Overview
Tavel House, or Maison Tavel, is the oldest private residence in Geneva, dating back to the 12th century. It offers a fascinating journey through the city's history, showcasing various rooms and exhibits that highlight its architectural and cultural significance.
Tavel House is a prime example of medieval architecture in Geneva and houses a museum that tells the story of the city's past, from the Middle Ages to the present.
Location
Address
Rue du Puits-Saint-Pierre 6, Geneva
Neighborhood: Vieille Ville (Old Town)
Coordinates
46.205697, 6.145124
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-October
Best Time of Day
Morning
fewer crowds, better light for photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • flowering gardens
- • spring exhibitions
summer
warm to hot
- • extended opening hours
- • outdoor exhibitions
autumn
cool to mild
- • autumn colors
- • harvest-themed exhibitions
winter
cold
- • holiday decorations
- • Christmas market
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Bring valid ID
- Check weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low to moderate (some walking and stairs)
- • uneven floors in some parts
- • narrow staircases
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
credit cards, debit cards, cash
Currency
Swiss Franc (CHF)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes for walking on medieval floors, walking shoes or sneakers, inappropriate clothing, high heels (for safety reasons)
Booking Tips
- • at least a week
- • official website or authorized partners
- • 48 hours in advance for a full refund
- • available with online tickets
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Geneva Culture & Tourism
Size: 65 MB
Features: Maps and directions, Audio guides, Tickets and passes, Event calendar, City information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café, Courtyard
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Café
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Geneva Airport (GVA)
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 15-20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 1 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: It's a piece of Geneva's history right in the heart of the city, a place where locals and tourists alike can connect with the past.
Historical Significance: The house has witnessed over 800 years of Geneva's history, from its medieval roots to its modern-day identity as an international city.
Insider Tips
- Visit on a Tuesday morning for a quieter experience
- The medieval cellar is a must-see and often less crowded
- Check the schedule for special evening events
Local Recommendations
- • Try a café crème at a nearby café
- • Visit the Geneva Cathedral next door
- • Ask the staff about the building's hidden secrets
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: French, English, German
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Courtyard
Best Time: Golden hour in the afternoon
Tips: Capture the medieval architecture with the sky in the background
Result: Stunning shots of the courtyard with warm light
Medieval Cellar
Best Time: Early morning for soft light
Tips: Low angle shots to emphasize the height of the vaulted ceiling
Result: Impressive photos of the historic cellar
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Geneva Cathedral
Distance: 200m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Cathedral
Saint Peter's Cathedral
Distance: 200m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Cathedral
Bastion Park
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Park
The Reformation Wall
Distance: 600m
Walking: 8 min
Type: Historical Site
Geneva Old Town (Vieille Ville)
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Historical District
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tickets online to skip the line"
- "Visit the medieval cellar"
- "Go early to avoid crowds"
- "Combine with a visit to the Geneva Cathedral"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (2)
Quick Info
Available Tours
7
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
12 CHF