A smart, cosmopolitan lakeside city

Geneva sits beside Europe’s largest alpine lake. Watch the water twinkle as the brightly coloured boats sail gently by. The Jet d’Eau fountain is an intriguing attraction. On a clear day the striking Mont-blanc is visible in the distance. Beside the lake neatly manicured flowerbeds, smart buildings and elegant residences look on. Geneva is slick, cosmopolitan and popular with international visitors. As the worldwide centre of diplomacy, the city plays host to organisations including the UN, the Red Cross and the World Health Organization. Feast on an array of local cuisine; try chic eateries such as the roof terrace at U Jardinù Bobba or the ever-popular Brasserie Lipp. Browse chocolate shops, jewellers, museums and art galleries scattered across the city.

Why Go?
Geneva is smart, clean and so cosmopolitan, that there’s really nowhere else quite like it. Its beautiful lakeside location is stunning and despite being a city, the air is wonderfully fresh. Sample the famous Swiss chocolate and pick up a box to take home as a gift.

When to Go?
Geneva has a temperate climate and each season offers the visitor something to do. In the summer people swim in the lake and head to the public beaches. Spring and autumn are fresh and warm. Winters are cold, and the city regularly gets snow in the colder months. Nearby mountains are usually suitable for skiing and there are many resorts, such as Vebier, just over an hour away by car.

How to get there?
Most UK airports offer scheduled, charter or budget flights to Aéroport International de Genève (GVA), which is only 5km (3 miles) from the city centre. Bus and train links from the airport to Geneva are quick and efficient. Flight time from the UK is 1.5 hours. Don’t pack your Euros the Swiss use francs.

Must see
One hundred and fifty seven steps lead up to the top of the 12th century St Peter’s Cathedral’s tower, the climb is worth it as you get a sweeping panoramic view of the city and the lake. Tour the Place du Bourg-de-Four, which is a popular meeting place. Locals gather around its flowered fountain or outside one of the cafes; it’s a great spot for a coffee. Visit the Old Town flea market which takes place every Wednesday and Saturday.