About Geneva
The city of Geneva is situated in Switzerland's western region. It houses the headquarters of many international organisations, including the United Nations, World Health Organization, International Committee of the Red Cross, and others. This city is surrounded by the Alps and is located on the shores of Lake Geneva. It is known for its beautiful surroundings, historic sites, and cultural attractions.
The city is well known for its food, with numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and regional delicacies like fondue and raclette. Several upscale boutiques and jewellery stores can be found all around the city, making Geneva a centre for exquisite watches and jewellery. Do not miss the opportunity to visit this vibrant city and book a Mumbai to Geneva flight ticket with IndiGo.
Places to visit in Geneva
Here are the top attractions and things to do in Geneva for tourists.
- Lake Geneva: The city's main attraction is Lake Geneva. It is a large freshwater lake located on the border between Switzerland and France. Being a popular tourist spot, it is recognised for its breathtaking natural beauty, diverse water activities, and attractive lakeside towns. The snow-covered Alps mountains around the lake give the most amazing view. And a voyage on an antique paddle steamer adds to the charm.
Lake Geneva also possesses several beautiful parks and gardens, like the English Garden, Jardin Botanique, and Parc des Eaux-Vives. Several towns and villages on Lake Geneva's shores offer picturesque streets and cultural attractions.
- Temple de Saint-Pierre: The Temple de Saint-Pierre is a Romanesque church. It is located in Geneva's Old Town, constructed in 1150 as the Cathedral of Saint-Pierre, and features some Gothic elements. There are a variety of exquisite pieces of art inside the church, such as stained glass windows, frescoes, and sculptures. The church's majestic wooden pulpit, which belongs to the 17th century, is among its most prominent characteristics.
- Place du Bourg-de-Four: In the centre of Geneva's Old Town is a historic square called Place du Bourg-de-Four. It is one of the city's oldest and most endearing public places. The square's illustrious past dates to the Roman era, when it was used as a marketplace. Later, it developed into a hub for social and political gatherings and served as the location of the city's first town hall. In addition, the square is home to several cafes and restaurants with a perfect historic ambience. The square is also a vibrant spot for street artists and musicians, who fill energy in the atmosphere. The city’s soothing atmosphere and rich history make it a unique and memorable experience for all who visit.
- Art and History Museum: The Art and History Museum is one of Switzerland's three most prominent museums. This museum has a collection of weapons and works of art from the Greek and Roman periods. It also has artefacts from the Middle East and the Eastern Mediterranean, along with ceramics from the Roman and Etruscan periods, and Egyptian funerary objects. Several pieces from the Gothic and Renaissance eras are also on display. The art galleries contain old master paintings by Italian, Flemish, and Swabian artists.
- Evian-les-Bains: A lovely town called Evian-les-Bains is located close to Geneva on the southern shore of Lake Geneva. It is renowned for its unmatched natural beauty, thermal baths, and bottled mineral water that is imported from all over the world. In addition, visitors can explore the town's charming streets, shops, and cafes or take a boat ride on Lake Geneva to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
- Chillon Castle: The Chillon Castle provides yet another spectacular glance at the mountains and the lake. It is a stunning island castle on the shore of Lake Geneva. The Castle of Chillon is easily accessible from different parts of the country, making it one of the most visited places in Switzerland.
Tips to remember while visiting the peace city
- The Geneva Transport Card is now free for tourists who are staying in a Geneva hotel, hostel, or camping there. Visitors are granted unlimited free rides on the tram, bus, rail, and yellow taxi boat throughout Geneva with this card.
- The ideal time of year to visit Geneva's countryside or Lake Geneva is in the spring or summer.
Geneva Airport (GVA)
The unofficial name for Geneva's primary international airport is Cointrin Airport. Officially, it is called Geneva International Airport (GVA). T1 and T2 are the two passenger terminals at the Geneva Airport. Terminal 1 is the main terminal for receiving international flights. This airport provides several amenities, including Wi-Fi service, lounges, payphones, Pay-to-use showers, medical assistance, library, wheelchair service, and a baby care lounge.
Geneva visa requirements
Before travelling to Geneva, tourists must get a Schengen visa. For that, travellers are required to provide the following documents for their Geneva visa or Schengen visa application:
- A pair of current passport-size photos.
- Passport issued by India that is not older than ten years.
- There will be a travel and health insurance requirement, with a cap of €30,000.
- A letter of introduction that states the purpose of the visit.
- Documents attesting to your reservation in advance.