Geneva Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide
Active
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
Your expert guide will show you the city's highlights and hidden gems. On this walking tour you will be able to see a lot of places within a short timeframe. Apart from explaining the sights, your guide can provide insight into the history and culture of the city and the country in general. The focus of this tour is to see the city through the eyes of a local. This private tour can be customized according to your personal preferences. Sightseeing points to visit can be agreed upon in advance or discussed when meeting up. Therefore, the sightseeing points listed below in the itinerary are just an example of what is possible. Your guide can suggest other sightseeing points that better suit your interests. This tour has two options for guides: a local guide or a professional tour guide. Please be aware that a local guide does not have detailed historical knowledge. If profound knowledge is important to you, you should book the tour option with a professional tour guide.
Available options
2-hour tour (with local guide)
Duration: 2 hours: See some of the major attractions and hidden secrets. This option is with a local guide (not a professional tour guide).<br/>Pickup included
3-hour tour (with local guide)
Duration: 3 hours: Book this option for a complete overview of the city. This option is with a local guide (not a professional tour guide).<br/>Pickup included
3-hour tour (with tour guide)
Duration: 3 hours: Book this option for a complete overview of the city. This option is with a professional tour guide.<br/>Pickup included
2-hour tour (with tour guide)
Duration: 2 hours: See some of the major attractions and hidden secrets. This option is with a professional tour guide.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Walking tour (fully customizable and private)
Local guide (Swiss or expat) or professional tour guide (depending on your choice)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Large fountain and one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
2
Stop 2
The English-inspired landmark park features an 1862 fountain, a flower-clock sculpture & lake views.
3
Stop 3
It was a former Roman cathedral that was converted to a reformed protestant church during the Reformation.
4
This clocktower was mentioned as early as the 14th century, it was part of the fortified enclosure of the lower town.
5
A small compact artillery museum with a collection of vintage canons and colourful battle-themed mosaics.
6
Stop 6
A fortified city and a lovely old square with restaurants and shops.
7
This stone wall monument honours the Protestant Reformation & its founders, including John Calvin.
8
Stop 8
The Île Rousseau is an island and park in Geneva, situated in the middle of the Rhone. It was named after the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau. On the island is a statue of Rousseau.
9
French for “Power plant building” is the powerhouse of a former hydropower plant.
10
Popular public bathhouse on a pier in Lake Geneva that turns into a sauna during winter.
11
The Library of Geneva that occupies different buildings around the city. It focuses on mostly humanities and social sciences.
12
Stop 12
Built in 1910, Geneva's largest museum has items ranging from prehistoric finds to modern paintings.
What's not included
Tickets for public transport (not necessary as it is a walking tour)
Tickets for attractions with entry fees such as museums
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
8 reviews
5★
8
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet your guide in the lobby of Warwick Geneva Hotel.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
