Welcome to my Frequently Asked Questions about the best places to stay in Geneva, you can see more about where to stay in Geneva in this guide 10 Best Areas to Stay in Geneva.
Where To Stay In Geneva On The Lake
If you specifically want to stay somewhere overlooking the lake, your best options are the neighbourhoods of Eaux Vives or Pâquis Nations.
The closer you stay to the waterfront, the higher the premium you will have to pay for the privilege. The Hotel Beau Rivage is a ‘superb’ option in Pâquis Nations, overlooking the marina and a plaza with several interesting sculptures and statues. Alternatively, the HouseBoat, Dormez sur le lac is a more affordable, self-catering option, that will have you literally on the water.
Across the water in Eaux Vives is another ‘superb’ houseboat option, the Floatinn Boat-BnB, which makes up for its smaller private space with more amenities, such as a bar and restaurant.
Where To Stay In Geneva On A Budget
There is a range of options for accommodation to suit every budget, across the breadth of the city, but if you really want to save money during your trip to Geneva, consider staying in Pâquis Nations.
The region, just the other side of the Rhone River from the city centre, is ideally located to put you within convenient distance of the major attractions, whilst avoiding the steeper inner-city prices. Home to the main Geneva Train Station, and well connected to the airport, staying here may also save you money on transport to and from your hotel.
The Hotel des Tourelles is a ‘very good’ affordable option, close to the Coulouvrenière Bridge that connects over to the city centre.
Where To Stay In Geneva For One Night
If you are only staying in Geneva for a short time, the central district of Cité is ideal. Full of historic sights, a plethora of museums, and plentiful options for wining, dining, and shopping, Cité contains everything you need to experience the city of Geneva in just a short time. Public transport links will connect you quickly to both the airport and main train terminal, so you won’t need to worry about wasting too much of your limited time travelling into and out of the city.
The beautiful Hôtel Métropole Genève is a ‘fabulous’ option, overlooking the lake and situated on a major road leading directly to both the airport and train station. The hotel is just a short walk from the bustling city centre, or you can enjoy the hospitality available at the hotel itself and take in the waterfront views from the rooftop bar.
Where To Stay Near Geneva Airport
If you intend to stay as close as possible to the airport, you should be looking in the Grand Saconnex district. The area sits at the west edge of Geneva and directly surrounds the airport. Along with the airport, there are also several convention centres and entertainment venues here, drawing a wide array of accommodation to the area.
The Novotel Suites Genève Aéroport is a particularly ‘fabulous’ option. Just minutes from the airport and offering free use of public transport for guests who want to venture into the city, this hotel is the height of convenience.
Where To Stay In Geneva For Skiing
Whilst Geneva itself may not be a bustling hotspot of ski resorts, its surrounding landscape is full of popular ski destinations. If the primary purpose of your trip is to spend all your time on the slopes, then you would be better off staying near to the resorts themselves, outside of the city of Geneva.
However, if you want to explore the city and just spend a day or two skiing, there are several locations within an hour’s journey of Geneva. As the primary point of entry for those travelling on to the nearby ski resorts, Geneva Airport is well connected with transport to various popular locations.
Grand Saconnex, the area directly surrounding the airport, will allow you convenient access both into the city centre and out to the surrounding ski resorts.
Where To Stay For Geneva Motor Show
The annual Geneva Motor Show is held in the Palexpo exhibition centre. The centre is located in the Grand-Saconnex district, near to the airport. Whilst there are plenty of hotels available across the district if you intend to explore the city as well as attend the show, there are a number of options directly in and around the expo centre if you want to stay as close as possible.The Ibis Budget Geneve Palexpo Aeroport is a ‘very good’ option, directly next to the Palexpo Centre and with views over the Sarasin Park. Boasting stylish, modern rooms, a buffet breakfast, and located just minutes from the airport, staying here means you won’t have to worry about anything but enjoying the show.
That’s my Frequently Asked Questions about the best places to stay in Geneva. See more about Switzerland travel here: