Geneva Hotels and City Guide

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Most people are familiar with Geneva because of the two large international organizations that are situated here. Both the Red Cross and the United Nations’ European headquarters call this beautiful city home. Geneva is much more than that though. It’s played an important role in both world and religious history. This quaint city is filled with museums and some of the best dining options available in Europe. There is a wealth of great places to stay for the night, including an impressive collection of five-star hotels ideal for that little getaway. Perhaps you assume that because it’s the headquarters for many international companies, you’ll find a European version of London or New York. But you would be mistaken and pleasantly surprised with the simple and clean city that is Geneva. Surrounded by France, Geneva is a beautiful town where the Jura ridges and Savoy Alps create a nestled city. It’s also where the River Rhône flows out of Lake Geneva.

The cobblestone streets of the Old Town are filled with cafes, perfect for enjoying a fantastic cup of coffee. You’ll find the city to be unlike most ornate European cities though. This reflects the important role of John Calvin, a protestant reformer. It’s interesting to see the simple and clean facades on some of the historical buildings in Geneva. Calvin had removed quite a bit of the gothic displays in preference for a more minimal look. Calvin also created a safe haven for many protestant worshippers who feared for their lives. The Auditoire de Calvin is a perfect example. This small thirteenth-century chapel was established by Calvin for those who didn’t speak French, but still wanted to worship. It was Geneva’s first international building.

Even though Calvin’s impression can be seen throughout Geneva, there are also many places that showcase the grandeur of a European city. The Wall of Reformers in the Parc des Bastions is an amazing monument. Ironically you’ll find massive sculptures of Calvin and his followers. The town’s motto ‘Post Tenebras Lux’, which translated means After Darkness, Light, is a 300 foot display. The Botanical Garden also showcases the splendor of Geneva. It’s a fantastic display of gardening and landscapes. There are beautiful rock gardens, a deer park as well as a lily pond, complete with pink flamingoes. There are 69 acres in total for you to enjoy. Various organizations surround this garden, including the World Health Organization, the World Trade Organization, as well as the World Council of Churches. Just outside of Geneva you’ll find the Castle of Chillon, known to be one of Europe’s finest medieval castles.

The United Nations’ official headquarters are in Manhattan, however most of its business is conducted in Geneva and is known as the Palais de Nations. The other important international organization in Geneva is the Red Cross. The conception of the International Committee of the Red Cross began in Geneva, which you can see in its symbol as it is the reverse of Switzerland’s national flag. Henry Dunant, a Geneva business man, was the founder of this amazing humanitarian organization. Since it first began in 1864, the Red Cross has been involved in conflicts on every continent. The award-winning museum beside the headquarters is a fantastic display of all its humanitarian work as it provides insight to the important work this organization provides.

Cathédrale St-Pierre is considered to be the heart of the city and is filled with many world-class museums. One of which is the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire. It hosts an amazing gallery of East Asian art as well as the Collections Baur. Alfred Baur assembled a stunning collection of Chinese porcelains and Japanese art treasures which is recognized today as one of the most important collections of its kind in Europe. The Barbier-Mueller Museum also has an impressive collection of art works from Africa, India and Latin America. The Petit Palais museum of Oscar Ghez has a stunning collection of modern art from Renoir to Picasso.

You’ll work up a good appetite as you stroll through the streets of Geneva. And even though it’s a tiny city, it has more places to eat, per capita, than New York City. Because of all its international business, the selection is astounding. Choose from sushi or pasta, Kebabs or prime rib. The best area to go for selection is the Paquis neighborhood. The options here are never ending.

Everything in Geneva will surprise you. You’ll find beautifully ornate buildings along side a simple one. There are world-class museums as well as a world-renowned humanitarian organization. There are gourmet meals to be enjoyed with the mountains as your backdrop. Or choose a delicious plate of traditional foods in a park filled with ponds and gardens. This tiny city is overflowing with many wonders all worth exploring.