Switzerland » Geneva

Geneva is situated at the south-western end of Lac Lman (the country's largest lake) and astride the Rhone, Geneva is the departure point for lake steamers. Geneva is one of the world's major centres of international diplomacy, having served as the site of the initial headquarters of the International Committee of the Red Cross before that. Although the United Nations is now headquartered in New York, the organisation still retains a large presence in Geneva at the Palais des Nations and many of its sister/child organisations such as the World Health Organization and UNICEF have their world headquarters here. 

Geneva became a canton of the Swiss Confederation at a relatively late date in 1815, but already made an early mark in history. Napoleon occupied Geneva from 1798 to 1813 and the city then became the capital of the area called the "Department of the Leman".

The city is a host of museums and fine galleries; Geneva has a lively cultural calendar. Most notable are the celebration of l'Escalade in December, which involves costumed and torch-lit processions through the town, and the consumption of sickly amounts of chocolate and marzipan.

Public transport consists of very dependable trams, buses and trolley buses that serve the city quickly and in an efficient manner, but if there is no hurry it is cheaper and more practical to walk or cycle. The excellent bus and tram network operates from about 5am to midnight with a night bus service running on weekends. A basic fare costs Sfr2.20 and allows use of the network within Geneva’s central zone and unlimited transfers between buses and trams for an hour, or there are cheaper tickets limited to three stops and including a return journey within 30 minutes. 

The climate of Geneva is influenced by the altitude of the city, as well as the nearness of the lake and mountains. Temperatures are generally moderate, with warm to hot summers and relatively mild winters. The city is drier than other parts of Switzerland because of the protection of the mountains, but rain is possible all year round. The best weather for a holiday in Geneva is experienced during the height of summer, July and August, but this is also the time when the city attracts thousands of tourists.