Geneva holidays: Swiss travel deals and holiday offers

Geneva at a glance

• Flight duration (from London): 1 hour 40 minutes

• Main airport: Geneva Airport (GVA)

• Population: 645,000

• Language: French, Italian, German and English

• Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)

• Time zone: Central European Standard Time (GMT+1)

How to get to Geneva from the UK

Planning a short holiday or city break in the Swiss city? You can find flights from London to Geneva, with multiple daily departures from Heathrow and Gatwick airports. You can also find direct flights from Birmingham, Bristol and Edinburgh to Geneva. Flights from London are convenient and quick, taking just under two hours. Whether you are flying for a weekend getaway with your friends or making a quick solo trip, major airlines like British Airways offer plenty of flight options. Looking for affordable travel options? Several budget airlines like EasyJet, Ryanair and Jet2 operate flights from the UK to Geneva.

Get ready for a fun Swiss holiday. When you land at Geneva International Airport, you can easily get to the city centre, which is 2.5 miles northwest of the airport.

Top things to do in Geneva

Take a heritage walk of the Old Town

Step back in time with a heritage walk through Geneva’s Old Town. It's a must for history buffs and anyone looking to soak up the city’s charm. Perfect for solo travel, this enchanting area is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, quaint squares and centuries-old architecture. Start at St Peter’s Cathedral, where you can climb the tower for panoramic views. Wander past the Maison Tavel, the oldest house in Geneva, and dive into its fascinating museum. Don’t forget to stop for a coffee at one of the cafes lining Place du Bourg-de-Four, a square buzzing with life.

Visit museums in Geneva

Immerse yourself in culture by visiting Geneva’s incredible museums, where there’s something for everyone. Start at the Patek Philippe Museum, a treasure trove of luxurious Swiss watchmaking history. Art lovers will adore the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire, showcasing works ranging from ancient artefacts to modern masterpieces. If you are a science enthusiast, you can explore the Natural History Museum or take a short trip to CERN for mind-blowing discoveries in particle physics. Many museums offer free entry on certain days, making it perfect for family holidays.

FAQs about Geneva holidays

Q: How many days is enough for a holiday in Geneva?

A: Two or three days in Geneva are enough to experience the city’s highlights. You'll have time to explore the Old Town, visit landmarks like St Peter’s Cathedral and dive into culture at museums like the Patek Philippe Museum. Spend a day cruising Lake Geneva or take a short trip to Mont Salève for breathtaking views. For food lovers, Geneva’s vibrant culinary scene is worth savouring. If you have more time, extend your stay to explore nearby destinations like Montreux or Chamonix.

Q: Which airport do you fly into for Geneva?

A: You’ll fly into Geneva Airport (GVA), also known as Cointrin International Airport. It’s located 2.5 miles northwest of Geneva’s city centre, making it incredibly convenient for travellers. Geneva Airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it a gateway to the city and its surroundings. If you are looking for alternative routes, you can fly to Lyon-Saint Exupery Airport (LYS) in France, which is about a two-hour drive from Geneva.

Q: Is Geneva good for a city break?

A: Geneva is perfect for a city break, offering stunning lakeside views, cultural landmarks and a vibrant food scene. Explore the charming Old Town, marvel at the iconic Jet d’Eau and visit world-class museums like the Patek Philippe Museum. With efficient public transport and a compact layout, Geneva is easy to navigate, making it ideal for a short holiday.