A 2-Hour Tour of International Quarters and Old Town in Geneva

Geneva is a beautiful city in Switzerland, bordered on one side by the Alps and the second by Lake Geneva. With its old town and international quarters, it’s a city with a history and vibrancy that is worth exploring for any visitor.

Whether you’re visiting for just a few days or looking for some suggestions for your next trip, read on to discover all the best sights you can find on the a two-hour tour of the International Quarters and Old Town in Geneva.

Best Things to do During a Two-Hour Tour of International Quarters and Old Town in Geneva

The old town of Geneva can easily be explored in two hours. Here are some of the most interesting sights to see on a two-hour walking tour.

1. Jet d’Eau

The Jet d’Eau is a large fountain located in the harbor of Lake Geneva. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Geneva, shooting 140 m into the air. It is an incredible sight to behold and an ideal place to start your tour.

2. St. Pierre Cathedral

St. Pierre Cathedral is the oldest church in Geneva, having been started in 1160 and taking nearly three centuries to finish construction. The elegant facade has been elegantly preserved over the centuries, although the period art used to decorate it gives it a more modern look. Also check out the Valois Chapel, located within the church, for its remarkable stained glass windows.

3. Shopping Spots

You’ll find a large variety of shopping spots in Geneva’s Old Town. From luxury brands like Cartier to artisanal Swiss chocolate stores, there’s something here for every type of shopper. Patek Philippe and Montblanc are just some of the luxury Swiss watchmakers that have stores here. You can also find plenty of souvenir shops as well as traditional Swiss supermarkets if you’re looking for local ingredients to cook at home.

4. Libraries and Museums

The city of Geneva is home to numerous specialty museums, libraries and galleries, including ones dedicated to fashion, furniture, crafts and art. You can find them dotted throughout the old town and they offer wonderful insight into the city’s culture and history. The Bibliothèque Publique et Universitaire, a beautiful 19th century library, is especially worth a visit.

5. Take in Some Culture at Place De-Fusterie

Place De-Fusterie is the centre of old town Geneva, with a large square lined with cobble stone roads and historic buildings dating back several centuries. European cafes line the perimeter of the square and locals gather here for music performances or festivals during the summer – it’s a vibrant atmosphere that gives visitors a true sense of Geneva’s culture.

Where to Go on Your Two-Hour Tour

There are plenty of routes that you can take during your two-hour tour of the International Quarters and Old Town in Geneva. Here are some of the most popular:

Old Town Tour

The Old Town Tour takes you straight to all the iconic sites in the city center: Place Neuve square, St Pierre Cathedral, and Bourg-de-Four square among them. You can also explore some of the city’s many stores, galleries, and markets as you go along.

International Quarters Tour

The International Quarters Tour will take you to all the main sights in Geneva’s international quarter. This includes both the United Nations headquarters and World Health Organization offices as well as scenic vistas along Lake Geneva and international institutions like Red Cross and La Fondation Gulbenkian. Just make sure to bring your passport in case you want to visit any embassies!

Conclusion

A two-hour tour of International Quarters and Old Town in Geneva is sure to be both educational and enjoyable for everyone who visits the city. There’s plenty to see whether you opt for an old town tour or international quarters tour. Make sure not to miss out on iconic locations such as St Pierre Cathedral and Place De-Fusterie, and take time to explore some of the many stores, galleries and markets as you wander around this stunning city. Book yourself onto a tour at Get Your Guide, and explore Geneva with an experienced guide today!

The Insider’s Guide to Geneva: Uncovering Local Gems

Geneva, a multicultural city nestled in Switzerland on the banks of Lake Geneva, is known for its international organizations and picturesque scenery. However, there’s more to Geneva than just the typical tourist spots. Here’s an insider’s guide to uncovering the city’s hidden gems.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While Geneva does have popular attractions like Jet d’Eau and the Palace of Nations, some lesser-known but equally fascinating places to visit include the Conservatory and Botanical Garden, Carouge, and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum.

The Conservatory and Botanical Garden is a serene haven in the heart of the city, housing over 16,000 species of plants. Carouge is the bohemian side of Geneva with charming boutiques and cafes. Finally, The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum is a deeply emotional experience that pays homage to the humanitarian organization’s history and efforts.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine

Geneva has a world-renowned food culture known for its chocolate, Gruyere cheese, and fondues. For those who’d like to go beyond the obvious, Le Gruyerien and Café du Soleil offer excellent specialties like raclette and röstis, respectively.

For the sweet-toothed, visit Chocolatier Du Rhône, where quality chocolate is crafted using traditional Swiss techniques. Finally, a glass of Swiss wine is a must-have, and Domaine Les Hutins, a vineyard nestled in the countryside, provides the perfect setting for wine tasting.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Tradition

Geneva boasts of a rich cultural heritage, with several festivals throughout the year. The Escalade Festival celebrates the city’s victory over the Duke of Savoy with a parade, street theater, and hot chocolate.

The annual Geneva International Film Festival showcases cutting-edge movies and brings together filmmakers from all over the world. Geneva also has several art galleries, museums, and concert halls showcasing international and local talents.

Local History: Stories From the Past

Geneva’s history spans back to the Roman era, where the city was known as Genava. One captivating story is that of Jean Calvin, a prominent figure in the Reformation era, who spent several years in exile in Geneva.

Another interesting aspect of Geneva’s past is the role played by the city during the Holocaust. Geneva was a pivotal location where thousands of refugees, escaping persecution, found temporary safe shelter before further migration.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Make Memories to Last a Lifetime

For a unique experience, take a dip in Bains des Paquis, a public beach with a lively atmosphere, providing an incredible view of Lake Geneva and its surrounding mountains.

Alternatively, Visit CERN, the world’s largest scientific research facility, and be in awe of the groundbreaking experiments happening there. Finally, hiking in the Jura Mountains offers action-packed scenery of Geneva and the surrounding French Alps.

In conclusion, Geneva is a city rich in culture, history, and hidden gems that are waiting to be explored by curious visitors. With this insider’s guide, rest assured of an authentic and unforgettable experience.