Best of Geneva City Tour with optional boat cruise

Geneva , Switzerland

Best of Geneva City Tour with optional boat cruise

Active

(414 reviews)

2h - 3h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Home to the European headquarters of the United Nations, Geneva is Switzerland's second-most popular city and one of the greenest cities in Europe. Visit Geneva on a bus, go for a ride on a mini-train, or walk around the cobbled streets of the Old Town

You will be taking a step back in time with Saint Peter’s cathedral, Place Bourg-de-four, original market place, the arsenal and the town hall; lose yourself in the grandeur and beauty of this culturally and influential town.

This sightseeing tour allow you to discover Geneva’s most famous attractions, including the iconic Flower Clock, symbol of the city's watchmakers and love for nature, and the impressive fountain, Jet d’Eau. This is your opportunity to snap some pictures of the magnificent spray from the fountain.

Listen as your guide explains the importance of this city as a diplomatic and financial center, and pass through the district around the UN building.

Available options

(KTG207) City tour & Cruise

(KTG207) - City tour & Cruise: Visit the international district, the old town and take a cruise ride at Lake Leman

(KTG202) City tour

(KTG202) - City tour

What's included

Admire the beauty of Geneva lake and its famous fountain

Orientation tour of the city of Geneva

Mini train or walking tour in the Old town (depends on weather)

Relax with a cruise on Lake Geneva (if option selected)

Photo stop at the broken chair and United Nations

Transport by coach in International disctrict

Detailed itinerary

Meet your guide & Board the coach

Stop 2

See the European headquarters of the United nations on the Nations Square, you will see the flag of all the countries members!

Stop 3

One of the symbol of Geneva: the broken chair that represent landmines

Stop 4 Pass by

Snap a picture of the first organisation of Geneva: the red cross

Stop 5 Pass by

Discover the majestic fountain of geneva, 140 meters high

Stop 6 Pass by

The biggest flower clock of the world representing importance of watches and botanic

Discover the old grain storage which is now an arsenal keeping the canons, the square is decorated with 3 mosaics that represent 3 important moment in the history of Geneva

20 % of Geneva is gree areas, discover one of our beautiful park of the city!

Discover the old town walking in winter time and by mini train in summer

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.9

352 reviews

5★

141

4★

107

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.5

62 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Tour runs all year round, however please note that the visit by mini-train is possible only if the weather allow it

please note the cruise depends on the boat company, sometimes there is one hour waiting between the city tour and the cruise

The tour option (KTG207) City Tour & Cruise is currently unavailable due to the off-season for the cruise. It will be available from April 1, 2025, to October 15, 2025, and again from April 1, 2026, to October 25, 2026.

Meeting point

Place Dorcière

Important notes

• Please note that the Old Town Tour by mini-train can be replaced by a walking tour due to adverse weather conditions

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