Geneva is the second-most populous city in Switzerland and is a historic hub for international affairs and global trade. It is the home base of the United Nations, World Trade Organization, World Health Organization and the Red Cross making it a world-class destination to converge within the beautiful backdrop of Lake Geneva. As such, this Swiss city is a treasure trove of high-end jewelers, superb restaurants, luxury shops and cultural attractions. Here, you can explore medieval artworks and artefacts at the Musee d’art et d’histoire (Museum of Art and History); visit the inspiringly provocative International Museum of the Red Cross; or stroll along the cobbled streets of Old Town to discover picturesque churches and squares at your leisure. Indeed, it is your dream destination for a culturally enriching holiday.
To make your visit to Geneva a once in a lifetime experience, we have line-up a list of five-star hotels and luxury boutique properties that will make your stay a memorable one. Read on: We have curated the most exemplary collection of luxe properties to make it easier for you to find your dream location in the “Peace Capital” of Switzerland.
#1. Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues
The Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues is nestled in a historic neo-classical building that dates back to 1834 and is perched on the banks of Lake Geneva. The first hotel of the “Peace Capital” is right at the heart of the city and played host to the first assembly of the League of Nations. After an extensive refurbishment, the stately Hotel de Bergues debuted to Swiss society in 2005 under the helm of the iconic Four Seasons brand.
With mesmerizing views of the lake, snowcapped Alps, and Old Town, Geneva’s first hotel remains the top-of-mind choice of cultured travelers and world statesmen. The hotel is home to 115 rooms and suites that was elegantly curated by celebrated French interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon. The high-ceilings are awash with light and most rooms are decorated in classic French style. Likewise, the use of blue and green hues reflects the colors of Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps which are visible from many of the guestroom’s large picture windows.
All rooms and suites at the Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues include a spacious marble bathroom with deep-soaking tub, shower, bidet and steam-proof mirrors. Additionally, the Hotel is a food connoisseurs dream with its Il Lago, a Michelin-starred Italian restaurant; and trendy rooftop restaurant, Izumi, which serves innovative Japanese fusion cuisine. The possibilities are endless and the service is spot on in this legendary Four Seasons hotel.
#2. The Hotel President Wilson, A Luxury Collection Hotel
The Hotel President Wilson, A Luxury Collection Hotel is located on the tony neighborhood of Quai du Mont-Blanc that fronts Lake Geneva and the French Alps. The Hotel’s design aesthetic is utterly contemporary with elegant touches throughout the establishment from its concrete and glass façade and elegant interiors.
The Hotel President Wilson’s central location gives you convenient access to the financial district and charming Old Town that are within walking distance from the hotel. Essentially, it is home to 180 stylish guestrooms including 48 suites that are thoughtfully designed to address your needs when traveling either for business or leisure.
During your visit, you can expect a clean and comfortable yet functional stay in the hotel’s well-appointed rooms that comes with touches of luxury such as Bang & Olufsen televisions and sound systems and luxe bathrooms complete with Hermes bath products. In addition, Hotel President Wilson is home to an expansive bi-level La Mer Spa which is the brand’s first spa in Switzerland. Here, you can indulge on exclusive treatments using La Mer luxury skin care products or simply relax in the heated swimming pool with vistas of Lake Geneva.
#3. Mandarin Oriental Geneva
The Mandarin Oriental Geneva is nestled right at the riverbank of Rhone River and its ideal central location gives you the convenience of being within walking distance of St. Peter’s Cathedral, the United Nations Building and a variety of stylish boutiques and trendy restaurants.
Interestingly, the Hotel is listed as one of Geneva’s Historical Heritage landmarks and was beautifully enhanced by designer Adam Tihany who combined bold Art Deco features with Asian accents to achieve an elegant and modern aesthetic style in the public spaces. Likewise, his design ethos can be seen in the sleek marble lobby, trendy bar and the hotel’s thematic fine dining restaurant. As such, the Mandarin Oriental is a gastronomic destination where food takes the spotlight.
Here, you can enjoy an elevated version of Indian cuisine or authentic Peruvian fare at the hotel’s signature outlets. A must visit is the trendy MO Bar that has become the gathering place for locals and visitors alike for its innovative cocktails, signature drinks and mouth-watering bar chow. Essentially, the Mandarin Rooms located on the sixth floor affords you with views of the Rhone River, mountains and charming Old Town.
Suffice to say, a stay at the Mandarin Oriental Geneve will enrich your travel experience to a whole new level of luxury.
#4. La Reserve Hotel and Spa, Geneva
La Reserve Hotel and Spa, Geneva is located just outside Geneva’s bustling city center and is set in the tranquil grounds on the lake’s rightmost bank. It is your ideal getaway venue for that needed respite or day of rejuvenation. Its setting is reminiscent of an African game reserve that blends in harmony with the Swiss tradition of luxury health retreats.
Le Reserve Hotel and Spa allows you to cocoon yourself away from reality and reap the benefits of anti-aging spa treatments, excellent food and laid-back lakeside living within a green oasis of peace in this quiet side of town. Furthermore, the rooms afford you with utmost comfortability and home-like feel with bookcases, complimentary biscuits, tea and coffee-making facilities and a pillow menu selection upon request.
Conversely, most of the guestrooms have an outdoor terrace with loungers so you can fully bask in the lap of luxury in your private rooms. Here, its best that you take good advantage of spending a few relaxing days of being pampered by the attentive and friendly staff. Allow them the privilege of inviting you to indulge on the many amenities, facilities and services available for that soothing moment of renewal in the resort.
#5. Beau-Rivage Geneve
The Beau-Rivage Geneve is an upscale and historic hotel nestled in one of the most sought-after addresses in Switzerland. Its idyllic location is right by the lake with views of Jet d’Eau (large fountain in Lake Geneva) and the magnificent Alps beyond.
The Hotel is set around a gorgeous galleried atrium while its corridors are lined with period paintings and a private collection of antique pieces. Moreover, the various salons feature high-ceilings, stunning chandeliers and period furniture as a nod to its grand sense of history. In fact, celebrities the likes of Eleanor Roosevelt to Sting have walked its august halls and stayed in one of its luxurious guestrooms. Meanwhile, its seventy-two well-appointed rooms and twenty-three suites are aligned with the design ethos of the hotel where chandeliers, heavy drapes, period-style furniture and massive beds fit for royalty are beautifully curated for that gilded experience unlike anything you have ever imagined.
To satisfy your appetite, La Terrasse Alpine offers luscious cheese fondue that are served in heated gondolas while you dine savoring the views of the lake. There is also Patara, an upscale restaurant of the hotel that serves flavorful Thai cuisine. As such, a stay in this private boutique hotel will definitely make you feel like a star.
#6. Hotel d’Angleterre
The Hotel d’Angleterre is a five-star hotel located on Geneva’s lakefront with views of the Jet d’Eau and magnificent Mont Blanc. It stands proud on Geneva’s ritzy left bank for its historical prestige and tony address.
A leisurely walk along the promenade will take you to the Bains de Paquis, a popular lakeside bathing spot; and the sculpture-lined lawns and formal gardens of Mon Repos Park. The Hotel d’Angleterre is truly on a class of its own; it has discreet ambience, silver service; and old-world elegance reflected in its marble, chandeliers and brass polished to a mirror-like brilliance. It is one of Switzerland’s treasured gems that is renowned for its refined approach to hospitality.
As such, it has rolled out the red carpet for royalty, heads of state and celebrities such as Michael Jackson and Celine Dion to Lord Baden Powell and Gorbachev. Essentially, the Hotel’s thirty-nine rooms and six suites are individually designed with touches of ornate elements, antiques, original artworks and 21st century style.
#7. InterContinental Geneva
The InterContinental Geneva is a five-star property conveniently located between the United Nations square and Lake Geneva. The 18-storey Hotel has been part of the city’s glorious history since 1964 and has been the top-of-mind choice for visiting heads of state and ambassadors mainly because of its close proximity to the United Nations. Not to mention, its thoughtful attention to service, upscale design, and the privacy it affords to visitors that makes it a sought-after place to stay.
Suffice to say, it is your own private oasis of calm in the middle of one of the most international cities in the world. Essentially, all the 333 intimate guestrooms including 56 suites and residences have been renovated and refurbished since 2013 with a modern Japanese aesthetic.
As such, it offers you a specious sleeping set-up, large bathrooms, ample closet space and most are provided with Nespresso coffee machine among other modern conveniences to make your stay a pleasurable experience.
#8. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva is your quintessential luxury hotel right at the heart of bustling Quai du Mont-Blanc. Its prime address is hard to beat as the hotel is perched on the right bank of the city’s eponymous lake and is just a five-minute stroll to Geneva’s main shopping and top attractions.
The moment you step in, you will be amazed with is marvelous theatrical lobby with its marble checkerboard floors, Italianate columns and soaring atrium. This elegant and historic property has been given a contemporary makeover in a scale that is more intimate with the signature touches as expected from a Ritz-Carton hotel.
While contemporary interiors replace dated furnishings, the hotel’s opulence and grandeur remain untouched. As a nod to Geneva’s rich heritage, the hotel has thoughtfully curated unique touch points from a confectionary outpost from Swiss master chocolatier Philippe Pascoet to pieces from local artists lining the lobby walls. Here, you will truly appreciate Swiss culture and hospitality at its finest.
#9. The Woodward, Geneva
The Woodward, Geneva is a high-end Swiss lakeside heritage property on Geneva’s Quai Wilson. It offers awe-inspiring views over Lake Geneva and city’s characteristic Jet d’Eau. The Woodward is within leisurely walking distance from the charming Old Town where you can spend a day sightseeing or exploring museums and churches.
The Woodward is truly a sight to behold with its timelessly elegant and classic aura that permeates the façade and interiors. The post-Haussman-style exterior gives way to art-filled interiors that inspires you to appreciate every beautiful detail. Conversely, the facilities for the 26-suite hotel are impressive with is two specialty restaurants and bars, the expansive Guerlain Spa (the beauty brand’s first in Switzerland) with the longest swimming pool in Geneva complete with whirlpool tubs, shower space, sauna, hammam and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
For a fabulous stay, 21 of the 26 suites overlook the glorious Lake Geneva while some of the suites of the sixth floor have balconies with table. Whichever you prefer, the Woodward will provide a pleasant home where you can create memorable lakeshore lifestyle experiences.
#10. Le Richemond, Geneva
Le Richemond, Geneva looks across the city’s famous Lake Geneva with higher-floor rooms providing views of the shimmering bay and iconic Jet d’Eau fountain.
The Hotel is an easy walking distance to the lake and a 15-minute walk to Old Town. This 109-room five-star property features a spacious spa, a well-equipped fitness center, and upscale restaurant and bar. Its well-appointed guestrooms including 22 suites are luxurious and are adorned with contemporary décor, minibars, and elegant bathrooms with rain showerheads. In addition, all lake-facing rooms have balconies so you can fully appreciate the surroundings in this side of Geneva. Most importantly, the service is above par and cordial that will make you feel right at home during your stay.
Additionally, you can visit the Sisley Spa with its relaxing setting complete with bamboo floors and mosaic tiles, complemented by private treatments rooms and a sauna. Not to be missed is its Le Jardin restaurant that spans across two dining rooms and terrace adorned with tulip plants is a venue where you can savor sumptuous food amid a romantic backdrop.
#11. Hotel Tiffany, Geneva
The Hotel Tiffany is a fitting tribute to Geneva’s bohemian district as evident to its Art Nouveau façade and design mantra. It is nestled in is the quiet side of the city’s thriving art district and near neighboring Old Town.
There is an interesting selection of cafes and bars in the vicinity but it is worth taking a direct tram to explore the artsy suburb of Carouge where you will discover Sardinian-style architecture, quaint chocolatiers and artisan shops among other charming ateliers.
Hotel Tiffany beautifully combines sophisticated design with comfort as reminiscent is its Art Nouveau-style aesthetics that interplays sculptures, lavish furnishings and brightly colored stained-glass lampshades within an inspiring glass-ceilinged atrium awash with a kaleidoscope of hues.
Here, you will definitely feel that you are stepping into another world set in a different time. Meanwhile, its 65 well-appointed guestrooms vary in shape and size but maximizes the space effectively so you can rest in sheer comfortability.
#12. Hotel Bristol, Geneva
The Hotel Bristol is a charming boutique property within a neo-Baroque townhouse along Rue du Mont Blanc. The boutique hotel is in close proximity to the Old Town while Geneva’s attractions including the waterfront Jardin d’Anglais, the Palais des Nations and the Cathedral of St. Pierre are all within a 10-minute walking distance.
Inside, you will appreciate the classic sensibilities in its design approach as evident from the use of heavy mahogany paneling in the lobby, to the corridors lit by tinted glass lamps and the lounge set with leather armchairs. Essentially, the 110 rooms and suites are well-designed with the utmost comfort of guests in mind.
Here, you will definitely sleep well after a day of gallivanting around the city. To satisfy your cravings, the salon-style Cote Square restaurant offers a selection of award-winning seasonal menu. The Hotel also serves American breakfast in this restaurant with a hefty spread of well-stocked fruit bowl, porridge and luscious pain-au-chocolat pastries to indulge on to your heart’s content.
#13. Hotel Metropole Geneva
The Hotel Metropole Geneva is another boutique property set in a beautifully restored historic building in the heart of the city. The boutique hotel is centrally located on Run du Rhone in the Peace Capital’s famous shopping neighborhood by the lakeshore. Likewise, the Old Town as well as the business center is an easy walking distance away.
Here, you will appreciate the well-appointed rooms and suites that feature chic décor in soothing neutral undertones. In addition, select suites have a separate living and dining space and are equipped with steam showers, walk-in closets, and affords you with gorgeous views over the city’s infamous Lake Geneva.
It is also home to La Cantina del Gusto where you can savor its innovative take on Italian flavors and offers an ideal sport for a healthy luncheon. Moreover, you can visit Mirror Bar for a glass or a bottle of fine wine or head to the MET Rooftop Lounge (as seen in the image above) for some artisan cocktails and signature drinks while enjoying panoramic views of the city below and Switzerland’s wonders beyond.
#14. Fairmont Grand Hotel Geneva
The Fairmont Grand Hotel Geneva is one of the largest hotels in Switzerland that nestled in the city center right at the banks of Lake Geneva. The Hotel faces the famous Jet d’Eau and offers awe-inspiring views overlooking the lake, Alps and snow-capped Mont Blanc beyond.
The Fairmont Grand Hotel is home to 412 rooms, including 40 suites, that are designed to create a space of comfort and convenience for visitors traveling on business or leisure. All guestrooms are elegantly appointed and equipped with all the refined amenities and technology to satisfy your needs.
Moreover, there is Spa Valmont for a relaxing day of relaxation as well as a fitness center with the largest private swimming pool this side of town. Here, you can expect to be pampered by its friendly staff so you may fully maximize your stay and enrich your perspective about Geneva.
#15. Movenpick Hotel and Casino Geneva
The Movenpick Hotel and Casino Geneva is your convenient getaway in the “Peace Capital” of Switzerland. It is the only five-star hotel located at the airport and is just a few minutes away for the bustling city center.
The Movenpick Hotel and Casino is home to 350 rooms and suites that are well-appointed and are fully equipped with the modern conveniences as expected from an upscale hotel in one of the most international cities in the world.
Here, you can indulge your senses with the many food and beverage concept outlets featuring flavors from around the world as well as local favorites. You can also try your luck in its Casino and spend an amazing time playing in one of its 150 slot machines. Of course, you can always spend your winnings exploring the most beautiful sites and luxurious places in Geneva, Switzerland.