The 10 Best Bars In The Old Town Of Geneva Switzerland

Geneva is full of cultural depth as well as great cocktail bars and wine bars. One of its many fascinating features is the historic Old Town – and what better way to spend an evening than having a drink while surrounded by its ancient buildings? These are its coolest bars.

Le Demi-Lune Café

Bar, Restaurant, French, American, Beer

Not far from the Place du Bourg-de-Four, Le Demi-Lune Café is in an ideal location, while its interesting, exotic decor gives it a bit of character that sets it apart from many other bars in the area. The menu has a good range of cocktails, beers, and wines as well as lovely tapas dishes for those feeling a little hungry. Sophisticated yet affordable, this intimate bar is a very pleasant way to spend an evening in the heart of the Geneva Old Town.

La Clémence

Restaurant

Situated right in the heart of the Old Town in the historic little buzzing square of the Place du Bourg-de-Four, dating back at least to the 5th century, La Clémence is ideally located. It always has a vibrant, local atmosphere, being frequented by students and businessmen alike, and its terrace is a great place for people-watching. Enjoy a cold beer or a sophisticated cocktail here and perhaps a grilled sandwich to complement the tipple.

Bottle Brothers

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Pub Grub, European

Bottle Brothers is the little brother of the popular bar Grand Bottle, and located adjacent to it. The atmosphere can be described as crowded and noisy, but in the most enjoyable way. The friendly, international staff will be able to recommend one of their signature cocktails that best fit your appetite or preferred liquor. Their extensive selection of natural wines may even be more impressive than their professional mixology. If you are a bit hungry, their slider burgers feature interesting toppings such as medal dates and hummus. If you are looking for a more solid meal, head next door to Grand Bottle for a more extensive menu.

Le Roi Ubu

Bar, Pub, Restaurant, Pub Grub, European

For a real feel of the Old Town, look no further than Le Roi Ubu, allegedly the oldest pub in Geneva. Its fame has spread, and though small, it is always buzzing with people and a welcoming atmosphere. Its selection of beers is impressive, with around 20 on offer. Since it is one of the few establishments in Geneva to be open until 2am every day, it is a brilliant place for a mid-week night out. The decor is warm and inviting and the 70s music transports patrons back to a bygone era – perfect for indulging the nostalgia.

L'Antidote

Bar, Restaurant

A stylish establishment, L’Antidote is a lovely restaurant by day and a happening bar by night. During the weekend there is often live music and even karaoke, making it a fun place for a night out. It’s livened up by the DJ, who takes on the role of emcee, giving each night a fun and exciting new theme. Try one of the creative cocktails, invented by the enthusiastic bartender, in this trendy location. http://instagram.com/p/ZLglmcA2OX/?taken-at=2719294

Le New Navy Bar

Bar, Restaurant, Beer, Italian

An intimate spot placed right in the heart of the Old Town, Le New Navy Bar has charming, cozy decor with wooden cubicles that ensure patrons can have a quiet drink in peace. There is a good choice of quality wine as well as local draught beer, either to be drunk in the ship-like interior or outside in the pleasant terrace. This bar is perfect for a pre-dinner apéritif, especially since it is ideally situated next to the sumptuous Italian restaurant Le Syracuse – run by the same folk.

L'Omnibus Café

Bar

On the edge of the Old Town, right next to the Rhône, is the unusual and quirky Omnibus Café. Be careful not to miss it, given its understated exterior, for this bar’s fun decor and warm atmosphere make it a pleasant and intimate setting for a quiet drink. There are plenty of wines on offer along with occasional live music shows, while the terrace is right on the bank of the Rhône; breezy and charming on a summer’s day.

Les Salons de Théophile Sàrl

Bar, Pub Grub, European

This cozy bar with its stylish decor offers a pleasant spot to spend an evening. It has a good choice of beers and prettily presented cocktails. Meanwhile, its already convivial ambiance is made even more inviting by the live music which is often playing. The refined bar snacks that are provided simply add to the welcoming feel of the place; a warm, intimate joint with an authentic local vibe.

Café Consulat

Cafe, European

Perfectly placed on the central Place du Bourg-de-Four, the Café Consulat is a great place to have a sophisticated drink. Though small, this cafe is not to be missed, with its diverse wine list presented by an eager and knowledgeable staff. If you’re feeling hungry, it also serves authentic Basque food as well as traditional cheese fondue and a variety of tapas. Tasty.

Arthur's Rivegauche

Just on the outskirts of the Old Town, Arthur’s Rivegauche is a classy and stylish place to spend an evening or enjoy an apéritif – especially with its reasonable happy hour. During the summer, make sure you’re sitting on the beautiful terrace in the early evening to enjoy the sunset on the Rhône. Complement your drink with their delicious olives, grissini or even a little platter of fruit as you enjoy the quiet and enchanting atmosphere of this chic establishment. http://instagram.com/p/BOMUk_khlvP/?taken-by=arthursgeneve

About the author

Colette Lewis

A student of Philosophy and French at Oxford University, Colette has always been curious about the world around her and has written a range of different blogs and articles over the years. She adores the European Enlightenment, when people lived and breathed philosophy, and is an avid fan of Voltaire and Sartre. Having spend the last year studying in Lyon, she has fallen in love with the city and all things french. She can usually be found either soaking up the sunshine while immersing herself in eighteenth-century literature, or drinking beer and head banging enthusiastically at a metal gig.