Geneva Switzerland 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the City

Morning

  • Arrive at Geneva International Airport (GVA) or train station
  • Take a bus or tram (#5 or #10) to the city center (approx. 20-30 minutes)
  • Check-in to your hotel, such as Hotel N’vY or Ibis Genève Centre Nations

Afternoon

  • Visit the Palais des Nations (United Nations Headquarters) for a guided tour (free admission)
  • Explore the surrounding Parc des Nations and enjoy the views of Lake Geneva
  • Walk to the nearby Quai du Mont-Blanc, a scenic waterfront promenade with beautiful views of the Jet d’Eau fountain

Evening

  • Dine at Le Comptoir Suisse, serving traditional Swiss cuisine
  • Take a stroll along the Rhône River and enjoy the city’s evening atmosphere

Tips and Insights

  • Geneva is a French-speaking city, but many locals also speak English
  • The city has a well-developed public transportation system; consider purchasing a Geneva Transport Card for unlimited travel
  • Be prepared for variable weather, with layers and waterproof gear

Day 2: History, Culture, and Wine

Morning

  • Visit the Cathédrale de Saint-Pierre, a stunning medieval church with impressive views of the city (free admission)
  • Explore the adjacent Place du Bourg-de-Four, a charming square with cafes and shops
  • Stop by the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire (MAH), featuring an extensive collection of art and history (CHF 10 admission)

Afternoon

  • Take a wine tour at Cave de Genève, offering tastings and insights into Swiss wine production
  • Visit the Patek Philippe Museum, dedicated to the history of watchmaking (CHF 10 admission)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Le Chat-Botté, serving refined French cuisine
  • Relax with a scenic sunset cruise on Lake Geneva (approx. CHF 20-30 per person)

Day 3: Nature and Science

Morning

  • Visit the Jardin Botanique, a beautiful botanical garden featuring over 12,000 plant species (free admission)
  • Explore the nearby Parc de la Grange, a scenic park with walking trails and picnic areas

Afternoon

  • Stop by the CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research), where the Large Hadron Collider is located (guided tours available; free admission)
  • Visit the Natural History Museum (MHNG), featuring exhibits on natural sciences and taxidermy (CHF 10 admission)

Evening

  • Dine at Le Brasserie des Halles de Rive, offering a range of international dishes
  • Take a leisurely walk along the lake promenade, enjoying the evening lights and atmosphere

Day 4: Day Trip to Annecy, France

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Annecy, a charming town in the French Alps (approx. 1 hour by car or train)
  • Explore the old town’s cobblestone streets, canals, and picturesque buildings
  • Visit the Château d’Annecy, a medieval fortress turned museum (EUR 5 admission)

Afternoon

  • Enjoy lunch at one of Annecy’s many restaurants, serving French cuisine with an Alpine twist
  • Take a boat tour on Lake Annecy or hike in the surrounding mountains

Evening

  • Return to Geneva and enjoy dinner at Le Fiskebar, offering seafood dishes
  • Relax with a scenic evening stroll along the Rhône River

Day 5: Shopping and Departure

Morning

  • Visit the Rue du Marché, a pedestrian shopping street lined with boutiques and cafes
  • Explore the nearby Place de la Navigation, featuring a large fountain and scenic views

Afternoon

  • Depart for Geneva International Airport or train station for your onward journey
  • Consider purchasing some Swiss chocolate or souvenirs before leaving

Additional Tips and Insights

  • Geneva is an expensive city, so budget accordingly
  • The city has many parks and green spaces; consider packing a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of these areas
  • Don’t forget to try some traditional Swiss cuisine, such as fondue or raclette!

I hope you enjoy your trip to Geneva!