Discover Geneva - Switzerland’s lakeside haven of style and serenity
Hotels in Geneva offer Swiss precision and elegance, from Belle Époque palaces along Lake Geneva’s shores to modern business stays near international organizations and boutique hideaways in the Old Town’s cobbled lanes. You’ll find lakefront terraces with Mont Blanc views, historic properties favoured by diplomats, and efficient transport links to French Alpine villages and Swiss vineyards. Whether you’re here for United Nations business, luxury shopping, or exploring the Jet d’Eau fountain, there’s a stay to match your Swiss sojourn.
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Geneva City centre and Jet d’eau by night
Where to Stay in Geneva
Geneva hugs Lake Geneva’s western shore with the Old Town perched on a hill and modern districts spreading along the waterfront. Each neighbourhood offers different access to culture, shopping, and lake views.
Eaux-Vives and Lake Geneva Shore – Elegant lakefront promenades with parks, the Jet d’Eau fountain, Belle Époque hotels, and sunset views across to the Alps. Perfect for first-timers wanting iconic Geneva with easy walking to attractions.
Old Town (Vieille Ville) – Medieval cobbled streets climbing the hill with St. Pierre Cathedral, antique shops, galleries, and charming cafés. Ideal for history lovers and culture seekers wanting atmospheric Geneva away from modern bustle.
Cornavin and Train Station Area – The transport hub with international rail connections, budget hotels, and walking distance to the Old Town and lake. Suits business travellers and backpackers prioritising convenience and onwards travel.
International District (Nations) – Home to the United Nations, NGO headquarters, diplomatic residences, and quieter residential streets. Appeals to business guests and those attending conferences or meetings.
Carouge – A bohemian former Sardinian village across the Arve River with Italian-style piazzas, artisan workshops, and independent restaurants. Great for travellers wanting local character and neighbourhood charm.
Carouge, Geneva
Best Hotels in Geneva
Geneva’s hotel scene reflects Swiss luxury and efficiency, from grand lakefront palaces to design-conscious boutiques and practical business stays. Whether you’re after Mont Blanc views, Old Town charm, or simply a reliable base near transport, there’s a stay to suit every traveller and budget.
Best Luxury Hotels in Geneva
Hôtel de la Paix (5-star) – A restored 1865 Belle Époque palace on the lake with rooftop terrace, Michelin-starred dining, and timeless elegance. Perfect for special occasions and luxury travellers seeking legendary Geneva hospitality.
Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva (5-star) – A historic lakefront landmark with private jetty, spa, and refined rooms overlooking the Jet d’Eau fountain. Ideal for couples and discerning travellers wanting classic Swiss luxury.
Beau-Rivage Genève (5-star) – A family-owned 1865 hotel on the lake with literary history, original antiques, and impeccable service near the Old Town. Suits heritage enthusiasts and romantics appreciating storied elegance.
Best Lake View Hotels in Geneva
Fairmont Grand Hotel Geneva (4-star) – A lakeside property with Mont Blanc views, outdoor terrace, and walking distance to shopping and the Jet d’Eau. Great for families and leisure travellers wanting waterfront location.
Hotel d’Angleterre (5-star) – An intimate lakefront boutique with private marina, Michelin-starred restaurant, and panoramic Alpine views. Perfect for gourmets and couples seeking romantic lakeside dining.
Best Old Town Hotels in Geneva
Les Armures (3-star) – A 17th-century building in the Old Town heart with beamed ceilings, stone walls, and traditional Swiss fondue restaurant. Ideal for history buffs and travellers wanting authentic medieval Geneva.
Hôtel Les Bergues (3-star) – A charming Old Town property with antique furnishings, exposed beams, and cathedral proximity. Suits culture seekers and couples exploring Geneva’s historic quarter.
Best Business Hotels in Geneva
Crowne Plaza Geneva (4-star) – A contemporary International District hotel near the UN with conference facilities, business centre, and efficient service. Perfect for diplomats and corporate travellers attending meetings.
Hilton Geneva Hotel and Conference Centre (4-star) – A modern property near the airport and international organizations with meeting spaces and shuttle services. Great for business guests prioritising convenience.
Best Boutique Hotels in Geneva
Hotel Metropole Geneva (5-star) – A stylish city-centre property with contemporary art, spa facilities, and walking distance to lake and shopping. Appeals to design lovers and urban explorers.
Eastwest Hotel (4-star) – A wellness-focused boutique near Cornavin Station with Ayurvedic spa, organic dining, and holistic philosophy. Suits health-conscious travellers and spa enthusiasts.
Best Budget Hotels in Geneva
Ibis Genève Centre Lac (2-star) – A reliable chain hotel near the lake and train station with compact rooms and unbeatable location for the price. Great for budget travellers prioritising central access.
Hotel Bel’Esperance (2-star) – A no-frills Old Town guesthouse with basic rooms, shared bathrooms, and affordable rates in Geneva’s priciest city. Perfect for backpackers accepting minimal amenities for location.
Geneva Hostel (hostel) – A clean, modern hostel near the train station with dorms, private rooms, and shared kitchen facilities. Ideal for solo travellers and groups on tight budgets.
Top Things to Do in Geneva
- Jet d’Eau – Geneva’s iconic 140-metre water fountain shooting into the lake, best viewed from lakeside promenades or boat tours. A must for first-time visitors and photographers.
- St. Pierre Cathedral – A 12th-century cathedral in the Old Town with archaeological site beneath, tower climb, and Protestant Reformation history. Perfect for history enthusiasts and panoramic city views.
- United Nations Office – Tour the Palais des Nations with its Assembly Hall, Council Chamber, and international diplomacy exhibits in the world’s European UN headquarters. Appeals to politics enthusiasts and students.
- CERN – The world’s largest particle physics laboratory offering free tours of the Large Hadron Collider facilities and interactive exhibitions. Ideal for science lovers and curious minds.
- Lake Geneva Boat Cruises – Regular boat services across the lake to Lausanne, Montreux, and French villages with Alps views and dining onboard. Great for day-trippers and scenic travel enthusiasts.
- Carouge Village – A charming bohemian quarter with Mediterranean atmosphere, artisan shops, weekend markets, and Italian-style architecture. Suits wanderers and those seeking local Geneva beyond tourist areas.
Lake Geneva
Getting to and Around Geneva
By Train: Geneva Cornavin Station connects to Zurich, Paris, Lyon, and Milan with Swiss efficiency, plus local trains to Lausanne and Montreux along the lake.
By Tram and Bus: An extensive network covers the compact city with free public transport cards provided by most hotels for guest use during stays.
By Bike: Geneva’s flat lakefront and bike-sharing schemes make cycling an easy way to explore, with dedicated paths along both shores.
By Air: Geneva Airport sits just 4 kilometres from the city centre with trains reaching Cornavin Station in 6 minutes, making arrivals exceptionally convenient.
When to Visit Geneva
Spring (April to May) – Warming weather, blooming lakeside parks, and fewer crowds make this ideal for sightseeing before summer peaks. Hotel prices are moderate with pleasant temperatures for exploring.
Summer (June to August) – Peak season with warm lake swimming, outdoor festivals, lakefront dining, and long Alpine daylight. Expect highest hotel rates but perfect weather for boat trips and mountain excursions.
Autumn (September to October) – Comfortable temperatures, wine harvest season in nearby Lavaux, and fewer tourists create excellent exploring conditions. Mid-range hotel prices with golden light over the lake.
Winter (November to March) – Cold months with nearby ski resort access, Christmas markets, and lowest hotel rates making Geneva affordable. Perfect for winter sports enthusiasts and budget travellers embracing cooler weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Swiss francs or can I pay with euros in Geneva?
While some shops accept euros, you’ll get poor exchange rates. Geneva hotels, restaurants, and transport prefer Swiss francs or cards for best value.
Are Geneva hotels really as expensive as people say?
Yes, Geneva rivals Oslo and Zurich as one of Europe’s priciest cities for hotels. Expect to pay 40-60% more than comparable UK or European destinations.
Do Geneva hotels provide free public transport?
Yes, most Geneva hotels provide complimentary Geneva Transport Cards giving free unlimited use of trams, buses, and boats during your stay.
Can I walk between Geneva hotels and main attractions?
Yes, Geneva’s compact centre makes walking easy between the lake, Old Town, and shopping areas, with most sights within 20-30 minutes on foot.
Are Geneva hotels near ski resorts?
While Geneva isn’t a ski town, hotels can arrange transfers to Chamonix (1 hour), Verbier, and other French and Swiss Alpine resorts for day trips or longer stays.
Can I book Geneva hotels through easyStay with free cancellation?
Yes, most easyStay listings include flexible cancellation. Look for “Free Cancellation” before confirming your stay.
Book Your Stay in Geneva Today
From Belle Époque palaces to lakeside retreats, hotels in Geneva blend Swiss precision with Alpine beauty. Whether you’re chasing Mont Blanc sunsets, Old Town history, or simply enjoying lakefront elegance, there’s a perfect Swiss base waiting.
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