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Tourist Places of Geneva |
Le Jet d'Eau
Paris has the Eiffel Tower, New York the Statue of Liberty and Geneva its Jet d'Eau. This majestic 140m water fountain, the tallest in the world, is the main emblem of the city, and one which cannot be missed. Its beauty dominates the lakefront and at night, when it is lit up, it is a breathtaking and romantic sight.
The fountain became a tourist attraction in 1891. It is on every day, from the beginning of March to mid-October, from 9.30am to 11.15pm, as long as it is not too windy. It projects 500 litres of water per second at the unbelievable speed of 200km/hr. You can walk along the jetty and get a closer look at the fountain, as long as you don't mind being sprayed.
Promenade des Bastions
The Genevese are particularly fond of the Promenade des Bastions, previously a botanical garden. Amble through the gates and you will come across the giant chess boards where you may either watch or challenge a colourful crowd of regulars. The park is famous for its Reformation Monument (over 100m long) which commemorates the role of Swiss and European Protestant reformers and reminds the visitor that the city remains under the influence of Calvin's doctrines. The park, however, is best avoided at night.
L'Horloge Fleurie
 A living tribute to Switzerland's most venerated industry, this colorful clock was built in 1955 despite a number of technical difficulties. It has a diameter of 5 meters and a circumference of 15.7 meters, and its 2.5 meter second hand is the longest in the world. The clock is painstakingly designed, encompassing 6,500 plants, and is set in the Jardin Anglais on the lakeside promenade. A new design is created every season, each one as tasteful as the last. It is one of Geneva's most photographed sites.
Museum d'Histoire Naturelle
 This museum has been on its present site since 1966 and has become very popular with an average of 250,000 visitors a year. The permanent exhibition covers approximately 10,000m2 with regional wildlife (88 species of mammals and 193 species of nesting birds), exotic wildlife, the history of the Earth (with dinosaur and extinct giant mammal skeletons) and a beautifully presented section of minerals. There is a cafe, a museum shop and a team of attendants ready to answer all your questions.
Le Salève
 It dominates the city of Geneva from all sides and locals spend much time on it, but it is in fact in France - just across the border. Take a cablecar up the mountain or, if you prefer, climb up or go by car, and once you have reached the summit enjoy the spectacular view of Geneva and its surroundings. Nature lovers can take a walk and discover the interesting flora and fauna of the region. Those who are looking for something more adventurous may enjoy the thrills of mountain-biking, hang-gliding or rock-climbing. And before leaving, enjoy a drink or a meal on the terrace of the restaurant while taking in the view. Cablecar: Until end September every day from 9:30am to 8pm (weather permitting).
Fondation Culterelle Islamique
King Faisal of Saudi Arabia asked for this mosque to be built and it was opened on June 1st 1979. The building contains a mosque, a conference room, a library, classrooms and a morturary. The five daily prayers, the Friday sermon (djoumoua), Arabic language courses for children and adults and conferences all take place. The interior of the mosque itself is tiled mosaic and carved stone - the beautiful work of Moroccan craftsmen.
Institut et Musee Voltaire
In the former residence of Voltaire, a museum has stood since 1954. Principally a center of research on the philosopher and the 18th century, it houses old editions, manuscripts, paintings, drawings and sculptures. Articles belonging to Voltaire himself are on display giving you a fascinating taste of the day-to-day life of the author. The library can be used by appointment in the mornings. The mansion is in the grounds of the Parc Delices which Voltaire himself described as "Les jardins d'Epicure". Admission is free.
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