Switzerland's largest body of water is a stunning oasis of sparkling blue water surrounded by the snow-tipped Alps. Located on the border of France and Switzerland, Lake Geneva is a popular tourist destination throughout the year. Also known as Lac Leman, it is the perfect destination for visitors of all ages and attracts jet-setters from around the world. From outdoor activities and historical landmarks to world-class shopping and dining, there is something for everyone to enjoy on a trip to Lake Geneva.
10 Visit Glacier 3000
Visitors to lake Geneva will love a thrilling cable car ride to Glacier 3000 to take in the stunning views of the Alps and the lake below. A popular spot for skiers and hikers, it has one of the highest elevations around the lake at 10,000 feet. The mountain peaks are covered in snow and ice throughout the year so that tourists can enjoy a winter wonderland even in the summer. Daredevil travelers can even enjoy walking across the gravity-defying suspension bridge that connects two peaks.
9 Check Out The Olympic Museum
Experience one of the most iconic Olympic locations with a visit to the Olympic Museum in Lausanne. Built right on the shore of Lake Geneva, the museum celebrates the sporting event's spirit and how the Olympics connect nations worldwide. It features interactive exhibits, memorabilia, films, and documents that can't be seen anywhere else.
8 Explore Chillon Castle
Travelers visiting Chillon Castle will feel like they have stepped into a fairytale. It's one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe, partially due to its perfect location on a small rocky island just off the shore of Lake Geneva. Visitors can explore the entire castle in remarkable condition and the epic courtyards and learn about the unique history that inspired the poetry of literary greats like Lord Byron.
7 Check Out Old Town of Montreux
The city of Montreux on Lake Geneva features beautiful views of the lake, fabulous hotels, and an enchanting old town. Tourists will love the museums, churches, and quaint cafés scattered throughout the area. A 10-minute walk from the shore, the Old Town Montreux is a great place to explore cobblestone streets that are only open to pedestrians and colorful architecture. Incredible vistas await visitors at every twist and turn, and the Old Town is the starting point for some popular hikes, including the trail to Gorges Du Chauderon that winds along the Baye de Montreux River.
6 Pay Homage To A Musical Legend At The Freddie Mercury Statue
While in Montreux, travelers should visit the famous Freddie Mercury Statue. The larger-than-life bronze statue is perched right on the shore of the lake and pays tribute to the musical legend who called Montreux home. Visitors will often find the statue's base covered in flowers and notes from fans. One look at the view, and it becomes clear why Freddie Mercury once said, "If you want peace of mind, come to Montreux."
5 Visit One Of The Oldest Chocolate Manufacturers
Chocolate lovers shouldn't skip a visit to Maison Cailler. It's the oldest chocolate manufacturer in Switzerland and has produced chocolates for over a century using the finest local ingredients and sustainable cocoa. Travelers can enjoy educational tours that teach about chocolate-making techniques and history and even allow visitors to make their own chocolates. The gift shop allows ample opportunity to indulge a lingering sweet tooth or purchase gifts for loved ones.
4 Take A Day Trip To Gruyère
Come for the cheese, but stay for the scenery. Gruyère is the birthplace of Switzerland's most famous cheese and one of the most popular cheeses in the world. Visitors can tour La Maison du Gruyère, a working dairy showcasing cheese-making techniques and tastings. The town itself is picturesque, surrounded by rolling hills and full of cobblestone streets and medieval architecture making it well worth the train ride from Lake Geneva.
3 Go Shopping
The towns around Lake Geneva are home to some of the best shopping in the world, allowing visitors to shop until they drop. From world-class luxury brands to unique boutiques selling artisan crafts, there is something for everyone. Whichever city you find yourself in, it's worth taking a few hours to browse the shops and perhaps treat yourself to something special. Switzerland makes some lovely jewelry, watches, and toys that make great souvenirs to take home.
2 Stroll The Montreux Flower Promenade
For a lovely morning excursion, travelers can grab a warm espresso from one of the trendy cafés and take a long stroll along the Montreux Flower Promenade. The path stretches for six miles along the shore of the lake and showcases colorful flowers from around the world and sculptures and public art installations. There are plenty of lookouts to enjoy the views and benches scattered every few hundred feet to take a rest and simply enjoy the surroundings.
1 Swim At The beaches
In the warmer months, Lake Geneva is a popular spot for European travelers who love to swim in the gorgeous blue water fed by the Rhône and Arve rivers. There are plenty of beaches and swimming spots around the lake, and it's the best thing to do on a hot day. Travelers can pack a picnic, a beach towel, a good book, and a swimsuit and enjoy an entire day by the water. If swimming doesn't suit, there are plenty of other activities like stand-up paddleboarding and boating.