Things to Do in Geneva, Switzerland

Located in the bellybutton of Europe, Geneva (or Genève in French) is the business hub of Switzerland housing organizations such as the United Nations and the World Trade Organization. This international city has plenty of museums and historical sights to see as well as places with a more modern twist. One will never run out of things to do in Geneva.

The city sits on the banks of Lake Geneva for which the city is primarily famous for. Its Jet d'eau shoots up 140 metres into the air, making it the tallest fountain in the world. All types of recreation can be found on Lake Geneva from lake cruises, sailing, wind surfing, rowing, scuba diving, and swimming. The lake is virtually clean of pollution and it is perfectly safe to take a dip.

Going to Geneva and not visiting the European headquarters of the UN is like going to Disneyworld and not seeing Cinderella's castle. Guided tours are given periodically throughout the day even into the chambers as well as the museums.

Like most European cities, Geneva has an Old Town sector where the streets get smaller and the buildings begin to cozy up against one another. Cafes and boutiques line the cobblestone streets leading to the Bourg-de-Four, Geneva's oldest public square known today as a very popular meeting spot. The seat of government in Geneva is located in the Old Town, the Hotel De Ville. The first Geneva Convention was held there in 1864 and the League on Nations was founded there in 1920.

Parks and recreational not to miss are the English Garden, home to the world's largest "flower clock", symbolizing Geneva's eco-friendliness. La Perle-du-Lac and Park Moynier are also areas not to miss, right along Lake Geneva. Tourists have said that it is the most beautiful area of Geneva, with views across the lake of Mont Blanc. It is a popular picnic destination for tourists and locals alike.

For the young and restless, or young at heart, Geneva has some good nightclubs, but nothing near to the parties that "go down" in Lausanne. A handful worth seeking out are the Platinum club, White n' Silver, and the biggest club in Geneva, Java Club. Most discotheques play house and rnb, though the most popular DJs make their stops in Zurich and Lausanne. Late at night, most restaurants turn into nightclubs so really a party can be found on any corner. One does not have to look very far.