Things to do in Geneva
I had just wrapped up a bus tour of France and my next destination was supposed to be Geneva, Switzerland. Geneva oozes sophistication. It is French-speaking, home to Chillon castle, world-class museums and of course very expensive watches. The iconic Jet d’Eau defines the city and as the hub of international diplomacy it is diverse and houses many important organisations. I just had to get there but first on the list, leaving France.
Well on the day of travel my alarm failed to ring and I overslept then madly rushed out to grab my train. As usual, when you are running late you never reach on time. It’s like there are things conspiring against you just for fun and oddly when there is time to spare nothing interesting happens.
Unfortunately, I missed the train and lost my ticket (cheapest, non-refundable deal was scooped months earlier). Then settled myself at Le Train Bleu restaurant at the Gare de Lyon to think over my travel plans. This place is one of a kind, it is like eating in an Art museum and you get the little bonus of free wifi. After sipping 2 or 3 glasses of wine ( didn’t want to leave) I then said to myself, “What the heck, you only live once and don’t want to have ‘ifs’ and ‘buts’ moments after.”
I bought another ticket (twice the price of the original) and a little over 3 hours later was at Geneva Cornavin Train Station. My hostel was on Rue Rothschild, walking distance from station. When I finally arrived it was already late afternoon and my plan was just to spend one night. My hostel was a big, industrial looking building with an impersonal feel, but the pluses were the cheap price, nearness to Lake Geneva and free breakfast in the morning.
Things to do in Geneva
I didn’t get to cover much due to time constraints but if you have the time visit the:
Lake area – The lake area comes alive at night with many small parties. You can also go for a boat ride.
Botanical gardens including the English Garden with the flower clock
Important international organizations to visit for a photo-op such as the UN, Red Cross
Museums – Art and History, Arianna, Patek Philippe etc. I have to sadly admit that I didn’t visit one museum in Switzerland although I had a pass to get in most. Maybe a cavewoman but the scenery is so breathtaking that I just wanted to be outdoors ALL the time especially since I visited in the summer.
Chillon Castle – The most visited attraction in Switzerland. Due to time constraints I couldn’t but that is going to be ticked off in the future.
Another attraction right by the lake is this giant Ferris Wheel. Go for it!
Interesting sights
I didn’t do any shopping nor did I visit any commercial streets but in terms of goods when one thinks of Switzerland, watches, chocolate, fondue and clocks come to mind. From the lake you can’t miss the huge Rolex building, maybe a little window shopping just in case you hit the lottery or somehow become rich in the future.
I am sure there are more affordable Swiss brands that you can get without the dent in your wallet. Who wouldn’t want to get a Swiss watch in Switzerland? Some years ago my aunt gave me Rado watch. It has a very beautiful, clean and sophisticated design. I think I have had it for 5 years now, still working perfectly and always get compliments.
Other Things to do in Geneva – came across day trips to nearby places such as Lausanne, Montreux and Gruyère. I normally browse tours for the particular place then I factor in the cost and ease of transport when deciding whether to go with a tour or on my own. Also, reading TripAdvisor reviews help but these are just two. You can find many other sources (depends on country) to aid in making your choices, keep Googling away. It is even possible to make a day trip to beautiful little French towns near the border. When I saw the picture of Annecy I just wanted to get there…next time though.
Thank you for reading.
