This post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may make a commission at no cost to you.
I decided to stay in gorgeous Geneva for a week and found solace, as usual, gazing at the jagged mountain peaks, strolling the cobbled streets and peaceful lakeshore, and exploring the region’s delights.
My obsession with Switzerland runs deep and goes way back to 1988 when I lived in Germany a mere hour from the Swiss border. I practiced my Schweizerdeutsch every time I visited. The guttural language, unlike the Hochdeutsch I learned in school, with its melodic structure and rhythmic nature appealed to my senses and allowed me to hone my language skills in the regional dialect of the North. That, in addition to the consumption of embarrassingly large amounts of fondue—a weakness of mine along with copious amounts of bread, drew me to the country.
Since then, I have continued to visit countless times, and each village and city has its own allure.
Here are some of the top recommendations of how to spend a week in this bustling international city with a hometown feel.
Walk Old Town’s Cobbled Streets and Visit Saint Peter’s Cathedral
Charming, quaint, and historic… the essence of Old Town with its many bakeries, restaurants, and shops. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the streets, and pop into Saint Peter’s Cathedral which is directly in the center. If you climb the towers, you get a stunning view of the city and the lake.
Stroll along Lake Geneva
Take time before or after dinner to do as the Swiss do and stroll the lake’s promenade. There are plenty of bars where you can sit and have a drink or grab a gelato.
Take a Ferry to Nyon and Yvoire
The ferry is the best mode of transportation to visit villages on the lake. Nyon and Yvoire are two of the most popular and interesting, and Yvoire is actually located in France, which makes it fun. Go shopping, sightseeing, or have lunch as we did.
Spend a Relaxing Day at Les Bain de Lavey
You can spend as little as 3 hours to the entire day here. We made a day of it and paid 35 Swiss francs to experience the entire complex with its thermal waters, various types of saunas and steam rooms, jacuzzis, and treatments. The location is stunning, and this turned into one of the most fun days we had. There are restaurants, bars, and even a hotel. Book online and take the train from Geneva to St-Maurice. Then, you hop on the bus that will take you directly to the baths.
Visit Château de Chillon
I wrote an entire post on this experience because it was incredible. Read it here. Chateau Chillon is one of the most photographed medieval castles in the world. It is easy to get to and so worth it.
Hike in the Alps
There are hiking trails everywhere that are well-marked and safe. We always ask the concierge for maps and recommendations. Linnie and I ask for trails that are populated and bring a day pack full of essentials.
Take a hot air balloon ride in Chateau d’Oex
Linnie wrote a great blog post on this. Read it here. Taking a hot air balloon ride over the Alps at dawn is serene and exhilarating at the same time. Even though I have a fear of heights, I got through it, and I am so glad I was able to witness the beauty from above.
Take the Train to Lausanne or Montreux
Traveling by train in Switzerland makes it easy and convenient to explore surrounding cities. Both of these are winners with many sights, museums, parks, hikes or walks, and great restaurants.
Drink wine in Vevey, Lavaux, a UNESCO world-heritage site
Take the train to Vevey to experience the best wine in Switzerland. The terraced area has its own unique factors that contribute to the viticulture and produce notable Grand Crus.
Eat Fondue
I can’t get enough of this… or chocolate, to be honest, and every restaurant has its version. Try them all!
Day trips with Viator
Chamonix, Mont Blanc, Interlaken, Annecy… are more places to explore from Geneva. Check out Viator for more tours.
What’s nice about Geneva is that it is close to so many destinations. There is so much to do and see that it is difficult to get bored. And, the best part…there’s always more fondue to eat!