With Switzerland having recently been added to the UK’s travel green list, culture ventures can now escape to Geneva, Europe’s leading city break destination, for the perfect October half term getaway. Dive into the heart of this unique city with its thriving local life, nestled between the lake and the mountains. Your children will never run out of activities this half term, as the Geneva City Pass offers families access to 52 varying attractions for free or at a discounted rate. See overview of highlight activities to fill up your itinerary below:
Treasures to discover…
Whether your family is interested in contemporary art or historical treasures, Geneva offers one of the largest concentrations of museums right on your doorstep. At Patek Philippe discover a journey through time and the history of watchmaking with a fabulous collection of watches. Children are very receptive to contemporary art, so keep yours curious with a visit to the MAMCO, who work hand in hand with specialised educators to plan their visits to the museum. In addition to the specialised visits for children, on request, the MAMCO can also offer ‘visits of artistic awakening’ led by childhood professionals. In the heart of the city, your trip would not be complete without immersing yourself in the International Red Cross Museum, dedicated to Henri Dunant, which tells the emotional story of 150 years of humanitarian work by immersing us in his work in the field.
When you have had your fix of museums and galleries, enjoy a walking tour through Geneva’s quaint cobbled Old Town, the largest historic town in Switzerland, and explore places of symbolic importance for the Reformation. The city is teeming with walking routes to explore and stopping by the Rue du Rhône is a must for the luxury shoppers’ paradise. With the world’s top brands located conveniently along the gleaming street, shopping addicts can marvel at the watches, fashion, jewellery, and the sweet delights in the boutiques of Geneva’s master chocolatiers. Once you have shopped until you drop, your children can enjoy the ‘port-miniature’ experience on Lake Geneva, where the young captains can take the helm of British ferries, cruise ships or Mississippi steamships.
For those looking to venture outside of the city…
A visit to Mont Saléve is one not to be missed. The panoramic views of the surrounding Alps, as well as a bird’s eye view of the Jet D’Eau, the city’s most iconic landmarks, makes the hike up more than worth it. Until end of October, set off on a three-hour river trip over the Rhône for an Indiana Jones-like adventure.
The reputation of Geneva’s wines is well established…
Parents can set off to discover the vineyards that spread their vines and red and gold leaves over the surrounding hillsides by bike using the cycle paths, away from the hustle and bustle of the city and take a break to enjoy a glass of wine in a cellar. For those who like an original experience, go by tuk-tuk or head to the Domaine de Châteauvieux in Satigny, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a gourmet balcony overlooking the vines.
Following the recent announcement by the Swiss Government on 13 September 2021, all travellers require a Covid PCR test on arrival to enter restaurants and museums.
For those who are looking to take advantage of the October Half term and enjoy a city break that won’t break the bank, Geneva Tourism is offering the “Intensely Cultural” package, with access to more than 40 museums.
For more information on what Geneva has to offer, please visit: www.geneve.com/
