Tips for your business trip to Geneva

Are you going on a business trip to Geneva soon? We give you all the information you need for your business trip in this Swiss capital.

Geneva is the second largest city in Switzerland and is known for its many luxury stores, watches and pocket knives. Here is the European headquarters of the UN and from here the Red Cross coordinates its operations. Switzerland is made up of cantons and has a history of neutrality. The country is not a member of the European Union. Payment is made with Swiss francs and not the Euro.

Geneva accessibility

Geneva Airport is a stone's throw from both Geneva and the French border. Many flights offered from this airport are operated by KLM and EasyJet. The airport consists of two terminals (T1 and T2).

Travelers flying from Terminal 1 to a French destination can use the check-in counters and security check in the French sector ("secteur France"). Passengers flying to Geneva Airport from a French destination can choose to take the French or Swiss exit.

Travelers flying to Geneva Airport from a Swiss or international destination on business must first pass through Swiss customs and can then decide to leave the airport via the Swiss or French exit ("destination France"). By the way, the French exit is simply on Swiss territory, via the Route Douanière and Route de Ferney one reaches the French village of Ferney-Voltaire within 10 minutes.

Public transportation during your business trip to Geneva

For public transportation, Geneva Airport has its own train station, accessible via Terminal 1. From here it is only a 15-minute journey to Cornavin Station, the main hub in the Swiss rail network. By bus, you can reach Geneva Cité in the same time. In the city itself, you can use streetcars or (trolley) buses. Guests staying at one of the hotels in Geneva receive a free Genèva Transport Card, which allows them to use free public transportation within the city and ferries.

• Cab: A cab from the airport to downtown Geneva costs about 100 Swiss francs. An airport cab stand can be found directly in front of the arrivals hall of Terminal 1.
• Car rental: For car rental, it is possible to rent a car from Hertz on both the Swiss and French sides. Other rental companies are also available, but only on the Swiss side.
• Bikes: Cycling is also quite possible. Geneva is a bike-friendly city with many bike paths. You can rent a bike at "Genève Roule."

Sleeping in Geneva

There are several options for lodging in Geneva. Prices vary depending on the type of accommodation and location. For a lakeside room, however, you should expect a hefty price.

Hôtel Rousseau Plus (3⭐)
Nicely located downtown within walking distance of most Geneva attractions. Rooms are modern and comfortable.

Les Armures (5⭐)
For those looking for a luxurious and unique stay, this beautiful hotel in the Old Town comes highly recommended. Housed in a 17th-century building, it exudes a historic atmosphere and offers all modern conveniences. The breakfast is of very high quality.

Hotel MEININGER Geneva Centre Charmilles
Although located slightly outside the city center, this modern and affordable hostel/hotel offers a good option. Besides regular hotel rooms, dormitories are also available (note that some double beds have separate arrangements, but you can always ask for another option), making it a convenient choice for visitors on a tighter budget during a business trip to Geneva.

Sightseeing in Geneva

Jet d'Eau
This world-famous fountain is the symbol of Geneva. With impressive power, as much as 500 liters of water per second are sprayed to a height of 140 meters. Pay attention to the direction of the wind, as you can easily get wet! Especially at night, when the fountain is illuminated, it is a magnificent spectacle.

Cathédrale de Saint-Pierre
Located in the heart of Geneva, this cathedral is built on the remains of a 4th-century Roman temple. Construction began in the 12th century. The cathedral's simple but impressive interior makes it a must-see.

Parc des Bastions
Established in 1817, this city park houses numerous fountains, statues and monuments, making it almost like a sculpture garden. You'll even find a life-size chess and checkers game. These stand near a terrace where you can sit down for a lovely moment. Besides a lovely terrace, the park offers enchanting botanical gardens, especially the rock gardens are a feast for the eyes and should really be visited.

Patek Philippe Museum
The watch industry has long played an important role in Geneva, and one of its most famous brands is Patek Philippe. This museum not only admires the extraordinary models of this brand, but also houses a wonderful historical collection of watches.

Tips & tricks for your business trip to Geneva

• Speak your languages: Four languages are spoken in Switzerland, but English is also generally adequate.
• Be on time: Swiss are known not only for their precision in timepieces, but also for their punctual business approach.
• Respect the hierarchy: This is a high priority.
• Give small gifts: Swiss are fond of typical Dutch souvenirs.
• Don't be in a hurry: You have to spend a relatively long time convincing a Swiss customer
• Don't pay late: Swiss are known for their punctuality when it comes to financial obligations.

Are you planning a business trip to Geneva (later this year)? Then contact us and we are happy to help you realize a worry-free business trip to Geneva! Rather organize a group trip to this great city? Even then, do not hesitate to contact us!

Travel Well!

Ilon Kruidhof
Business Travel Consultant