Geneva Things To Do – Attractions & Must See

Geneva Things To Do

Best known as a banking hub, Geneva is also a center for outdoor recreation and a wonderful place to explore Switzerland’s history. From the center of town to Lake Geneva to the modern world of physics, this a place to enjoy some of Switzerland’s most important attractions.

The Old Town

The old town of Geneva offers a huge cathedral, many museums, and lovely views across the entire valley. Walk along the narrow streets and you’ll find a place that has not changed much in the last few decades. Cathedral St Pierre, most noted for being the pulpit of John Calvin, is in the center of the town and dates back over 800 years. Right next to it is the Museum of Archeological Site of Cathedral St Pierre, which is a scientific dig site with a goal of discovering the many structures that lie buried underneath the present structure. Another museum well worth seeing is the International Museum of The Reformation. Geneva was one of the centers of the Protestant Reformation and he museum has exhibits that take the visitor through the history of this important religious and historical movement.

Get on the Lake

Boating on Lake Geneva is a popular thing to do during summer and there are many ways to head out on the lake, including a public ferry. Tickets for the ferry may even be included in the price of your hotel. Many private boat owners also offer tours of varying lengths, so you can pick from a short tour of about an hour to entire day on the water with lunch included. You can also visit other small towns on the lake including those technically in France. Lake Geneva is a clean enough for a swim. Head in the water at the Bains de Paquis. This artificial peninsula offers bathing, a sauna, drinks, meals and a safe place to swim.

CERN

For a look at the modern side of Geneva, visit CERN. CERN houses the one of the biggest nuclear research facilities in the entire world.  Make arrangements in advance and get a tour with an actual physicist who can walk you through the ongoing work here.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews things to do in Geneva.