Geneva

Geneva is Switzerland’s second largest city and home to the headquarters of UN organizations, the Red Cross, and dozens of other international bodies. The city is built around the mouth of the Rhone at the south-western end of Lake Geneva.

Grab your camera and head to the Old Town. You’ll see buildings from throughout the centuries including the birthplace of philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau and the Cathédrale St. Pierre. Climb the tower to get great views of the city. Back down on ground level, check out the Musée International de la Reforme to learn about the reformation in France and Switzerland.

For more history, drop by Maison Tavel. The old manor has been modified and renovated several times over the centuries, and today houses a museum documenting the history of Geneva. For a look at the work of the Red Cross around the world, explore the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum.

Art lovers will want to move on to some of the city’s excellent art museums. Start at the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire to admire paintings from as far back as the Renaissance and artifacts from the ancient world. For more recent works, check out the Musée d’Art Moderne et Contemporain. Visit the Musée des Arts d’Extrême Orient to examine items from the Far East. Fans of pottery and ceramics should take a look at the Musée Ariana.

Take a break and head down to Lake Geneva. Enjoy the view of the French Alps or sit down in a café and watch the Jet d’Eau spurt water over 450 feet (140 meters) into the air. In the evenings, head out to Victoria Hall or the Grand Théâtre de Genève for a show.