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Geneva Old Town

Place du Bourg-de-Four, Genève, Genève

Description

Geneva was first referred to as an Allobrogian border town that came under Roman dominion in the 2nd century BC; many of its old town monuments thus date from the Middle Ages. Highlights include St Pierre Cathedral and the Museum of the Reformation next to it, the central square of Place du Bourg-de-Four, the distinctive turret of Maison Tavel, the exclusive shopping street of Rue de la Croix-d'Or, and the Reformation Wall monument.

Access & Transport

The old town is very centrally located and can be accessed easily from most parts of the city with the Molard and Rive tram stops (12, 17) servicing the area. The main train station (Cornavin) is only 1km away across one of the bridges.

Instructions & Recommendations

After taking in the sights of the old town we would suggest a bit of downtime by the lakeside, checking out the Jet d'Eau from the Jardin Anglais or enjoying a break in the Parc de La Grange.

Meta review

For most visitors, the highlights of the old town are the Cathedral and the various streets lined with old buildings. The Place Bourg du Four is the most referenced landmark but doesn't draw stellar comments, rather it is described as pleasant, quite small, and a good place to sit down for a drink and enjoy the atmosphere. Maison Tavel is a popular small museum with free admission and the Reformation Wall strikes reviewers as impressive, with interesting historical content.

Environmental & Social

Environmentally neutral and part of the city's architectural and historical heritages.

Conclusion

Geneva has a genuinely interesting history that is best discovered by pacing and criss-crossing its old town area. It may not blow you away with standout monuments and squares but there is a deeper layer that warrants a little digging.

Key positive

Many charming streets

Several small museums for those who really want to explore

Key negative

F&B and stores are expensive

Suitability

No restrictions

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

May 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 10m

est. visit time:2h

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightNo

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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