Geneva

The Jet d'Eau is one of the highest water fountains in the world and a famous landmark of Geneva, which you can see from almost everywhere in the centre and up to very far in the surroundings (even past the border). The fountain shoots 500 litres of water a second to a height of 140 metres.

In the heart of Geneva’s Old Town lies the charming Place du Bourg-de-Four, the city's oldest square. This vibrant area serves as a central gathering place for locals and visitors alike, its surroundings lined with boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. On Thursdays and Saturdays, Place du Bourg-de-Four transforms into a lively market, where vendors showcase a delightful array of fresh produce, flowers, and artisanal goods, adding a bustling touch to the timeless allure of this historic gem.

Housed in the historic Palais des Nations, a relic from the League of Nations era, the United Nations Headquarters in Geneva stands as an emblem of international diplomacy and cooperation. As one of the four major offices of the UN, this iconic complex hosts numerous international conferences, diplomatic meetings, and negotiations. The Assembly Hall, Council Chamber, and various conference rooms are witnesses to crucial discussions on global issues. The surrounding Ariana Park provides a serene backdrop for this centre of multilateral diplomacy, symbolising Geneva's role as a neutral ground for fostering dialogue and addressing the world's challenges.

Situated at the highest point of the Old Town, St Peter's Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, is the most visited monument in Geneva, welcoming around 400,000 people every year. Its fame comes mostly from being the adopted home church of Protestant Reformation leader John Calvin as well as from housing, in its vault, the largest archaeological site north of the Alps. Brave visitors willing to climb the 157 steps of the north tower will be treated to a breathtaking panorama of both the city and the lake.

This fascinating park and 'living museum' hosts 16,000 plant varieties and the world’s largest herbarium. From its creation at the beginning of the 19th century, its beauty and its aim to spread knowledge have evolved continuously. The herbarium archive contains more than 6 million plants.

If you are interested in watches, this museum hosts an important collection of timepieces from the 16th century onward and the finest creations of this Geneva-based watchmaker. Nowhere else is the Swiss passion for clocks, watches and the passing of time as obvious as here.

CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, is the world’s largest particle physics laboratory and has been behind numerous major discoveries. Here you can expand your scientific knowledge and explore the mysteries of the universe in an interactive Science Centre.

Situated in the vibrant Grottes district, Les Schtroumpfs, also known as the Smurfs buildings, is a fascinating architectural gem. Built between 1982 and 1984 by three visionary architects, this whimsical housing complex draws inspiration from Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí and the iconic smurf houses from the comics. Featuring curved walls, irregular angles, and vibrant pops of colour reminiscent of the beloved blue characters' mushroom homes, the complex aptly earns its nickname, 'The Smurfs’. Housing 750 families, it encompasses amenities such as a kindergarten, dental clinic, and cafés, all set amid trees and playgrounds, creating a unique and playful community space.

Far away from its country of origin, this Russian Orthodox Church is nonetheless very typical, and its golden spires and splendid architecture are sure to take your breath away. It is highly photogenic and will transport you to another time and another place in an instant.

Due to Geneva’s ideal location by the lake, you can enjoy true city beach life at Bains des Pâquis, public bath houses on a pier in Lake Geneva, where you can swim with the local ducks and swans. This beach is very crowded during summer and offers all-season activities like a sauna, massages and a hammam during winter.