Geneva is Switzerlandâs 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. Youâll see buildings from throughout the centuries including the birthplace of philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau and the CathĂŠdrale St. Pierre. Climb the tower to get great views of the city. Back down on ground level, check out the MusĂŠe 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 cityâs excellent art museums. Start at the MusĂŠe dâArt et dâHistoire to admire paintings from as far back as the Renaissance and artifacts from the ancient world. For more recent works, check out the MusĂŠe dâArt Moderne et Contemporain. Visit the MusĂŠe des Arts dâExtrĂŞme Orient to examine items from the Far East. Fans of pottery and ceramics should take a look at the MusĂŠe Ariana.
Take a break and head down to Lake Geneva. Enjoy the view of the French Alps or sit down in a cafĂŠ and watch the Jet dâEau spurt water over 450 feet (140 meters) into the air. In the evenings, head out to Victoria Hall or the Grand ThÊâtre de Genève for a show.