A Weekend in Geneva Itinerary: History, Culture, Nature and Chocolate

Nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman), this peaceful gem of Switzerland is framed by the majestic Jura Mountains and the Alps. While this quietly elegant city is home to the United Nations and the Red Cross, it also has a vibrant cultural heart, full of museums, art galleries, and the charm of the Old Town’s cobbled streets. Enjoy a gourmet meal on a scenic boat ride across the lake, soaking in the alpine vistas that surround the city. Take a cable car for an unforgettable ride to panoramic views that stretch over the lake and city. And of course, we’ve thrown in some Swiss indulgence. Taste the rich flavours of fondue and sample decadent local chocolates. Whether you're exploring historic streets or enjoying the great outdoors, Geneva invites you to experience its unique blend of global influence and Swiss charm. Ready for a weekend to remember?

Begin your weekend in Geneva with an infusion of art and culture by reserving your place in this opulent auditorium with intricate frescoed ceilings. This majestic 19th-century building towering over Place de Neuve is the largest production theatre in French-speaking Switzerland. A terrible fire destroyed most of the interior in 1951, after which it was rebuilt and extensively renovated twice. It now boasts the largest stage in Switzerland and is equipped for the highest quality contemporary scenography and performances. Settle into your red velvet seat on one of the gilded balconies and let yourself be transported by an opera, ballet, concert or play.

Full of the evening’s sights and sounds, you’ll be more than ready for a replenishing night’s sleep. This elegant boutique hotel near the Brunswick monument is only a stone’s throw from the lake.

Boulevard du Théâtre 11, 1204 Genève.

Just a short distance from the centre of Geneva, Carouge has a surprisingly Mediterranean charm and Sardinian-inspired architecture. Originally built as a separate town, it now boasts a bohemian vibe. Wander through quaint, narrow streets lined with artisanal shops, tailors, antique dealers and trendy cafés. The produce market on the Place du Marché has a mouthwatering selection of local cheeses, sausage, wine, fruit and fresh breads. When you're done, take a 15-minute ride on the number 12 bus or cycle to the Jardin Anglais for the next part of your Geneva weekend getaway.

Enjoy a delicious three-course lunch while you glide across the serene waters of Lake Geneva towards the Jet d’Eau. Spouting 500 litres of water per second, the iconic fountain rises 140m into the air, which is higher than the London Eye. Sample local wines and delicacies as you take in the stunning views of the surrounding Alps and picturesque waterfront. Have a look at the famous floral clock on the western side of the garden while you wait – over 6,000 flowers paying tribute to the city's watchmakers!

Compagnie Générale de Navigation cruises depart from the Jardin Anglais at 12:35pm and cost from CHF72 to CHF110 (€77-€117) depending on your choice of menu.

Discover the intriguing world of watchmaking. The Patek Philippe Museum houses a fascinating collection spread over four levels, including antique tools and a restoration workshop. Admire timepieces from the 16th to mid-19th century and intricately painted enamel snuffboxes, and explore the legendary Patek Philippe collection from 1839 to 2000.

Rue des Vieux-Grenadiers 7, 1205 Genève. Open Tuesday to Friday 2pm-6pm, Saturday 10am-6pm. Entry costs CHF 10.

What could be more Swiss than fondue? End your day at Le Perron restaurant, a 15-minute walk away on a street of the same name. Dip fresh bread into a delicious combination of melted cheese and wine. If you're not so keen on cheese, try the beef broth fondue or something lighter from the varied menu.

Rue du Perron 5, 1204 Genève. Open Monday to Saturday, 10am-midnight.

Mont Salève offers breathtaking views of the city and Lake Geneva. To reach the top, hop on Bus 8, which runs frequently and gets you to Veyrier-Douane in about 30 minutes from the city centre. From there, enjoy a short ten-minute stroll across the French border (don't forget your passport!) to the Salève cable car. In just five minutes, the cable car whisks you up. It's an effortless and rewarding trip – a perfect spot for a picnic with gorgeous panoramas.

A round-trip costs €18 and tickets can be purchased online.

You can't come to Switzerland and miss out on chocolate! Take Bus 8 again from central Geneva and get off at the Mont Blanc stop, a five-minute walk from the Quai des Bergues, where you can start your Local Flavours Tour at 2pm. This award-winning tour takes three hours and combines visits of the city's best traditional and modern artisanal chocolateries with a guided tour of the Old Town. Nibble on chocolate pralines, truffles and pastries, sample ganache and sip on hot chocolate while taking in the sights of the historic city centre. Points of interest on the tour include:

This gothic building with an 18th-century façade has a uniquely minimalist interior, due to being turned into a Protestant place of worship during the Reformation.

Geneva's oldest private residence, this unusual home burned down in 1334 and was rebuilt in the style of a fortified house with turrets and a facade adorned with sculpted heads.

This charming square has a floral fountain in the centre and is surrounded by magnificent 16th- to 18th-century buildings housing antique shops, art galleries, bookshops, bars and bistros where an eclectic mixture of locals like to gather.

Once part of the defensive walls of the city this ornately decorated tower sports a clock, frieze and the coats of arms of the Reformers. Its plaque reads "Geneva, city of refuge".

Empress Elisabeth of Austria was tragically stabbed by her assassin here, on her way to take the steamship, Genève, for Montreux. She subsequently collapsed on the ship and was carried back to the Hotel Beau Rivage, across the street from the statue, where she breathed her last.

French for "power plant building", this striking structure was the powerhouse of a former hydroelectric station and waterworks. It was converted into a theatre in 1997.

Tour tickets cost CHF 100 and it's best to book ahead.

If your family getaway or romantic weekend in Geneva has whetted your appetite for discovering more of Switzerland, how about doing a day trip from Geneva?