For European travelers, river cruises to Geneva, Switzerland offer the chance of a lifetime to see the city of Geneva and the Swiss Alps. The city is known as one of the most livable cities in the world. Almost fifty percent of this Swiss city’s population is made up of expatriates, making for a diverse population full of interesting districts, shopping centers, and restaurants. Geneva also holds major offices for organizations like the United Nations and the Red Cross.
The city is an incredible place for any voyager. If Geneva excursions are included with your cruise package, you’ll have the chance to experience the diverse beauty of the city. No matter your interest, Geneva has something for you. Travelers can choose between exploring Geneva’s unique streets, soaking up sunshine on Lake Geneva, taking a cable car up to Mont Salève on the outskirts of the city, or trying a number of other activities on this Swiss river voyage.
Cruise to Geneva on the Rhône River
Castle on Lake Geneva Cruise
|
Geneva’s own Lake Geneva is fed by the naturally beautiful Rhône River. The Rhône finds its own source high in the Swiss Alps, working its way down through Geneva. Rhône River cruises take voyagers on into several other incredible locations. Here, we’ve listed some of our favorite cruises to cities on the Rhône River.
A major waterway for river voyages in France, the Rhône is one of Europe’s most popular rivers. Before travelers even disembark, Geneva river cruise ships will have majestic views of the Swiss Alps and the city’s skyline.
|
Find nature on Geneva river cruises
River voyages to Geneva take you to a city surrounded by nature. Geneva is a modern city through and through, but it embraces its natural surroundings with an environment-friendly urban life and easy access to its most prominent mountains and lakes.
|
Perhaps the most notable of these is Lake Geneva. River cruises to Geneva sail right into the lake, coming to port there. The destination is one of Europe’s largest lakes. It serenely provides views of the surrounding Swiss Alps. Lake Geneva’s shores are lined with parks, massive homes, and other social areas. Just off one part of the lake, a collection of public baths are popular with locals at the Bains des Pâquis.
Towering above Geneva just outside the city, Mont Salève is a must for hikers wanting the best view of the city, lake, and Alps. For those less interested in hiking up the mountain, cable cars are available to take travelers near the top. A restaurant and bar is located near the top too, in case travelers visiting Mont Salève need a meal or drink.
|
View from Peak of Mont Salève, Geneva
|
Visit Geneva’s most popular attractions when cruising
For those more intrigued by Geneva’s urban life, there are countless attractions in the city. Geneva is a place filled with innovation -- from diplomacy to architecture. Inside the city of Geneva, river cruisers can expect to find a wide variety of things to do, including shopping, dining, museums, nightlife, and more. Here, we’ve noted a few of our voyagers’ favorite city stops on Geneva port excursions.
- Vieille Ville. This area is what one might think of when it comes to a classic European shopping district. Narrow, steep cobblestone streets wind through the neighborhood, while quaint cafes and shops dot either side. A must see for those seeking the best of their European river cruise experience.
- Palais des Nations. The United Nations’ holds its second largest office in this massive building. Each member country’s flag is featured prominently outside, while tours are available inside.
- Red Cross Museum. Near the headquarters of the Red Cross in Geneva, this museum details the wild history of the Red Cross organization with artifacts from the events it helped with.
- St. Pierre Cathedral. One of Geneva’s most important pieces of the past, St. Pierre Cathedral was the church of John Calvin, a leader of the Protestant Reformation. The Reformation played a big part in the city’s past, but this building was central to it. Today, Geneva cruisers and travelers can tour the church.
- Parc des Bastions. This city park is surrounded by much older buildings and parts of the city. A unique place to relax, it’s even better if you bring a Swiss delicacy from one of the nearby cafes. Be sure to take time for a game on one of the park’s six giant chess boards to make the most of your trip to the park.
Preparing for a voyage to Geneva, Switzerland
|
River cruises to Geneva give travelers the perfect balance between nature and the city. With amazing views of the Swiss Alps and surrounding lakes, Geneva simply can’t be missed. Another reason we can’t recommend Geneva excursions on Rhône River cruises enough is the people. The residents of Geneva enjoy one of the world’s highest qualities of life. They’re friendly and welcoming, especially since so many are from other countries themselves.
The climate in Geneva is also near perfect. A very temperate city, summers are warm and winters are cooler, while winds from Lake Geneva are felt year round. It’s best to bring a light jacket when those winds get a little cooler during the summer, or a coat if you’re visiting in the cool months.
|
Aerial City View of Geneva, Switzerland
|
Geneva is one of Europe’s most innovative and interesting cities. Cruises to the city offer its best experience and help cruisers arrange their city travels with tours. The view of the city’s skyline rising just below the Swiss Alps when cruising into Lake Geneva is incomparable, and we hope you’ll take the chance to see it yourself!