Hotels in Geneva, Switzerland

Trying Geneva’s local food is a great way to get a true sense of the city’s culture. Traditional Swiss dishes such as fondue are popular, this involves dipping bread into melted cheese.

Fondue is typically made using Gruyère or Emmental and is a favourite during colder months. Raclette, another cheese-focused dish, involves heating a wheel of cheese and scraping it over potatoes, pickles and cured meats.

Geneva’s location on its namesake lake means that fresh fish dishes, especially perch fillets, are also part of the local food scene. These dishes showcase the region’s blend of Alpine and lakeside culinary traditions, offering visitors hearty and authentic flavours that reflect local heritage.

Yes, swimming in Lake Geneva is a common activity during the warmer summer months, typically between June and September. The city and surrounding lakeside towns have designated swimming areas and public lidos where visitors can enjoy the water safely.

The lake’s water temperature can vary but tends to be comfortable enough for swimming during peak summer. Many swimming spots include amenities such as changing rooms and lifeguards.

Visitors should always respect local rules and swim within marked areas to ensure safety. Swimming in the lake is a refreshing way to connect with Geneva’s natural beauty.

Yes, Lake Geneva has boat tours to suit a variety of tastes, offering scenic views of the city and its surroundings. These include public cruises as well as private charters, travelling routes that highlight the lake’s picturesque shores, mountain backdrops and nearby towns.

Tours vary in length, ranging from short sightseeing trips around Geneva’s waterfront to longer excursions exploring the entire lake basin. Traveling by boat offers a unique vantage point to appreciate Geneva’s skyline, its famous jet d’eau and the tranquil water landscape.

Lake Geneva sightseeing boat tours are a popular way to enjoy the natural and cultural charm of the region.

Yes, there are several day trips from Geneva, its location makes an excellent base for exploring the region. Just across the border in France, the mountain town of Chamonix is famous for its stunning alpine scenery and outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.

Within Switzerland, Lausanne offers a lively cultural scene along with lakeside charm, including museums and historic architecture. For those interested in gastronomy, the nearby wine regions, like Lavaux, feature beautiful, terraced vineyards and opportunities to sample Swiss wines.

These destinations provide diverse experiences, from nature to culture and cuisine, all accessible as a day trip from Geneva with short travel times.

There are many markets in Geneva and the surrounding areas, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s daily life and culinary traditions. Weekly farmers markets take place in different neighbourhoods, featuring fresh, seasonal produce, artisan cheeses, baked goods and flowers.

These markets provide a lively and authentic shopping experience where locals come to buy and sell regional specialties. Additionally, flea markets are popular shopping spots in Geneva, with a variety of antiques, vintage items and curiosities to discover.

One of the most well-known flea markets is Plainpalais market which takes place on Saturdays and Tuesdays. Geneva’s markets offer a great way to connect with the local culture and communities, while enjoying fresh food.