Destination Guide
Geneva Travel Information
Switzerland's second largest city Geneva is affectionately known as the 'city of peace'. It is home to the European headquarters of United Nations Office (UNO) and the head office of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), as well as being a central hub for the international economy.
Language: Switzerland has four official languages: French, German, Italian and Romansh.
Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
Time: Geneva is in the Central European Time zone (CET) = GMT +1 hour
Need to knows
Visa info
British, Australian, Canadian, Americans and other EU citizens are not required to apply for a visa but it's always wise to contact the embassy to check for updated visa requirements for Switzerland. You can also check our interactive map for required paperwork.
To tip or not to tip?
In Geneva, a service charge will usually be included in the bill or stated on the menu before ordering and therefore it is not necessary to tip on top of this. However, it is still considered good etiquette to leave a small tip, around 10%, signalling appreciation for the service received.
Going out to eat?
The Swiss are know to have breakfast a little earlier then we may be used to in the UK and lunch usually begins at Noon as it is the main meal of the day. There is often an afternoon snack at around 4pm called “Zvieri” and lastly, dinner is often the lightest meal of the day usually falling between 6pm - 7pm.
Working hours?
Forty-two hours is considered the normal number of hours to work per week. This may seem long, but to compensate, Swiss employees receive four weeks holiday, as well as public holidays. Normal working days will typically start between 8:30am and 9am, and end between 5:30pm -7pm.
Languages spoken?
The three main languages spoken in Geneva are French, Italian and German. French is the main language spoken in Geneva, but most residents will also speak a second language. If English is the only language you speak, then you’ll be pleased to know that English is spoken by around a quarter of those from Geneva and by most foreigners living there.
Local customs
Handshakes are the common greeting in Switzerland, with everyone being greeted. Handshakes should also take place at the end of a meeting. Swiss people are very time conscious (perhaps that’s why Swiss watches are considered some of the best in the world) and punctuality is vital, especially in business situations.
Last names and titles are used to address people in Switzerland, with first names reserved for close friends and family. Poor posture is frowned upon, you shouldn’t slouch or stretch in public. And pointing your index finger to your head is considered an insult.
You should dress in a very smart and neat fashion, Swiss people do not care for messy attire. And don’t litter, you’ll be publicly scolded (not literally!) and handed a fine (literally!).
Where to work?
Geneva is a great location to do business; it boasts various convention halls and venues, and some 7,800+ hotel beds.
As the home to large international organisations, pharmaceutical companies, banks and the Geneva Business School, Geneva is more than equipped to accommodate business meetings and larger events.
Getting around
Public transport
Much of the Old Town in Geneva is off-limits to cars, so catching a bus or a tram is the easiest way to get around the city. Trams and buses are run by Transport Public Genevois (TPG) and they operate daily from 6am to midnight depending on the service. 'Noctombus' is a night bus that runs on Friday and Saturday nights from midnight to 4am. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines, various newsagents and the TPG office.
Train journeys from Geneva Airport to the city centre take just seven minutes, with up to seven trains running per hour at peak hours.
Boat
Take a boat; it is a great way to explore the city. Yellow shuttle boats, also known as Les Mouettes (the seagulls) cross Lake Geneva every 10 minutes between 7:30am to 6pm in the summer months. They depart from Quai du Mont Blan, Quai Gustave Ador, Perle du Lac and Parc des Eaux Vives. The same ticket can be used for the buses and trams as well.
Where to eat
We asked Geneva-based Jean-Baptiste Sirabella-Zounias, Business Development Manager his lunch recommendations.
For business lunch with a client: Patio Rive Gauche "Boeuf et Homard" is just an amazing place. They have a business lunch menu which is not too expensive and typical prices for Geneva. It's a very nice place, very beautiful and food and wine is just amazing. They are very professional, well dressed, and it gives a superb image; I used to go there every month with my fiancée. It's a very high level restaurant. Really cool to go with a client.
For a quick business lunch: The choice is all yours, but I'd recommend a brasserie with typical French food. It's fast, very good and not expensive because you can take a quick plate or the business menu. I'd recommend the Kudeta, in Carouge. Typical food, very nice if you just have to grab a quick lunch but still want to eat in a restaurant.
For a very quick lunch: I'd recommend Halle de Rive. So basically, it's a huge market where you can find whatever you want. Sandwiches, quick cooking, burgers, wraps...there are only nice sellers that propose only fresh products. You can go with CHF 15 (£14) and have something very nice. This indoor market is really cool!
Where best to explore and spend some leisure time?
Whether you have a spare afternoon or have enough time for a day trip, there's plenty to see.
Geneva Old Town
The Old Town has plenty to offer. The many cobblestone streets lead to most of Geneva's tourist attractions, including St Pierre Cathedral, the Art and History Museum, and Maison Tavel on Rue du Puits-Saint-Pierre - the oldest house in the city. You could visit a flea market, or opt for a walking tour if you'd like to hear insights from an expert Geneva travel guide.
Jet d’Eau
The Jet d’Eau is one of Geneva’s most famous landmarks. Sitting where Lake Geneva empties into the Rhone River, the fountain can be seen right across the city and makes for spectacular views. 500 litres of water are fired 140m into the air per second – it’s even visible during a flight over Geneva at 33,000ft. But beware if you take the stone jetty on the left bank of the lake, a slight change of wind direction and you might find yourself getting a bit wet.
Palais des Nations
The Palais des Nations (United Nations) complex attracts thousands of visitors a year. It is the second largest UN Centre after the UN Headquarters in New York. Situated in a park with huge lawns and roaming peacocks, it really is worth a visit. The Palais itself is only available to the public via guided tours and you must have a valid photo ID with you to join one.
See the city from a high
For a stunning view of the city and a glimpse at Mont Blanc, take the cable car up Mont Salève. The cable celebrated its 91st anniversary in 2023 with a makeover, including a panoramic restaurant and 360° platform.