Geneva is a stunning city in Switzerland situated on the shores of Lake Geneva. It’s known for its picturesque landscapes, charming old town with cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural scene. In 2022, I travelled to Switzerland and stopped by Geneva for 2 days. I have compiled the 7 best places to visit in Geneva, which are all places that I have visited and that I loved.
Table of Contents
- 1. The Geneva Water Fountain (Jet d’Eau)
- 2. St Pierre Cathedral
- 3. Broken Chair
- 4. Lake Geneva
- 5. Palais des Nations
- 6. Le Canopée
- 7. The Flower Clock
1. The Geneva Water Fountain (Jet d’Eau)
The Geneva Water Fountain, also known as the Jet d’Eau, is a magnificent sight and one of Geneva’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a large fountain that shoots water up to 140 meters high into the air, creating a spectacular display against the backdrop of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains. The fountain is illuminated at night, adding to its beauty and making it a must-see attraction for visitors to Geneva.
The Jet d’Eau is free to see. You can see it from many different angles. I loved photographing it across Lake Geneva. You can also walk right next to the jet, where you can feel the mist of the water fountain fall on you.
2. St Pierre Cathedral
St Pierre Cathedral features stunning Gothic architecture with intricate details like spires, arches, and stained glass windows. Visitors can explore the cathedral’s interior, which includes a serene nave, ornate chapels, and a majestic organ. The cathedral also offers panoramic views of Geneva from its tower, making it a popular spot for sightseeing.
Admission to the cathedral is free, but there is a small fee if you would like to climb the tower. When I visited the St Pierre Cathedral, I did not enter and simply admired it from the outside.
3. Broken Chair
The Broken Chair in Geneva is a striking sculpture that stands as a powerful symbol of peace and the fight against landmines. It is located in front of the United Nations headquarters and is made of wood, standing at about 12 meters tall.
The sculpture depicts a large chair with one of its legs broken, representing the impact of landmines on victims and the need for global efforts to address this issue. The Broken Chair serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of conflict and the importance of promoting peace and safety worldwide.
The Broken Chair is completely free to see.
4. Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva is a stunning natural wonder located in Switzerland, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and charming towns. It’s one of the largest lakes in Europe and is famous for its crystal-clear waters, which reflect the beauty of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery.
There are many ways to get the most of Lake Geneva. You can go swimming in certain areas, rent a paddle board, have a lakeside picnic, take a cruise along Lake Geneva, or simply walking along the shore on both sides while taking in the breathtaking views.
5. Palais des Nations
The Palais des Nations in Geneva is a grand and impressive building that serves as the European headquarters of the United Nations. It’s located in a beautiful park setting near Lake Geneva, making it a scenic and significant landmark. The palace features stunning architecture with large columns, grand halls, and beautiful gardens.
To visit inside the Palais des Nations, you can take guided tours to explore the various conference rooms, assembly halls, and exhibitions showcasing the work of the United Nations in promoting global peace and cooperation. The Palais des Nations offers a unique opportunity to learn about international diplomacy and the efforts to address global challenges.
When I visited, we did not go inside the Palais des Nations because we did not book tickets in advance. In fact, you should book your tickets a few months in advance to secure your spot. Click here for bookings and for availabilities.
6. Le Canopée
Le Canopée in Geneva is a modern and innovative urban development project located in the heart of the city. It consists of a striking canopy structure that covers a public square, creating a vibrant and welcoming space for locals and visitors alike. It is just along Lake Geneva, next to the Jet d’Eau.
One thing that I loved at le Canopée is that in the summer, they set up lines hammocks for anyone to relax in. I loved sitting in them and relaxing. If I had more time, I would have definitely loved to bring a book and read for a few hours. It is free to visit.
7. The Flower Clock
The Flower Clock in Geneva is a charming attraction that combines nature with artistic ingenuity. It’s a large clock made entirely of colorful flowers, showcasing intricate designs and patterns that change with the seasons. It is located in the English Garden along Lake Geneva. The Flower Clock is a popular spot for taking photos, enjoying a leisurely stroll, or simply appreciating the beauty of nature’s artistry in the heart of Geneva.
Jessie Across the World 