Thanks to its location at one of the tips of Lake Geneva, a stone-throw from the border with France, there are many wonderful day trips from Geneva that will make for unforgettable experiences.

Geneva is known for its charming old town, the lovely lakeshore, and for being home to the main international organisations, not least the Red Cross and the United Nations. While the city is worth spending one or two days, there’s also a lot to explore nearby, and you can have fabulous day trips from Geneva. Thanks to its geographic location, you can easily discover more of Switzerland and France.

Wonderful day trips from Geneva

 Chamonix and the majestic Mont Blanc: an unforgettable Geneva day trip

Thanks to its privileged location, Geneva is very close to the Alps and the Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe. Chamonix, the world-famous mountain resort, is only about one hour away and from there you have several options to explore the valley. Chamonix and the Mont Blanc are arguably one of the preferred day trips from Geneva, and for a good reason. The alpine landscape is just breathtking!

I have a passion for mountains and glaciers; therefore, my recommendation is that you ride the Aiguille du Midi cable car. Once you reach the top, at 3,842m (12,605ft), you’ll get to see one of the most jaw-dropping alpine scenery. Imagine being surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glaciers, feeling as if you were on the top of the world.

High altitude can be an issue for some people, though. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t admire stunning glaciers. Go onboard the famous Chamonix red cog train to Montenvers (1,913m / 6,276ft), where you’ll get beautiful views of the Mer de Grace glacier and the Grandes Jorasses mountain range.

Relax on a boat cruise on Lake Geneva

There’s nothing like a boat trip, gently drifting on the water to chill out. Furthermore, you get to see the city and its beautiful backdrop from a new point of view.

There are several boat tours on Lake Geneva to choose from. This is one of the easiest day trips from Geneva, suitable to everyone, especially if you’re traveling with kids. You can sail to one of the charming nearby cities: Lausanne and Montreux on the Swiss side of the lake, or discover Evian or Yvoire on the opposite French side.

Whatever your destination, you’ll get stunning views, since Lake Geneva stands amid beautiful scenery.

Visit the picture-perfect village of Gruyères

There are countless lovely towns and cristal clear alpine lakes in Switzerland, but Gruyères is easily one of the most beautiful villages you can visit.

You may have heard of Gruyère cheese, which is produced in this area (but beware of the ones just “stealing the name”). Actually, if you haven’t tasted it yet (I mean, the real thing), this is the right time to catch up.

Gruyères was built following the typical medieval structure: a castle perched atop a hill to dominate the valley and counter possible attacks. The town was circled by walls,, and you can still see some ruins. The village is tiny but so cute that you’ll fall in love.

While you’re in Gruyères village, you can also visit the cheese factory and the nearby Cailler chocolate factory.

Discover Bern, the Swiss capital, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Tourists often overlook the capital of Switzerland, although the city is beautiful. The old town is compact and not too big. Therefore, you can discover Bern main attractions on a day trip from Geneva.

The old city, built on a hill and surrounded by the emerald green Aare river, is a little jewel. From the middle age onward, the historical center developed keeping a consistent architecture style, which earned Bern the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

I spent some time in Bern over the last few years and never got tired of the charming alleys, the beautiful allegoric fountains, the colorful flags, and the view of the Alps.

There’s no better way to explore the city than getting lost in the alleys. After all, the old town is not that big, and you’ll find your way back, eventually. A must-see is the Zytglogge, the tower with the famous astronomical clock dating back to the early 15th century. If you love modern art and architecture, don’t miss to visit the Paul Klee Zentrum. The building designed by famous Italian architect Renzo Piano is beautiful, and the collection of Paul Klee artworks incredible.

Discover charming Annecy

The small city of Annecy is only 40 km away and thus makes a perfect day trip from Geneva. A medieval town, whose origins date back to the 14th century, Annecy is charming.

Located on the banks of the lake and the Thiou river and surrounded by mountains, Annecy is actually one of the most picturesque cities of France Haute Savoie region. Stroll along the canals lined by colorful houses, get lost in the cobblestone alleys, climb to the castle, walk along the lakeshore, and chill out at one of the many cute cafes.

No matter which one you end up choosing, these Geneva day trips won’t disappoint you.

Original article: How to Plan 5 Wonderful Day Trips from Geneva

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