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Canton Geneva Culture & history

Our most recommended Canton Geneva Culture & history

From Geneva: Gruyères Gold Tour with Train Ride & Tastings

1. From Geneva: Gruyères Gold Tour with Train Ride & Tastings

Admire breathtaking landscapes of Gruyères. At the top of the hill, breathe pure mountain air and hear cowbells in the pasture. Enjoy authentic Alpine cheese making and suddenly become expert in (Swiss) cheese fondue by preparing it yourself. The chocolat factory visit starts around 10:45 AM and ends at 12:00 PM. After the visit you will go to a traditional restaurant from about 12:20 to 2pm where you will taste different kinds of local cheeses, dried meat and sausage, and enjoy the fondue dish and a small local dessert. Then you will have free time in Gruyères village from about 2:15 PM to 3:00 PM and then we will take you to the Golden Pass train in Montbovon at 3:28 PM. Relax in a comfortable ride aboard the famous Golden Express train overlooking magnificent views over Lake Leman.

From Geneva: Swiss Riviera Tour

2. From Geneva: Swiss Riviera Tour

This tour will give you the chance to enjoy the beauty of the Swiss Riviera at Lake Geneva (or Leman, as it is also known), while giving you the option to tailor the trip to your needs and interests.  Board the coach in Geneva and drive through the Vaud countryside, passing Lausanne and stopping at Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exquisite wine production. During the spring and summer months, you will also have the chance to visit a vineyard where local wine will be served.  Leaving Lavaux, the next stop will be Vevey. Take an overall tour of the city, the Nestlé headquarters, and the covered market, and have some free time for lunch.  You can discover Chapin’s World — a site dedicated to Charlie Chaplin, and go on an extraordinary adventure across time and through the magical world of cinema. Know more about one of the surprising artists of the 20th century through the sets of his greatest films at a Hollywood-style studio. After visiting Vevey, if you have the lake cruise option on your tour, embark on a journey in an old steamer boat to the Castle of Chillon. Located on the bank of Lake Geneva, the castle is one of the most visited historical places in Switzerland, dating back to the 11th century.  If you decided on the option that includes the castle, you will have a guided tour through the building, and in case you did not choose the cruise option, you will be taken to the castle directly by bus.  Afterward, your last stop will be in Montreux, a glamorous tourist resort. Feel the atmosphere of great artists that visited this place, such as Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, BB King, and Ray Charles. Wander through the streets full of fancy shops and landmarks of the famous jazz festival.

From Geneva Private Tour: Gruyères, Cheese&Chocolate Tasting

3. From Geneva Private Tour: Gruyères, Cheese&Chocolate Tasting

We will greet you at the lobby of your accommodation in Geneva and invite you to spend a day in the gastronomic heart of Switzerland, the Gruyere region. The region of Gruyères with the peaks of the Friborg Alps, green hills, and pastures for cows is the birthplace of the world-famous hard cheese Gruyère. Experience La Maison du Gruyère and delve into the secrets of the making of Le Gruyère. This popular aromatic cheese has been produced according to the traditional recipe in the canton of Friborg for several centuries. It takes about 400 liters of fresh unpasteurized milk to produce one 35 kg cheese. In the center of the postcard landscape, between the slopes of Moleson and Dents-du-Chamois, is the medieval city of Gruyères. Inside the 13th-century castle is a museum covering eight centuries of the history, architecture, and culture of the region. The second, smaller castle of Gruyères houses the museum of Hans Rudolf Giger. When the Swiss artist won an Oscar in 1980 for his creation of the monster character and set design for Alien, he suddenly gained worldwide fame and bought a beautiful Saint-Germain mansion in the center of Gruyères. In 1998 Giger opened a museum in it, which exhibits an extensive collection of the artist's work. The museum's fantastical atmosphere echoes that of Giger's other brainchild, located across from Giger's bar, with alien sets, provocative paintings, sculptures, and furniture. An important part of Gruyère's appeal - besides its picturesqueness, of course - is the busy life in the small town, where there are several restaurants serving local delicacies: fondue, raclette and, especially, desserts made with Gruyère cream. At the end of our gastronomic journey, a sweet adventure awaits you at the Maison Cailler chocolate factory in the nearby town of Brock. Along the way, you will be able to learn the centuries-old history of local chocolate, discover many secrets of production, and be rewarded with an unforgettable tasting.

Geneva: 5-Day Tour of Bern and Montreux with Lodging

4. Geneva: 5-Day Tour of Bern and Montreux with Lodging

Enjoy an exciting journey to Switzerland in one action-packed 5-day trip to the charming cities, natural beauty, and spectacular views. Start in Geneva and explore the region's historical and cultural diversity. Stay in 4-star accommodation and relax next to picturesque Swiss lakes and mountain scenery. Day 1: Arrival at Geneva Airport. Transfer from the airport to the Interlaken region. Discover the delightful Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls Valley, the pearl of the Bernese Oberland. You will visit the Aareschlucht gorge which is 1400 metres long and up to 200 metres deep. The limestone chasm formed 10000 years ago was created by the water of the melting glaciers. The gorge varies in width from some 30 meters at its widest to just 1 meter at its narrowest. Lodging at the hotel in the Interlaken region. Day 2: Interlaken – Bern – Gruyere – Montreux region Breakfast Explore Bern City with many fountains, sandstone facades, arcades, and historic towers. Visit the medieval city of Gruyères, the cheese factory La Maison du Gruyère, and the chocolate factory Maison Cailler. Lodging at the hotel in the Montreux region. Day 3: Montreux region Breakfast. The heart of the Swiss Riviera is Montreux. Just walk along its flowering promenade, recognized as one of the most luxurious in all of Europe. Enter the legendary Queen: The Studio Experience museum and visit the amazing Chaplin’s World museum of the outstanding Charlie Chaplin. The great Charlie Chaplin lived on the outskirts of Vevey for the last 25 years of his life. The modern museum next to the mansion of the outstanding actor is one of the most visited in all of Switzerland. The highlight of your Swiss Riviera trip will be visiting the 830 hectares of terraced slopes of the Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a fascinating example of a centuries-long interaction between people and their environment, to produce a highly valued wine that has always been important to the economy. Day 4: Montreux region – Vevey – Lausanne – Geneva After breakfast, we will visit Chillon Castle the most visited historical monument in Switzerland. Discover the magnificent embankments of Montreux and Vevey. Visit the cozy Olympic Park in Lausanne. Enjoy the sightseeing Geneva City walking tour. Lodging at the hotel in Geneva. Day 5: Geneva Breakfast. Enjoy free time in the city until it’s time to transfer to the airport.

From Geneva: Tour of Swiss Riviera with Chillon Castle

5. From Geneva: Tour of Swiss Riviera with Chillon Castle

Fall in love with the Swiss riviera sceneries around the Leman Lake. Drive through the Vaud countryside, Stop in Lausanne for a photo stop at the Olympic museum, symbol of the city. Arriving at Vevey, discover Chapin’s world: a site dedicated to Charlie Chaplin, the artist and the man. Board on an extraordinary adventure, across time, and through the magical world of cinema. Prepare to be moved by one of the most surprising artists of the 20th century through the sets of his greatest films at our Hollywood-style Studio. Enjoy a ride through the World heritage site of Lavaux: vineyard terraces with stunning views over Lake Geneva and the Alps. In the afternoon, board an old steamer boat “Belle Epoque”, a cruise that will surprise you with the splendor of the landscape. The Lake of Geneva is the home of the world's most important, most elegant and most homogeneous fleet of side-wheel paddle boats. You will arrive to the Castle of Chillon, this medieval fortress is located on a beautiful small island. You enter the Middle Ages as you cross the little castle’s covered bridge into its walled courtyards. Then discover the Artistic and famous city of Montreux, feel the good vibes of this well known tourist resort before to ride back to Geneva.

From Geneva: Yvoire Castle & Lake Geneva Cruise

6. From Geneva: Yvoire Castle & Lake Geneva Cruise

Board a comfortable vehicle, drive along Geneva lake to reach the fortified village of Yvoire. It is authentic, with its ramparts and gates that were used to defend the town. Built in 1036, Yvoire’s castle is the target of all photography-lovers of Yvoire. When under construction in the 14th century, the military dungeon was used to watch the navigation and control the road that linked Geneva to the high valley of the Rhône and to Italy. Today, the majestic shape of the castle is still standing as a sentinel on Lake Geneva. Spend some free time and enjoy the atmosphere of this unique place. Enjoy the restaurants with its typical fish dish called “filet de perche” in front of the magnificent Lake. Classified among the most beautiful villages of France, the medieval city of Yvoire, fishermen's authentic village, is situated right by the Leman Lake. It is outstandingly flowery and livened up by artists and craftsmen, is one of the inescapable sites of Chablais. You will be enchanted with the Garden “des Cinq Sens” and its labyrinth of greenery. 700-years-old, the village has miraculously preserved invaluable testimonies of past: castle, ramparts, doors and ditch. It is a member of a prestigious Association of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France”. You will have a map and you can wonder yourself in this beautiful village. To come back to Geneva, board an old steamer boat “Belle Epoque” cruise, an original journey to enjoy the banks of the lake from the water.

Geneva: United Nations Walking Tour & Ariana Museum

7. Geneva: United Nations Walking Tour & Ariana Museum

Discover the beautiful city of Geneva during a fascinating walking tour with a charismatic local guide. Not only the cradle of watchmaking and home to the greatest Swiss chocolate makers, but Geneva also promises you an original and enriching experience. Meet your guide in downtown Geneva and set off together on your guided tour. As you stroll through the historic streets, admire the medieval look and marvelous architecture, which mixes both French and German influences.  See the headquarters for notable international organizations including the WTO and the United Nations. Also, discover the headquarters of the World Intellectual Property Organisation, Telecommunication Organization, and UNHCR, and the Red Cross Institution. Finally, pay a visit to the magnificent Ariana Museum for the opportunity to marvel at the incredible glass and ceramic collections.

Private Trip From Geneva to Annecy in France

8. Private Trip From Geneva to Annecy in France

If you are looking for a romantic adventure, then this excursion is the perfect match for you! This trip can be organised according to your preferences, offering a personal approach. Start the journey from any convenient location for you in Geneva. Hop into a comfortable car or minivan for a short but pleasant ride to the charming town of Annecy, situated 35 km away from Geneva and right at the base of the snow-covered Alps. Annecy is also known as the “Venice of the Alps” due to the Thiou River flowing through the town creating canals reminiscent of Venice. Located beside the clear waters of Lake Annecy, the town offers a large green park with walkways, tiny bridges, fountains, swans and options for boating activities. Wander around and explore the delightful Old town, which was built in the Middle Ages. Take a look at the central landmark of Annecy – Palais de I’lsle, a medieval castle and prison built in the 12th century that is now an art and history museum. Discover the Chateau d’Annecy – a renovated castle, dominating the town. Afterward, you will take a boat trip and sail around the lake to see the tiny villages dotted at the shores of the lake, the Menthon Saint Bernard – a castle built in the 13th century and enjoy the beautiful view.  You can have a meal by trying local dishes at one of the canal-side cafes or restaurants. Do not forget to bring your camera, as it is going to be a very picturesque journey!

Geneva: Lausanne, Montreux & Chateau Chillon Tour

9. Geneva: Lausanne, Montreux & Chateau Chillon Tour

The Olympic Museum (Musée Olympique)  The Olympic Museum in Lausanne-Ouchy celebrates the Olympic movement including the history of the games, its organization and of course athletes. The museum is modern with many interactive displays complimenting the wide range of items directly related to the games, its organizers, and the athletes.  Montreux  Montreux town is nestled in a sheltered Lake Geneva bay, surrounded by vineyards and against the breathtaking backdrop of snow-covered Alps. Known to many as the city of music and famed for its international Jazz festival, Montreux is a wonderful city to visit. Its lakeside promenade is bursting with flowers & scents that create the perfect photo opportunity.  Château de Chillon  Chillon Castle is located on the banks of Lake Geneva on a very small island. The water castle is the most visited historic building in Switzerland. For nearly four centuries Chillon was the residence and profitable toll station of the Counts of Savoy. By touring this Castle you can view incredible wall paintings from the 14th century, subterranean vaults and parade halls dating to the time of Bernese rule.  Boat cruise (all inclusive package only) Take a special boat tour of the lake between the two cities of Veytaux to Lausanne. See the lake at its very best and learn more about its history with stunning views of the Mont Blanc mountain range on the way back to shore. Lavaux wine terrace  Lavaux is internationally famous as a terraced wine- growing region on the shores of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) in western Switzerland. It covers the territory roughly from Lausanne to Montreux, extending to an altitude of roughly 500 meters above lake level and including 6 lake-shore villages and the city of Vevey. Part of the Lavaux (bas-Lavaux) has been recognised since 2007 as a world heritage site by UNESCO. 

From Zurich: 8-Day Tour to Geneva with Tickets and Lodging

10. From Zurich: 8-Day Tour to Geneva with Tickets and Lodging

Enjoy an exciting journey to Switzerland in one action-packed 8-day trip to the charming cities, natural beauty, and spectacular views. Start in Zurich and explore the region's historical and cultural diversity. Stay in 4-star accommodation and relax next to picturesque Swiss lakes and mountain scenery. Day 1: Arrival at Zurich Airport. Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Zurich. Lodging at the hotel in Zurich. In the afternoon, enjoy a Zurich walking tour of the city’s historical quarters. Free time in the evening. Day 2: Zurich – Stein-am-Rhein – Rhine Falls – Lucerne – Zurich Breakfast Visit the historic town of Stein-am-Rhein. Discover the pedestrian medieval part of the city with many unique bay windows and frescoed buildings. Excursion to the Rhine Falls the most powerful waterfall in Europe. Then you will drive to Lucerne, home to the world’s historical heritage and outstanding architecture in each corner. Free time in the evening. Day 3: Zurich – Interlaken region Breakfast Along the picturesque mountain road, we will move to Interlaken, which is located between two lakes Brienz and Thun. We will visit the magnificent village of Iseltwald on the shores of Lake Brienz. Farther we will take the Harder Kulm cable car to 1,322 meters above sea level for beautiful views over the surrounding peaks and Lake Thun. Lodging at the hotel in the Interlaken region. Day 4: Interlaken region – Watefalls Valley – Interlaken region Breakfast Discover the delightful Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls Valley, the pearl of the Bernese Oberland. You will visit the Aareschlucht Gorge which is 1400 meters long and up to 200 meters deep. The limestone chasm formed 10000 years ago was created by the water of the melting glaciers. Free time in the evening. Day 5: Interlaken region – Bern – Gruyere – Montreux region Breakfast Explore Bern City with many fountains, sandstone facades, arcades, and historic towers. Visit the medieval city of Gruyères, the cheese factory La Maison du Gruyère, and the chocolate factory Maison Cailler. Lodging at the hotel in Montreux region. Day 6: Montreux region Breakfast. Free Day. The heart of the Swiss Riviera is Montreux. Just walk along its flowering promenade, recognized as one of the most luxurious in all of Europe. Enter the legendary Queen: The Studio Experience museum. You can visit the amazing Chaplin’s World Museum of the outstanding Charlie Chaplin on your own. Enjoy the 830 hectares of terraced slopes of the Lavaux vineyards Day 7: Montreux region – Vevey – Lausanne – Geneva After breakfast, we will visit Chillon Castle the most visited historical monument in Switzerland. Discover the magnificent embankments of Montreux and Vevey. Visit the cozy Olympic Park in Lausanne. Enjoy the sightseeing Geneva City walking tour. Lodging at the hotel in Geneva. Day 8: Geneva Breakfast. Enjoy free time in the city until it’s time to transfer to the airport.

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What people are saying about Canton Geneva

Overall rating

4.1 / 5

based on 199 reviews

I did this as a solo trip and loved it. We started off at the Chaplin House which was entertaining and informative. Followed by a short picnic with our tour guide in Vevey. After (if your purchase the boat ticket) we went on the boat to the castle. Lastly we ended the day off with some time in Montreux. Your guide will take you everywhere, explain everything thoroughly and make sure you have meeting points/times. My guide was fantastic! It’s a long day with lots of walking but I didn’t even notice because of the fun I was having! Despite it being overcast/rainy the views were still breathtaking and we made the most of the day. Highly recommend this tour.

Normunds was our tour guide and he was excellent! Very clear instructions on where to meet and what time. He kept track of everyone. He even told stories otw to our destination based on the sights we’d pass by. The tour was not tiring, didn’t feel like rushing too much. I just wish we had more time in Montreaux and Gruyeres. Maybe the tour can extend to an hour.

Super fun tour, only thing I think can be improved is the last stop at Montreux could be longer. The guide Norman was super funny too. Recommend for people who are travelling solo.

it was a wonderful tour but not enough time to go around the gruyeres village. i would love to go back.

Amazing , happy , nice ambiance , the tour is totally worth it