, it blends a revitalized sense of history with comfort, relaxation and warm, genuine personal service.
Astoria
The Hotel Astoria is ideally located in the heart of the city of Geneva, opposite the main railway station “Cornavin” and the main public transport lines, a few steps from Geneva Lake, Geneva’s fountain, flower clock, old town, and the business districts. It is close to the UN offices, international organizations, and the Palexpo Conference Centre.
Beau Rivage
The Beau-Rivage is on the famous Quai du Mont Blanc, opposite the renowned Jet d’Eau. It is just a few minutes from the Rue du Rhône, the prestigious shopping street and business centre.
Crowne Plaza
Business travel has changed, and Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts is evolving to be the hotel for modern business travelers. They offer the amenities that help you be at your best when you travel for work, and also help you make the most of your downtime when the work-day is done.
Grand Hôtel Kempinski Genève
Grand Hotel Kempinski Geneva is a destination spot all on its own – a lively after work entertainment complex, a luxurious staycation option, a peaceful respite in an urban setting…or a private, lavish haven that far exceeds our guests’ expectations.
Grand Pre Hotel
Located 1200 meters away from Alptitude, the business Grand Pre offers accommodation in the center of Geneva within a 15-minute walk of Musee Ariana. Geneva center can be reached within 20 minutes’ walk. Grand Pre is connected with other parts of Geneva due to a railway station located nearby.
Mövenpick Hotel and Casino Geneva
Opt for a convenient location near Geneva International Airport and complimentary public transport to Geneva’s city centre when you stay at Mövenpick Hotel & Casino Geneva. Business travellers enjoy our close proximity to the Palexpo convention centre, while leisure guests love that Lake Geneva and the Alps are nearby.
Hotel NH Geneva City
The NH Geneva City, formerly known as NH Rex, enjoys a peaceful spot in a pretty neighborhood near Geneva’s business district. International organizations like the Red Cross and the United Nations are nearby. From here it’s just 2 minutes’ walk to the tram stop, and the city center is just a 10-minute ride away.
Novotel Genève Centre
This property is 7 minutes walk from the beach. Just a 2-minute walk from Lake Geneva and 5 minutes from the Cornavin Train Station, the Novotel Genève Centre offers a fitness and spa centre, free WiFi and a free pass for public transport. You can enjoy healthy and balanced cuisine in the Novotel Café, at the bar or in your room.
Ramada Encore Geneva
Book our Ramada Encore Geneva hotel, just 10 minutes from the city center and airport and in between shopping mall La Praille and Geneva Football Stadium. Enjoy offer easy access to public transportation. Whether you are our guest for just one night or an extended stay, you will find comfortable accommodations at a great price.
The Warwick Geneva
The hotel Warwick Geneva gladly gives what any guest, regardless of origin, desires most. This, of course, is access to the city found down the lobby’s spiral staircase and outside the door. With an ideal location opposite Gare de Cornavin, Geneva’s central train station, Warwick Geneva is minutes from fine examples of the city’s renowned sophisticated attractions.