Geneva Information
Hugging the shoreline of the magnificent Lac Léman with the French Alps as a backdrop, Geneva is a cosmopolitan city filled with elegant hotels, luxury shopping, and fine dining. The River Rhone runs through the city, dividing the north side (Rive Gauche), where the main train station and suburbs are located, from the south side (Rive Droite), where the cobblestone streets of the beautiful Old Town are found. Often mistaken as the country’s capital (which is actually Bern), Geneva holds an important place on the world stage, as it is home to both the Red Cross and many of the key agencies associated with the United Nations. The compact city centre has a population of just below 200,000, with the population of the entire metropolitan region at well over 1 million.
Much of Geneva’s appeal lies in its stunning lake front location. Strolling or cycling along the lakeside paths is a perfect way to get a feel for the culture and beauty of the city. Here you can feast your eyes upon the horticultural expertise of the meticulous Swiss gardeners who fill the numerous flowerbeds with exotic flora and enjoy the colourful sight of sail boats anchored near the majestic homes and plush hotels that line the foreshore. When the weather is clear, there are breathtaking views of the majestic Mont-Blanc mountain ranges and the Jet d’eau is a spectacular sight, with its fountain that shoots lake water over 140 metres in the air at 200km/h. Near the waterfront is the famous Horloge Fleurie (Flower Clock), a 16 foot working timepiece made up of over 6,000 plants. It was created in 1955 to celebrate Geneva’s pivotal role in the Swiss watchmaking tradition. Visitors to Geneva also love to stroll down the romantic Promenade de la Treille in the shade of two long rows of chestnut trees, where they can admire the “official” chestnut tree of Geneva whose first bud is said to signal the arrival of the long awaited spring.
For those who are interested in cultural pursuits, Geneva has much to offer. There are a plethora of museums and galleries throughout the city centre. The Musée d’Art et d’Histoire holds an extensive collection of sculptures, paintings, weapons and archeological artefacts. The Musée International de la Reforme (International Museum of Reformation) allows history buffs the chance to explore the life and influence of the protestant reformer John Calvin. And, the Patek Phillipe Museum, which houses a vast collection of timepieces dating back to the 16th century and showcases the intricacy, precision and creativity of Swiss craftsmanship.
Another must-see is definitely the Palais de Nations, where visitors can take an hour-long tour of the magnificent Art Deco building that is the European headquarters for the UN.
A visit to Geneva is not complete without taking advantage of the many cruises that are on offer on Lake Geneva. These offer a fantastic way to relax, take in the sights and enjoy some local cuisine. Cruises are offered year-round both day and night and are well worth the price.
Finally, don’t neglect to indulge in frequent visits to the numerous boutique chocolate shops dotted throughout the city. You will not be disappointed!
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