A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Geneva’s Old Town

Geneva , Switzerland

A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Geneva’s Old Town

Active

(4 reviews)

50m - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this self-guided audio tour, you'll meet the movers and shakers behind Geneva's Red Cross and the Protestant Reformation. Join producer Ariel Peter Haemmerlé - a certified Geneva tourist guide - as you explore Geneva's old town.

You'll embark on a journey to bygone Geneva and discover how a small city left a surprisingly large footprint in the fields of ethics, politics, history and science. On this walking tour, you’ll stroll through the cobbled streets to hear stories that began over 2,000 years ago and others that take us to the present day. Pierre will tell you who founded the city, what role the Celts and the Romans had in its formation, and who the Burgundians were.

You’ll learn about the Protestant Reformation, the Swiss Confederation, and the founding of the Red Cross and the Geneva Conventions.

Come along and explore Geneva's beautiful, storied corners as you retrace its journey to becoming one of the world's smallest cities with global significance.

Available options

A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Geneva’s Old Town

What's included

Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it

The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Begin your journey at the old marketplace, Bourg-de-Four, and immerse yourself in Geneva's rich history. While passing by, any purchases made at the marketplace or entrance fees to nearby attractions are not included in the tour cost.

Walk by Geneva Cathedral, also known as St. Pierre Cathedral, and admire its architectural grandeur. While passing by, any entry fees to visit the interior or climb the tower are not included in the tour cost.

Stroll past Tavel House, Geneva's oldest house now transformed into a museum. While passing by, any entry fees to visit the museum are not included in the tour cost.

Pass by Geneva's Town Hall and learn about its role in the city's history. While passing by, any entry fees to visit the interior or attend events are not included in the tour cost.

End your journey at Parc "La Treille" and take in the serene surroundings. While passing by, any entrance fees or activities within the park are not included in the tour cost.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Available languages

Audio guide

DE EN FR

Written guide

DE EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

The tour starts at Place du Bourg-de-Four in the heart of the old town. To go there, you can climb up to the old town from anywhere.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE 
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE 
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT 
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Geneva

Geneva, nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva and surrounded by the Alps, is a picturesque city known for its international diplomacy, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. As the home of the United Nations and the Red Cross, it's a hub of global significance with a high quality of life and a vibrant cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Jet d'Eau

A iconic water fountain on Lake Geneva, shooting water 140 meters into the air. A symbol of the city and a popular photo spot.

Nature 30 minutes Free

St. Peter's Cathedral

A beautiful Romanesque cathedral with a rich history and panoramic views from its tower. It's a significant religious and historical site in Geneva.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (tower climb CHF 5)

Palais des Nations

The headquarters of the United Nations in Europe. Offers guided tours to learn about the UN's work and history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (tours require advance booking)

Lake Geneva

A stunning lake surrounded by the Alps, offering various activities like cruises, swimming, and water sports.

Nature Half day or more Free to explore, cruises from CHF 20

Reformation Wall

A monumental wall honoring the Protestant Reformation and its leaders. An important historical site in Geneva.

Historical 30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fondue

Melted cheese served in a communal pot, enjoyed with bread. A classic Swiss dish.

Dinner Contains dairy, not suitable for vegetarians or those with lactose intolerance.

Raclette

Melted cheese scraped onto boiled potatoes and pickles. A hearty and comforting dish.

Dinner Contains dairy, not suitable for vegetarians or those with lactose intolerance.

Tartiflette

A rich and creamy dish made with potatoes, onions, bacon, and melted cheese.

Dinner Contains dairy and pork, not suitable for vegetarians or those with lactose intolerance.

Geneva Salad

A fresh salad made with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a variety of cheeses, dressed with a tangy vinaigrette.

Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan by omitting certain cheeses.

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Mountain biking Paragliding Rock climbing Boat tours on Lake Geneva Spa and wellness treatments Picnicking in the parks

Best Time to Visit

June to August, December to January

Summer offers warm weather and outdoor activities, while winter brings festive holiday markets and winter sports. These are the busiest times with higher tourist volumes.

15-25°C (summer), -1-5°C (winter) 59-77°F (summer), 30-41°F (winter)

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, German, Italian
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Swiss Franc (CHF)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Geneva is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is relatively uncommon. However, it's always important to stay vigilant and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid using them at night
• Only use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Geneva Airport • 4 km from city center

By train

Geneva railway station

By bus

Geneva Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and frequent trams and buses. Easy to use with a single ticket system.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Adagio

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Vieille Ville) Quartier des Grottes Paquis Eaux-Vives

Day trips

Chamonix, France

70 km from Geneva • Full day

A stunning mountain town at the foot of Mont Blanc, known for its outdoor activities and breathtaking views.

Lausanne, Switzerland

60 km from Geneva • Half day

A charming city on the shores of Lake Geneva, known for its Olympic Museum and beautiful views of the lake and Alps.

Annecy, France

45 km from Geneva • Full day

A picturesque town known as the 'Venice of the Alps' for its canals, colorful buildings, and stunning lake.

Festivals

Fête de la Musique • June 21 Geneva International Film Festival (GIFF) • Late August to early September Geneva Christmas Market • Late November to early January

Pro tips

Take advantage of the Geneva Transport Card for free public transport and discounts on attractions
Visit the Jet d'Eau early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and better photos
Explore the Old Town on foot to discover hidden gems and charming streets
Take a lake cruise to enjoy the stunning views of the lake and Alps
Try local specialties, such as fondue, raclette, and Swiss chocolate