Far more than just a gateway to Switzerland's luxury ski resorts, Geneva is also undoubtedly Switzerland's most cosmopolitan city, with its reputation for religious and political tolerance dating back more than five hundred years. The city sits astride the River Rhône, where it streams into Lake Geneva, and is set against a dramatic backdrop of mountains. At the lake's south shore the Jet d'Eau shoots water 460ft (140m) into the sky from the end of a pier - the city's landmark attraction and Europe's most powerful fountain.<br /><br /> Stately homes line the banks of the lake, overlooking an armada of luxury yachts. Jewels and designer labels spill out of exclusive boutiques and into chauffer-driven limousines that glide down palatial avenues. As well as a host of museums and fine galleries, Geneva has a lively cultural calendar. Most notable is the celebration of l'Escalade in December, which involves costumed and torch-lit processions through the town, and the consumption of sickly amounts of chocolate and marzipan.<br /><br />

Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)

Address: Geneva

The largest lake in central Europe that is shared by both Switzerland and France, Lake Geneva (Lac Léman to its French-speaking inhabitants) has for decades drawn visitors to its shores. Attracted by the alpine panorama, quaint wooden chalet villages, vineyard-covered slopes and sailboats skimming across the blue waters, many famous writers, musical composers, actors and poets came to settle and the area has become something of an inspiration to the arts.<br /><br /> Situated in the westernmost district of Vaud, the region contains a diversity of attractions and activities, from wine-growing villages and mountain ski resorts, picturesque castles, and magnificent cathedrals, to low-key lakeside resorts, boat cruises, and cosy fireside pots of fondue. Sophisticated shopping and cultural life can be found in the cities of Geneva and Lausanne, with sweeping views across the sparkling lake to the Alps and the distinctive pinnacle of Mont Blanc. Among the vineyards and affluent villas clinging to the slopes lie the lakeside towns of Vevey and Montreux, the pearls of the Swiss Riviera.<br /><br /> Scenic winding roads stretch along the shores, and train trips offers outstanding views, while below steamers crisscross the waters of Lake Geneva, offering a variety of ways to experience the splendour of its location.<br /><br />

Lausanne

Address: Geneva

Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, the energetic city of Lausanne is built above the lake on a sequence of tiers connected by a small metro. The upper or Old Town contains the grand Gothic cathedral, Notre-Dame; its turreted towers a well-known symbol of the city. The lower town on the lakeshore was once the small fishing village of Ouchy and is now the prime waterfront area with outdoor dining and cafés, promenades and sporting activities.<br /><br /> The gardens around the Quay d'Ouchy are home to the city's foremost attraction, the Olympic Museum, containing a wealth of sporting memories and a collection of unique objects pertaining to the Olympic Games from its beginning until the present. Lausanne relishes its importance as the Olympic World Capital and headquarters of the International Olympic Committee.<br /><br />

Château de Chillon

Address: Avenue de Chillon 21 Geneva

Admission: CHF 12.50 adults, CHF 6 for children ages 6-15 years, other concessions available 9am-7pm (last entry at 6pm)

Telephone: (021) 966 8910

One of the best-maintained medieval castles in Europe, the 13th-century Château de Chillon is the most visited historical building in Switzerland. With its stunning lakeside location near the chic town of Montreux, jutting out into the water and framed by mountains, it is one of the most photographed castles in Europe. An important fortress in the Middle Ages, it was positioned to control the narrow passage between mountains and lake, protecting the major north-south route.<br /><br /> It was also the favourite summer residence of the Counts of Savoy; while later, it served as a state prison. Visitors can tour the dungeons where the castle's most famous prisoner was chained for four years, the priest François Bonivard, a supporter of the Reformation. The fortress became famous when Lord Byron wrote about Bonivard's fate in an inspired poem entitled . Besides the dungeons, visitors can wander round the towers and courtyards, discover narrow secret passages, and see the grand knight's halls, frescoed chapel, luxurious bedchambers and rooms containing medieval weapons, furniture and paintings.<br /><br />

Jet dEau

Address: Quai Gustav-Ador Geneva

One of the tallest fountains in the world, the Jet d'Eau is a Geneva attraction that cannot be missed. Projecting 460 feet (140m) into the air at a speed of 124 miles per hour (200km/h) and pumping 132 gallons (500 litres) of water per second, the fountain was initially established to release pressure for hydropower generation on the Rhone River, but was so loved by the populace that in 1891 the city created a permanent fountain.<br /><br /> As Paris has the Eiffel Tower and New York has the Empire State Building, Geneva has the Jet d'Eau. For a breathtaking and romantic sight, visit at night, when the fountain is lit up.<br /><br />

International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

Address: 17 Avenue de la Paix Geneva

Admission: CHF 15 10am-6pm (April to October), 10am-5pm (November to March)

Telephone: (022) 748 9511

One of the most creative and thought provoking museums in Europe, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum brings together sculpture, installation, photography and film to highlight the importance of human rights, the history of conflict in the 20th century and the humanitarian work the Red Cross has done in providing aid to combatants and civilians caught up in both war and natural disasters.<br /><br /> Funded entirely by outside donors, the museum is appropriately situated on the hillside opposite the United Nations, within the headquarters of the International Committee of the Red Cross. A significant stopover on a visit to Geneva, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum provides insight into the gross implications of war and the tragedy that surrounds but also the committed work of the volunteers and Red Cross representatives alike. All the exhibits have an English language option.<br /><br />

St Peters Cathedral

Address: 24 Place du Bourg-de-Four Geneva

Admission: Towers: CHF 5 for adults, CHF 2 for children and archeological site: CHF 8. Monday to Saturday 10am-5:30pm; Sunday 12am-5:30pm (October to May) and Monday to Saturday 9am-6:30pm; Sunday 12am-6:30pm (June to April)

With initial construction commencing in 1160 and lasting nearly a century, St Peter's Cathedral has over the years become a hotchpotch of architectural styles with Romanesque, Gothic and Neoclassical features. A former Catholic cathedral, St Peter's became a Protestant church in 1536 at the advent of the Reformation and was cleared of its ornate fittings such as altars, statues, paintings and furniture, but the stained glass windows remained. Prominent theologian John Calvin preached at St Peter's Church between 1536 and his death in 1564 and the church soon became the centre of Protestantism.<br /><br /> Recently, the remains of a fourth-century church was discovered under the existing building, providing an insightful look into early Christianity. Some of it is open to the public and can be viewed through the small museum on the site. For a breathtaking panoramic view of Geneva and Lac Leman, climb the 157 steps that lead to the summit of the cathedral's north tower.<br /><br />

Public Parks

Address: Geneva

Public parks cover over one quarter of Geneva providing the populace with a quiet haven of rolling lawns and tree lined walkways. Dotted with many curious sculptures and attractions, there are a few parks worthwhile visiting. Bastion Park houses the 328-foot (100m) Reformation Wall, a monument commemorating the major figures and events of the Protestant Reformation, as well as life size chess boards at the north end of the park.<br /><br /> To view the famous flower clock, a symbol of the Swiss watch industry, head to the English Garden close to the water fountain and for outstanding views of Mont Blanc and the lake, Park Moynier is a firm favourite, with the History of Science Museum situated in the centre. Twenty hectares of woodland and hiking trails is what you will find at Batie Woods on the outskirts of the city.<br /><br />

Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

Address: 10 rue des Vieux-Grenadiers Geneva

Admission: CHF 8, concessions available Tuesday to Friday 12pm-6pm; Saturday and Sunday 11am-6pm.

Telephone: (022) 320 61 22

Opened in 1994, the cutting edge Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art refuses to conform and as former museum director Christian Bernard says, the museum 'is not here to present the acceptable face of contemporary art'. With modern works dating from the 1960s to the present day, exhibited in a turn of the century factory, visitors to MAMCO will spend hours marvelling at the range of contemporary art that covers three floors.<br /><br /> The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art constantly reinvents itself, changing its exhibits and interior construction three times a year. The works of famous Dadaist Marcel Duchamp are on display all year round.<br /><br />

Palais des Nations (United Nations)

Address: Pregny Gate, 14 avenue de la Paix Geneva

Admission: CHF 12, concessions available. Monday to Friday (September to March); Monday to Saturday (April to August). Guided tours take place at 10:30am, 12pm, 2:30pm and 4pm, subject to availability.

Telephone: (022) 917 48 96 or (022) 917 45 39

Built between 1929 and 1937 to host the League of Nations, the Palais des Nations now houses the United Nations Office at Geneva, which was inaugurated in 1966 after the dissolution of the League of Nations. The biggest United Nations station outside of the headquarters in New York, the office at Geneva provides critical support to the organization.<br /><br /> Situated in 45-hectare Ariana Park, the extensive Palais des Nations is bordered by century old trees, and it is not uncommon to see peacocks darting around, the result of a request by the former owner of the land who bequeathed it to the City of Geneva on condition that peacocks may run freely on its grounds. Tours include the council room with frescoes by José Maria Sert and the Assembly Hall. Identity documents are required.<br /><br />

Barbier-Mueller Museum

Address: 10 Rue Jean-Calvin Geneva

Admission: CHF 8 adults, free for children under 12, other concessions available. 11am to 5pm

Telephone: (022) 312 0270

Featuring a comprehensive collection of 7,000 artworks and artefacts from civilisations around the world, the Barbier-Mueller Museum in Geneva is the outcome of the tireless accumulations of Josef Mueller, whose collection began in 1907 and is continued to this day by his heirs. Founded in 1977, the museum wanted to preserve and study the sculptures, fabrics and ornaments brought from "primitive" civilisations that were once isolated communities.<br /><br /> Lookout for the megalithic monuments from Indonesia, the statues and items of worship from Oceania, pre-Columbian art from the Americas and ancient masks and shields from Africa.<br /><br />

Place Neuve

Address: Geneva

The cultural hub of Geneva, Place Neuve sits just outside the former ramparts and is a great access point for the Old Town, which lies on the other side of the high retaining walls. Home to three of Geneva's regal performance and exhibition halls, the Grand Theatre (opera house), Conservatory of Music and Rath Museum, the Place Neuve is worth visiting to witness the architectural aesthetic of these buildings.<br /><br /> In the centre of the square is the emblematic statue of Swiss general Henri Dufour, who was the first person to establish a map of Switzerland and also presided over the First Geneva Convention. The highest mountain in Switzerland, Dufourspitze, is named after him.<br /><br />

Museum of Art and History

Address: Rue Charles-Galland 2 Geneva

Admission: Permanent exhibitions are free of charge. 11am-6pm, closed on Monday.

Telephone: (022) 418 26 00

Comprising of three sections, the captivating Museum of Art and History explores the passage of western culture and international civilizations with over 7,000 pieces covering archaeology (Roman, Greek, Egyptian and Etruscan), fine arts (paintings from the Renaissance to modern times) and applied arts (found objects from the Middle Ages to the 20th century).<br /><br /> One of Geneva's largest museums, the colossal Museum of Art and History was built at the beginning of the 20th century, between 1903 and 1910. When visiting lookout for paintings by legendary artists Van Gogh and Renoir.<br /><br />

Patek Philippe Museum

Address: Rue des Vieux-Grenadiers 7 Geneva

Admission: CHF 10, concessions available. Tuesday to Friday 2pm-6pm; Saturday 10am-6pm.

Telephone: (022) 807 09 10

A fascinating presentation of Genevese, Swiss and European watches and enamels dating from the 16th to the early 19th century, including a great number of masterpieces that have left their mark on the history of horology. Audiovisual multilingual presentations of selected masterpieces animate the exhibit.<br /><br /> Explore the roots of time-measurement through a visual timeline which details the key events in watchmaking evolution from the Antique creations of the 1500's, through to the founding of Patek Philippe in 1839, up to the present day. The intricate details and designs, moving parts and beautiful colours of the collection will provide hours of fascination.<br /><br />

Musée dHistorie Naturelle

Address: 1 Malagnou road Geneva

Admission: Permanent exhibitions are free of charge 10am-5pm

Telephone: (022) 418 63 00

When people in Geneva say they go to Museum, they mean The Natural History Museum. This museum presents an educational look at the world of nature with special emphasis on the ecological history of Switzerland. Included is a life size model menagerie of bears, foxes, alligators, aardvarks and other animals from around the globe, as well as a complete collection of every mineral and plant indigenous to Switzerland. There is also a special children's area.<br /><br /> A great place to bring the kids, the Musée d'Historie Naturelle contains numerous historical collections left to the museum by world-renowned scientists, such as Lunel, Saussure and Fatio. Children will be amazed by displays of animals and specimens including a leatherback turtle, giant spider crabs, tiger sharks and even a coelacanth.<br /><br />

Aquaparc

Address: Route de la plage, 112 Geneva

Admission: CHF 49 adults, CHF 39 children, other concessions available.

Telephone: (024) 482 0000

A visit to Aquaparc is a must for families on holiday in Geneva, especially with children. This water park caters to children of all ages and features indoor and outdoor swimming and water adventure rides and slides in a tropical theme. Brave children will love rides such as the Devil's Fall and Morgan's Thrill, while parents can indulge in a massage with thousands of bubbles in the hot tubs.<br /><br /> The water and the air are heated to 28°C and some attractions are open all year round. Regardless of weather, if it's raining, if it's windy or if it's snowing - your Aquaparc is open.<br /><br />

Geneva Festival

Where: ,Geneva

When: 2 - 12 August 2018

As the highlight of the summer season in the lakeside city, Les Fêtes de Genève, meaning Geneva Celebrations or Geneva Festival, is a 10-day event held annually in the early days of August. Boasting singers, music concerts and shows, street performers and rides, the fair is crowned by the famous fireworks display attracting hundreds of thousands of people in the streets of Geneva.<br /><br /> The Geneva Festival attracts massive crowds of up to 500,000 people to the shore of Lake Geneva, so be sure to take this into consideration when visiting planning a trip to the city.<br /><br />

L’Escalade Celebration

Where: Old City,Geneva

When: 8 - 10 December 2017

Of all the festivals that take place in Geneva, none rival the pomp and ceremony of L'Escalade, which is one of the oldest and most popular events in the city. The festival is a patriotic celebration of the city's independence, the Genevese equivalent of Guy Fawkes Day, and commemorates the vain attempt by the Duke of Savoy's troops to invade the old walled city in 1602.<br /><br /> Many legends surround the historic event, most famously the tale of Mother Royaume, who emptied her large cauldron of hot vegetable soup on the attackers below. An Escalade custom consists of selling cups of hot vegetable soup in the streets, and the windows of confectioners and sweet shops display chocolate and nougat pots decorated with the colours of Geneva and filled with marzipan vegetables.<br /><br /> The highlight of the festival is the torchlight procession through the Old Town by participants in period costume, with musketeers, horsemen, pipers and drummers, to the accompaniment of crackers and gun salutes. Many people appear in fancy dress and the carnival atmosphere is enjoyed by all.<br /><br />

Montreux Jazz Festival

Where: ,Geneva

When: 29 June - 14 July 2018

Held on the eastern shore of beautiful Lake Geneva, the Montreux Jazz Festival attracts around 200,000 people each year. Specialising in jazz, blues, rock and pop, the festival provides groove-busting beats that make you want to move your body or just listen in musical awe.<br /><br /> The Montreux Jazz Festival has hosted the likes of Stan Getz, Nina Simone, Ella Fitzgerald, Charlie Mingus and Dexter Gordon since its inception in 1967, and every year leading artists in their respective genres are showcased. Head to the fringe 'Off Festival' for free open-air concerts, providing a platform for up-and-coming artists.<br /><br />

Les Armures

Address: 1 Rue Puits-St-Pierre Geneva

Food Type: Local

Those in search of authentic Swiss cuisine prepared to perfection need look no further than the Les Armures. This renowned eatery located in the 5-star Hotel Les Armures features three dining rooms for patrons to choose between, namely the Terrace, Salle des Artistes and Carnozet and serves Swiss favourites with a French flair and elegance. Try the wild mushroom soup, sliced breaded veal or the roasted duck breast served in a raspberry vinegar sauce. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended.<br /><br />

Café des Bains

Address: Rue des Bains 26 Geneva

Food Type: Café

A warm and friendly bistro situated opposite the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in the trendy Plainpalais district, Café des Bains serves fresh innovative dishes from all over the world. With a varying daily lunch menu, patrons can expect mouth-watering quality dishes, prepared with only the finest ingredients, which are creatively presented. Take lunch at the new bar area where you can access free wifi or just sit back and enjoy a freshly brewed coffee. In the evenings patrons can choose from an attractive a la carte menu that is accompanied by a good winelist. For a relaxed dining experience in Geneva head to Café de Bains. Open Monday to Friday for lunch and dinner, and Saturday for dinner.<br /><br />

La Perle du Lac

Address: Rue de Lausanne 126 Geneva

Food Type: French

Popular with tourists and locals alike, La Perle du Lac is the only restaurant in Geneva that is situated directly on Lac Leman. Known for its large flowered terrace overlooking the Alps mountain range and the tranquil lake, guests at La Perle du Lac easily unwind whilst relishing the flavours of their pan fried escalope of duck liver with apple or the much loved slow-cooked lamb shanks. Situated in pretty Mon Repos Park, La Perle du Lac has been serving five star French cuisine to diplomats and businessmen for over 30 years. Open Monday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.<br /><br />

Café du Soleil

Address: Place du Petit-Saconnex 6, Petit-Saconnex Geneva

Food Type: Local

Situated about three miles (five kilometres) outside of central Geneva, city slickers and tourists alike cannot help but gravitate towards Café du Soleil. With a leafy outside sitting area dotted with blood red tables and a simple interior with antique wooden chairs and elaborate framed mirrors adorning the bare white walls, the frank décor of Café du Soleil only highlights the scrumptious cuisine. Regarded as one of the oldest restaurants in Geneva and one of the best fondue restaurants to boot, there is no uncertainty over what to order. For a light lunch try their brochettes or freshly prepared salads otherwise the sirloin and rump steaks are a good bet. Open daily for lunch and dinner.<br /><br />

Auberge de Floris

Address: Route dHermance 287 Geneva

Food Type: French

Ideal for a business lunch or gastronomic night out, Auberge de Floris is a sophisticated terrace restaurant overlooking the lake in the picturesque village of Anières, 15 minutes southwest of the city. Claude and Inès Legras warmly welcome patrons to this Michelin star restaurant known for its delectable seafood. Try the tuna carpaccio starter drizzled with orange zest and olive oil and follow with pecorino-stuffed calamari in octopus ink sauce with chorizo potatoes and steamed courgette flowers. Next door is the bistro, offering less complex but still inventive dishes at slightly cheaper prices. Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.<br /><br />

Les Papilles de Lavinia

Address: Rue de Coutance 3bis Geneva

Food Type: Spanish

A haven for wine lovers, Les Papilles de Lavinia is a new wine and tapas bar that combines the sweet and savoury dishes with a wonderful selection of wines from leading producers around the world. Sit intimately at a table for two or join a larger group around the heavy wooden tables. With tasteful décor and a trendy wine bar atmosphere, Les Papilles de Lavinia is ideal for a sophisticated lunch or after-work drink. Open for lunch and early dinner from Monday to Saturday.<br /><br />

Parc des Eaux-Vives

Address: Quai Gustave-Ador 82 Geneva

Food Type: French

The elegant Restaurant du Parc des Eaux-Vives is situated in a historic mansion dating back to the 18th century in the picturesque Parc des Eaux-Vives along the lake. The gourmet restaurant, decorated with two Michelin stars, is overseen by talented chef de cuisine Julien Schillaci whose refined menu is composed according to the produce of the season. The art deco dining room is complimented with world-class wines and outstanding service. In summer, the Parc des Eaux-Vives terrace is one of the most beautiful settings in Geneva. Ideal for business or leisure, the Parc des Eaux-Vives is open daily for lunch and dinner.<br /><br />

La Mamounia

Address: 3 Avenue de Frontenex Geneva

Food Type: Moroccan

Met by an ornate fountain in the entrance way and draped in rich ochre, red and orange décor, this cosy Moroccan restaurant features rugs, cushions, tapestries and belly dancers on Saturday nights. A popular eatery with locals and almost always bustling, La Mamounia serves traditional Moroccan dishes and delicious tagines. Rooms with different colours and décor can be booked for private parties and large tables. The flagship dish, the chicken 'Mamounia' with toasted almond sauce is not to be missed. Reservations accepted. Open daily.<br /><br />

Le Chat-Botte

Address: Quai du Mont-Blanc 13 Geneva

Food Type: French

Serving some of Geneva's finest French cuisine, Le Chat-Botté boasts renowned chef Dominique Gauthier, who prepares innovative and delicious gourmet food night after night. Located in the Hotel Beau Rivage, this stylish and sophisticated restaurant is tastefully decorated and boasts one of Switzerland's finest selections of wines. Try the tartar of slipper lobster with lime and ginger, coco milk and citronella gaspacho, or the Pyrenean spring lamb and polenta fries served with a delicious light cream. Whatever you choose to eat, Le Chat-Botte does not disappoint. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended.<br /><br />

LAnge des Dix Vins

Address: 29 Rue Jacques-Dalphin Geneva

Food Type: French

Located in the leafy green suburbs of Carouge, this bustling classic restaurant has fast become one of Geneva's favourites. The ever-changing art adorning the walls and wine list allows patrons to sample some exciting new additions while dining on traditional French fare. Open Monday to Friday from January through August and Monday to Saturday September through December. Reservations accepted.<br /><br />

Geneva does not have the ribald party scene or vibrant nightlife culture that one might except for a city of this size and importance. The youth of the city tend to go to Lausanne when they let their hair down, while the wealthy expats and local bankers frequent expensive restaurants and gentlemen's clubs.<br /><br /> The city's most lively area is the Plaine de Plainpalais which features many student bars due to its proximity to the University of Geneva; and the Place du Bourg de Four, near the old Town Hall. The city certainly does have excellent classical music, opera and dance, particularly during the Fêtes de Genève arts festival in early August. Other entertainment options include gambling at the Casino de Divonne and Movenpick Casino on the outskirts of town.<br /><br /> For local listings check out the free publication , available at the tourist office and hotels, and the quarterly magazine. Tickets for concerts and shows can be bought from City-Disc at the train station or the UBS Ticket Corner. For a full listing of venues visit www.geneva.info/entertainment.<br /><br />

A shopping spree in Geneva is one like no other with Swiss jewellery, watches, wine and chocolate being the most popular tourist buys. But among all the shopping malls and boutique-lined streets there are wonderful flea markets to discover, such as the Kane Country Flea Market, which is held on the first weekend of each month. The clothes and book market on the Place de la Madeleine is also great for bargain hunting.<br /><br /> The main area for shopping in Geneva is the Rues Basses, which is made up of Rue du Rhône, Rue de la Confédération and Rue du Marché, where all the best clothing and jewellery can be found. Head down to the Place du Mulard and enjoy browsing in some of the city's most glamorous and expensive shops or, for antique lovers, head to the old town, the best area to shop for antiques and art.<br /><br /> A shopping trip in Geneva wouldn't be complete without the obligatory purchase of the world-renowned chocolates which can be bought from one of the many confectioneries all across the city, but for a real Swiss chocolate decadence head to La Chocolaterie Rohr on Rue du Rhone and Place du Molard. Other popular Geneva souvenirs are the ubiquitous Swiss Army Knife, from established brands like Wenger and Victorinox, and Swiss watches.<br /><br /> Most shops in Geneva open on Monday to Wednesday from 9am to 6:30pm while on Thursday shops close at 9pm. On Friday stores are open from 9am to 7:30pm. Shops open at 9am and close at 6pm on Saturdays and are closed on Sundays. The VAT in Geneva is 7.6 percent and can be reclaimed by non-Swiss visitors for single items purchased for a minimum of CHF 400, as long as the goods are exported within 30 days.<br /><br />