The Best Hotels to Book in Geneva for Every Traveller
Stay close to Lake Geneva and its impressive Jet d'Eau at one of the best hotels in Geneva | © imageBROKER / Alamy Stock Photo
Thanks to the presence of the United Nations and a multitude of other global organisations, Geneva, Switzerland, is an international hub of diplomacy and business – but there’s plenty to see beyond the office blocks and Palais des Nations. Set around the beautiful Lake Geneva – or Lac Léman – the city is abuzz with cafes and bars in the Old Town and baths and saunas along the water’s edge. After days basking at Bains des Pâquis and marvelling at the Jet d’Eau fountain, work up the energy to climb the Salève for breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps. Wondering where to stay in Geneva once you’re suitably worn out? Read on to discover the best hotels in Geneva for every type of traveller – all bookable with Culture Trip.
Tiffany Hotel, for sightseeing near Cathédrale Saint-Pierre
Hotel
Courtesy of Tiffany Hotel / Expedia
Art Nouveau spirit and timeless charm make the Tiffany Hotel an excellent luxury boutique hotel away from the lake. Check in, don a bathrobe and scoot down to the relaxation area for a stint in the sauna and a power nap in the Alphasphere multisensory chair. Pike-perch fish and chips from L’iode will give you the energy boost you need to explore the Musée Rath and Patek Philippe Museum just beyond the lobby.
Hotel Bernina Geneva, for whiling away the time
Courtesy of Hotel Bernina Geneva / Expedia
Hotel Bernina is a classic Geneva hotel, with mid-century modern furnishings and larger-than-life drawings of watch gears sketched on the bedroom walls adding a playful edge. Let time pass you by as you admire every detail – the satin sheets and cloud-like pillows certainly won’t prod you to leave. Brew up an espresso, or raid the minibar and prepare to discover what other creative wonders await in Geneva.
Hotel d'Angleterre Geneva, for soaking up Lake Geneva
As close as you can get to Lake Geneva without needing a bathing suit, the Hotel d’Angleterre will have you wishing you could stay forever. A lakeview room is a must, if not for the view, then to indulge in the homemade chocolates on your pillow and relax in the marble bathroom. Spend hours gazing at the lake or indulge in style with afternoon tea on the hotel’s private boat or a Bentley-chauffeured picnic at Perle du Lac.
Hotel Suisse, for exploring Geneva for free
Courtesy of Hotel Suisse / Expedia
Perfect for those seeking a convenient guest house, Geneva’s Hotel Suisse is located right next to the main train station. Thankfully, no trains will disturb you or your small pet’s slumber in these cosy, compact rooms. Don’t snooze without an alarm; free Geneva transport cards are yours to claim at the desk. You’re welcome to explore the city even after checkout, as your hosts will happily store your luggage for you.
La Cour des Augustins Boutique Gallery Design Hotel, for an arty vibe
Courtesy of La Cour des Augustins Boutique Gallery Design Hotel / Expedia
La Cour des Augustins, a boutique hotel with an art gallery vibe, is located in Geneva’s intriguing Latin Quarter. Spanning two interconnected, historic buildings, the property features rooms and suites individually styled with designer furniture and artwork. It’s also perfectly positioned for exploring the local Geneva cafés, shops and bars. For walkable local eats, try former post office-turned-restaurant, Le VG – be sure to order their famous fondue for a truly Swiss night out.
La Réserve Genève Hotel and Spa, for total wellness
Courtesy of La Réserve Genève Hotel and Spa / Expedia
Enjoy lakeside opulence at this luxurious five-star hotel and spa, set amid gloriously landscaped gardens. Unwind in the sauna, gym, pools and hamman, staffed by a team of top-notch therapists, coaches and medical specialists. Wellness is taken extremely seriously at La Réserve. There are several restaurants on site, but the star attraction here is definitely poolside seafood haunt the Lodge with its prawn and lobster tank.
Hotel Les Armures, for spoiling yourself
Courtesy of Hotel Les Armures / Expedia
Wrap yourself in a fluffy dressing gown and spoil yourself with dreamy lake views at this lavish, five-star hotel. Oozing Swiss chalet chic, Les Armures seamlessly blends its 17th-century history with modern features. Expect stone-walled rooms adorned with faux-fur throws and hip light fixtures. Inside this historic hotel, you’ll find Restaurant Les Armures, the city’s oldest coffee house. Order a deliciously moreish Swiss moitié-moitié (cheese fondue).
Nash Pratik Hotel, for flying visits
Courtesy of Nash Pratik Hotel / Expedia
This modern Geneva hotel is a firm favourite with frequent fliers due to its proximity to the airport and free shuttle service. Those with early departures can also take advantage of the 24-hour front desk and packed breakfast to go. While this spot has all the standard offerings of an airport hotel, the smooth service and little extras make it a convenient and pleasant stay in Geneva.
Ibis Styles Genève Carouge, for hipster economy
Courtesy of Ibis Styles Genève Carouge / Expedia
This unique comic book-themed stay proves that budget hotels don’t have to be boring. Get a good night’s sleep in rooms designed by local artists. The kooky charm extends beyond the cartoon-licked walls, with a comic library and a cat-friendly policy, should you happen to be vacationing with your favourite feline. Cats and comic books combined with free breakfast and wifi make this economic hotel the hipster heart of Carouge.
Hôtel de la Cigogne, for the historic setting
Courtesy of Hôtel de La Cigogne / Expedia
Situated on the picturesque Place de Longemalle, on the edge of the Old Town, this turn-of-the-century hotel offers guests a magical experience within a historic setting. With its original fireplaces, 18th-century-style furniture and luxurious rugs, it transports guests to another world. You would do well to sample the gourmet restaurant, in a setting that is no less grand than its beautiful rooms, including the impressive selection of more than 300 wines.
Hôtel Résidence Cité-Verdaine, for living like a local
Hotel
Courtesy of Aparthotel Hôtel Résidence Cité-Verdaine / Booking.com
Budget travellers pondering where to stay in Geneva will love this aparthotel. The residences feature kitchenettes, so you can live like a local and avoid the notorious expense of going out to eat in the city. Some even boast large balconies, so you can make the most of the views afforded by its central location, just a few feet from the St Pierre Cathedral. The tasteful decor and welcoming ambiance makes this a lovely place to enjoy all that Geneva has to offer.
This is an updated version of an article originally written by Colette Lewis. Nick Dauk contributed additional reporting to this article.
These recommendations were updated on February 6, 2022 to keep your travel plans fresh.
