As a cultural hotspot and Europe’s leading city break destination, Geneva is perfect for those wanting a short break this year. With its captivating scenery and wealth of experiences, choosing to head to this world-famous city by train opens up some fantastic possibilities.
Getting to Geneva by train
With sustainability at the forefront of everyone’s mind, there has never been a better time to consider travel by train. Geneva is the perfect destination to get started on that journey.
For those travelling from London, the journey takes you on the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris, where you then change trains and begin your tour through the countryside to Geneva, with a total journey time of around 5-and-a-half hours.
If you have opted to explore the European continent with Interrail, then Geneva should be on your hit list.
Whether you choose a Europe-wide Interrail Pass or you decide to stick with the Interrail Switzerland Pass to really get stuck into the country’s charming and diverse cities with breathtaking mountain ranges and crystal clear lakes, Geneva will be waiting to welcome you with open arms. Climb on board, sit back and enjoy your front-row seat to Switzerland’s dramatic landscapes.
Making the most of your time in Geneva
Once your train has arrived in the city, prepare to be delighted by the world-class activities and dining experiences that can be found in this beautiful city.
Kick off your break in style with a relaxing day at the Bain-Bleu Hammam & Spa, which offers the perfect setting to unwind after your train journey. Take a dip in one of their pools or refresh yourself with an indulgent steam bath before treating yourself to a rejuvenating massage that will be sure to leave you feeling refreshed and ready to enjoy all that Geneva has to offer.
After spending a few hours in the revitalising spa, it’s time to head out and explore some of the city’s incredible restaurants. Geneva is home to a wide variety of incredible cuisine, and with no less than twelve Michelin-starred establishments, it really is a hotspot for food fans.
Choices range from the cosy and traditional atmosphere of Les Armures and its delicious Swiss fondue or the glamorous Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant Tsé Fung; there will be a restaurant to suit all tastes.
Of course, one of Geneva’s greatest attractions is the iconic Lake Geneva, which boasts many activities, from gourmet experiences on board a motorboat to fishing on the lake. There’s pretty much a waterside activity to suit everyone.
Another fantastic way of enjoying the lake is by taking the 3km path that runs alongside it, allowing you to take in the serenity of the water as you stroll along its shores.
While you are here, take some time to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Its unique museums should be on everyone’s must-see lists and range from MAMCO (above), where you can get a dose of contemporary art or the Patek Philippe Museum, where you can learn about the city’s rich watchmaking history.
For those with a penchant for the sweeter things in life, our advice is to get a true taste of Swiss chocolate-making with a Choco Pass or get to know the historic Old Town with a private guided tour.
Head to the Geneva Tourism website for more information on things to do and places to visit.
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