# WELCOME TO GENEVA

# Geographic position

Set at the heart of Europe, Geneva is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city on the shores of the stunning Lake Geneva, offering exceptional views of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe.

Easily reached by air, rail, or road — and less than two hours from major European cities — it’s a place where cultures connect and live in harmony.​

As Switzerland’s second-largest city, Geneva combines international energy with an outstanding quality of life.​

SURFACE AREA

282 km2

ALTITUDE

373 m above sea level

CLIMATE

Average temperatures of 10°C in winter and 23°C in summer​

TIME ZONE

Geneva is in the Central European Time Zone (GMT+1). From late March to the last weekend of October, daylight saving time is observed (GMT+2).

# How to get to Geneva?

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Geneva is the ideal gateway to Switzerland, served by 200 trains a day and 935 direct flights.

Geneva’s international airport, a hub for European low-cost airlines, is only seven minutes by train from the city centre.

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- More than 50 European and international airlines.
- More than 142 direct flight destinations.
- A 'French sector’ to arrive in or board from France without entering Switzerland.
- A railway station with connections to the centre of Geneva, Switzerland and Europe.
- From the airport, it only takes seven minutes to reach the city centre.

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- The Swiss Railway network reaches every corner of Switzerland.
- France’s high-speed trains TGV from Paris reach Geneva’s main railway station in just three hours!

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- Close to the railway station in the heart of the city, you find the coach station whose routes serve some 20 European countries, the Geneva canton and the French ski resorts. From here start the city tours and excursions.

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- Geneva is located at the crossroads of the European motorway network.
- The N1 motorway alongside Lake Geneva circles the city and also leads straight into the centre. At the French border in Bardonnex, it joins the A40 towards Lyon and Paris, or Chamonix and Italy.

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# How to get around Geneva?

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## BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Exploring Geneva and its many sights is a smooth and enjoyable experience thanks to the city’s exceptionally efficient public transport system.

- From the airport, it only takes seven minutes to reach the city centre by train.
- Geneva’s public transport tram and bus network provides complete coverage of the city and its many points of interest.
- Geneva’s Mouettes — the city’s yellow shuttle boats—will take you across the harbour. This service not only facilitates access between the various districts of the city, but also offers unique views of Geneva, seen from its tranquil waters. You can board the boats with your bus or tram ticket.

## FREE PUBLIC TRANSPORT WITH THE GENEVA TRANSPORT CARD!

Anyone staying in approved accommodation in Geneva is entitled to a free transport card.

When you stay in Geneva, you will receive a free digital version of the Geneva Transport Card. This card enables you to use public transport free of charge in Geneva for the duration of your stay.

The card is personal and non-transferable and grants you free access to Geneva’s public transport network UNIRESO: buses (TPG), trains (CFF), and boats (Mouettes genevoises). It is unlimited for the entire duration of your stay.

You will receive a link by email up to three days before your arrival (depending on your accommodation) to get your Geneva Transport Card on your smartphone. You will then be able to use it to reach your accommodation from the airport.

## BY BIKE

Geneva is an ideal city to bike around, especially along its beautiful lakeshore. An extensive network of cycle lanes will take both occasional cyclists and experienced riders through the city’s iconic sites and quieter districts.

You can also experience the unique opportunity of riding through the heart of the Geneva countryside on a wonderfully comfortable electric bike and discover its magnificent landscape!​

> Find all info to rent your bike in Geneva

# Geneva districts

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From the gentle Mediterranean charm of Carouge to the cosmopolitan hustle and bustle of Pâquis, Geneva encompasses a wide variety of neighbourhoods, each with its own atmosphere. From trendy boutiques to avant-garde galleries, majestic monuments to lush parks, each district has its own gems, unique history, and picturesque views. Here’s a closer look at 6 of Geneva’s best districts.

## OLD TOWN

Switzerland’s largest historic city, the Old Town is criss-crossed by a maze of cobbled streets and narrow alleyways.

Everything here reflects the passage of time and bears witness to the events that have shaped the city, from the elevated houses of Place du Bourg-de-Four to the gleaming cannons of the Old Arsenal.

The district is home to St. Peter’s Cathedral and its formidable 157-step tower, which offers breathtaking views of the city, lake, and surrounding mountains; the Cathedral's Archaeological Site, which features the remains of earlier churches; the International Museum of the Reformation, which tells the fascinating story of the religious changes that swept Europe from 1535 onwards; and Maison Tavel, Geneva’s oldest private residence, whose museum traces daily life from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.

## PÂQUIS

Working-class, down-to-earth, and multi-ethnic, Pâquis stretches from the station to the lakefront.

The district is also known for its quintessential Geneva institution: Bains des Pâquis, which includes a sauna, a beach, an iconic diving platform, and a bar/restaurant on the water.

## PLAINPALAIS/QUARTIER DES BAINS

The salt-of-the-earth neighbourhood of Plainpalais, on the left bank, is alive with the sounds of the weekly flea market, the student bars on nearby Rue de l’École-de-Médecine, and the massive skatepark, which happens to be one of the largest in Europe.

The district is also home to the Patek Philippe Museum, which tells the prestigious story of watchmaking from the 16th century to the present day, and the spellbinding MEG (Ethnography Museum), which holds the archives of human diversity.

Right next door, often described as Geneva’s Soho, the former Bains industrial estate has now become Geneva’s arty district. Trendy and cosmopolitan, the neighbourhood takes the city’s artistic pulse through fascinating incubators (Xippas, Andata Ritorno) and renowned contemporary art museums (MAMCO, Centre d’art contemporain).

## EAUX-VIVES

Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, Eaux-Vives is the perfect place to indulge in a little self-pampering.

The district includes one of Geneva’s oldest and most beautiful parks, Parc La Grange, dotted with century-old trees and lush green lawns, the brand-new Eaux-Vives beach, where wooden structures blend with vast green spaces, and exceptional views of the famous Jet d’Eau.

Outdoor yoga classes in Parc La Grange, a relaxing swim at Bain Bleu Hammam & Spa or pastry treats at Chou, the district is all about well-being, nature, and hedonism. Foodies will definitely rush towards this trendy district, which boasts some mouth-watering cuisine, including Asian dishes at Caiyun Tea, tapas at Hanae, and some fine dining at the aptly-named, Michelin-starred La Micheline.

## CAROUGE

On the banks of the Arve, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, lies Carouge, a once-independent hamlet of Sardinian architecture known as Geneva’s “Greenwich Village”.

The area is teeming with boutiques, artists, and craftspeople busy creating watches, jewellery, handbags, and clothes.

The old shopping town exudes Mediterranean charm with its shady terraces, hidden courtyards, and Italianate squares—a bohemian atmosphere that continues late into the night with a plethora of cafés, bars, and nightclubs, including the legendary Chat Noir.

A village apart in Geneva’s urban fabric, Carouge has its own cinema, Le Bio, with an eclectic programme, as well as the Théâtre de Carouge, which hosts top-quality performances.

## THE INTERNATIONAL DISTRICT

The international district is living proof of the major role played by Geneva - which has more than 200 international organisations - on the world stage.

These organisations are located on the right bank of the lake around the Place des Nations and the impressive European headquarters of the United Nations.

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum tells the moving and dramatic story of the humanitarian movement of Geneva, from 1863 to the present day.

# Practical information

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## VISA

Switzerland has been part of the Schengen Area since 12 December 2008, an area of 29 European countries that have removed internal borders to allow the free movement of people.

Non‑EU citizens travelling to the Schengen Area, including Switzerland, must have a valid passport and, if required for their nationality, a visa; Schengen visas are valid for entry into Switzerland when accompanied by a valid travel document.

In addition, the new digital Entry/Exit System (EES), which started on 12 October 2025 and will be fully operational by 10 April 2026, and the ETIAS travel authorisation, coming in the last quarter of 2026, will become mandatory for visa‑exempt visitors.

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## LANGUAGE

Geneva is a multilingual city at the heart of the French-speaking part of Switzerland.

French is the predominant language, used in official communications, signage, and by the locals. However, due to its international status, including the presence of the United Nations and other international organizations, English is also widely spoken, especially in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Basic French phrases can go a long way in local interactions, but you'll find that most people in the service industry can communicate effectively in English.

To truly embrace the local culture, try picking up some French phrases before your visit. It's a great way to connect with the locals and shows appreciation for the city's linguistic heritage.

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## CURRENCY AND RATES

In Geneva, as in the rest of Switzerland, the currency used is the Swiss Franc (CHF). While some businesses, especially those catering to tourists, might accept Euros, it's not a widespread practice, and the exchange rate may not be favourable. Bank and credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, making this payment method convenient for travellers. However, having some Swiss Francs on hand for smaller purchases, public transport tickets, and for those places that don't accept cards is a good idea.

EXCHANGE RATE:

The following exchange rates are approximate and subject to daily variation.

1 CHF = | 1.10 EURO 1.30 US DOLLARS 0.99 BRITISH POUND 9.05 CNY

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## TAX REFUND

#### TAX FREE SHOPPING

In Switzerland, 8.1% VAT is included in the sale price. Visitors who are resident abroad can obtain a tax refund on a minimum spend of 300 CHF (incl. VAT) in one shop. The goods must be exported within 30 days of the purchase date. When leaving Switzerland, the goods, the receipt, proof of identity and the rebate cheque must be presented at customs.

##### THREE SIMPLE STEPS TO RECEIVE A TAX REFUND:

STEP 1:

Request a Tax Free Form When Shopping

When paying for your purchase, ask the sales staff for a Tax Free Form. The form must be completed at the time of purchase.

STEP 2:

Obtain Customs Validation

When leaving Switzerland (before check-in at the airport), present:

- Your purchased goods
- The original receipt
- Your passport (proof of identity)
- The completed Tax Free Form
- Customs will stamp the form

STEP 3 :

Visit the Tax Refund Office

Present the stamped Tax Free Form, your passport, and your credit card at the Tax Refund Office. You may choose to receive the refund directly to your credit card, or in cash (where available).

#### CUSTOMS OFFICES:

#### Geneva Airport

- On the arrivals level and in the international departure area (before check-in)
- Every day, 5.30 am to 09.00 pm

#### Geneva Cornavin Train Station

- Near the TGV platforms (tracks 7/8).
- Every day, 6.30 am to 6.30 pm

#### Land Border Crossings

- Thônex-Vallard : Monday to Friday, 7:30 am – 5:00 pm
- Bardonnex : Open daily – 24 hours
- Ferney-Voltaire : Monday to Friday, 7:30 am – 5:00 pm

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## TOURIST INFORMATION CENTER

Meet our teams of experts in Geneva at our tourist information centres and feel free to ask us any questions you may have to help make your stay unforgettable.

Our team of destination experts welcomes you all year round at Geneva Cornavin Station.

##### OUR SERVICES

Tourist information and local advice
Cultural recommendations
Booking of tours and activities
Event and show ticket sales
Geneva souvenirs and official products
Visitor assistance
Public and private guided tours

##### OPENING HOURS

Monday to Saturday: 9:15 am – 5:45 pm
Thursday: 10:00 am – 5:45 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Public holidays: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

#### ADDRESS

Geneva Cornavin Station, Place de Cornavin 7, 1201 Geneva 1st floor

#### CONTACT

Phone: +41 (0) 22 909 70 00
Email: info@geneve.com
Website (in 3 languages): WWW.GENEVE.COM

ACCESSIBILITY

The Tourist Information Centre is accessible to people with reduced mobility.

#### FOLLOW US:

# Free in Geneva

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## FREE PUBLIC TRANSPORT

#### INCLUDED WHEN STAYING IN A HOTEL, HOSTEL AND CAMPSITE IN GENEVA

Anyone staying in approved accommodation in Geneva receives a free Geneva Transport Card. This card gives you free access to public transport (buses, trams, trains, and boats) for the entire duration of your stay.

You will receive a link by email three days before your arrival to download your digital Geneva Transport Card on your smartphone.

Geneva’s “Mouettes” (water taxis) are also included and allow you to cross the lake free of charge with the card.

## PUBLIC PLACES WITH FREE WIFI ACCESS

Stay connected and share your experiences with your friends with free wifi in the city!

- The area surrounding Lake Geneva
- Parc de la Perle du Lac
- Botanical Garden
- Parc de la Grange et parc des Eaux-Vives
- Plaine de Plainpalais

For the full list here

## DISCOVERY MAP

The "Discovery Map" is available in 8 languages and can be picked up at our Tourist Information Point, various touristic spots around the city, or downloaded directly from our website.

Grab your copy and start your adventure!

# Fun facts about Geneva

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The Jet d’Eau water fountain was not supposed to be a fountain

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Back to 1886 when Geneva city opened a hydraulic pumping station on the Rhône River in order to power factory machines. At the end of each day, when the machines were shut down, a valve was used to release the water pressure in the air.

People enjoyed it so much that it soon became a remarkable symbol of the city. It was then amplified and relocated to the centre of the Lake to become the Jet d’Eau of today.

There is a sunrise festival in August (people wake up early in Geneva)

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Every year in August, you can experience the most beautiful mornings you’ve ever had at Les Aubes Festival at Bains des Pâquis with a 360° view of the lake in a cosy atmosphere.

Jazz, piano/voice, fado, flamenco, be there at 6 am to enjoy an amazing music session illuminated by the spectacular colours of sunrise, followed by a delicious homemade breakfast. And you can have a refreshing swim before breakfast!

The philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau was born in Geneva

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One of the greatest philosophers of the Age of Enlightenment was native to Geneva. Jean-Jacques Rousseau was born on 28 Jun 1712 at 40 Grand-Rue in the Old Town.

This building still exists and has become a place of sharing and exchanging ideas and opinions at debates and literary meetings open to the public.

Geneva has the world's longest wooden bench

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Perched on the hill south of the Old Town, a place called "La Promenade de la Treille" houses the world's longest wooden bench. Built in 1767 with 180 wooden planks, it offers a spectacular view of Mont Salève.

Here, a famous chestnut tree announces the arrival of spring each year with its first buds.

There is a free open-air cinema on the shores of the lake in summer

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In the summer, Geneva offers you a beautiful moment of cinema! Bring a picnic with you, sit down comfortably on a blanket or sunbed and relax, the movie is about to start.

if you just turn your head a little, you will see the glittering lake and if you look up, you will behold a canopy of stars.

Spring is announced by a chestnut tree

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How do you know spring has arrived? Flowers, spring showers, sundresses or swimming in the lake? In Geneva’s old town, a very famous tree is the official harbinger of spring. On the Promenade de la Treille in the Old Town of Geneva, the first bud of this chestnut tree marks the official arrival of spring. When trees talk, we listen!

You can travel around the city for free

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Here is a great tip! Before arrival, you will receive your digital Geneva Transport Card and this card will allow you to use public transports for free during your whole stay.

The easiest way to start your holiday in Geneva! The card is even valid for the Mouettes, those yellow and red bus boats!

The World Wide Web was created in Geneva

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You’re reading this article on our website, right? So, let’s go back to March 1989 when Tim Berners-Lee, a scientist working at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, in Geneva, submitted a proposal to his boss.

His idea was to develop a radical new way of linking and sharing information over the Internet, and you know what? It led to what we know today as the World Wide Web and was the starting point of website development!

The first Swiss wristwatch was made in Geneva in 1868

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Did you know that women wore watches on their wrists long before men? In 1868, Patek Philippe created the first Swiss wristwatch, which was a fine ladies' timepiece, commissioned by the Countess Koscowicz of Hungary. She was ahead of time, wasn’t she?

Two rivers meet in Geneva

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Flowing forth from the Rhône Glacier in the Swiss Alps, the Rhône River always does a stopover in Geneva. And there it meets the River Arve.

They are different in origin, colour, speed and behaviour, yet they meet in Geneva to become one before running through southeastern France. What a beautiful and unique natural phenomenon!

The Escalade Festival and the chocolate cauldron

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In 1602, Geneva was besieged by the troops of the Duke of Savoy who wished to annex the City to France. But the Savoyards never managed to breach the ramparts thanks to the energy of the Genevan citizens and the famous Mère Royaume who defended herself with a pot of soup.

Since then, Geneva's chocolatiers busy themselves every year to reproduce this cauldron with the best chocolate in the region.

The story of Frankenstein was written in Geneva

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In 1816, four young poets gathered in a villa in the heights of Geneva, the summer was so rainy that they decided to write scary stories to pass the time.

It was in 3 days that Mary Shelley wrote the story of Frankenstein, which would become the first science fiction book. You can meet the statue of Frankenstein on the Plaine de Plainpalais, near the skatepark.

The Schweppes drink was invented in Geneva

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In 1783, the Swiss master watchmaker Johann Jakob Schweppe developed a new process: he succeeded in artificially introducing carbon dioxide into mineral water. The patent was immediately filed, marking the start of the Schweppes beverage enjoyed by young and old.

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## HOW BIG IS GENEVA?

Geneva's population (around 188,600) is equivalent to that of the biggest district of Paris (the 18th)!

Geneva

# =

Paris

The size of Switzerland (41,285 km²) is comparable to that of the Netherlands.

# Geneva Tourism products

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## GENEVA WATCHMAKING GUIDE

#### The essential guide to discovering the capital of “haute horlogerie”

- Co-written by the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie and the Fondation Genève Tourisme & Congrès
- 175 pages covering everything you need to know about watchmaking: history, expertise, economy, must-see highlights, major annual events, experiences, and tourist routes
- Languages: bilingual French and English
- Price: CHF 30
- Distribution: Geneva Tourism, geneve.com

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## THE GUARDIANS

#### The family adventure in Geneva

- Game booklet with 9 riddles linked to Geneva’s iconic landmarks
- Recommended age: 8 - 12 years old
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Self-guided game, available year-round
- Languages: French, English, German, Italian, Spanish; Arabic in progress
- Price: CHF 15 (booklet + 1 mini box of Caran d’Ache colored pencils + colorable postcard)
- Distribution: Geneva Tourism, geneve.com

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## GENEVA FOOD GUIDE

#### Dining in Geneva, from hidden local eateries to Michelin-starred restaurants

- 60 addresses carefully selected by Sébastien Ripari, Geneva culinary guide
- Enjoy a unique variety of flavors with expert tips for an exceptional gastronomic experience
- Languages: French, English
- Price: free
- Available in print and digital versions (in French, English, and German)
- Distribution: Geneva Tourism, geneve.com

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## GENEVA MYSTERY

#### A thrilling mystery to solve in the heart of Geneva’s Old Town

- Exciting puzzle game to discover Geneva in an original way, featuring a thrilling plot in an exceptional life-sized setting.
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Languages: French, English, German
- Price: 21 CHF per booklet (7.- for additional museum entries)
- Distribution: Geneva Tourism, geneve.com

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## PUBLIC VISITS

#### Themed Guided Tours

- About 30 dynamic professional guides to share a special moment and passionately communicate the secrets of Geneva.
- Languages: French, English
- Price: starting from 15 CHF per person; free with the Geneva City Pass
- Distribution: Geneva Tourism, geneve.com

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## GENEVA CHOCO PASS

#### A wonderful way to explore the city while discovering the unique craftsmanship of local chocolatiers

2 types of Choco Pass:

- Discovery
  - Ideal pass for discovering Geneva chocolate, access to 5 partner chocolatiers, includes a 10 CHF voucher for adults, valid for 24 hours.
  - Price: 40 CHF (adult) and 10 CHF (child)
- Unlimited
  - Pass designed for chocolate enthusiasts, offering access to all partner chocolatiers, including a 20 CHF voucher for adults, valid for 48 hours.
  - Price: 75 CHF (adult) and 16 CHF (child)
- Distribution: Geneva Tourism, geneve.com

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## GENEVA CITY PASS

#### 60 free or discounted activities for kids and adults

- In Geneva, for 24, 48, or 72 hours, discover museums, lake cruises, guided tours, rafting… for free or at reduced prices
- With or without transportation
- Price:
  - 24h: 30 CHF without transportation - 35 CHF with transportation
  - 48h: 40 CHF without transportation - 50 CHF with transportation
  - 72h: 50 CHF without transportation - 65 CHF with transportation
  - 20% discount in winter
- Distribution: Geneva Tourism, geneve.com

## GENEVA CITY PASS: Top-10 activities

The Mont-Salève Cable Car

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The Salève cable car takes you up to 1,100 meters in less than five minutes and offers a breathtaking panorama of Lake Geneva, the city of Geneva, and the Alps, including the Mont Blanc massif.

"Geneva Tour" cruise

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One hour to admire Mont-Blanc, the UN and the shores of Lake Geneva from another angle.

Archaeological Site of St Peter's Cathedral

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The remains of churches pre-dating the Cathedral are hidden beneath this ancient building, the oldest dating back to the 4th century. But the ground underneath St Peter's also holds evidence of the hill’s occupation as far back as the pre-Christian era: wells, wheat processing areas, buildings of potential cultural use and tombs of the Celtic Allobroge tribe.

The Towers of St. Pierre Cathedral

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The most beautiful view of Geneva and the lake at the top of the Cathedral's towers.

The Patek Philippe Museum

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The Patek Philippe Museum gathers the most prestigious creations of the brand’s master watchmakers as well as an extraordinary collection of watches, musical automata and enamel miniatures from the 16th to the 19th centuries of Genevan, Swiss and European origins.

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

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A unique heritage located in the heart of international Geneva, near the Palais des Nations, to promote understanding of the history, current affairs and challenges of humanitarian action in Geneva, Switzerland and around the world.

International Museum of the Reformation

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Housed in one of the most elegant town houses in the old town, next to the Cathedral, the Musée International de la Réforme presents a history of the Protestant Reformation in nine rooms. From the 16th century to the present day, paintings, manuscripts, books, prints, objects, music and films paint a portrait of an influential movement in Geneva, Switzerland and beyond.

Tour of the Old Town on the mini-train

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This mini-train takes you through the streets and alleys of the Old Town. From the quai des Bergues, the train goes to the beautiful Place de Neuve with its opera house and the Rath Museum, passing in front of the Reformation Wall.

It then climbs the hill passing by the old houses and statues, the cathedral and the Place du Bourg de Four.

"International Geneva" open-top bus tour

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This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Geneva's international significance. Travel through the iconic International District, home to the United Nations and various organizations dedicated to promoting peace and the well-being of humanity.

"Left shore" mini-train tour

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This small tourist train is the best way to discover Geneva’s left shore: its parks, statues, walkways and magnificent residences. It runs on solar-electric power, ensuring passenger comfort, a quiet ride through the peaceful public gardens and respect for the environment.