48 hours in Geneva – A 2 day Itinerary

A luxurious fairytale… Geneva is a symbol of luxury and opulence nestled in a private village that has an elite old money aesthetic and lifestyle. It beckons travelers from around the world due to its understated wealth and sophistication.

It’s a place that leaves its visitors feeling deeply satisfied and relaxed after just a few moments in its presence.

This is a 2 day itinerary for Geneva that will have you begging to stay longer. This is the kind of trip which you’ll reference often saying, “During my time in Geneva…”. You’ll find it hard to shut up about the glorious time you’re about to have. 

Where to Stay in Geneva for 2 days

Old Town (Vieille Ville) is the historic heart of Geneva, known for its narrow, winding streets, picturesque squares, and well-preserved medieval architecture.

Staying here will give you easy access to landmarks like St. Peter’s Cathedral, Maison Tavel, and the Rath Museum. It’s a vibrant area with numerous restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops.

Rive Gauche can be found on the southern side of Lake Geneva, and oozes entertainment. It’s home to the international district, where many international organizations and NGOs are located.

You’ll find a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and bars in this area. It’s also close to the beautiful Parc des Bastions and the University of Geneva.

Eaux-Vives is a popular residential area with a relaxed atmosphere. It offers a mix of green spaces, lakefront promenades, and vibrant streets filled with restaurants and cafes. The Parc La Grange, a beautiful park with a rose garden and lake views, is a highlight of this area.

Les Pâquis is a multicultural area. It offers a wide array of budget-friendly accommodations, ethnic restaurants, and nightlife options. The iconic Jet d’Eau, one of Geneva’s main attractions, is within walking distance.

Often referred to as the “Greenwich Village” of Geneva, Carouge is a charming neighborhood known for its atmosphere and Mediterranean vibes.

It’s filled with colorful buildings, tree-lined streets, trendy boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Carouge has a unique character and is well-connected to the city center by public transport.

Best Time to Visit Geneva for 2 days

Geneva shines during the summer months (June to August), with pleasant temperatures ranging from mild to warm. The city comes alive with outdoor events, festivals, and concerts. You can relax by the lakeside, go boating, or take a swim in Lake Geneva.

Summer is also an ideal time for hiking in the nearby mountains and exploring the surrounding countryside. However, it’s worth noting that summer is a peak tourist season, and accommodation prices tend to be higher.

Autumn (September to November) in Geneva brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage. The city is less crowded during this season, making it a good time for sightseeing and exploring museums and cultural attractions.

The annual Geneva International Film Festival and other cultural events take place during the autumn months. Keep in mind that weather conditions can be changeable, so it’s advisable to have layers and a light jacket.

Overview Of 2 Days In Geneva Itinerary

Day 1 in Geneva

• Patek Philippe Museum
• Red Cross Museum
• Old Town

Day 2 in Geneva

• Lake Geneva
• Flower Clock
• Cheese Fondue

Day 1 in Geneva

For the first day of your Geneva trip, you’ll learn about Geneva and experience the best historical museums of the city.

Patek Philippe Museum

The Patek Philippe Museum is a horology museum located in Geneva, Switzerland. It is dedicated to showcasing the history, artistry, and craftsmanship of watchmaking, with a particular focus on Patek Philippe timepieces.

The museum boasts an extensive collection of timepieces spanning several centuries, from the 16th century to the present day. It features an impressive array of watches, pocket watches, enamel miniatures, automata, and other horological artifacts.

The collection includes both historical and contemporary pieces, showcasing the evolution of watchmaking techniques and styles.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Patek Philippe Museum hosts temporary exhibitions that delve into specific themes or explore the works of renowned watchmakers and artisans.

These exhibits offer a deeper dive into various aspects of horology, providing visitors with unique insights and a broader appreciation for the craft.

Even if you’re not buying one of these exclusive watches, it’s worth experiencing anyway.

Red Cross Museum

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum is a renowned museum located in Geneva, Switzerland. It is dedicated to showcasing the humanitarian work and principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

The museum is situated in a striking contemporary building near Lake Geneva, in the neighborhood of Ariana Park. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, designed by the renowned firm Gringo Cardia.

Its distinctive shape and layout reflect the principles of humanity and protection that are at the core of the Red Cross movement.

In your tour you’ll go on the Humanitarian Adventure. This exhibition takes visitors on a journey through the history of humanitarian action, from the Battle of Solferino, which inspired the creation of the Red Cross in 1863, to modern-day challenges.

It showcases the stories of individuals affected by conflicts, epidemics, and natural disasters, highlighting the vital role played by humanitarian organizations in providing aid, support, and protection.

Old Town Geneva

For the afternoon and evening, you’ll explore the Old Town of Geneva, also known as the Vieille Ville and fall in love with its refined simplicity.

This is the best way to explore the Old Town:

Start your journey by visiting St. Pierre’s Cathedral, a prominent landmark in Geneva. Climb the towers for a panoramic view of the city and explore the archaeological site beneath the cathedral.

Visit Maison Tavel, the oldest house in Geneva, which now serves as a museum. Discover the history of the city through interactive exhibits and displays.

Spend time at Place du Bourg-de-Four, a lively square lined with outdoor cafes and restaurants. It’s a great spot to relax, people-watch, and enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal.

Explore the birthplace of the famous philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau. This 18th-century house showcases the life and works of Rousseau through exhibits and displays.

Take a leisurely stroll along Promenade de la Treille, a picturesque promenade lined with trees and benches. At the end of the promenade, you’ll find the famous “Mère Royaume,” one of the oldest chestnut trees in Geneva.

Enjoy the serene surroundings of Bastions Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city. Admire the Reformation Wall, a monument paying tribute to the leaders of the Protestant Reformation.

Visit the Rath Museum, located in a beautiful neoclassical building, to explore its art collection featuring works by Swiss and international artists. Additionally, check out the Maison de Rousseau et de la Littérature, a museum dedicated to literature and the life of Jean-Jacques Rousseau.

While technically outside the Old Town, a short walk across the Arve River will take you to Carouge. This bohemian neighborhood offers a lively atmosphere, with its vibrant squares, art galleries, boutiques, and cozy cafes. 

Finish off your day by exploring numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering a wide range of cuisines and atmospheres. Sample traditional Swiss dishes, international cuisine, or relax at a cozy wine bar.

Day 2 in Geneva

Lake Geneva 

Yesterday’s activities were mellow and culturally inspiring. Today is for adventure and what better way to start off the day than with a polar plunge at lake Geneva to get your senses heightened.

Lake Geneva, known as Lac Léman in French, is a stunning natural attraction that borders Switzerland and France. With its crystal-clear waters, picturesque shoreline, and magnificent Alpine backdrop, Lake Geneva offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

Explore the lake’s beauty by taking a leisurely boat cruise. Enjoy the scenic views, fresh breeze, and glimpse the charming towns and landmarks along the shore. Several companies offer boat tours and excursions, including steamboat cruises, dinner cruises, and private charters.

Admire the iconic Jet d’Eau, one of Geneva’s most famous landmarks. This enormous water fountain shoots water up to 140 meters high, creating a spectacular display. Take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy the view of the jet against the backdrop of the lake and the mountains.

Make the most of Lake Geneva’s waters by engaging in various water sports. Go sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, or water skiing. Rental facilities and schools are available in many lakeside towns, allowing both beginners and experienced enthusiasts to enjoy these activities.

Enjoy a swim in the lake’s clean and refreshing waters, especially during the summer months when the water is at a comfortable temperature. Some popular beaches include Bains des Pâquis in Geneva, Plage de Promenthoux in Versoix, and Plage de Préverenges near Lausanne.

Explore the vineyards that dot the slopes surrounding Lake Geneva. Embark on a wine tour and discover the region’s viticulture heritage.

Visit wineries, taste local wines, and learn about the winemaking process. The Lavaux region, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly renowned for its terraced vineyards and panoramic views.

Whilst you’re in the area, check out Chillon Castle, a medieval fortress located on the shores of Lake Geneva near Montreux.

Explore the well-preserved halls, courtyards, and towers of this historic castle, which dates back to the 12th century. The castle offers captivating views of the lake and hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year.

If you visit during the summer, don’t miss the renowned Montreux Jazz Festival. This internationally acclaimed music festival takes place annually in Montreux, attracting top artists from around the world.

Explore the charming town of Vevey, located on the northeastern shore of Lake Geneva. Visit the Alimentarium, a food museum dedicated to nutrition and culinary arts, or discover the historic old town with its narrow streets, quaint squares, and delightful cafés.

Flower Clock 

Next up on the map is The Flower Clock. Also known as L’Horloge Fleurie in French, it is a famous tourist attraction located in the English Garden (Jardin Anglais) on the banks of Lake Geneva in Geneva, Switzerland.

It’s made entirely of flowers, creating a vibrant and colorful display. It was first created in 1955 to showcase Geneva’s expertise in watchmaking and horticulture. The clock’s design changes with the seasons, featuring a variety of blooming flowers and plants meticulously arranged to form the clock’s hands and numerals.

The Flower Clock is located within the beautiful English Garden, a well-manicured park offering a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city. Enjoy a languid walk along the lakeside promenade, relax on the benches, and take in the views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps.

Take a walk along Quai du Mont-Blanc, a promenade that runs parallel to the lake. Enjoy the scenic views, admire the luxurious boats and yachts, and visit the popular Bains des Pâquis, a lakeside swimming area and cultural hotspot.

Geneva is renowned for its luxury shopping options. Explore the upscale boutiques, jewelry stores, and watch shops in the surrounding area. Rue du Rhône and Rue du Marché are particularly famous for their high-end fashion brands and Swiss watchmakers.

Cheese Fondue

End your Geneva trip off with a traditional favorite- Cheese fondue. Gooey, melty, savory, umami goodness awaits…

Fondue has deep roots in Swiss culinary history, originally conceived as a way to utilize leftover bread and cheese during the winter months. It gained popularity in the 19th century as a communal meal shared among friends and family. Today, fondue has become an iconic symbol of Swiss cuisine.

When it comes to cheese fondue, the traditional recipe typically includes a blend of Swiss cheeses such as Gruyère and Emmental. These cheeses are melted in a pot along with white wine, garlic, and a touch of kirsch (cherry brandy) to create a smooth and creamy fondue mixture.

The melted cheese is served with pieces of crusty bread, and diners use long forks to dip the bread into the cheese.

While the classic cheese fondue is a must-try, Geneva offers some interesting variations to tantalize your taste buds. Look out for the “moitié-moitié” fondue, which is made with equal parts of Gruyère and Vacherin Fribourgeois cheese.

This combination creates a rich and flavorful fondue. Another specialty is the “Fondue Neuchâteloise,” made with Gruyère cheese and a sprinkle of the local semi-hard cheese called Sbrinz. It adds a unique twist to the traditional fondue.

Located in the heart of Geneva’s Old Town, Café du Soleil is one of the city’s oldest restaurants, dating back to 1701. This historic establishment offers a warm and rustic atmosphere to enjoy traditional Swiss fondue.

Nestled in the Eaux-Vives neighborhood, Le Chalet Suisse is a chalet-style restaurant that specializes in Swiss cuisine. They serve a variety of fondues, including the classic cheese fondue, in a charming Alpine setting.

For a unique fondue experience, head to Bains des Pâquis, a popular lakeside swimming area. During the winter months, they set up temporary fondue stands where you can enjoy fondue with a view of Lake Geneva and the Jet d’Eau.

Keep an eye out for fondue events and festivals that take place in Geneva throughout the year. These events celebrate the love for fondue and offer opportunities to indulge in this beloved Swiss dish.

From cozy winter pop-up fondue chalets to outdoor fondue parties during the summer, there’s always a chance to enjoy a memorable fondue experience.

After eating and sampling one-of-a-kind cheeses, there’s no way you can go home without your favorite one. Explore the local fromageries (cheese shops) and find an assortment of Swiss cheeses, including those specifically used for fondue to take home and reminisce.

You’ve seen it all… From Swiss craftsmanship and historical sites to mesmerizing water bodies and the charm of Swiss exclusivity to dining and indulging in a decadent fondue and wine experience.

Geneva is a place that stills time and forces you to enjoy its luxury in a slow, meaningful way. It makes sure you leave with a complete taste of culture, opulence and splendor. 

Recommended tours in Geneva

• Chocolate Flavours Tours Geneva: 3-hour Chocolate Tasting and Old Town Visit
• Gruyères Tour from Geneva With Panorama Train Ride, Chocolate and Cheese Tasting
• Day Trip to Montreux, Chaplin’s World Museum and Chillon Castle
• Geneva and Annecy Tour With Optional Lake Geneva Cruise
• Geneva City Tour
• Geneva City Tour and Boat Cruise
• GENEVA complete tour. Hotel PICK-UP, Geneva internat. & Old City

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