The Ultimate Geneva Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Geneva, Switzerland? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

The second most populous city in Switzerland, Geneva has a population of approximately 620,000 (greater urban area).
Referred to as the world’s most compact metropolis with a significant international culture, Geneva is one of the world’s major centers of international diplomacy.
Set around Europe’s largest Alpine lake, Geneva is known for its appealing landscapes.
One of the world’s most expensive cities to live in (consistently ranks in the top 5).
Nickname: The Peace Capital.

Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF). Euros (EUR) are also accepted, but exchange rates on the Euro tend to be high in the area.
Spoken languages: French, although you will hear many languages spoken. English is understood and spoken by many.
Best time to visit: from May to September. December can also be a magical time due to the Christmas markets and winter festivities.
Great festivals to catch:
– Fête de la Musique in June
– Geneva International Music Festival
– Geneva Lake Festival (Fêtes de Genève) held in August, featuring fireworks, concerts, and food stalls
– Geneva Lux Festival, a light festival held in January
Arriving from the airport:
– Catch a train from the airport to the main Geneva train station (3.30 CHF).
– Buses are also available every 15 minutes (from 6 AM to 11 PM)
– Taxis from the airport will cost you around 30 CHF.
Tip: a free transport ticket into downtown Geneva can be obtained within the airport baggage claim area, and is valid for up to 80 minutes anywhere in Geneva and its suburbs.

Best hostel for solo travelers: Geneva Hostel (yes, that’s the actual name). It’s a bit run down, but in a great location and gets the job done on a budget. Walking distance to restaurants, the train station, and parks/lake.
There is certainly no shortage of hotels – the most luxurious places are in the centre of the city. Budget accommodations are few and far between.
Hotels near the airport also tend to be cheaper.

Tip: anyone staying in a Geneva hotel/hostel is entitled to a free daily travel pass for the local Transport TPG.
Bus/tram tickets will cost you 8 CHF for a day pass, unless you are staying at a Geneva hotel/hostel (where it is free).
Geneva has a public bike-sharing system called Genève Roule, which is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city.
Geneva is relatively small, so walking on foot is always a viable option for most journeys.
E-scooter sharing services like TIER and Lime have become popular for short trips around the city.
If you want to explore the nearby mountainous countryside, renting a car can be an excellent option.
Continuing on? The TGV Lyria train connection links Geneva to cities like Paris and Lyon.

Drinking age is 16 for beer/wine/cider, 18 for all else. Last call is 3 AM.
Plaine de Plainpalais (in the southwest of the Old Town) boasts some of the best bars in Geneva.
Les Pâquis is known for its multi-ethnic take on nightlife, and has many bars and clubs that range from the trendy/hip to those playing classic 70s tunes.

The Jet d’Eau fountain is the monumental postcard picture of Geneva, pumping water 140 meters into the air and visible from the Lac Léman waterfront. The more adventurous can walk up the pathway right up to the jet and get wet!
Cathédrale St-Pierre – the cathedral is at the highest point in Geneva’s Old Town and is a place of cultural and historical importance; a high point of the Reformation history.
Palais des Nations – originally built to house the League of Nations, it is worth visiting just to see the stunning Assembly hall, public art and beautiful grounds.
CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research) offers free guided tours that need to be booked in advance.
Looking for unique museums? Check out MAMCO Genève (modern art) and Bodmer Museum (rare manuscripts and first editions).
The Geneva Pass offers free entry to over 40 attractions and activities. Prices start from 26 CHF for a 24-hour pass.
Tip: many museums in Geneva offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month.

Old Town (Vieille Ville) makes for a good walk and has many highlights to see including the city hall (Hôtel de ville de Genève), Rousseau’s birth house, antique shops and old style architecture.
You can’t go wrong with a walk along Lake Geneva (Lac Léman). Stop for a drink at La Barje (Promenade des Lavandières).
Take a walk in Bastions Park, where you can find the Reformation Wall. Continue on to the Geneva City Hall and the English Garden.
Place du Bourg-de-Four is a great place to stop for a snack and a drink, and just enjoy people watching.
For an authentic neighbourhood experience, head to Carouge (plenty of little shops and events that will give you a true sense of local life).
Into farmer’s markets? Check out the Plainpalais Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays for fresh produce and local crafts.
Free walking tours are available, usually starting from the Jardin Anglais.

Great restaurants in Geneva that locals love: Luigia ($$ – pizza), The Hamburger Foundation (award-winning burgers), Chez Philippe ($$$),
Where to find good cheap food: this is tricky! For an affordable option, check out Chez ma Cousine. Consider McDonald’s (it’s much higher quality here than what you may be used to).
Bains des Pâquis is another hidden gem (affordable food, great views of the city, and you can go for a quick dip if you’re not afraid of the water temperature). Tip: they host a “fondue night” during the winter – not to be missed!
Le Gruyérien is a popular spot for authentic Swiss fondue, with prices around 25-30 CHF per person.
Buying food from supermarkets like Migros or Coop can help save money. Many offer ready-made meals at reasonable prices.

Geneva is set in the beautiful Alps – don’t pass up this opportunity to do some hiking or exploring the natural landscape.
Many shops and public offices close on Sundays, so plan your activities accordingly!
Geneva offers free public Wi-Fi in many areas, including parks and public spaces. Look for “Geneva_wifi” network.
If it’s warm enough, why not go for a quick swim in the Rhone? Pointe de la Jonction is a great spot for this.
For the active person, there are many water sports available on the lake. Boat tours are also available on Lake Geneva – a unique perspective on the city.
In the winter, great skiing can be found close to the city.
Looking to bring chocolates back home (or even to indulge while you’re in town)? Head to AUER Chocolatier.
Dangerous areas to avoid: Geneva is a very safe place to visit. As in any major city, keep your eye on your personal belongings – watch out for pickpockets.

Recommended trip duration: 2-3 days