The Jardin Anglais is one of the prettiest parks in Geneva, and lucky for us, it's right in the heart of the city! It has a beautiful fountain, hundred-year-old trees and the famous "horloge fleurie" flower clock.
I love to pick up lunch from the Halle de Rive and bring it here to enjoy an easy and scenic picnic, and recommend you do, too!
FUN FACTS ABOUT THE FLOWER CLOCK:
The horloge fleurie is the most famous clock in Geneva and has been here in the Jardin Anglais since 1955. Today, it has clock hands gifted by Patek Philippe and the second hand is a whopping 2.5 meters long, probably the biggest one you'll find anywhere!
The time is set electronically via satellite, and the pesticide-free flowers are maintained by a team of city gardeners who swap out the flowers and change designs 4 times a year.
Geneva is for CHOCOLATE lovers and there are a few ways to experience the city’s chocolate scene.
A budget-friendly favorite of mine is to pay a visit to one of the iconic Geneva chocolatiers, La Bonbonniere. Grab a seat at their tea room near the Rive tram stop and order the Instant Choco. For 10.50 CHF you’ll get a tasting plate of 4 chocolates and one gourmet hot chocolate off their extensive hot chocolate menu... SWEET! 🍫
Pro Tip: I do NOT recommend upgrading to the "Tea Time" menu for 18 CHF. I tried it and most of the sweets that came with it were just so-so. The Instant Choco is MUCH better.
I always suggest walking up to Old Town through the Place du Bourg-de -Four. This is the heart of Vielle Ville -- a scenic hub with lots of restaurants with outdoor dining and shops.
Tip: Ferdinand coffee shop, Helia and La Clemence are popular spots here.
7 CHF gives access to climb the steps up to the two towers at Geneva's cathedral. The views from both are spectacular and well worth the climb.
Pro Tip: For an extra 5 CHF, upgrade your ticket to include the archaeological museum underneath -- it's a cool stop, too.
While you're in Old Town, definitely pop over to the Promenade de la Treille. It not only boasts a beautiful view of the city and the mountains, but it also has the world's longest park bench... or so it's been said 😉
Have a delicious fondue dinner at Les Armures, in Old Town. It isn't a budget meal, per se, but after a cost-efficient day, it's well-worth the splurge.
Don't miss trying the Moitié-Moitié fondue— a mix of Gruyère and Vacherin cheeses. Drink it with a crisp white Chasselas wine that's local to the region.
(Reservations are a must.)
With panoramic views of the Jet d’Eau and the Jardin Anglais, it’s a lovely place to end the day and cheers to a picture-perfect day in Geneva.
It's free to enter, but the handcrafted cocktails are a little pricey at over 20 CHF/ each...
If you're looking to drink on the cheap, try a locally-brewed Calvinus beer. A much more affordable option.
For 12 CHF, you can enjoy one of my favorite breakfasts in Geneva. The menu is simple: 2 tartines with your choice of spread, 1 fresh-squeezed fruit juice, 1 bircher or fruit salad, and 1 hot drink. Enjoy your breakfast with one of the prettiest views of Geneva.
Pro Tip: Get the mixture of all juices (carrot, orange, apple and ginger) -- it's zippy and delicious!
This is also a fab spot for lunch or dinner, with affordable Plat du Jours, salads and some of the best fondue in town.
Travel enthusiast with a passion for photography, adventure and organisation!
Hello, I’m Lyndsey, I’m 32 years old and I live in Suffolk in the UK.
My brand is Suitcase Squirrell as I absolutely love to travel the world. I don’t know what I love more – travelling or planning a trip.
So far, I have visited 46 countries (and counting!). I visit on average 6 countries a year and I like to explore somewhere new each time. My experience of travelling ranges from budget holidays, luxury stays, a long weekend away and backpacking.
I am very passionate about travelling and photography. You can check out some of my photos on Instagram (@suitcase_squirrell).
Please feel free to DM me or email me on suitcase_squirrell@hotmail.com if you have any questions or want to know more about my custom itinerary services.
And for those wondering where the name Suitcase Squirrell came from, my maiden name is Squirrell and that is where the journey of Suitcase Squirrell began!