Things to Do in United Nations Office at Geneva, Schweiz/Suisse/Svizzera/Svizra

Geneva, Switzerland's cosmopolitan lakeside city, serves as a global hub for diplomacy and international cooperation, hosting the United Nations Office at Geneva and numerous other international organizations. Nestled between the pristine waters of Lake Geneva and the majestic Alps, this sophisticated city seamlessly blends Swiss precision with international flair, offering visitors world-class museums, luxury shopping, and stunning natural beauty. The city's compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot, with the historic Old Town perched above the modern international district. Geneva's unique position as a neutral meeting ground has shaped its character, creating a multicultural atmosphere where over 40% of residents are foreign nationals. From the iconic Jet d'Eau fountain shooting 140 meters into the sky to the prestigious watchmaking heritage, Geneva offers an elegant blend of natural splendor, cultural richness, and diplomatic significance.

Top Things to Do in United Nations Office at Geneva

Lake Geneva Cruise

Explore the stunning Lake Geneva aboard elegant paddle steamers or modern vessels, taking in panoramic views of the Alps, vineyards, and charming lakeside towns. The cruises offer various routes from short city tours to full-day excursions to Montreux or the French side of the lake.

Booking Tip: Book directly with CGN (Lake Geneva Navigation Company) for the best prices, starting around 15-25 CHF for short cruises. Summer months offer the most frequent departures and best weather, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and clear mountain views.

United Nations Guided Tour

Take an official guided tour of the UN Office at Geneva, the European headquarters of the United Nations and the world's most active UN office. Visitors can explore the Assembly Hall, Council Chamber, and learn about international diplomacy and peacekeeping efforts.

Booking Tip: Book tours online in advance as they often sell out, especially during summer. Tours cost around 15 CHF for adults and require valid ID. Check the UN website for closure dates due to official meetings, and arrive 30 minutes early for security screening.

Old Town Walking Tour

Discover Geneva's medieval heart with its cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and St. Peter's Cathedral where John Calvin preached. The Old Town offers stunning views over the city and lake, plus charming cafes, antique shops, and the famous Flower Clock.

Booking Tip: Free walking tours operate daily and rely on tips (10-15 CHF suggested), while private tours cost 200-300 CHF for groups. Early morning or late afternoon tours offer the best lighting for photos and fewer crowds at major attractions.

Swiss Alps Day Trip

Embark on a day excursion to the nearby Swiss Alps, visiting destinations like Chamonix, Mont Blanc, or the Jungfraujoch. These tours combine scenic mountain railways, cable cars, and breathtaking alpine vistas just hours from Geneva.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours range from 100-200 CHF per person depending on destination and inclusions. Book tours that include transportation and cable car tickets for better value. Weather can change quickly in mountains, so check conditions and dress in layers.

Chocolate and Cheese Tasting

Indulge in Switzerland's most famous culinary exports through guided tastings at local chocolatiers and cheese shops. Learn about traditional Swiss production methods while sampling premium chocolates, fondues, and regional cheese specialties.

Booking Tip: Food tours typically cost 80-120 CHF per person and last 3-4 hours. Book afternoon tours to avoid interfering with meal times, and inform operators of any dietary restrictions in advance. Some tours include wine pairings for an additional cost.

Getting There

Geneva is exceptionally well-connected internationally through Geneva Airport (GVA), located just 4km from the city center with direct flights from major global cities. The airport offers free public transport tickets to reach downtown in 6 minutes via train or 20 minutes by bus. High-speed trains connect Geneva to major European cities including Paris (3 hours), Milan (4 hours), and Zurich (3 hours), while the city is also accessible by car via excellent highway connections from France, Italy, and the rest of Switzerland.

Getting Around

Geneva's efficient public transport system includes buses, trams, and boats, all covered by the free Geneva Transport Card provided by hotels to guests. The compact city center is highly walkable, with most attractions within 20 minutes of each other on foot. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available but expensive, while bike-sharing systems and rental cars provide additional options for exploring the surrounding Lake Geneva region and nearby attractions.

Where to Stay

City Center/Downtown

Old Town

International District

Eaux-Vives

Plainpalais

Carouge

Food & Dining

Geneva's dining scene reflects its international character, offering everything from traditional Swiss cuisine to global flavors representing the city's diverse population. The city boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants alongside cozy brasseries serving local specialties like fondue, raclette, and perch from Lake Geneva. The Carouge district offers vibrant bistros and wine bars, while the Old Town features charming cafes perfect for coffee and pastries. Expect high prices typical of Switzerland, with restaurant meals ranging from 25-50 CHF, though many hotels include breakfast and the transport card helps access various neighborhoods affordably.

When to Visit

Geneva is beautiful year-round, with late spring through early fall (May to September) offering the warmest weather and longest days for outdoor activities and lake cruises. Summer brings festivals, outdoor dining, and perfect conditions for Alps excursions, though it's also the busiest and most expensive time. Winter offers Christmas markets, snow-capped mountain views, and fewer crowds, while spring and fall provide mild weather, clear mountain visibility, and better hotel rates, making them ideal for sightseeing and cultural activities.

Insider Tips

Many museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month, and the Geneva Pass provides access to over 60 attractions plus free public transport

The city's famous Jet d'Eau fountain operates from March to October, with the best viewing spots being from the lake promenade or Bains des Pâquis

Swiss restaurants typically close between lunch and dinner service (2:30-6:00 PM), so plan meals accordingly or seek out international cuisines that maintain continuous service

Things to Do in United Nations Office at Geneva