Geneva has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and international flavor. It is almost entirely surrounded by France and connected to the rest of Switzerland only by the lake and a narrow land strip along its northwest shore. French influence is widespread from the language to gastronomy and bohemian districts.
PLACE TO SEE
1.TEMPLE DE SAINT-PIERRE
The Romanesque church is dating back to 1150 and features some Gothic elements. The stained glass windows are copies of the 15th-century originals and against the aisle walls the fifth bay holds holds late Gothic choir-stalls with delicate carving from the destroyed Chapelle des Florentins. Below the church archaeological excavations reveal an extensive underground labyrinth from the early Christian settlement, including Roman mosaics and two 4th-century Christian sanctuaries.
2.JET D’EAU – WATER JET
The water yet is Geneva’s most famous landmark and has become the symbol of Geneva. A mighty yet of water soars straight up from the lake surface in the breakwater enclosing Geneva’s harbor beside the Jetée des Eaux-Vives. A favorite spot for locals to swim, enjoy a sauna, or have a bite in a café.
3.PALAIS DES NATIONS
In the large complex of marble buildings you can learn about the work carried on here and see the artworks and interiors donated by countries all over the world. Three bas-reliefs by Eric Gill inspired by Michelangelo can be found in the ante-chamber. More than a million print items as well as electronic journals and books can be found in the library. Magnificent views of the lake and the Alps can be seen from the Cour d’Honneur, a spacious terrace merging into a park between the main wings. A bronze armillary sphere standing in the middle of the terrace with gilded signs of Zodiac by American sculptor Paul Manship.
4.ARIANA MUSEE
The museum is entirely devoted to ceramics and glass production with a collection of 25,000. Illustrating the history of ceramic arts from early middle ages through the 20th century, tracing both the ceramic formation and glazing processes. The building is built in a combination of Neoclassical and New Barogue architectural styles, results in an impressive gallery with a vaulted ceiling and colonnades.
5.PATEK PHILLIPE MUSEUM
One of the best collections of time pieces can be found in the museum. The Antiques collection and the Patek Phillip collection is permanently on display. In the Antiques exhibit a wide range of watches dating back to the 16th century is on display.
6.CERN
The laboratory for research into particle physics was founded in 1954. Protons is accelerates down a circular tube and the resulting collisions create new matter and two exhibitions shed light on its work.
7.MUSEE INTERNATIONAL DE LA REFORME
This 18th century modern museum zooms in on the Reformation. Exhibits and audiovisuals bring to life everything from the earliest printed bibles to the emergence of Geneva as 'Protestant Rome' in the 16th century.
8.LAKE GENEVA
The 225 square mile lake formed by the Rhone River is straddling the Franco Swizz border just north of the central city. Explore the vineyards and wineries in Lausanne or for a more relaxing excursion try Yverdon-les-Bains which is home to several beaches and a few thermal baths.
OTHER PLACES TO SEE
- Place du Bourg-de-Four
- Jardin Anglais and the Mouettes
- Musee d’Art et’d’Historie
- Monument de la Reformation
- Jardin Botanique
- Quai du Mont-Blanc
- International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum
- Quai du Mont-Blanc
- Old Town
- Musee d’Art Moderne et Contemporian
- Terrasse Agrippa d’Abigne
- Park des Bastions
- Cite du Temps
- Le Rath
- Musee Barbier-Mueller
- Musee de Caroughe
- Musee d’Histoire Naturelle
- St. Pierre Cathedral
- Musee Ariana
- Bains des Paquis
- The Broken Chair
The best way to get around Geneva is on foot - the city is a small six square miles and is easily navigated. Otherwise you can use the bus, trolley, trams, taxi of shuttle boat.
The best time to visit Geneva is during the summer months when the weather is mild and breezy. Summers in Switzerland usually boast plenty of sun, though rain is just as common.
