What to do in Geneva

From the Museum of Reformation, tracing the life of John Calvin, to the Red Cross Museum, which celebrates the world’s first humanitarian organisation, there are lots of interesting activities to do in Geneva.

But if your idea of a holiday is a little less learned, it’s also a wonderful city to simply potter about in and you are never far from the city centre with our luxury villas in Geneva. Take a stroll in the beautiful Bastions Park, do some serious designer shopping in L’Apollinaire or, at the other end of the scale, have a good rummage in the Plainpalais flea market.

One of the best things about Geneva, though, is its proximity to some seriously majestic natural spectacles – not just the lake, with its (less natural) Jet d’Eau which shoots 140m into the air and is visible from a plane as you fly in, but also the mountains. Saleve, which was famously climbed by Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein’s monster, is just a short drive out of town. Heading into the hills above the lake, the Lavaux wine region is famous for its white varietals, and an e-bike tour is the perfect way to explore the vineyard-filled landscapes. Or if relaxation is on the agenda then take in the stunning views over the lake from your luxury villa in Geneva.

The Best Time to Visit Geneva

The best time to visit this area is June to August when the weather is mild and a pleasant breeze blows in off the lake. Geneva’s two biggest festivals take place in July and August. If, however, you’re heading to the mountains to ski, you want to be there from December to April.

What we love about Geneva
We love spending a day looking around the boutiques of the old town and people-watching from cafes, followed by a quick trip to the famous Cathedrale Saint Pierre to see the archaeological remains discovered beneath the cathedral itself. For a family day out, the Olympic Museum in Lausanne offers fun for all the family!

Getting to Geneva

The airport is a 20-minute drive from the city centre. Geneva is an international airport with flights arriving from across the world.

The Best Places To Eat and Drink in Geneva

Obviously, you must have fondue while you are on luxury villa holiday in Geneva. That’s a given. Les Armures, near the Cathedrale Saint Pierre, is one of the best places to dunk great bread in melting half-gruyere, half vacherin – and they do an excellent raclette, too.

A stay in a self-catered luxury villa means that you are free to try many of the local eateries nearby. For a fine dining experience with a wonderful view of the water, try Le Chat Botte on the lake, a Michelin-starred establishment with a menu that mixes the traditional with the contemporary and delights every time. The Bayview at Hotel President Wilson is also well worth a visit, again with lakeside views and dishes such as snails with saucisson on the menu from world-renowned chef Michel Roth.