A first trip to Geneva - and to Switzerland!
W
Description
Lively Cosmopolitan Geneva offering the diversity of a very special multi-cultural and intellectual atmosphere. Home to many Non-Governmental organizations and the United Nations as well as the International Committee of the Red Cross. .. YOUR TO DO LIST: .. See the city by foot. .. Practice your high school French. .. Promenade along the entire shoreline! .. Explore the Vielle Ville (Old Town) .. Sail on an old paddle steamer to Yvoire, France (medieval floral village) just in time for lunch on a terrace. .. Discover Swiss French cuisine mixed with all other nationalities. .. Check out the nightlife in some chic spots. .. Do the museums! Look for Swiss culture and history and European art! .. Take the train along the shore to Lausanne, home to the International Olympic Committee and the Olympic Museum.
Document Sample
Matt Biddulph
A first trip to Geneva - and to Switzerland!
Geneva, 6 Days
Table of contents:
Guide Description 2
Itinerary Overview 3
Daily Itineraries 5
My List 17
Geneva Snapshot 18
1
Guide Description
AUTHOR NOTE: Lively Cosmopolitan Geneva offering
the diversity of a very special multi-cultural and intellectual
atmosphere. Home to many Non-Governmental organizations
and the United Nations as well as the International Committee of
the Red Cross.
.
.
YOUR TO DO LIST:
.
.
See the city by foot.
.
.
Practice your high school French.
.
.
Promenade along the entire shoreline!
.
.
Explore the Vielle Ville (Old Town)
.
.
Sail on an old paddle steamer to Yvoire, France (medieval floral
village) just in time for lunch on a terrace.
.
.
Discover Swiss French cuisine mixed with all other nationalities.
.
.
Check out the nightlife in some chic spots.
.
.
Do the museums! Look for Swiss culture and history and
European art!
.
.
Take the train along the shore to Lausanne, home to the
International Olympic Committee and the Olympic Museum.
.
.
(Photo courtesy of Switzerland Tourism © )
2
things to do
Itinerary Overview restaurants
hotels
nightlife
Day 1 - Geneva DAY NOTE: Sunday is family day in Switzerland and many
stores are closed. Can't miss a visit to the International Red
Cross Museum to watch Swiss children learn an important part of
DAY NOTE: Switzerland at last! Your Alpine dream is going to
their history. The evening is reserved to experience some Swiss
come true.
cuisine.
Gare De Geneve
Major Train station in Switzerland and nearby
Musée International de la Croix-Rouge
France. et du Croissant-Rouge
The World's First Humanitarian Organization
Swissôtel Genève Métropole
Staying In Geneva! Cave Valaisanne et Chalet Suisse
Swiss Chalet Revisited
L'Horloge Fleurie
The Flower Clock
Day 4 - Geneva
Jardin Anglais (Le)
Place of Tranquility and breathtaking views DAY NOTE: While the locals are off to work on this Monday
morning, take a walking tour of the Vielle Ville (Old Town) and the
Plainpalais Park area.
Chez ma Cousine .
.
Charming casual inexpensive cafe serving chicken in Lunch:
The Old City .
Soupcon Restaurant Bar
.
Place du Bourg-de-Four 8
Day 2 - Geneva .
1204 Genève
.
DAY NOTE: Saturday in Geneva. Promenade along the lake with TEL: 022 318 37 37
.
the locals. If it's raining go directly to the Musee d'Art et d'Histoire. http://www.soupcon.ch/
A big Saturday night in Geneva is planned!. .
.
And then it will be off for the shops! Since you will be going
further into Switzerland where it is somewhat less expensive,
Geneva's Lakefront make your chocolate purchases outside Geneva.
.
"le Rade du Geneve" .
Dinner in Carouge, a very chic quarter of Geneva:
.
Le Jet d'Eau Cafe des Negociants
.
Geneva's Most Famous Tourist Attraction rue de la Filature 29
.
1227 Carouge GE
Musee d'Art et d'Histoire .
TEL : 022 300 31 30
Well-Kept Secret .
info@negociants.ch
Relais de L'Entrecôte
Steak in a French-style Bistrot
Vielle Ville (Old Town)
Historical center of Geneva
Alhambar
Live Music, DJs & Sunday Brunch
Cathédrale St Pierre (La)
Place of Worship
Day 3 - Geneva
3
things to do
Itinerary Overview restaurants
hotels
nightlife
It will be now 5 days in Geneva (and France!) struggling with your
Place du Bourg de Four high school French (although most people speak English but you
Most attractive plaza in the Vielle Ville may want to try to speak French!) But by now you will probably
need to speak English so on your last night you will have supper
Promenade de la Treille in an Irish pub with expats and locals and talk a lot!
A Bench With A View
Promenade des Bastions Mulligan's Irish Pub
After a Hard Day's Night
An oasis of tranquility
Maison Tavel
Geneva's History Experienced Through Its Oldest Day 6 - Geneva
House
DAY NOTE: Last day in Geneva but your train does not leave
Rue du Rhône until evening and you can't leave without visiting the United
Haute Couture and Exquisite Jewelry Nations.
.
.
Carouge On the way to the train station. do some last minute souvenir
The Sardinian City of Carouge shopping on the Rue du Mont-Blanc.
.
.
TRAIN departs Geneva: 17:56 arrives Lausanne 18:40 ready to
discover another Swiss city!
Day 5 - Geneva
DAY NOTE: You may be "walked out" by now and ready for a Le Palais des Nations
cruise. You can relax aboard an old Belle Epoque paddle steamer The United Nations Organization
on the lake. The embarkation is just steps from your hotel at the
Jardin Anglais. Sail to Yvoire, France (medieval floral village) just Rue du Mont-Blanc
in time for lunch on a terrace at Les jardins du Leman restaurant Big Shopping District
(reserve to be sure). Then admire the gardens full of spring
blossoms with the castle and lake in the background. Stop in the
village shops until the boat returns to take me back to Geneva.
.
.
COMPAGNIE GENERALE DE NAVIGATION SUR LE LAC
LEMAN
.
INFOLINE +41 (0) 848 811 848 (schedules vary by season)
.
7 :30 AM - 6 :00 PM
.
info@cgn.ch
.
Embarkation Geneva : Jardin Anglais near the bridge of Mont
Blanc
.
.
Les jardins du Leman
.
Valérie et Enrique Aguzzoli
.
Grande Rue (D6) - 74140 Yvoire
.
Tel: +33 (0) 4 50 72 80 32 - Fax: +33 (0) 4 50 72 92 89
.
E-mail: jardins-du-leman@wanadoo.fr
.
Internet : www.lesjardinsduleman.com
.
.
.
4
Day 1 - Geneva
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: Switzerland at last! Your Alpine dream is going to come true.
1 Gare De Geneve
contact:
tel: +41 22 909 7070
fax: +41 22 909 7011
DESCRIPTION: Gare de Geneve is the main hub for all the
location: local and international trains passing through Geneva. This
Place Cornavin 7 station is appropriately maintained and the well-appointed
Geneva 1201 railway staff is more than glad to assisst locals and visitors
alike.
© wcities.com
Geneve Annuaire
MY NOTE: Only a 12 minute train ride from the airport. There
are frequent trains from the arrivals area at the airport and
once you're in Geneva you can walk to the hotel from here after
enjyoing the promised view of Mont Blanc from the station.
2 Swissôtel Genève Métropole
contact:
tel: +41 22 318 3200
fax: +41 22 318 3300
http://www.swissotel.com DESCRIPTION: Discover the sophisticated elegance of this
beautiful hotel which reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
location: The Swissôtel Genève Métropole is conveniently situated on
quai du Général-Guisan 34 the rue du Rhône, one of Geneva's most fashionable streets,
Geneva GE 1204 with its designer boutiques, jewelers, banks and restaurants.
The "Grand Quai" restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner
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in pleasant settings. In the summer, enjoy its lovely terrace
across the street from the beautiful L'Horloge Fleurie and the
"Jardin anglais". © wcities.com
MY NOTE: Excellent location. Near the Jardin Anglais and the
boat embarkation. Great view. Very Swiss. You can walk to
anywhere in the center. Experience old world luxury without the
high prices of the Palace Hotels.
3 L'Horloge Fleurie
contact:
tel: +41 22 909 7000
fax: +41 22 909 7011
http://www.geneve-tourisme.c DESCRIPTION: A living tribute to Switzerland's most venerated
h/ industry, this colorful clock was built in 1955 despite a number
of technical difficulties. It has a diameter of 5 meters and a
location: circumference of 15.7 meters and its 2.5 meter, second hand
Jardin anglais is the longest in the world. The clock is painstakingly designed,
Geneva 1204 encompassing 6,500 plants and is set in the Jardin Anglais
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on the lakeside promenade. A new design is created every
season, each one as tasteful as the last. It is one of Geneva's
most photographed sites. © wcities.com
MY NOTE: Pause here before exploring the Jardin Anglais.
5
Day 1 - continued...
4 Jardin Anglais (Le)
contact:
tel: +41 22 909 7000
fax: +41 22 909 7011
http://www.geneve-tourisme.c DESCRIPTION: Le Jardin Anglais or English Garden is a peaceful garden built in 1854 with English
h/ architectural designs. A stroll through the park after the tiring tour of the city is a perfect revitalizer.
The terrace area overlooking the harbor offers a marvelous view. Although the fountains in
location: the garden are a sight that cannot be missed, the main attraction of the garden is the magnificent
quai du Général-Guisan floral clock tower. © wcities.com
Geneva 1200
MY NOTE: Stroll through the park and find a lake-view bench for people-watching in the afternoon.
5 Chez ma Cousine
contact:
tel: +41 22 310 9696
http://www.chezmacousine.ch
location: OUR LOCAL EXPERT SAYS:
place du Bourg de Four 6 Try the chicken curry with pineapple, raisons, nuts,
Geneva 1204 coconut,and soya. Served with green salad. All
fresh, all healthy, organic, non-genetically modified
hours: ingredients. If it's sunny (even in winter) come early
Mo to Su from 11:30 AM to Curieuse Idée
to get a place on the terrace at lunch. Also great for
11:30 PM
a casual dinner.
DESCRIPTION: Chez Ma Cousine is one of the least
pretentious, and least expensive, sit-down restaurants in
Geneva. What you'll find is an amiable venue of spartan-looking
wooden tables and chairs, and a kitchen whose interior is
open and visible to anyone entering. Don't expect creative
cuisine: The very limited menu lists the kind of food that
French-speaking residents of Switzerland might have been
nurtured on during their respective childhoods. The menu lists
at most a half-dozen options, none of them starters. Despite
the limitations, the place does a roaring business. A free salad
accompanies most main courses, and the only option for
potatoes is "Provençal-style." Platters include several variations
of grilled chicken, the house specialty, at least two meal-sized
salads of Indian-style (with curry) chicken and Thai-style (with
soy, coconut, and spicy tomato sauce), and roasted and sliced
pork with a brown sauce, salad, and Provençal potatoes.
Although this branch in the rue Lissignol is the most popular,
there's a second branch of Chez Ma Cousine across the river
in the old town with the same prices and longer hours (daily
11am-11:30pm). You'll find it at 6, place du Bourg-de-Four (tel.
022/310-96-96). © Frommer's
MY NOTE: Casual evening after all that traveling and an easy
walk from your hotel. After dinner walk back enjoying the lights
on the Vielle Ville. A “Tisane” (an herb) tea at the bar to relax
and early to bed.
6
Day 2 - Geneva
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: Saturday in Geneva. Promenade along the lake with the locals. If it's raining go directly to the Musee d'Art et d'Histoire. A
big Saturday night in Geneva is planned!.
1 Geneva's Lakefront
contact:
tel: +41 22 909 7000
fax: +41 22 909 7011
http://www.geneve-tourisme.c DESCRIPTION: Geneva's Lakefront has long attracted visitors to its splendid shores. Once the
h/ commercial highway of Switzerland, lake Geneva is perhaps one of the most astounding bodies
of water in Europe. The famous "Jet d'Eau" (fountain) in the harbor rockets a stream of water
location: hundreds of feet into the air. Come and visit the harbor and enjoy the sights and sounds of classic
quai Gustave Ador Geneva. © wcities.com
Geneva 1204
MY NOTE: Start walking from your hotel to the shore and head towards the Jet d'Eau near the
other end of the promenade. Should be a good invigorating walk with lots to see.
2 Le Jet d'Eau
contact:
tel: +41 22 909 7000
fax: +41 22 909 7011
http://www.geneve-tourisme.c DESCRIPTION: Paris has the Eiffel Tower, New York the Statue
h/ of Liberty and Geneva its Jet d'Eau. This majestic 140m water
fountain, the tallest in the world, is the main emblem of the city,
location: and one which cannot be missed. Its beauty dominates the
jetée des Eaux Vives lakefront and at night, when it is lit up, it is a breathtaking and
Geneva 1207 romantic sight. The fountain became a tourist attraction in 1891.
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It is on every day, from the beginning of March to September,
from 9.30am to 11.15pm, and September to October from 10am
till sunset as long as it is not too windy. It projects 500 liters of
water per second at the unbelievable speed of 200km/hr. You
can walk along the jetty and get a closer look at the fountain, as
long as you don't mind being sprayed. © wcities.com
MY NOTE: To see it up close walk out on the jetty. Take a bus
or tram to the Musee d'Art et d'Histoire to see famous works of
art and learn some new points of history.
3 Musee d'Art et d'Histoire
contact:
tel: +41 22 418 2600
fax: +41 22 418 2601
http://mah.ville-ge.ch DESCRIPTION: At Geneva's most important museum, displays
include prehistoric relics, Greek vases, medieval stained glass,
location: 12th-century armor, Swiss timepieces, Flemish and Italian
2, rue Charles-Galland paintings, and Switzerland's largest collection of Egyptian
Geneva 1206 art. The Etruscan pottery and medieval furniture are both
impressive. A 1444 altarpiece by Konrad Witz depicts the
hours: Musee d'Art et d'Histoire
"miraculous" draft of fishes. Many galleries also contain
Tues-Sun 10am-5pm works by such artists as Rodin, Renoir, Hodler, Vallotton, Le
Corbusier, Picasso, Chagall, Corot, Monet, and Pissarro.
There's a well-managed restaurant on the premises of this
place. © Frommer's
7
Day 2 - continued...
4 Relais de L'Entrecôte
contact:
tel: +41 22 310 6004
fax: +41 22 310 6004
http://www.relaisentrecote.fr/ DESCRIPTION: Relais de l'Entrecôte is the perfect choice if
you fancy steak; there is a set option for the first two courses:
location: a lettuce and walnut salad to start, entrecôte with a tasty
rue du Rhône 49 sauce and a platter of crisp thinly-sliced French fries as the
Geneva 1204 main course, and a selection of tempting desserts such as
crème brulée or chocolate profiteroles to follow. A long narrow
hours: wcities
Parisian-style bistro aligned with dark wooden tables and
Mo to Su from 12:00 PM paneling, this is a popular and lively restaurant, but not one for
to 02:30 PM,Mo to Su from intimacy or private conversations. © wcities.com
07:00 PM to 11:00 PM
MY NOTE: A little bit of Paris right in Geneva. Parisian bistros
are perfect for single diners or couples and great for people
watching (or meeting them) before going off to the Alhambar for
some hot music. It's Saturday Night and it should be great!
5 Alhambar
contact:
tel: +41 22 312 1313
http://www.alhambar.com/ind
ex.html DESCRIPTION: This popular establishment functions not
only as a traditional European café, but it is also a full-
location: service restaurant as well as a venue for live music and DJs.
rue de la Rôtisserie 10 Genres include jazz, soul and funk. The restaurant serves
Geneva 1204 a Mediterranean-inspired cuisine as well as pastas and
sandwiches. Alhambar is also known for its delicious Sunday
hours: Alhambar
brunch. © wcities.com
Tu to We from 05:00 PM to
01:00 AM,Tu to Fr from 12:00
PM to 02:00 PM,Th to Fr from
05:00 PM to 02:00 AM,Sa to
Sa from 04:00 PM to 02:00
AM,Su to Su from 11:00 AM
to 12:00 AM
8
Day 3 - Geneva
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: Sunday is family day in Switzerland and many stores are closed. Can't miss a visit to the International Red Cross Museum
to watch Swiss children learn an important part of their history. The evening is reserved to experience some Swiss cuisine.
1 Musée International de la Croix-Rouge et
contact:
tel: +41 22 748 9511
fax: +41 22 748 9528 du Croissant-Rouge
http://www.micr.org/
DESCRIPTION: Here you can experience the legendary past of the Red
location: Cross in the city where it started; it's across from the visitors' entrance
to the European headquarters of the United Nations. The dramatic story
17, av. de la Paix
from 1863 to the present is revealed through displays of rare documents
Geneva 1202 and photographs, films, multiscreen slide shows, and cycloramas. You're
taken from the battlefields of Europe to the plains of Africa to see the Red
hours: Cross in action. When Henry Dunant founded the Red Cross in Geneva in
Wed-Mon 10am-5pm 1863, he needed a recognizable symbol to suggest neutrality. The Swiss
flag (a white cross on a red field), with the colors reversed, ended up
providing the perfect symbol for one of the world's greatest humanitarian Wikimedia Commons
movements. © Frommer's Nikolai Schwerg
MY NOTE: Take a taxi from the hotel or tram from downtown. Museum
opens at 10:00 AM (closes at 5:00 PM, closed on Tuesdays). Lunch in the
museum at the Cafe Dunant (named after the founder of the Red Cross,
Henri Dunant). Stroll through the nearby Jardin Botanique and take a tram
back to the hotel.
2 Cave Valaisanne et Chalet Suisse
contact:
tel: +41 22 328 1236
fax: +41 22 328 5820
http://www.chaletswiss.ch OUR LOCAL EXPERT SAYS:
location: Local Expert, Sonja Holverson suggests: for
boulevard Georges Favon 23 authentic Swiss cuisine and ambiance this is the
Geneva 1204 best choice.
hours: DESCRIPTION: A traditional Swiss restaurant, popular with Cave Valaisanne et Chalet Suisse
Mo to Su from 08:00 AM to locals and tourists alike. This is the place to go if you fancy
01:00 AM a real Swiss meal. The restaurant has been designed to
resemble a typical Swiss mountain chalet. The wooden tables
are covered with colorful checked red and white tablecloths.
Traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese fondue, raclette
(slabs of melted cheese served with pickles, boiled potatoes
and bread) and viande séchée (very thinly sliced air-dried
beef). The wine list includes a number of good local wines. ©
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MY NOTE: Being family day the Swiss are at home this
evening, so this is a good night to mix with other visitors to
Geneva for a Swiss evening and enjoy very good typical dishes
and Alpine ambience.
9
Day 4 - Geneva
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: While the locals are off to work on this Monday morning, take a walking tour of the Vielle Ville (Old Town) and the
Plainpalais Park area.
.
.
Lunch:
.
Soupcon Restaurant Bar
.
Place du Bourg-de-Four 8
.
1204 Genève
.
TEL: 022 318 37 37
.
http://www.soupcon.ch/
.
.
And then it will be off for the shops! Since you will be going further into Switzerland where it is somewhat less expensive, make your
chocolate purchases outside Geneva.
.
.
Dinner in Carouge, a very chic quarter of Geneva:
.
Cafe des Negociants
.
rue de la Filature 29
.
1227 Carouge GE
.
TEL : 022 300 31 30
.
info@negociants.ch
1 Vielle Ville (Old Town)
contact:
tel: +41 22 909 7000
fax: +41 22 909 7011
DESCRIPTION: With a pleasant combination of art galleries,
location: bistros, bric-a-brac and antique shops, the Vielle Ville
place du Bourg de Four area is popular with tourists and Geneva's younger crowd. You
Geneva 1201 can easily mix shopping with a bit of sightseeing in the area.
Art galleries show a surprising range of styles from ancient
Chinese and Japanese pots, primitive to impressionism in
Wikimedia Commons Nikolai
attractive, bright spaces. While the medley of tiny shops makes Schwerg
the Old City particularly appealing for impulse purchases, a
large department store in this area provides a good selection
of necessities. Less hectic than other parts of the city, it is the
perfect place to browse at a leisurely pace and then enjoy
a cheese fondue or other regional cuisine. Pause to view
the splendid Hôtel de Ville and Maison Tavel along the way.
Shoppers can also admire the beautiful architecture and
charming ancient streets that beg to be explored. © wcities.com
10
Day 4 - continued...
2 Cathédrale St Pierre (La)
contact:
tel: +41 22 311 7575
location:
DESCRIPTION: Construction began on Cathedral St. Pierre as far back
place du Bourg de Four 24 as 1160 but went through a number of setbacks and transformations. One
Geneva 1204 of the most significant transitions took place in the 15th century at the
time of the austere Reformation. The Cathedral was stripped of its altars,
statues, paintings and furniture. Only the stained glass windows remained.
The initial Gothic facade of the Cathedral was also later modified to its
present mid-18th century neo-classical style. For many visitors, one of the
highlights is the breathtaking panoramic view of the city once you have
climbed the 157 steps of the narrow winding staircase of the North tower.
The Cathedral also has a very important archaeological site dating from
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the beginning of Christianity to the 5th century mosaics, 12th century, 4th
century baptistery, and pits are exhibited. © wcities.com
MY NOTE: Visit the Roman ruins next to the Cathedral that are still being
excavated.
3 Place du Bourg de Four
contact:
tel: +41 22 909 7000
fax: +41 22 909 7011
http://www.geneve-tourisme.c DESCRIPTION: At the intersection of rue Verdaine, rue des Chaudronniers and rue Etienne-
h/ Dumont is Place du Bourg de Four, is Geneva's favorite meeting place. This historic town square
is a no-traffic area and therefore serves as an ideal place to stroll or sip coffee at the nearby cafes.
location: Home to various friendly cafes, restaurants, book stores, shopping stores, art galleries, bars and
place du Bourg de Four bistros, the place remains lively throughout the day. On the picturesque crossroad stands the Palais
Geneva 1204 de Justice and law courts that date back to as far as the 17th century. © wcities.com
MY NOTE: Lunch stop at the Place du Bourg-de-Four at the Soupcon Restaurant Bar. A trendy
place with seasonal fresh and inventive cuisine.
Soupcon Restaurant
place du Bourg-de-Four 8
1204 Genève
TEL: 022 318 37 37
http://www.soupcon.ch/
4 Promenade de la Treille
contact:
tel: +41 22 909 7000
fax: +41 22 909 7011
http://www.geneve-tourisme.c DESCRIPTION: If the steep streets of the old town have put
h/ you off the idea of mountain climbing, head for Promenade
de la Treille. It boasts the longest bench in the world (126m!).
location: As well as a view over the Promenade des Bastions and the
promenade de la Treille Place Neuve, towards Plainpalais and further west, it's also
Geneva 1204 a chance to admire the Salève and Jura mountains from a
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distance. A seesaw and other playground equipment mean that
children will also appreciate a stop at this green and shaded
promenade. © wcities.com
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Day 4 - continued...
5 Promenade des Bastions
contact:
tel: +41 22 909 7000
fax: +41 22 909 7011
http://www.geneva-tourism.ch DESCRIPTION: The Genevese are particularly fond of the
/ Promenade des Bastions, previously a botanical garden. Amble
through the gates and you will come across the giant chess
location: boards where you may either watch or challenge a colourful
promenade des Bastions crowd of regulars. The park is famous for its Reformation
Geneva 1211 Monument (over 100m long) which commemorates the role
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of Swiss and European Protestant reformers and reminds the
visitor that the city remains under the influence of Calvin's
doctrines. The park, however, is best avoided at night. ©
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6 Maison Tavel
contact:
tel: +41 22 418 3700
fax: +41 22 418 3701
http://www.ville-ge.ch/mah/ind DESCRIPTION: Constructed in 1303 and partially rebuilt after a fire in
ex.php 1334, this is the city's oldest house, Maison Taval. The building underwent
several transformations over the centuries before opening as a museum
location: in 1986. The front wall is typical 17th century, with gray paint, white
6, rue du Puits Saint-Pierre joints, and stone sculpted heads. The house contains a courtyard with a
Geneva 1204 staircase, a 13th-century cellar, and a back garden. The museum exhibits
historical collections from Geneva dating from the Middle Ages to the
hours: mid-19th century. The Magnin relief in the attic is outstanding, as is the
Tues-Sun 10am-5pm copper-and-zinc model of Geneva in 1850, which is accompanied by
a light-and-tape commentary. Objects of daily use are displayed in the
Canton of Geneva
old living quarters. Postcards, books, slides, and small guidebooks are
available at the bookstand. © Frommer's
MY NOTE: The Maison Tavel is the oldest standing private house in
Geneva. The house, which was burnt down in 1334 and rebuilt shortly
afterwards, is listed as a historical monument. Visit the cellar and its
archaeological ruins, then go up to the ground floor to discover Geneva
from the Middle Ages to the Restoration. On the first floor paintings,
engravings and photographs depict the evolution of the city, and in the
main hall woodwork, locksmithing and ironwork by local craftsmen of the
17th and 18th centuries are exhibited. © wcities.com 2010
7 Rue du Rhône
contact:
tel: +41 22 909 7000
fax: +41 22 909 7011
http://www.geneve-tourisme.c DESCRIPTION: Geneva's most fashionable citizens dip
h/ into their well-lined pockets to shop on the Rue du Rhône,
accompanied by swarms of personal shopping assistants. It
location: is the city's place to see and be seen, perhaps epitomized by
rue du Rhône the area's most popular café, Movenpick Fusterie; where a
Geneva 1204 large terrace and mirror interior are perfect for people watching.
ViaLuxe.com
The hallowed names of fashion are here: Cartier, Bulgari,
Gubelin, Patek Phillippe, Armani, Chanel, Dior, Givenchy,
Gucci, Hermès, Louis Vuitton and Vivian Westwood. To
complement these splendid jewels and fashions, shoppers
depend on Aeschbach or Bruno Magli to supply appropriate
footwear. Exquisite chocolate confectionery in diminutive shops
offer an indulgence almost everyone can afford. Two large
department stores are also located here, supplying a huge
12
Day 4 - continued...
range of goods at slightly more modest prices. Shop windows
filled with watches, jewelery, shoes, leather goods and haute
couture for men and women vie for attention. © wcities.com
MY NOTE: Back to the hotel via some window shopping in the
ultra-luxurious boutiques of this famous street.
8 Carouge
contact:
tel: +41 22 307 8987
fax: +41 22 342 5329
http://www.carouge.ch/ DESCRIPTION: Today Carouge is part of Geneva, but this was not always
so. Until the 17th century the area was practically deserted and in 1754
location: Carouge became part of the Kingdom of Sardinia. King Victor Amédée
boulevard des Promenades III commissioned architects from Torino to design a town which he hoped
Geneva 1227 would become Geneva's economic competitor. Still today, the minute
you reach Carouge you feel as though you are entering a foreign village
with its own identity and atmosphere. It is a real treat to stroll through this
preserved late-18th century town; quaint narrow streets, old buildings,
inner courtyards, flowered gardens, sidewalk cafés, churches, fountains
antique shops and boutiques, as well as a colorful market on certain days
Roland Zumbuehl
of the week. © wcities.com
MY NOTE: Arrive early before dinner and walk around. The locals' favorite
restaurant in Carouge is the Cafe des Negociants serving innovative
cuisine. If it's warm, try to be seated on the terrace.
13
Day 5 - Geneva
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: You may be "walked out" by now and ready for a cruise. You can relax aboard an old Belle Epoque paddle steamer on the
lake. The embarkation is just steps from your hotel at the Jardin Anglais. Sail to Yvoire, France (medieval floral village) just in time for
lunch on a terrace at Les jardins du Leman restaurant (reserve to be sure). Then admire the gardens full of spring blossoms with the
castle and lake in the background. Stop in the village shops until the boat returns to take me back to Geneva.
.
.
COMPAGNIE GENERALE DE NAVIGATION SUR LE LAC LEMAN
.
INFOLINE +41 (0) 848 811 848 (schedules vary by season)
.
7 :30 AM - 6 :00 PM
.
info@cgn.ch
.
Embarkation Geneva : Jardin Anglais near the bridge of Mont Blanc
.
.
Les jardins du Leman
.
Valérie et Enrique Aguzzoli
.
Grande Rue (D6) - 74140 Yvoire
.
Tel: +33 (0) 4 50 72 80 32 - Fax: +33 (0) 4 50 72 92 89
.
E-mail: jardins-du-leman@wanadoo.fr
.
Internet : www.lesjardinsduleman.com
.
.
.
It will be now 5 days in Geneva (and France!) struggling with your high school French (although most people speak English but you may
want to try to speak French!) But by now you will probably need to speak English so on your last night you will have supper in an Irish
pub with expats and locals and talk a lot!
1 Mulligan's Irish Pub
contact:
tel: +41 22 732 8576
location:
DESCRIPTION: Mulligan's is the perfect hangout after a long,
rue de Grenus 14 hard day. Grab a lager, wolf down a couple of ham-and-cheese
Geneva 1201 sandwiches and glue yourself to the big-screen television,
which is usually tuned in to the sports channel. You can even
hire the pub for your own private gatherings or parties. Open
Monday to Saturday from 5pm and on Sundays, 7pm onwards.
ireland.ch
© wcities.com
MY NOTE: I'm planning to have my supper here and I am
hoping that I may even meet some Irish!
14
Day 6 - Geneva
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: Last day in Geneva but your train does not leave until evening and you can't leave without visiting the United Nations.
.
.
On the way to the train station. do some last minute souvenir shopping on the Rue du Mont-Blanc.
.
.
TRAIN departs Geneva: 17:56 arrives Lausanne 18:40 ready to discover another Swiss city!
1 Le Palais des Nations
contact:
tel: +41 22 917 1234
fax: +41 22 917 0123
http://www.unog.ch/ DESCRIPTION: The former home of the defunct League of
Nations is the present headquarters of the United Nations in
location: Europe, lying 1.6km (1 mile) north of Mont Blanc Bridge. The
14, av. de la Paix complex of buildings is the second largest in Europe after
Geneva 1201 Versailles. Tours, conducted in English, last about an hour.
They depart from the visitors' entrance opposite the Red Cross
hours: Author Boschtjan
building. To join the tour, you'll need to show your passport. The
July-Aug daily 10am-5pm; monumental compound was constructed between 1929 and
Apr-June, Sept and Oct daily 1936. The highlights of the tour include the Assembly Hall, with
10am-noon and 2-4pm; rest a balcony made entirely of marble and lofty bays looking out
of the year Mon-Fri 10am- over the Court of Honor. You are shown the Council Chamber,
noon and 2-4pm the home of the Conference on Disarmament with its allegorical
murals by José Maria Sert, an artist from Catalonia. A Philatelic
Museum offers collections of stamps relating to the League of
Nations, along with a wide selection of philatelic publications
from around the world, and a League of Nations Museum
documents the history of the precursor to the United Nations. ©
Frommer's
MY NOTE: WHAT YOU'RE GOING TO SEE: The Human
Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room, decorated by
famous artist Miquel Barcelo/ The Salle des Pas Perdus, from
which you can see the Armillary Sphere and the monument
commemorating the conquest of outer space/ The Assembly
Hall, the largest room in the Palais des Nations/ The Council
Chamber, where many important historical negotiations have
taken place, with murals by José Maria Sert/ A film on the
activities and the objectives of the United Nations Office/ Gifts
presented by various countries to the United Nations Office at
Geneva./ During the tour, our tour Guides will inform about the
current activities of the United Nations. They will also talk about
the history of the Palais des Nations, formerly the headquarters
of the League of Nations.
15
Day 6 - continued...
2 Rue du Mont-Blanc
contact:
tel: +41 22 909 7000
fax: +41 22 909 7011
DESCRIPTION: Appealing to the tourist trade more than
location: local interests, this wide boulevard extending to the quay will
rue du Mont Blanc fulfill everyone's desire for Swiss souvenirs. The numerous
Geneva 1201 shops have a good range of traditional Swiss crafts and
mementos, both tasteful and tacky. From cuckoo clocks to
chocolate confections, lacy girls' dresses to folk style blouses,
Wikimedia Commons Nikolai
delicate china to porcelain cows, the Rue du Mont-Blanc Schwerg
offers a mountainous selection of goods. Swiss Tradition, 15
Mont-Blanc, NIC SA 5, Affolter Kurt et Eric Noll, Devillon and
La Civette are gift shops that prove especially popular with
visitors. With the Rue du Mont-Blanc so close to the water, this
attractive district always has a fresh, pleasant air and there are
many tempting cafes and bistros to cure flagging energy after
an intensive shopping expedition. With the sound of lapping
water nearby and numerous pretty cafés, many shoppers are
happy to devote the entire day to this area. © wcities.com
16
My List
1 Genève Tourisme
contact:
tel: +41 22 909 7000
fax: +41 22 909 7011
http://www.geneva-tourism.ch DESCRIPTION: Geneva's Tourist Information Center is housed
in the main post office building down the street from the railway
location: station. It is advisable to make this your first stop. You can pick
rue du Mont Blanc 18 up brochures on sites to visit in Geneva, hotels and guided
Geneva 1201 tours. You can also find information on transportation and tours
to the rest of Switzerland. The staff is multilingual and will be
icom-info.ch
happy to assist and guide you. © wcities.com
17
Geneva Snapshot
Local Info town as they are not always marked in all terraced hillsides on the lower slopes full of
languages. Just to be clear where one is, Swiss vineyards. There must be something
Situated literally in the center of Europe,
Switzerland is the crossroads for the Geneva is called Genève in French and in about that Rhône River water and wine
European Continent and has been since Italian it's called Ginevra. But in German it's because the wines are also excellent!
the time of Napoleon who ruled at one point not as obvious since it's called Genf. City Centre
in hisotry as well as the Roman Empire. Geneva is a lively cosmopolitan, but still
The geographic feature dominating the city
Lac Léman is the largest of the Western small, city(almost 190'000 population
is, of course, Lake Léman. This immense
European lakes and offers a spectacular in the center and about 1,300,000 in
body of fresh water is the largest and
view from the Geneva shores of snow- the metropolitan area) and offers many
capped Mont Blanc, the highest peak in bluest of all the lakes in Switzerland. Locals
fascinating activities for all ages in
Western Europe(15,784 feet) towering may be tolerant if you refer to it as"Lake
which tourists find themselves mixed
over the many other Alps near Geneva. Geneva," but if you are planning a day
with the Swiss and the international
And that is just the southern view from trip to Lausanne or Evian, remember
community. This is the City of Calvin and
the city! Looking North West is the arc of that Geneva is not the only city bordering
the Jura Mountains which is shared by the Reformation, the United Nations, the
the lake! The arrival of warm weather in
Switzerland and France and which appears World Trade Organization, The International
the city heralds the opening of lakeside
to be more rolling compared to the Alps. Committee of the Red Cross, The World
terraces and beaches, the most well known
But they are still steep when you try to Health Organization, and the World
being the Bains de Pâquis – which is well
hike up. Geneva is almost completely Economic Forum as well headquarters for
surrounded by France and many French set up for swimmers and café habitués.
numerous other international organizations.
citizens work in the Geneva region which Viewing the cityscape by boat is highly
Furthermore, it is the 6th most important
are calledfrontaliers(employees with recommended for stunning views of the Jet
financial center in the world, not to mention
Swiss"border" work permits). It is a good d'Eau and the Alps.
the many famous watchmakers that are in
situation for many French persons as the
this area. It is difficult to isolate one point as being
salaries are higher in Switzerland the cost
of living in France is lower. the city center. Historically, the Place du
Due to this diversity a very special multi-
Bourg de Four in the Old City would have
Geneva's location, on the banks of Lake cultural and intellectual atmosphere
been the main focus. From a practical
Geneva Lake Léman between the Alps and is created in Geneva that is unique to
point of view it is tempting to bestow this
the Jura mountains, provides a dramatic Switzerland as well as to most other cities
honor on the building on the Pont-de-
landscape and allows easy access to ski worldwide. One great advantage is that
la-Machine, which traverses the Rue du
runs, vineyards, spas, and historic towns. almost everyone speaks English, so if a
Rhône, between the left and right banks
Geneva is compact and easily explored on visitors' high school French is a bit rusty,
of the lake. Housed here is a branch of
foot. It is also exceptionally green, with a they will have no problems in Geneva or
Geneva's tourist information center. Free
great number of parks and walkways in and most parts of Switzerland since nowadays
city maps and brochures can be picked up
around the city center. English is thelingua franca and the Swiss,
here or in the main office, located in the
being highly educated, are interested in
Mark Twain visited Geneva so often Central Post Office on the Rue du Mont-
speaking English with tourists. Nearly half
towards the end of the 19th Century that Blanc.
of the population is foreign in Geneva so
American literary magazines began to fear there is a very good chance of finding From Cornavin, the main train station,
he had taken up residence. The writer was someone with whom to speak English, towards Bel-Air, the Rive Droite has a
certainly intrigued by the Old City's (Vielle thelingua franca. Actually, sometimes there high concentration of shops, hotels and
Ville)labyrinth of narrow, angular streets, is no chance to get to practice one's French restaurants. Always teeming with locals and
finding the Reformist-named Rue d'Enfer, very much. tourists, Manor is a popular supermarket
and Rue du Purgatoire(Hell and Purgatory and department store. Manor's bakery is
Geneva is built on both sides of theRhône
streets) particularly curious. excellent and the store also has a café
River which exits Lac Léman and flows
This is the more laid-back French- down to Marseille passing through the on the top floor in addition to self-service
speaking"Riviera" region of Switzerland, Rhône River Valley in Southern France restaurants at street level.
a country that has 4 national which produces the well-known wine Côtes Old City(Vielle Ville)
languages(German, French, Italian, du Rhône. The source of the Rhône River
andRomansh – an ancient Roman is in the Swiss Alps in the valley surrounded A meeting place since Roman times, the
language). Be aware that while traveling on both sides by breathtaking Alps known Bourg-de-Four is at the heart of the Old
in Switzerland it is important to know at as theValais(Wallis in German) where the City. The square, in reality more like a
least the German and French names of the Matterhorn is situated as well as many multi-leveled spiral, is dominated by café
18
Geneva Snapshot continued
terraces, one being La Clémence next to alluring enterprises offer tawdry cabarets Shelley in a dream at the villa, after an
the 18th Century fountain, book and antique and sex products. The area was once used evening of violent storms on the lake.
shops and a very low-key police station. for grazing cows, but is now inhabited by © wcities.com
an increasing number of boutiques selling
Among the notable sights in the area is the
original art, clothes and jewelry. Food-wise,
Cathédrale St-Pierre. More important for
the range of cafés and restaurants in the
History
its role in history(Calvin preached here) Geneva is, and always was, an
Pâquis cannot be surpassed in the city.
than its aesthetic beauty, the Cathedral international city. Marauding barbarians,
comprises a miscellany of pieces tacked Les Eaux-Vives Roman conquerors, exiled religious
on through the centuries. Archaeologists leaders, immigrant workers and refugees
Across the lake from the pulsating Pâquis,
have discovered the ruins of a Roman have left their traces on the area. Some
the Eaux-Vives is a bubbly area that lives visitors, such as the Duke of Savoy,
temple(350AD) near the foundations of
up to the English translation of its name. came with swords and were repelled,(the
the Cathedral and the dig site is open to
Italian restaurants(Da Paolo and Vesuvio annual Escalade celebration in the old city
the public. For a superb view of the city,
come recommended) are abundant here. commemorates this). Politicians with the
the North tower can be climbed for a small
Small boutiques are dotted along the Rue horrors of the First World War fresh in their
charge. minds arrived to establish the League of
des Eaux-Vives and side streets leading
Maison Tavel, at 6, Rue Puits-de-St-Pierre, to the lake. An independent cinema, Les Nations(now the United Nations).
is the oldest house in Geneva. Now a city- Scala, shows films in original versions on Visitors have a tendency to pass through
owned museum, the multi-story house its three screens. The magnificent Parc the city without discovering the richness of
exhibits objects from Geneva's past, with des Eaux-Vives and La Grange comprises its past. Those willing to dig deeper will find
rooms decorated in period style. Another a huge expanse of green, the latter also 2000 years of fascinating history.
museum in this area, the Musée Barbier- features Roman ruins and an extensive Evidence of human settlement in the
Müller, holds a stunning collection of non- rose-garden. Geneva area dates back to about 3000BC.
European artwork. However, it was not until 500BC that
Carouge
the Allobroges—a tribe of Celtic origin,
Although it might be impossible to park established a permanent village in what is
Located a few kilometers from the center of
a car in the old city, there is no problem now the Old City.
the city, Carouge has a distinctly different
finding a seat at the Promenade de la
atmosphere from the rest of Geneva. The first written reference to Geneva
Treille. The 126m long wooden bench
Perhaps because, technically, the town appears in Julius Caesar's comments about
located there is the longest in the world. In
is outside the city's jurisdiction, although the Gallic wars(De Bello Gallico), which
addition, chestnut trees blossoming in this detail the Roman army's victory over an
part of the same Canton. Now home
delightful square traditionally signal the start advancing Helvetii tribe in 58 BC. Romans
to fashionable artisans, boutiques and
of spring. had occupied the town(known as Genua),
restaurants, Carouge is remarkably well
having driven the Celts out in about 120
The tramway-lined shopping-area a block preserved. Once owned by the King of
BC. The town continued to flourish over the
from the Rue du Rhône and just below Sardinia, this area's low-rise, graceful following centuries and, at the height of the
the old city is pretty much Geneva's'High buildings flaunt their Mediterranean Roman Empire, a bishopric was created,
Street'. Confusingly, this thoroughfare influences. Restaurant highlights include commanding a large diocese(400 AD).
changes names every few hundred metres, the Café des Négociants. Le Chat Noir is a
The following six centuries can be
from the Rue de la Confédération, near hip live music venue and late-night bar.
best described as a period of"chaotic
Bel-Air, to the Rue de Rive, which marks fermentation" with several migrating tribes
Cologny
a border with the Eaux-Vives. Large controlling the city in the wake of the
department stores such as Globus and Bon Known by some as the'Beverly Hills' of collapse of the Roman Empire. Throughout
Genie are situated here, along with flash- Geneva, Cologny is worth visiting for this time, the area gradually gained stature
fashion chains such as H&M and Zara, and spectacular views over the lake. Many as an independent territory, resistant to
fast-food outlets and street-entertainment large estates are situated here, the most the imperialistic intentions of threatening
are also plentiful. famous of which is the Villa Diodati on the kingdoms.
chemin de Ruth. Byron stayed here during By the Middle Ages Geneva had developed
Les Pâquis
the summer of 1816, writing and touring into an internationally recognized trade
Combining exotic and erotic delights, the the lake region with Percy Bysshe Shelley center. Wealth generated from the fairs held
Pâquis quarter is the closest Geneva has and Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley. The idea in the city naturally attracted attention from
to a bohemian neighborhood. Behind the for the novelFrankenstein came to Mary nearby aristocracy, seeking a piece of the
glittering lakeside façades of the city's action. From the 13th to the 17th century,
the princes of Savoy attempted and failed
most resplendent right bank hotels, less
to control the city's autonomy. At crucial
19
Geneva Snapshot continued
moments, however, Geneva found allies in Hotel Insights and it is a popular lodging spot for many
the Swiss cantons of Bern and Fribourg. diplomats from all over the world. Another
With over 120 hotels in the city, Geneva nice option for those looking to save some
Geneva was declared a republic in 1535 appears to be well prepared for meeting money is the Hotel Admiral, where the
and, shortly afterwards, Jean Calvin arrived the needs of a tourist onslaught. However, rooms offer many extras, such as air
to guide the city's religious and intellectual considering the constant flow of business conditioning and sound-proofing. There
forces. Persecuted Protestants from travelers and presidents occupying entire is also a complimentary breakfast in the
Italy and France found sanctuary in the hotel floors, it can be surprisingly difficult morning.
city. Following Louis XIV's revocation of to get a room. Simply put, reservations
Protestantism in 1685, Geneva witnessed need to be made well in advance. Even The Hôtel Mon-Repos is close to the Mon-
another huge wave of refuge seekers. The the traditional low season is in demand as Repos park and Botanical Gardens. Long
massive influx created a boom for the city skiers and boarders head for the Alps over term stay options are also available. Named
and the famously important watchmaking the winter. for one of the United States' presidents, the
and banking industries were established. Hôtel Président Wilson has a classic décor
City Centre that features 17th Century tapestries, yet
The Reformation was also responsible for
Hôtel Le Richemond offers stunning views also has modern features like a swimming
creating Geneva's motto:"Post Tenebras
of the Alps and has a sleek, modern design. pool. The recently-renovated Kipling Hotel
Lux"(after darkness, the light). In the
The Hôtel d'Angleterre was built in the late is near the UN and railway transit station,
context of Calvinism, the biblical references
19th Century and features a traditional bar, while guests stay at the Hôtel Auteuil
are all too clear.
interestingly named"The Library." Manotel to enjoy the nearby lakefront.
Commerce, banking and watchmaking
The majestic lobby at the deluxe Beau Les Eaux-Vives
all flourished, and in 1792 the aristocratic
Rivage holds a large marble fountain. Les Eaux-Vives also has a few options for
rulers of the city were overthrown and a
Expect real class and style if you stay at travelers. The Hôtel Century Genève and
Republic was declared with political equality
the Rivage; it was once home to Empress Hôtel Diplomate are close to the Eaux-
for all. Geneva was annexed by France in
Elisabeth of Austria. The recently renovated Vives shopping mall and many restaurants.
1798.
Hôtel des Bergues has a terrace, two The elegant Hôtel Churchill can be found
Following the defeat of Napoleon in restaurants and a bar for guests to choose on a quiet street and is close to the lake
1813, Geneva regained its freedom. from. Mont Blanc can be seen both from and the Jet d'eau.
Aware that it was vulnerable to foreign the windows of the Grand Hotel Kempinski © NileGuide
attack, Restoration leaders applied for Geneva, and from its popular Floor Two
the city to join the Swiss Confederation. bar and terrace. For something a bit more
This was granted in 1815. In the same reasonably-priced, try the Hôtel Eden, a Restaurants Insights
year, participants at the Congress of centrally located place to stay that offers With more than 1,000 restaurants, Geneva
Vienna officially recognized Switzerland's comfortable rooms. and the surrounding area are hardly lacking
permanent neutrality. in places to dine. While Swiss, French
Old City
In 1846, James Fazy led a revolution to and Italian restaurants are seemingly
overthrow the Restoration leaders and, The Old City offers a few accommodation everywhere, the city's ethnic groups have
subsequently, established the constitution options as well. The Hôtel Les Armures contributed towards the growing diversity in
now honored in the canton of Geneva. has a 17th Century interior that pairs well cuisine originating from other cultures.
with the historical relevance of this district.
A Genevan businessman, Henri Dunant, Guests enjoy staying here because of its The recent explosion in sushi bars in
shaped the Geneva Convention of 1864, proximity to Saint Peter's Cathedral and Geneva is just one example of increasing
setting down for the first time rules for many public transportation options that will demand for the exotic and a broader
conduct in war. This led to the creation take you into the City Centre. The family- choice of dining establishments. Despite
of the International Red Cross, designed owned and operated Hôtel Bel'Espérance the multitude of options symptomatic of
to help soldiers or civilians caught up has laundry facilities and a kitchenette for this trend, it becomes increasingly more
in war or natural disasters. After World those looking to stay in Geneva for longer challenging to identify quality restaurants.
War I, Geneva was chosen as seat of than just a vacation. The good news is that there are many
the League of Nations and later as the culinary treasures to discover, from award-
European headquarters of the United Les Pâquis winning Michelin restaurants to sleek
Nations. Since then, the city has looked Many choose to stay in Les Paquis for contemporary bistros and rowdy local
outwards for inspiration, away from the rest proximity to the train station for easy access cafes.
of Switzerland and towards the international to the airport(6 minutes by train) while City Centre
community. not staying out by the airport. Hotels in
this area also have easy access to the Geneva abounds with fine French
© NileGuide
UN complex. Close to many restaurants restaurants. Highly rated is Le Béarn, an
and shops is the Hôtel Les Nations, so elegant French restaurant with many items
named for being close to UN and other on its menu that include truffles. There is
international offices. The price is moderate also an extensive wine list. The boisterous
20
Geneva Snapshot continued
Relais de L'Entrecôte has a large crowd Mexican restaurant opened in Geneva, second largest museum. Highlights
of regulars, and is set up like a traditional and offers all the mainstays of a delicious, of the collections include South
bistro inside, with warm accents and dark traditional meal. Thai food is represented at American(particularly Amazonian) relics
wood tables. Opened in 1955, L'Age d'Or Sam Lor, where visitors come to sample all and substantial number of African and
holds the title of being the city's oldest the different ways duck can be prepared. Australian aboriginal objects. Unique in
pizzeria, and one of the most popular as © wcities.com Switzerland, the Musée d'Histoire des
well. The owners are sure to make each Sciences focuses mainly on the work of
pizza with the finest ingredients. Genevese scientists, who were especially
Nightlife Insights prodigious in the 18th century. Some
L'Antidote is popular among young people
Despite its tiny size, Geneva packs a curious old scientific instruments are also
for its quirky menu and no-nonsense
punch-- representative of its highly diverse on show.
interior. Brasserie Lipp serves traditional
fare and stays open into the early hours population. Geneva offers world-class History and Literature
and has a terrace for guests to enjoy, while entertainment, with everything ranging from
museums to live music. Maison Tavel was purchased by City of
the classic hamburgers at Road Runner
Geneva in 1963. One of Switzerland's
attract Americans living abroad and those Museums and Galleries most important models of civilian medieval
visiting Geneva.
A gargantuan space covering archaeology, construction, this house is now a museum
Old City applied and fine arts, the Musée d'Art et committed to presenting the city's urban
d'Histoire(Museum of Art and History) holds and sociological history. Institut et Musée
The Old City has limited dining options, but
Geneva's greatest collection of treasures Voltaire. The author lived 5 years in
there are many small cafes and restaurants
from the past. Highlights of the collection this delightful house during the mid
to discover here. Les Armures is a step up
include: Rodin sculptures, paintings by 18th century. With a large collection of
on the glamour scale(and consequently the
Modigliani, Renoir, Cézanne and Swiss manuscripts dealing with Voltaire and his
price scale) but focuses mainly on Swiss
artists as well as an impressive Egyptology time, the library and museum also exhibits
regional cuisine. Another nice option is
section. paintings, sculptures and items belonging to
Chez ma Cousine, which serves Provincial
the writer.
French cuisine in a country house style From a 21st century perspective,
setting. The atmosphere here is distinctly the Musée d'Art Moderne et Cinema
down home, with yellow and green color Contemporain(MAMCO) holds frequent Cinemas are abundant in the city. A large
patterns and sturdy wooden tables in the exhibitions of contemporary art. MAMCO percentage of films are shown in their
dining room. houses a noteworthy pop art selection, original versions. The indicator"VO" means
Les Eaux-Vives including works by Warhol and Lichenstein. a film is subtitled;"VF" means a film has
Le Petit Palais has an eclectic collection been dubbed or is a French film. Currently,
Three mid-price range contemporary of predominantly late 19th and early movie prices are about CHF 16 for an adult,
restaurants must be mentioned in the same 20th century works. The Centre de la whilst some cinemas offer tickets for CHF
breath(they are owned by the same group). Photographie within the Grütli Arts Center 10 on Mondays.
L'Opera Bouffe produces light, modern is dedicated to fine art photography.
cooking in aesthetic surroundings. There Something like 10-15 exhibitions are held The Grütli Art Center's two screens show
are numerous enjoyable Italian restaurants each year, with a strong focus on individual a mixture of director retrospectives and
in town(as well as an equal number of photographers and their ideas. art-house films. Also away from the
avoidable ones). Other sure-fire winners mainstream, Les Scala is an independent
include Da Paolo. The small bistro Côté Musée Rath on the Place Neuve only cinema showcasing non-Hollywood works
Parc is ideally located on a peaceful street, shows temporary exhibitions of international from around the globe. The big complexes
and has the benefit of a visible kitchen from and Swiss art. Exhibitions are often can be found at any of the three locations
the dining room. Guests are able to see thematic or major retrospectives of one of the Pathé chain: Conféderation, Rialto,
their food being created. Cinecitta serves artist's output. An impressive array of and Balexert, all with standard ultra-
the best traditional Italian fare such as Asiatic art is on display at the Collections modern seating, sound, and Hollywood
pasta and pizza. Their outdoor terrace has Baur. Noted collector Alfred Baur collected blockbusters.
film director chairs for those looking to dine these Chinese ceramics, jade pieces
and Japanese prints dating from the Music
in style.
8th to the 18th centuries until his death Live concerts can be found most days
Les Pâquis in 1956. Another private museum, the and, thankfully, tickets are not too difficult
Geneva's Bohemian district is full of eclectic Musée Barbier-Müller holds 5,500 tribal to obtain. Victoria Hall is one of the most
dining options from all over the world. The and classical pieces of art in addition to beautiful venues for classical music, with
Malaysian food on offer at Jeck's Place is sculptures, textiles and ornaments from stunning acoustics. The Bâtiment des
truly delicious, and the staff is pleasant and primitive civilizations. Forces Motrices is a converted waterworks
accommodating. Lebanese cuisine can be Nature and Science hall located in the middle of the River
found at Amir Beyrouth, which is divided Rhône and now a magical location for
into a more formal dining room and a side Holding more than 60,000 items, the the periodic theatrical productions, ballet
area for snacking. Mañana was the first Musée d'Ethnographie is Switzerland's performances and musical concerts that are
21
Geneva Snapshot continued
held here. In the summerfree live music Bains de Pâquis, Place du Rhône, Plaine be visited for wine-tasting sessions. Check
can be found in parks along the lake. de Plainpalais. with the Tourist Information Office.
The Association pour l'Encouragement de © NileGuide
Trams and Bus
la Musique Improvisée(AMR) offers live
jazz most days of the week. Le Chat-Noir While figuring out the local buses might be
in Carouge is a jazz and rock club that too tall an order for a short stay, the local Travel Tips
frequently hosts local DJs as well. L'Usine tram system is an easy way to quickly cross Getting There
is mostly known for its rock concerts and the city. Tickets are on the honor system. Air
cutting edge electronic shows. One of the Buy one from an automated ticket machine
largest venues in Geneva is the Geneva Geneva International Airport(GVA)(+41 22
before boarding. Real-time electronic
Arena, where big international acts come to 717 71 11/ http://www.gva.ch) is a mere
schedules can be found at every stop--
play to the crowds. 3 miles from the city center, and may be
© wcities.com although the trams are nearly on time, so the only airport in the world to straddle
the printed paper schedules work too. two countries, in this case France and
Boat Switzerland.
Things to Do Insights
The terminal is divided by the Swiss Sector
PRACTICAL WAYS TO SEE THE CITY One of the most delightful ways to cross
and the French Sector. Both sections are
the river is by boat. The yellow pedestrian- loaded with retail outlets including a wide
On foot
only boats-- called"Mouettes" shuttle people array of duty free options, and cafes. The
The best way to see Geneva is on foot. between Eaux-Vives, Parc Mon Repos, Les Skycom Business Center( +41 22 788 14
Several good itineraries are published by Paquis and the City Center. The ride is 30) has 11 meeting rooms as well as the
the Tourist Information Office. the same cost as a short-ride on the bus or usual business services. Three banks,
Toute Genève(everybody who is anybody) tram, and is included in any public transport ATMS, and a post office are also onsite.
will be found promenading along the The airport is wired for wifi throughout.
day pass.
manicured path with colorful parks and
gardens including theJardin Anglais with its GENEVA SURROUNDINGS AND OTHER Airlines that service this airport include:
floral clock, around the city shoreline of the AREAS OF INTEREST Aer Lingus( +1 800 474 7424/
placid and mystical Lake of Geneva which Mont Saleveis a flat top mountain http://www.aerlingus.com) Air
is officially named Lac Léman in French Canada(1-888-247-2262/ http://
dominating the city of Geneva. It's a good
Local favorite areas of the promenade place for hiking and mountain biking. You www.aircanada.com) Air France( +1 800
are on the Quai du Mont-Blanc in the 237 2747/ http://www.airfrance.com)
will also see people speaking a variety of
neighborhood called the Pâquis quarter Air Malta( +33( 0)1 58 18 64 05/ http://
languages who come here to jump off of
and on the other side of the(bridge)Pont www.airmalta.com) BMI Baby( +0890 710
it with para-sails and hang gliders. But if 081( France) /http://www.bmibaby.com)
du Mont-Blanc along the Quai Gustav Ador you just want the view, you can ride up and British Airways( +1 800 217 9297/
which offers a closer view of theJet d'eau, back down on the cable car in 5 minutes. http://www.ba.com) Condor( +1 800
the impressive signatureGenevoise fountain 524 6975/ http://www7.condor.com)
If you have already covered the city
and harbor beacon off the shoreline which Continental(+1 800 231 0856/ http://
there are some excursions outside of
can be seen from afar. Continue a bit www.flycontinental.com) Easy Jet( +33
Geneva such as Chamonix village below
further and you arrive at an enormous park 8 25 08 25 08/ http://www.easyjet.com)
Mont Blanc- the tallest mountain in the FlyBe( +871 700 0535/ http://
on the lake calledParc de la Grange(Rose
Alps(15,774 feet) and visible from Geneva www.flybe.com) Jet 2( +44 207 1700737/
Garden Park) which in season is filled with
as well as the Lake of Annecy in France http://www.jet2.com) KLM( +1800 447 4747/
roses, ancient trees and flower-beds.
with a charming medieval village of canals, http://www.klm.com) Lufthansa( +1 800 803
Bikes cafes, and boat excursions on the lake. 5838/ http://www.lufthansa.com) SAS( +1
Check with the Geneva Tourist Office for 800 221 2350/ http://www.scandinavian.net)
Excellent bike paths abound in the city Sterling.dk Airline( +457 033 3370/
bus transportation information
and region. A popular route is the 10km http://www.sterlingticket.com)
uninterrupted path between Chancy and Satigny is one of the principal wine- Swiss Air( +1 877 359 7947/ http://
Bernex. The Tourist Information Office can growing areas in Switzerland. Varieties www.swiss.com) TAP Portugal( +351
help with routes. grown include Chasselas, Gamay, Pinot, 707 205 700/http://www.flytap.com)
Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon. United Airlines(1-800-538-2929/ http://
From May to Vineyards include Les Balisiers and www.united.com) Virgin Express( +32 70 35
OctoberGenev'Roule(supported by the Red Domaine du Paradis. Some wineries can 36 37/ http://www.virgin-express.com)
Cross) rents out bikes at very reasonable
From the Airport
prices(FREE with deposit of ID!) in the
following locations: Place de Montbrillant, Train: The city center is six minutes by train
from the airport. All trains originating at
22
Geneva Snapshot continued
the airport will stop at the main station in
Long haul international bus service to Car
Geneva. Free transport tickets valid for one
Geneva is rather limited, especially
hour of unlimited transfers can be obtained Cars are good if you intend to ultimately
compared with other European towns, but
from an automatic ticket dispenser located head to the mountains or explore Lake
if you are traveling from the old Eastern
at baggage claim. Geneva, but while you are in town it is best
Bloc, Eurolines( +41 22 716 91 10/ http://
to park the car and rely on your feet and
Rental Car Companies: As the airport is www.eurolines.com) has more options,
public transport. Roads toward the historic
located in both France and Switzerland, be although most are via Zurich. Several
districts become narrow and are generally
aware of which country your rental car is coach companies, including the national
one way. Parking areas are marked
coming from. A car rented in France will post office, provide extensive regional
by colors:"white" equals unrestricted
be unlikely to have the required annual service to France, mountain resorts on both
time(metered in many cases),"blue" equals
highway tax sticker. To drive on Swiss sides of the border and coverage across
a 90 minute limit and"red" is a mere 15
highways you will be required to have Switzerland. Buses arrive and depart at the
minutes. In order to park in non-metered
this sticker, which can cost upwards of Gare Routiere( +41 22 732 02 30/ http://
areas you must obtain a parking disc on
80 Sfr, something that the French rental www.gare-routiere.ch) located three blocks
which you note time of arrival and place on
company may not be willing to purchase from the main train station.
the dashboard. These discs are available
for you. On the other hand, if you plan to
Car from rental car companies, police stations
remain in France for your entire holiday,
and banks.
rental cars from the French side may be Expressways converge on Geneva from
less expensive. To get around driving on all surrounding points making driving into Taxi
Swiss highways and go directly to France town from other cities in Europe a breeze.
Although taxis are not the cheapest form
follow the exit signs from the airport to Be aware that between the high tolls in
of getting around town the availability is
Ferney-Voltaire and pick up the D-984 to France and the highway tax you have to
always a convenient option in a crunch.
Collonges. From there you can wander pay once you touch the Swiss border if you
Taxi pick up areas are marked by yellow
over on the N206 to the A40. All cars don't already have the Swiss highway tax
either in the form of a sign or paint on the
rented from Geneva airport in winter come sticker on your car, driving is an expensive
ground. Hailing is not uncommon, but it
standard with winter tires. convenience. Autoroute signage changes
is better to find a rank or radio ahead at
color from France to Switzerland. In
Avis( +1 800 230 4898/ http:// Taxi Phone( +41 22 331433/ www.taxi-
Switzerland signs for the autoroute is green
www.avis.com) Hertz(+1 800 654 3001/ phone.ch).
and local roads are in blue. In France it is
http://www.hertz.com) Alamo( +1 800
the exact opposite(blue for autoroute, green Public Transport
462 5266/ http://www.alamo.com)
for local roads).
Europcar( +1 877 940 6900/ http:// Transports Publics Genevois( +41 22 308
www.europcar.ch) Budget( +1 800 527 Train 3434/ http://www.tpg.ch) maintains the
0700/ http://www.budget.com) Sixt( +49 180 award-winning public transit system which
Swiss Federal Railways(SBB/CFF/FFS)
525 2525/ http://www.e-sixt.com) consists of an extensive bus and tram
(+0900 300 300/ http://www.rail.ch) has
grid. Tickets are based on zone travel and
Bus: Geneva Public Transport's daily service to most domestic cities from
available at automated ticket machines at
Bus#10( +41 22 308 3434/ http:// Geneva's main train station, the Gare de
most stops. Multi-day passes are available.
www.tpg.ch) heading to the city center Cornavin.
The Swiss Pass allows use on the public
leaves every 10 minutes from both
International trains are also abundant and transportation networks of 37 cities around
the arrival and departure areas of the
arrive and depart to and from all points the country, plus is good on any of the
terminal. Aero Express links the airport with
throughout Europe. Other train companies scenic railway journeys. It is available in 4,
Chambery, Grenoble and Lyon in France,
include: 8, 15, 22 days or 1-month blocks. Various
and Aero Ski( +41 22 798 20 00/ http://
other cards are tailored to the agendas of
www.alpski-bus.com) zigzags up the hills to TGV trains to France( http://www.tgv.com)
different travelers. Multi-day passes can be
various ski resorts. Cisalpino to Italy( +41 1 225 7788/ http:// obtained at the main train station.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside www.cisalpino.ch)
Ferry
the arrivals area, but considering the City Night Line( +41 1 247 75 76/ http://
cost(average 60 Sfr) for such a minuscule www.citynightline.ch) and InterCity Express Steamer ferries from Compagnie Générale
drive(although counting traffic and the ICE( http://www.bahn.de) provide routes to de Navigation(CGN)( +41 848 811 848/
usual road diversions you are still looking Germany and the Netherlands. http://www.cgn.ch) cruise Lake Geneva
at 20 minutes) it is not necessarily the most during the summer calling on numerous
frugal option, unless you are toting a barge Panoramic views are part of the ticket ports around the lake including Montreux
of luggage. You can hire taxis from taxi price when you hop on the Golden and Evian.
service providers like AA New Cab SA and Pass Line( +41 33 828 32 32/ http://
Besides offering various cruises,
Taxi Phone. www.goldenpass.ch) that runs between
Swissboat( +41 22 732 29 44/ http://
Zurich and Geneva.
Bus www.swissboat.com) has a seasonal three-
Getting Around
23
Geneva Snapshot continued
line shuttle service on the inner harbor that
Average July Temperature: 18°C/ 64°F Did You Know?
sails every 10 minutes from 7:30a-6p.
© wcities.com Quick Facts Geneva is a neutral territory, home to the
European Headquarters of the United
Major Industries: Banking, Insurance,
Nations, The International Red Cross, and
Fun Facts Machines, Pharmaceuticals, Chemicals,
the World Health Organization.
and Precision Engineering.
Geneva Country: Switzerland CERN laboratories, based in Geneva,
Electricity: 220 volts, 50 cycles. 3-pin outlet
Geneva By The Numbers invented and developed the World Wide
plugs
Web.
Population: 190,000 Time Zone: GMT/UTC+1
Since 1818, a chestnut tree in Geneva has
Land Area: 16 km²/ 6 square miles Country Dialing Code:+41 been watched by the sautier(the secretary
Elevation: 375 m/ 1230 ft of Parliament in Geneva) to see when the
Area Code: 22
first bud appears. The day this happens
Average Annual Precipitation: 93 cm/ 37 in Citizens of Geneva with foreign passport: each year is then the first day of spring.
Average January Temperature: 0°C/ 32°F 54% © wcities.com
Length of Lake Geneva: 73 km/ 45 miles
24
