Geneva
Canton Geneva

Embedded between nearby Alpine peaks and the hilly terrain of the Jura, the French-speaking city of Geneva lies in the bay where the Rhone leaves Lake Geneva. With its humanitarian tradition and cosmopolitan flair, the European seat of the UNO and headquarters of the Red Cross is known as the «capital of peace».

About Geneva

The symbol of the «world’s smallest metropolis» is the “Jet d’eau” – a fountain with a 140-metre-high water jet at the periphery of Lake Geneva. Most of the large hotels and many restaurants are situated on the right-hand shore of the lake. The old town, the heart of Geneva with the shopping and business quarter, holds sway over the left-hand shore. It is dominated by St. Peter’s Cathedral, however the actual centre of the old town is the Place du Bourg-de-Four, which is the oldest square in the city. Quays, lakeside promenades, countless parks, lively side streets in the old town and elegant shops invite guests to stroll. One of the best-maintained streets is the Grand-Rue, where Jean-Jacques Rousseau was born. The «mouettes», a type of water taxi, enable crossings to be made from one lakeshore to the other, while larger vessels invite visitors to enjoy cruises on Lake Geneva.

Geneva is Switzerland’s most international city, as it is where the European seat of the UNO is based. Even the International Red Cross directs its humanitarian campaigns from here. Besides being a congress city, Geneva is also a centre for culture and history, for trade fairs and exhibitions. The «Horloge Fleuri», the large flower clock in the “Jardin Anglais” (English Garden), is a world-renowned symbol of the Geneva watch industry.

Culturally, this city on the westernmost fringe of Switzerland has much to offer. International artists perform in the Grand Théâtre and Geneva Opera House, and an extremely diverse range of museums such as the “Musée international de l'horlogerie”, a watch museum with a collection of jewellery watches and musical clocks, and the International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, which provides an insight into the work of these humanitarian organisations, invite city guests to visit them.

A rewarding excursion destination is Mont Salève, which is situated in neighboring France. The cableway lifts visitors to an altitude of 1100 metres in less than five minutes, giving rise to outstanding vistas across the city of Geneva, Lake Geneva, the chain of Alps, the Jura and Montblanc.

Winter

Geneva lies idyllically between Alpine peaks and vineyards by the largest lake in Western Europe. Geneva is the UN capital of peace, home of the luxury watch industry – and a delightful place to visit.

Summer

Geneva lies idyllically between Alpine peaks and vineyards by the largest lake in Western Europe. Geneva is the UN capital of peace, home of the luxury watch industry – and a delightful place to visit.

Our personal highlights

Explore Suisse Selection’s unmissable places of interest and top things to see and do during your stay.

Chalets & private Villas

Consider a stay at one of Suisse Selection’s Private Chalets, thoughtfully selected for their stunning locations, individual design and discrete service.

Ultima Grand Villa Geneva

Grand Villa is a truly unique and modern private residence with a blend of contemporary design and upscale features. At the epitome of luxury design and style, discover a 2000 sqm modern villa designed for utter seclusion and privacy.

As an ultra-luxury private residence in a class of its own, the villa features an impressive array of wellness and fitness amenities including a large pool, jacuzzi, three private terraces, a sauna, hammam, fitness room, private treatment room and entertainment areas including an underground lounge, cinema room, private dining room and wine cellar. The villa comprises 9 double rooms which comfortably sleeps 18 guests. It can be booked with or without professional staff depending on preference.

Preferred hotels

Browse Suisse Selection’s favored luxury hotels, carefully chosen for their unmatched excellence in architecture, service, gastronomy, and comfort.

The Woodward

Offering panoramic views of Mont Blanc, the Woodward is an elegant hotel located on the shores of Lake Geneva. Accommodation consists of 26 spacious suites that are tastefully decorated with marble fireplaces and bookcases. Guests can enjoy dining at any one of the onsite restaurants. Additional amenities include a1,200 square metre spa with a wellness institute and an indoor swimming pool. The hotel also has a state-of-the-art gym, two saunas, two steam rooms, two Swedish baths and a hot tub. The surrounding area offers a range of activities to suit all guests interests, such as exploring Place du Bourg-de-Four, visiting Jardin Anglais or touring the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire.

La Reserve Geneve Hotel & Spa

La Reserve Geneve Hotel & Spa is a city resort hotel cocooned in a ten acre park, on the shores of Lake Geneva. The shimmering lake is accessed from a private dock and hotel guests can book a trip on the hotel’s Venetian motoscafo for picturesque lake tours or simple transfers to the many shops, boutiques and restaurants in Geneva. The hotel offers four superb restaurants, Le Loti, Le Tsé Fung, the poolside summer grill, and Cafe Lauren which is part of the 2000 square meter La Reserve spa.

Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva

Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva is nestled in Geneve, Switzerland. The hotel is just a 5-minute walk away from Bus Stop Mont Blanc, also known as the main station. Local attractions include the Jet D’eau, Maison Tavel, and the Grand Cathedral. The hotel offers Deluxe Rooms, Superior Rooms, Standard Rooms, Loft Studios and Suites. In-room amenities and features include LCD flat-screen TVs and DVD players, private bars, in-room safes, telephones, fireplaces, air conditioning and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals from Restaurant Il Lago and Restaurant Izumi. Other amenities include a library, garden, indoor swimming pool, fitness centre and Spa Mont Blanc.

Mandarin Oriental Geneva

Enjoying stylish design, excellent restaurants and unbeatable service, Mandarin Oriental, Geneva is a five-star luxury hotel with an idyllic waterside setting. With views over the garden or the river, the 196 elegantly designed rooms and suites enjoy a stylish mix of comfort and luxury. The hotel's outstanding restaurants and cool, contemporary bar have made a significant gourmet contribution to Geneva’s dining scene. Work out in the gym, relax with a sauna or treat yourself to a soothing massage or pampering beauty treatment. With a convenient central location, fantastic service and a choice of venues, the property offers an excellent setting for meetings, weddings and events.

Unique experiences

Discover Suisse Selection’s once-in-a-lifetime activities, to be included in your personal itinerary.

Patek Philippe Museum
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Luxury and Sport Car Rental (Geneva)
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Lavaux
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When to go

Switzerland has a moderate climate and four distinct seasons, making it an attractive year-round travel destination.

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