24 Hours in Geneva, Switzerland

Recently while going over our travel itinerary with some colleagues the city of Geneva, Switzerland came up and surprisingly of all the amazing locations we were about to visit this is the one that caused the most intrigue. Switzerland has always been one of those places you only seem to hear about, it is usually not on the top 5 list of places most people add to their European vacation. Well we are here to tell you it should be!

One of the main political, financial and transportation hubs of Europe, Geneva is one of those cities you will have to visit at some time or another.  If you talk to most world travelers that have been to this beautiful city they will probably tell you that they only visited for a few days but there are plenty of reasons to stay longer.  First off the location is absolutely breathtaking; Geneva sits where the Rhone River exits Lake Geneva (of course). Beautiful emerald green water surrounds the city everywhere you look with the snow covered Swiss Alps in the background. Many of Europe’s deep thinkers come to this area to find themselves. It is said that a lot of the world’s problems have been solved here.

Being the second most populous city in Switzerland there is a perfect balance of things to do here. With a blend of fresh and new modern city feel mixed with medieval ramparts Geneva can make for and ideal getaway to refresh and rejuvenate.

Hotel of Choice: The Mandarin Oriental

Location, location, location! Set on the right bank of the Rhone River the Mandarin Oriental is the perfect place to take in all that Geneva has to offer. Step onto your spacious balcony with a glass of Swiss wine and take in the awe inspiring view of the Rhone River just a stone’s throw away. Set right in the heart of downtown Geneva you are only a few minutes away from waterfront dining, premier shops and numerous art galleries. Walk roughly five minutes across the bridge and get lost in the charm of Old Town Geneva where you can find local restaurants, wine bars, shopping malls and historic sites. The staff at the Mandarin Oriental Geneva is extremely friendly and hospitable, catering to your every need.  From the second you walk into the hotel you are greeted like family, with a glass of champagne to compliment. The rooms are spacious and modern and if you are lucky enough to get a lake view you might not want to ever leave the comforts of your new sanctuary.

Dine like the Locals

When in Switzerland it is an absolute must to try authentic Swiss fondue. If you ask a local where to go for the best fondue they will tell you hands down it is Edelweiss. Designed like a Swiss cottage you are in for a full night of entertainment and great food. Throughout your entire dining experience two local Swiss entertainers play a variety of instruments that will make your dinner that much more memorable! From spoon playing, to giant horns to yodeling you will get to see a full array of all that is authentic to the Swiss at this restaurant. Whether you are on a date or a full family dinner with the kids, Edelweiss will not disappoint. Great fondue, great wine, great service and of course some local entertainment always makes for a good night.

Fancy a Cocktail with your Live Music?

If you are looking for more of a trendy, hipster vibe while visiting Geneva then Hotel Nvy is the spot. This luxurious 4 star property boasts a premier location within walking distance to the lake and has one of the swankiest bars in the city offering an overall cool vibe. If trendy chic is your style you will love the rock n roll décor the hotel dons at every turn. With its warm, pleasing atmosphere guests spend quite a bit of time just lounging around the bar area listening to an array of music from house beats to classic rock. At any given time you can find numerous people sipping on specialty cocktails while enjoying small bites from the kitchen. Hotel Nvy is also known as one of the main spots in Geneva to catch live musicians and DJ’s from all over as they perform in the lobby bar.