The charming city of Geneva comes with a plethora of attractions and tremendous natural beauty that makes every traveler fall in love with it. However, because of this overabundance of attractions, it becomes difficult for the backpackers to determine where to go first. Most of them generally miss out on all the best things that this fantastic city has to offer. Therefore, we have made a list of some of the unmissable places to visit in Geneva that showcase the actual charisma of the city.
10 Best Places To Visit In Geneva, Switzerland
If you want to know more about the legacy of Geneva, then make sure to visit the places that are listed below.
1. Patek Philippe Museum
Situated in the heart of the small town called Plainpalais, the Patek Philippe Museum showcases the evolution of the creation of watches in Geneva. Apart from the timepieces, which were made exclusively of Switzerland, you can also find numerous other watches from all around the world. Besides watches, the museum also showcases various other vintages collections, such as the miniature portraits and automated musical devices. So, if you want to have an extensive knowledge about the rich history of the city, then this would be the ideal place for you to start your journey in Geneva.
Location: Rue des Vieux-Grenadiers 7, 1205 Geneva
Timings: 2 PM – 6 PM (Closed on Sundays and Mondays)
Entry fee: 10 CHF
Must Read: 10 Fab Places To Visit In Basel On Your Switzerland Vacation
Europe Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
2. Ariana Museum
Widely known for its exquisite glass and ceramics arts, the Ariana Museum displays the magical charm of the artistic side of Geneva. This beautiful museum was established by Gustave Revilliod between the years of 1877 to 1884 and named after his dear mother, Ariana. During its early days, the museum only housed a small compilation of exquisite artworks, which were collected by Gustave Revilliod. However, today, it showcases a massive collection of more than 20,000 ceramic and glass artworks, which displays the vividness of the artistic culture. If you do not have much time on your hands and are looking for some places to see in Geneva in one day, then start your journey from here.
Location: Avenue de la Paix 10, 1202 Geneva
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry fee: 8 CHF
Suggested Read: Dreaming Of An Exotic Honeymoon In Switzerland? Make It Happen
3. Art And History Museum
Locally known as Musee d’Art et d’Histoire, the Art and History Museum of Geneva is one of the most prominent museums in the city. Unlike the other previously-mentioned places, this one does not only boast a massive compilation of artworks but also a splendid collection of weapons, antiques, and art treasures. Among these collections, the antiques are known to be the oldest as they date back to the Paleolithic period. The fine art gallery of the museum contains the works of the Dutch, Italian, and French artists of the 16th to 18th centuries. Apart from these, you can also find numerous paintings of the Geneva artists, which date back to the early 18th and 19th centuries.
Location: Rue Charles-Galland 2, 1206 Geneva
Timings: 11 AM – 6 PM
Entry fee: 5 CHF
Suggested Read: Switzerland In October: See What Makes It A Great Time To Explore This Paradise
4. Museum Of Modern And Contemporary Art (MAMCO)
Affectionately known as MAMCO, the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is widely considered to be one of the best places to see in Geneva. Built in the year of 1944, this state-of-the-art site houses an exclusive collection of more than 4000 exquisite artistic objects, which attracts people from all over the world to come here. Along with this, the museum also has hosted more than 400 exhibitions since its inception. So, if you want to be a part of these amazing shows, then make sure to visit here during the winter season.
Location: 10 rue des Vieux-Grenadiers, Geneva
Timings: 12 PM – 6 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry fee: 8 CHF
Suggested Read: 12 Honeymoon Places In Switzerland For A Romantic Rendezvous
5. The International Museum Of The Reformation
Located at the heart of the Geneva old town, the International Museum of the Reformation is broadly acknowledged by the history-aficionados as one of the best places to visit in Geneva in one day. Known to be quite popular because of its aesthetic beauty, this museum houses a wide collection of many ancient artifacts, which date back to the 1800s. Apart from these, you can also find numerous audio-visuals and documents here, which narrate the story behind the thought of the Protestant Reformation. So, if you are a history lover and want to know more about the background of Geneva, then this museum is a must-visit place for you.
Location: Rue de Cloitre 4, 1204 Geneva
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Thursday to Sunday)
Entry fee: 8 CHF
Suggested Read: Indian Restaurants In Zurich: The Spicy, Tangy, And Sweet India Of Switzerland
6. The Barbier-Mueller Museum
Established in the year 1977, the Barbier-Mueller Museum showcases the exquisite collection of the famous personality, Josef Mueller. As of now, this small yet elegant-looking museum exhibits more than 7,000 artifacts, which includes historic tribal relics and fabrics from all over the world. Apart from this, the museum also houses an excellent collection of ancient sculptures that dates back to the era of the 1500s. However, the thing, which makes this museum one of the best Geneva tourist places, is its art exhibitions. Apart from hosting these shows, the museum also publishes numerous art books, which can help you to know more about the history of Geneva.
Location: Rue Jean-Calvin 10, 1204 Geneva
Timings: 11 AM – 5 PM
Entry fee: 8 CHF
Suggested Read: Cruises In Switzerland: 7 Exciting Cruise Tours To Rediscover This European Nation
7. Palais Des Nations
Built between the years of 1929 to 1936, the Palais des Nations serves as the headquarters of the United Nations. This aesthetically beautiful palace is situated in the picturesque Ariana Park, which was established during the year of 1890. If you want to know more about the construction and the history of the palace, then you can opt for one of the guided tours that take place during the mornings. During your tour, you will get the chance of visiting the Assembly Hall, the Alliance of Civilizations Rooms, the Council Chamber, and numerous other things. From the building, you will also get the chance of savoring a gorgeous view of the Alps Mountain range, which will keep you captivated for weeks.
Location: Avenue de la Paix 14, 1211 Geneva
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry fee: 12 CHF
Suggested Read: Go Paragliding In Switzerland For The Most Amazing Swiss Alps Experience
8. St. Peter’s Cathedral
Situated in the scenic background of Geneva Old Town, the St. Peter’s Cathedral is widely considered as one of the best Geneva sightseeing places because of its unparalleled beauty. Established in the year 1150, the exquisite piece of architecture features some interesting gothic elements, which prompts most people to deem it as the most beautiful church in the world.
Another thing, which enhances the overall beauty of the church even more, is the towers of the structure. If you want to, then you can climb here to savor the sumptuous magnificence of the city of Geneva.
Location: Place Bourg-Saint-Pierre, 1204 Geneva
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
Suggested Read: 10 Interlaken Restaurants Serving The Most Delicious Food In Switzerland
9. Molard Tower
Situated on the beautiful Molard Square, the military tower of Molard was established way back in the 14th century for war purposes. However, now, this scenic piece architecture is surrounded by numerous restaurants and houses a small yet elegant wine bar. Apart from enjoying the drinks here, you will also get the chance of savoring an exquisite view of the Geneva city.
Location: Tour du Molard, 1204, Place du Molard 2, 1204 Geneva
Timings: 2 PM – 2 AM
Suggested Read: 10 Unique Museums In Switzerland That Walk You Through History Of Humanity
10. The Russian Church Of Geneva
Exhibiting the exquisite beauty of the Russian architecture, the Russian Church is broadly considered as one of the best Geneva tourist attractions. Apart from its extravagant exterior, the church also showcases a highly-embellished interior, which is yet another thing that the tourists admire most about it. Inside the structure, you will also find numerous pieces of art and treasures, which belongs to a royal family of Russia. Besides this, the church also houses numerous paintings, which date back to the 1600s.
Location: Rue De-Beaumont 18, 1206 Geneva
Timings: 9 AM – 12 PM
Further Read: 8 Enticing Festivals In Switzerland For Mirth And Merriment!
There are a lot of places in Geneva which can be tagged as a must-visit for you if you are going there for the first time. Therefore, to savor all of their beauty and enjoy an exceptional holiday in Switzerland, make sure to keep at least three-days of time in your hands when visiting Geneva.
Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.
Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Geneva
What are the top attractions to visit in Geneva?
Patek Philippe Museum, Ariana Museum, Museum Of Modern And Contemporary Art (MAMCO), Palais Des Nations, St. Peter’s Cathedral, Molard Tower are some of the top attractions to visit in Geneva.
What are the most popular things to do in Geneva with children?
Visiting the famous museums of Geneva, trying the popular swiss chocolate, indulging in activities like swimming, river rafting are some of the popular things to do in Geneva.
Is it safe to visit Geneva given the covid situation?
Yes, it is safe to visit Geneva, given that you follow all guidelines and take all the necessary precautions. Make sure to get yourself vaccinated before planning a trip, also wear masks at all times, maintain social distance at public places and sanitize your hands regularly.
How can I spend 3 days in Geneva?
Visiting all the famous museums of Geneva like Patek Philippe Museum, Ariana Museum, Museum Of Modern And Contemporary Art, explore the famous chocolate factories, taste the local cuisines are some of the best things you can do in Geneva in 3 days.
Are there any museums in Geneva which do not ask for any entry fee?
No, almost all the museums in Geneva ask for a certain amount of money before entering. However, most of them generally provide free entry facilities for children who are under 18 years of age.
Which one is the largest museum in Geneva?
The beautiful metropolis of Geneva houses numerous large museums. However, the Musee d’Art et d’Histoire is known to be the largest among them all.
Are the streets of Geneva safe for tourists?
Yes, the streets, as well as the neighborhood of Geneva, are known to be quite safe for the tourists. However, still, make sure to keep all of your important documents and belongings safely in your room for your own convenience.
What is the best time to go to Geneva?
During the season of winter, the weather in Geneva usually stays quite cold. Therefore, if you want to visit the city to get enthralled by its natural beauty, then make sure to come here during summer. However, if you want to savor the cultural essence of the metropolis of Geneva, then winter would be the ideal time for you.
Looking To Book An International Holiday?
People Also Read
Places To Visit In Belarus Places To Visit In Poland Places To Visit In Salzburg