Geneva, Switzerland

What to do in Geneva, Switzerland

Monument de la Reformation

Located in the Parc de Bastions, this giant wall of granite from Mount Blanc is a tribute to all the contributors of the Protestant Reformation. Among its splendors are 15-foot statues of the Reformation leaders, Beze, Calvin, Farel and Knox.

Cathedrale St. Pierre

A testimony to Calvin's struggles in his role in the Reformation, this cathedral is a graceful combination of Gothic and Romanesque austerity.

Jet d'Eau

The largest fountain in Europe, is a brilliant spectacle that sends a giant spray of water nearly 500 feet into the air, visible from anywhere along the coast of Lac Leman.

Place du Bourg-de-Four

As the geographical center of the Old Town, this square serves as a central meeting ground. It is built upon a foundation rich in history and tradition and embellished by creativity, acceptance, and free thinking.

City Coach Tour

Cover all the major monuments and landmarks, visit the promenades and take a short walk through the Old Town, guided by an expert local.

Musee Ariana

A 19th-century Genevese patron adored the Swiss talents in pottery enough to start an elaborate collection and build an Italian Renaissance structure to house it all. The exquisite building displays many European and Asian masterpieces of porcelain, glass, and pottery crafted over thousands of years.

MAMCO (Musee d'Art et Contemporain)

Containing details that took 20 years to complete, this museum displays a vast collection of European and American art dating through the last 4 decades. Only about 300 works are permanently on display, and the remaining space is filled with rotating exhibits.

Maison Tavel

Constructed in 1303, this house is the oldest in Geneva and one of the city's newest museums. Although the front is a typical illustration of 17th-century architecture, it also includes treasures such as a 13th-century cellar and courtyard with a garden. The collection brings together artifacts of Geneva's history from the Middle Ages to the 19th Century. Highlights include the Magnin relief in the attic and the various objects of daily use-postcards, books, and slides-displayed in the ancient living quarters.

Musee Internationale de la Croix-Rouge

Dedicated to the consistent focus of the Swiss, this museum traces the history of people helping others. The displays are fiercely moving and inspirational with a focus on the Swiss born International Red Cross.

Musee des Suisses a l'Etranger

Celebrating the long standing tradition of Swiss involvement of foreign affairs, this educational museum focuses on the country's many important roles in the shaping of history.

Mount Saleve

Either way you decide to tackle this 4,000 feet peak-by foot or by car-you will need a passport. Although the mountain is only 4 miles south of Geneva, it is located in France. You can reach the near top (3,750 feet) by cable car, where you will be greeted by a panoramic view of the Valley of the Arve, framed by Geneva and Mont Blanc in the background.

Carouge

This hamlet contains 18th Century architecture so ornate that the entire town is designated a National Historic Landmark. It was built by the king of Sardinia in an effort to rival the majesty of Geneva and served as a playground for smugglers and gold washers who lucked out with riches.