Things to Do in Lake Geneva

Celebrating the history and legacy of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Association, this museum in central Geneva will be of interest to anyone who wishes to learn more about the humanitarian association’s impact on the world.

Chillon Castle (Chateau de Chillon), a medieval castle on the banks of Lake Geneva, is one of Switzerland’s most visited attractions. Travelers come to find out more about its fascinating history—it was used as a defensive outpost, a summer home for the dukes of Savoy, and a state-run prison.

If Geneva is rich in history, then Maison Tavel is its time capsule. The museum captures what life was like from the 14th century onward in precise detail. As the earliest example of Genevan domestic design, visitors find ancient stone walls, iron detailing, and antique furnishings. Be sure to visit for a look at Geneva's storied past.

Switzerland is famous for its high-quality chocolate, so a visit to the oldest chocolate manufacturer in the country should be on your itinerary. The Maison Cailler—a renowned chocolaterie—offers informative and interactive guided tours that are fun for the whole family, even members without much of a sweet tooth.

Brunswick Monument in Geneva’s Jardin des Alpes was built in 1879 to commemorate Charles II, the Duke of Brunswick. This neo-Gothic mausoleum is a historical replica of the 14th-century Scaligeri tomb, located in Verona. Despite such roundabout origins, the monument is a notable landmark and photography spot on the shores of Lake Geneva.

The town of Montreux, in eastern Switzerland, boasts a 10-foot-tall statue of Freddie Mercury that commemorates the singer’s years living here and his lasting musical influence. The memorial is a popular tourist attraction, and many Queen fans make a pilgrimage to the spot to leave flowers and other tributes.

In a leafy park along the scenic banks of Lake Geneva is the Ariana Museum–a palatial, three-story mansion home to over 20,000 glass and ceramic objects. The museum features a private collection of ceramic vases, cups, statues, stained glass windows and paintings, plus a room of contemporary ceramics on the second floor and a display of temporary exhibitions in the basement. Though most descriptions are in French, the free museum is still worth a visit for its beautiful surroundings.

Held in an impressive, Baroque-meets-classical-style building, the museum gives way to high-vaulted ceilings, rich burgundy walls, massive columns and an accessible balcony overlooking the Parc de l'Ariana. There's also a tea room (similar to a cafe) and an outdoor patio offering lunch (though you'll need reservations).

The Ariana Museum is located alongside the entrance to the Palace of United Nations and opposite the Red Cross Museum, so you'll be able visit all three attractions in just a few hours. Visitors with a Geneva Pass can enter the museum for free, with the added benefit of free, unlimited public transportation and admission to over 40 other city attractions, including the Red Cross Museum.

A paradise for wine enthusiasts and photographers, these UNESCO-listed terraced vineyards rising steeply above Lake Geneva form one of the most magnificent landscapes in Switzerland. Grape vines have been cultivated in the Lavaux wine region for centuries, and today much of the Canton of Vaud’s wine is produced on these slopes.

Watch enthusiasts find a home away from home at the Patek Philippe Museum, which showcases more than 2,000 timepieces from the 16th century onward. At this novel museum, visitors can find everything from pocket watches to jewelry-adorned pieces to the brand's intricate models while learning about watchmaking history and the Swiss horology tradition. 

The pre-Alpine town of Gruyères is best known as the home of Switzerland’s most famous cheese. The town’s working show dairy, La Maison du Gruyère, educates visitors on the region’s traditional and modern cheese-making through an interactive exhibition and factory tours, which include ample opportunity to savor a taste of authentic Gruyère AOP.

Geneva's English Garden (Jardin Anglais) is an English-styled flower garden at the foot of the Mont Blanc Bridge. The garden is perhaps best known as home to the city's celebrated Flower Clock, a top attraction honoring Genevan watchmaking. It's the perfect spot to enjoy unobstructed lake views after strolling along the Quai Gustave Ador.

There's no better place for a stroll than Geneva’s Bastions Park (Parc des Bastions. This verdant oasis down the street from Geneva’s Old Town boasts green lawns, tree-lined walkways, and benches perfect for sipping coffee. Visitors entering through the main gate, at Place Neuve, can enjoy a quick game of chess at the giant public sets.

Founded by Nestlé and just minutes from the company's global headquarters in Vevey, the Alimentarium - Food Museum is devoted to food, diet, and nutrition. Get insight into the history and future of the human diet through interactive exhibitions, hands-on workshops, tastings, and cooking demonstrations.

What do Swiss cheese and Ridley Scott’s Alien franchise have in common? The pre-Alpine town of Gruyères is not only home to the famous hard cheese, but also the HR Giger Museum (Musée HR Giger. Opened by the late Swiss artist himself, the museum offers an immersive experience of his surreal, sci-fi-infused artwork and set designs.