Darija Stojanovic 
Are you planning your next vacation and looking for where to stay in Geneva? I’ve got you covered!
I’ve visited this magnificent city multiple times on my yearly family trip to Switzerland, Geneva is pretty amazing! While there, I used all my chances to discover the city’s attractions and surroundings as much as possible.
I’ve compared all the hotels in Central Geneva and beyond and can confirm that The Old Town is the best place to stay in Geneva for first-timers. It’s where the major tourist attractions are, and it’s also super convenient to visit other areas from here.
Read this post to learn about the BEST 6 areas for every type of traveler. Not only that, but I also went ahead and hand-picked accommodations with only top-rated reviews and sorted them out by price (and neighborhood for your convenience).
This way, you can click and book your ideal place in Geneva in just a couple of minutes!
Given how popular Geneva is all year round, I recommend you book your stay here in advance!
If you are in a hurry
Check out the best hotels in Geneva’s Old Town, the best area to stay for first-timers:
Contents
- If you are in a hurry
- 1. Old Town – where to stay for first-timers
- 2. Paquis – best place to stay in Geneva for convenience
- 3. Eaux Vives – where to stay in Geneva for families
- 4. Plainpalais – where to stay for flea market aficionados
- 5. Quai du Mont-Blanc – where to stay for the best views
- 6. Carouge – where to stay in Geneva for shopping
- BONUS 1: Best hotels near Geneva Airport
- BONUS 2: Best apartments in Geneva
- FAQs about where to stay in Geneva
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Here’s a map that will help you visualize all the areas to stay in Geneva that I will be talking about in this post:
- OLD TOWN : for first-timers
- PAQUIS : for convenience
- Eaux Vives : for families
- PLAINPALAIS: Geneva’s market district
- Quai du Mont-Blanc : for the best views
- CAROUGE : for shopping
1. Old Town – where to stay for first-timers
The story of Geneva’s ancient jewel started almost 2000 years ago! The Old Town and Plainpalais districts are next to each other, and they make up one of the largest old towns in Europe with a charming atmosphere.
The Old Town is the central part of Cité-centre, the administrative city center of Geneva!
The area is filled with stunning art galleries, museums (including the Art and History Museum), and antique shops! Don’t forget to visit St Pierre Cathedral while you’re there!
St Pierre Cathedral in the Old Town is one of the most famous historic landmarks in the whole city. It was built in the fourth century as a Roman Catholic Church.
Other popular city attractions include the Promenade de la Treille, The International Museum of the Reformation, and Tavel House!
But as I always say, don’t get too caught up in all the attractions! Take a moment to enjoy the friendly atmosphere on a restaurant terrace or just sit in the Place du Bourg-de-Four, the oldest town square in Geneva dating back to Roman times!
The Old Town proper is also the perfect place if you’re wondering where to stay in Geneva for 1 night!
PRO TIP: when you check into your hotel, ask for the Geneva transit card, which allows you to use public transportation in the city, including the Old Town Shuttle!
All I want to do is get a glass of wine and sit by the fireplace of this luxury hotel at night after a day of sightseeing! With a modern yet classic design, this place has comfortable rooms that also have fireplaces, one of the best restaurants, and a lovely view of the city!
Other accommodation options in Old Town and Plainpalais
This hotel has a trendy design, a good location in the center, and it offers rooms with air conditioning
A family-owned, affordable hotel that has modern rooms with a patio, free Wi-Fi, and a good breakfast
Enjoy the best view of Lake Geneva during your holiday in the most highly-rated apartment in Geneva
Things to do in Old Town
- Go on a chocolate-tasting tour!
- Admire the art in the Art and History Museum
- Take a relaxed walk around the English Garden
- Go on the shuttle bus to admire the Old Town
- Catch a sunset with panoramic views of the city on the Promenade de la Treille
2. Paquis – best place to stay in Geneva for convenience
Located northwest of Quai du Mont-Blanc, Paquis is home to Geneva’s international culinary scene, vibrant nightlife, great shopping, and various accommodation types!
Paquis is super convenient when you add in that the Old Town and the Central Train Station (Gare de Genève) are within walking distance!
The area’s main attractions include the Palais des Nations, the home of the United Nations offices in Geneva. The International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent and Ariana Museum are also big landmarks with interesting exhibitions.
Paquis is also home to the Red Light District, so many clubs are open until late and filled with friendly people!
Foodies will be happy to know that there are tons of cool restaurants (Thai, Indian, Italian, you name it!)! Make sure you check them all during your stay in Geneva, especially the ones at Rue de Prieuré!
Between Paquis and the Old Town, you’ll find the districts of Les Grottes and Saint Gervais. While Les Grottes is home to artists, Saint-Gervais is technically part of the Old Town, and it’s mostly a working-class district.
Geneva has excellent public transportation, and it’s a reasonably small city. You can walk everywhere and renting a car shouldn’t even be your concern!
Did anyone order a room with the best view of Lake Geneva? Because I’ve got the perfect spot for you! Relax in the spa of this Paquis 5-star hotel, enjoy a cocktail by the pool as you watch the sunset, and dine with a view of the lake.
Other accommodation options in Paquis
Order room service or chill all day long in the lounge area of this Paquis hotel that offers air conditioning and spacious rooms
An affordable hostel that has family rooms and is located just a few minutes walk from the restaurants
Enjoy your budget stay in Geneva in this Paquis apartment that has a spacious room and a shared bathroom
Things to do in Paquis
- Visit the historic Palais des Nations, United Nations headquarters
- Mingle with the friendly people in the Paquis clubs
- Admire the architecture of the Ariana Museum in Paquis
- Visit the International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent
- Go shopping in Geneva’s best stores in Paquis
3. Eaux Vives – where to stay in Geneva for families
Located east of the Old Town, this neighborhood is more tranquil than the city center, making it a perfect spot for families with kids looking for peace and quiet!
Although Eaux Vives served as Geneva’s harbor, a lot has changed today. The residential Lake area is now compared to the old 20th-century European cities.
The 140-meter-high Jet d’Eau Fountain on the Lake is Geneva’s most famous attraction and one of the highest fountains in the world!
The Jardin Anglais and its iconic flower clock are also located here! So you’ll find plenty of picture-perfect spots in Eaux Vives!
The city’s urban vibe mixes perfectly with the garden sights and green spaces of this area. You can even pack some food and have a family picnic in the Parc de la Grange or Parc des Eaux Vives.Also, don’t forget to visit all the vintage theaters, boutique coffee spots (like Oh Martine), shops, and museums like the Museum of Natural History.
Hôtel Résidence Parc des Eaux Vives
Offering a lovely terrace where you can drink a glass of wine and admire the lake views, this luxurious hotel has elegant family rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. After a day of sightseeing, this hotel is the perfect place to relax and have a delicious dinner!
Other accommodation options in Eaux Vives
Slightly below my rating standards, but makes for a great holiday destination for the whole family
A 3-star hotel ideal if you’re wondering where to stay in Geneva with a toddler on a budget
With a great view of the park and the Lake located nearby, this apartment offers a kitchen and free Wi-Fi
Things to do in Eaux Vives
- Visit Geneva’s largest rose gardens in Parc de la Grange
- Relax in Parc des Eaux-Vives
- Take the kids to the Baby Plage during those hot summer days
- Teach the kids new things at the Museum of Natural History
- Check out the restaurants in Eaux Vives and try Geneva’s delicious cuisine
4. Plainpalais – where to stay for flea market aficionados
Plainpalais is renowned for hosting Geneva’s biggest flea and farmers’ markets! If you want to stay, shop, and live like a local, you should stay in this area!
The district is known for its pedestrian-friendly streets, and Plaine de Plainpalais is the perfect starting point for exploring the surroundings.
The area bursts with activity on Sunday mornings, as this is when you can catch the biggest number of stalls selling fresh produce, from fruits and cheese to various types of meats.
Other than the flea market, notable attractions include the Université de Genève Campus, Plainpalais skatepark, and Rue de l’Ecole-de-Médecin (for nightlife!).
Popular museums nearby include the Musée d’ethnographie de Genève (MEG) and Patek Philipe Museum (must-see to learn about the art of Swiss watchmaking)!
Did you know that Jorge Luis Bosques’ ashes are kept at the Plainpalais cemetery? The renowned author spent his childhood and adulthood in Geneva!
Plainpalais doesn’t feature any luxury hotels, so if you’re looking to splurge on your stay, check out the luxury hotels in nearby Old Town!
Other accommodation options in Plainpalais
A modern, centrally-located apartment with a terrace, equipped kitchen, and lovely décor
Slightly below my rating standards, but it’s still a popular place to stay in this area, featuring free breakfast and Wi-Fi
A bright, lovely room with a sofa bed and a shared bathroom, ideal for short stays
Things to do in Plainpalais
- Visit the flea market on a Sunday
- Experience the best of Plainpalais nightlife in Rue de l’Ecole-de-Médecin
- Take the kids to Plainpalais skatepark
- Explore the MEG and Patek Phillipe museums
5. Quai du Mont-Blanc – where to stay for the best views
Located north of the Old Town, this area is famous for the amazing view of the Swiss Alps on clear days! The Lakeside Promenade is one of the most romantic spots in Quai du Mont-Blanc, especially at night when the lights turn on and the whole atmosphere changes!
In Quai du Mont-Blanc, you’ll also find the Bains des Pâquis. This is one of the most famous attractions in Geneva and has been a local hot spot since 1872. The artificial peninsula is located on the Lake, and the views here are legendary. It looks like one of the cool spots in old French movies!
In Quai du Mont-Blanc, you’ll find a monument to the Austrian empress Sissi who was assassinated in Geneva in 1898. Her captivating life story inspired Netflix’s show The Empress!
When you’re not enjoying Mont-Blanc’s views on clear days, you can check out the Brunswick Monument or relax at a nearby café. The Old Town is within walking distance, just across the Pont du Mont-Blanc bridge!
This area is also wonderful if you’re wondering where to stay in Geneva on the lake!
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix
Conveniently located on the shore of Lake Geneva, this modern luxury hotel has the most elegant design and comfortable rooms! Wake up in the morning, drink a cup of coffee on the balcony of your room, and enjoy the beautiful views! The hotel also has a restaurant and a bar to cover all your needs.
Other accommodation options in Quai du Mont Blanc
Enjoy your stay in Geneva, Switzerland, in this elegant hotel that has family rooms and a fitness center
Affordable apartment hotel with a rooftop terrace and air conditioning; slightly lower rating than I recommend, but it’s the only budget option here
A neat apartment with a dedicated workspace just next to the Four Seasons Hotel
Things to do in Quai du Mont Blanc
- Cool off during a hot summer day, or try the sauna at Bains des Pâquis
- Enjoy a relaxing night walk at the Rotonde du Mont-Blanc Lake Promenade
- Walk around the beautiful Basilica Notre-Dame
- Catch a sunset at the Phare des Pâquis lighthouse
6. Carouge – where to stay in Geneva for shopping
Located south of the Old Town, Carouge is one of the areas in Geneva with a super interesting story reflected in the architecture of the buildings.
The area used to belong to the Italian and French people and has that classic Mediterranean style found in Nice and a seaside village atmosphere.
Rue St Joseph is where you’ll find antique shops and cool second-hand bookstores, which I consider the perfect places to find hidden gems and unique gifts!
Carouge is also known as the shopping district of Geneva, and it makes sense since the Shopping Center is located here! Also, don’t miss the iconic Carouge Museum!
After sunset, Carouge shifts into this romantic, almost Italian village with small cocktail bars and restaurants waiting to offer you a fantastic experience during your stay! Because of this, it’s also a great area for couples in Geneva!
There aren’t any amazing luxury hotels in Carouge, and you know I only want to recommend the best places to stay. So, if you’re only looking for luxury, I suggest choosing something in Quai du Mont-Blanc instead.
Other accommodation options in Carouge
This mid-range hotel has a cool design and a great shared lounge area perfect for relaxing
The only Carouge budget option with complimentary breakfast; slightly lower rating is due to the lack of AC
I love the vibe of this cute garden house that has a kitchen and terrace where you can sit in the morning
Things to do in Carouge
- Visit the Carouge Museum in Geneva, Switzerland
- Drink, eat, and listen to live music at Chat Noir Club
- Go for a swim at the Carouge Fontenette Pool
- Treat yourself to a visit to the Carouge Shopping Center
| 👑 Luxury price: | €350 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | €200 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | €120 |
| 📍Best area: | Old Town |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Hôtel de la Cigogne |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | citizenM Geneva |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Hotel Central |
BONUS 1: Best hotels near Geneva Airport
If you’re staying on a layover or have an early or late flight, you may want to consider the top-rated airport hotels I found for you below:
- Luxury: Crowne Plaza Geneva – a 4-star luxury stay just outside of the airport with a free airport shuttle, early morning breakfast, and a sauna on-site. They also have a fitness center in case you want to get a quick workout in before the long flight!
- Mid-range: Nash Suites Airport Hotel – comfortable rooms with a shared lounge, a free airport shuttle, a terrace, and a sauna for a relaxed stay. You can enjoy their Superior Suite at great value for money and have a great night’s sleep before or after your flight!
- Budget: Ibis Genève Airport – a 2-star hotel with a 24-hour front desk, a free airport shuttle, and an on-site bar. The hotel has a very good breakfast and welcomes kids of all ages!
BONUS 2: Best apartments in Geneva
If you’re looking for extra comfort and freedom during your stay in Geneva, I’ve compared all the best apartments in the city only for you! Here’s what I found, sorted by budget:
Luxury (€400 and more)
- Swiss Luxury Apartments – this luxury apartment is located near Geneva Lake and the Old Town. It includes daily maid service and luxurious amenities like a dedicated phone for free roaming calls! A concierge and 24-hour room service are also included.
- Fraser Suites Geneva – your luxury treatment near the St. Pierre Cathedral. All apartments have a fully-equipped kitchenette, L’Occitane toiletries, and a 24-hour fitness center. This is one of the most highly-rated apartments for couples.
Mid-range (€150 – €400)
- Starling Hotel – a lovely apartment hotel with minimalist (yet spacious) rooms and free Wi-Fi. The property has a fitness room you can use, and there’s also a complimentary continental breakfast.
- WoW Apartment Overlooking the Water Jet – this charming 1-bedroom apartment can accommodate up to 4 people. Pets are welcome! It is located on the 7th floor and offers a romantic view of Geneva’s rooftops.
Budget (up to €150)
- Lake View Apartment – this apartment has a rooftop and lake views and can accommodate 2 guests. It is quiet, functional, and has a dedicated workspace with fast internet. There is no TV in the room, but hopefully, this won’t be a deal breaker for a modern-day traveler like yourself!
- Fabulous Contemporary Place – finding an apartment in Geneva for less than €100 per night is like hitting the jackpot! This modern place is perfect for young people visiting the city. With a foosball table and a projector for streaming videos, it is a dream come true if you plan an extended stay!
FAQs about where to stay in Geneva
🤔 What should I visit in Geneva?
The Old Town and Plainpalais are the first places you should visit while you stay in Geneva Switzerland, also the Palais des Nations, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Jet D’Eau.
🛑 Is Geneva safe for tourists?
Yes, Geneva is one of the safest places in Europe and in the world in general, however, you should always avoid walking alone at night in secluded places.
🛫 Where to stay in Geneva near the airport?
If you’re looking for where to stay in Geneva near the airport, you should book a room at Nash Pratik Hotel or the Wonderlandscape Guest House.
💯 What is the best area to stay in Geneva?
The Old Town is one of the best places to stay in Geneva. All attractions are within walking distance. You can find amazing hotels from luxury to budget like the Hôtel de la Cigogne, citizenM Geneva, and Hotel Central.
👪 Which hotels in Geneva are good for families?
Hotel Bristol, Hotel D’Angleterre, and Tiffany Hotel are all great options for families planning a trip to Geneva! They all have family rooms and cots upon request!
🚶 Is Geneva a walkable city?
Absolutely! Don’t let the mountain views fool you. Geneva is very pedestrian-friendly from north to south and east to west. You can walk to most attractions and take public transportation to the ones that are further away.
📅 How many days should I spend in Geneva?
I suggest 2 full days in Geneva so you can experience the best of this charming Swiss city.
✖️ What are the areas to avoid in Geneva?
While most of Geneva is safe, avoid walking around Paquis and Plainpalais late at night. If you’re in town for nightlife, consider Downtown or Quai du Mont-Blanc instead.
🎄 Where is the best place to stay in Geneva for Christmas markets?
If you’re visiting Geneva in December when Christmas markets are operating at full speed, Hotel D’Angleterre is your best bet! The vibrant market is open just in front of the hotel, and you’ll be surrounded by the colorful lights and Swiss delicacies everywhere you look!
Conclusion
I hope this article helped you decide where to stay in Geneva and find the best hotels! I have used all my experience and skills to come up with a curated list of only the best places to stay!
In case you’re still indecisive, here are my top two favorite hotels, both located in the Old Town:
- Hôtel de la Cigogne – An elegant hotel with indoor fireplaces
- citizenM Geneva – A modern hotel that has a trendy design
I hope you have fun learning new things about the United Nations, shopping in the Plainpalais Flea Market, and seeing the spectacular Jet D’Eau in Eaux Vives!
Just remember to book your stay in advance to make sure you get the best prices!
I want to hear all about your trip, so leave a comment below! If you want to ask any questions about Geneva, I’ll be happy to help!
Have a fantastic holiday,
Darija
Pin it for later!
Pin it for later!
