Best things to do in Geneva

One of Western Europe's largest bodies of water, Lake Geneva sits on the northern side of the Alps. Shared by Switzerland and France, the lake serves as one of the continent's most popular year-round travel destinations, its pristine natural areas a favorite stomping ground for both hikers and skiers. The Swiss side of the lake features a string of picturesque cities, the largest of which is Geneva. This city serves as a hub for paddle steamer cruises, providing a slow but scenic way of connecting to other ports on the lake. After visiting the region's old wineries, castles, and thermal baths, head to one of the lake's tranquil beaches, backed by rugged mountain scenery and shady woodlands.

For panoramic views over the city and its lake, climb the northern tower of Cathedrale de Saint-Pierre. Known mostly as the adopted home church of John Calvin (one of the leaders of the Protestant Reformation), the cathedral dates back to the 12th century, its architecture an eclectic mix of styles. The archaeological site beneath the cathedral, excavated over the last few years, reveals the city's rich history and explores the origins of Christianity in this part of Europe. Take the underground passage connecting the cathedral to the adjacent museum, dedicated to presenting the historical significance of the Reformation. Audio guides are available in English, German, and French. If you'd prefer a guided tour, check the website, where you'll also find information about upcoming live organ performances.

A standout among the city's modern landmarks, the monumental The Geneva Water Fountain has served as one of the city's crowning symbols for over six decades. One of the largest fountains in the world, the structure pumps about 500 l (130 gal) of water each second, its misty plumes reaching a height of over 140 m (450 ft). Most sightseers choose to appreciate the structure from a distance, but if you do not mind a little spray on your clothes, you can inspect it at close range by standing on a pier, accessible from the left bank of the lake.

Created as a symbol of the city's watchmakers, The Flower Clock celebrates nature and changes with each season. With a diameter of 5 m (16.4 ft), the clock features the world's longest second hand, measuring 2.5 m (8.2 ft). Created in 1955, 6,500 flowers and plants make up the functional clock, which reflects the time transmitted via satellite.

Take a tour of the European home of the United Nations, the monumental Palais des Nations, Genève, which houses a large collection of public art and serves as one of the world's major centers of diplomacy. Built in the 1930s for the now-defunct League of Nations, the classically designed compound hosts thousands of global conferences and smaller meetings, welcoming 25,000 delegates each year. Take the guided tour to see the enormous assembly hall, ornate council chamber, and surrounding landscaped gardens, which offer fine views of the nearby Alps. Security is always tight here, so make your tour reservations well in advance and prepare to show your passport at the entrance.

Humanitarian aid and current global problems come to life at International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum. Walk through "The Humanitarian Adventure" exhibition, which presents the problems of defending human dignity. This display outlines the idea of reconstructing family links and reducing natural risks. Learn the history of the Red Cross and use the "On the Spot" exhibit to track current Red Cross and Red Crescent operations around the world. Hear the stories of people who have been helped by the institution and the survival skills they learned. Be sure to pick up an audio guide upon entry, which will provide more information about each exhibit.

Experience a view of the lake and Geneva's famous Jet d'eau from Bains des Paquis, a public bath area. Soak up some sun on the beach, relax in the sauna, treat yourself to a massage, or bathe in the hammam. Facilities for water polo and tai-chi lessons are also available. A favorite way to warm up is by indulging in the fondue, considered by many to be some of the best around.

Discover over five centuries of watchmaking history at Patek Philippe Museum, which houses a large collection of fine timepieces and related mechanisms created from the 16th century up to the present day. Founded by one of Switzerland's leading watch manufacturers, the museum devotes a great deal of attention to the brand's own luxury products, with a special focus on modern precision pieces and lavish 19th-century pocket watches. The antique collection looks beyond the brand's best products and traces the evolution of timekeeping with displays of the finest examples of Swiss-made watches, musical automata, and portrait miniatures painted on enamel. Check the website for public and private guided tours.

Reformation Wall depicts the story of the Protestant Reformation with statues of significant individuals, events, and documents. Built in 1909, the 18 m (60 ft) wall resulted from a contest designed to spruce up the grounds of the University of Geneva. Because the city was the center of Calvinism during the Reformation, the wall honors four important Calvinists most prominently. Statues of Theodore Beza, John Calvin, William Farel, and John Knox stand 5 m (16 ft) tall in the center of the wall. Surrounding these figures are Calvinists from other countries, such as Oliver Cromwell from England, and William the Silent from the Netherlands. Below the statues, read descriptions of how each of these figures supported Calvinism and the Reformation.

Discover the history of the Olympic movement at The Olympic Museum Lausanne (Musee Olympique), an interactive venue packed with engaging and informative exhibits. Founded in 1993, the museum uses audio-visual displays and themed galleries to attract nearly 250,000 sports and history buffs each year. Start your tour at the galleries dedicated to the history of the ancient Games and their modern rebirth, featuring torches used in various opening ceremonies. As you move through the galleries, use individual viewing stations to explore thousands of video clips documenting major moments in sports history. Finish your visit at the museum park, which contains a collection of sports-themed sculptures by artists Jean Tinguely, Fernando Botero, and many others.