Why You Need to Plan a Trip to the Swiss Side of Lake Geneva

If I were to ask you to start naming some of the most naturally beautiful countries in the world, I bet Switzerland would top the list. Just saying the name evokes snow capped mountains, shimmering lakes, historic cities, and the kind of blue skies that seem more painted than real. And when it comes to where to go in Switzerland, nowhere encapsulates its beauty quite like Lake Geneva.

Watch our “Places to Love” episode and then check out the guide below, and soon you’ll see all the reasons why this destination belongs on your bucket list!

Good to Know for Visiting Lake Geneva

One Lake, Two Countries

Located on the northern side of the Alps, Lake Geneva is so big, it actually straddles two countries – Switzerland and France. On the Swiss side, you have the regions (or cantons) of Vaud, Geneva, and Valais, and on the French side, there’s the department of Haute-Savoie. This guide focuses on the Swiss side, which covers 60% of the lake. 

A Lake By Any Other Name

Don’t be surprised if you hear Lake Geneva referred to by different names. The Swiss speak German, French, and Italian, so the lake is also called Genfersee, Lac Léman, Lago Lemano. 

When to Visit

The most beautiful time to visit Lake Geneva has to be in July and August, though, of course, this is also the most popular time to come. The fun of coming in the summer is that you’ll overlap with different festivals going on! I managed to catch the Lausanne Festival de la Cité and the International Alphorn Festival in Haute Nendaz.

If you come in May and June or September, you should still have nice weather with the bonus of fewer crowds.

Choosing Where to Stay Around Lake Geneva

There are a lot of beautiful, smaller towns and places to stay around Lake Geneva, but I would recommend basing yourself in Geneva. Though it’s the biggest and busiest city around the lake, it still feels as idyllic as a small town. (Some call it the “world’s smallest metropolis”!) 

Plus you can stay at the incredible Beau Rivage Hotel. This luxury hotel has been in business since 1865 and is one of the few Grand Dame hotels still family-run. I had the chance to meet the great-great-grandson of the hotel’s original owners, Jacques Mayer, and he shared with me all that goes into keeping such a historic, grand hotel in business after all these years.

Ideas for Your Trip to Lake Geneva

Geneva

As the capital of peace, Geneva is home to the highest number of international organizations in the world including the World Trade Organization, the World Health Organization, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the second largest branch of the United Nations. This gives the otherwise historic city a sort of global feel and makes for a fun base to explore the rest of the area around Lake Geneva.

There’s a lot to do, so here are just some ideas.

Explore Old Town and Learn More About the Reformation

Most historic European cities have some sort of medieval center and Geneva is no different. Its Old Town is full of centuries old buildings and charming passages and plazas (or places). You can also visit Saint Pierre Cathedral, which became one of the leading symbols of the Protestant Reformation when John Calvin adopted it as his home church. You can also climb its tower for a panoramic view of the city. 

While you’re wandering around Old Town, be sure to stop into Initium. For centuries, the Swiss have been known for their watchmaking skills (and punctuality), and here you can completely DIY your own watch from scratch. Talk about a unique souvenir!

Explore the Neighborhood of Carouge

I think my favorite description of Carouge is that it’s like a naughty boy compared to Geneva’s elegant lady. There’s a certain laidback feel to the neighborhood that feels bohemian and quirky. At its soul are innovative craftsmen and artisans, so be prepared for some serious window shopping. Two of my favorites include Créations Kazès Genève, known for 50+ years for his abstract clocks, and Philippe Pascoët, the first chocolatier in Switzerland to work with dark chocolate and infusions.

Cruise onto the Lake with Belle Epoque Boats

What’s the best way to enjoy Lake Geneva? On the water, of course! And what better way to get onto the lake than aboard a Belle Epoque boat? These boats have been at work since the early 1900s and are still used by locals to this day. To make the most of your trip, book one of their cruise experiences. They offer everything from wine tasting to a proper grand tour.

Lausanne

Towards the other side of Lake Geneva sits the very pretty capital of the Vaud region, Lausanne. Although it’s one of Switzerland’s largest cities, it’s still small enough in size to remain charming. It’s also made a name for itself as both a university city and the Olympic Capital of the world. 

Yes, you read that correctly – over 40 international sports federations are headquartered here which is where that title comes from! (Reminds me a bit of Colorado Springs) Visit the interactive Olympic Museum to learn more about its different sports as well as a history of the games. 

You’ll also want to check out Lausanne’s Old Town and Cathedral, both of which have incredible views over the lake. The Lausanne Cathedral in particular is renowned for its Gothic design.

Come in early July, and you’ll catch the Lausanne Festival de la Cité, a free music and art event held every year. 

Lavaux Vineyard Terraces

If you’re also surprised that Switzerland has a winemaking culture, don’t worry. It’s likely because you’ve never had a chance to sample Swiss wine. Because everything is made entirely by hand and in small batches, wine grown here is hardly ever exported. Instead you’ll just have to visit the Lavaux Vineyard Terraces for yourself. I’d combine your day here with hiking around the terrace trails and then stopping into Domaine Pascal & Cécile Dance for some wine tasting. The Domaine family has been in business here since 1451.

Vevey & Corsier-sur-Vevey

Further along Lake Geneva are the small towns of Vevey and Corsier-sur-Vevey. Vevey is home to 14 different Swiss heritage sites including the very peculiar Fork of Vevey. Which, yes, is exactly what you’re picturing – a 26 ft tall giant fork in Lake Geneva.

Meanwhile Corsier-sur-Vevey is where you can discover all things Charlie Chaplin at Chaplin’s World. The main museum is located in the Manoir de Ban, which is where the famous mustachioed actor came to live with his family from 1953 to his death in 1977. It’s such a fun, immersive experience that really makes you appreciate all Chaplin did for the early film industry. And, of course, it’s a great reminder of his best quote, “A day without laughter is a day wasted.” 

While you’re in town, you can also pay your respects at his tomb in the Cimetière de Corsier-sur-Vevey. 

Barryland in Martigny

If you don’t mind going into the Valais region a bit more and away from Lake Geneva, you will love Barryland in Martigny. This living museum is dedicated to all things St. Bernards, aka Switzerland’s national dog. Yes, it is, in fact, heaven on earth. The goal of Barryland is to breed St. Bernards and put the pups to work aiding people who may need a little extra help. 

It’s also next to the Saint Bernard Pass, which is where the dogs get their name. Depending on the time of year, you can hike some of the pass with the aid of a St. Bernard! 

Have you visited Lake Geneva’s Swiss side and have anything to add? Let me know below!