Geneva and Zurich are two of Switzerland’s best cities, but they are both quite different, each offering its own unique blend of culture, history, and more.
Choosing to spend your time in Geneva vs Zurich is not an easy decision to make, but rest assured, there is no wrong choice, they are both wonderful cities to visit.
To help you choose between Zurich vs Geneva, we are going to delve deeper into the details. Below, we will compare Zurich vs Geneva across a range of categories from popular attractions and public transport to food, nightlife, and more.
By the end of the article, it should be clear which of Switzerland’s biggest cities to visit, Geneva or Zurich.
Table of Contents
Popular Attractions
Geneva
Nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, Geneva is a very international city and a French-speaking city at that. It is home to the Olympic Committee, Red Cross Headquarters, United Nations, and many other global organizations that also call Geneva City home.
When you visit Geneva, you will have a huge range of great things to see and do. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Jet d’Eau, a magnificent water fountain that shoots water 140 meters into the air.
Spending time on the shores of Lake Geneva is also a must as the views into the Alps are incredible and in the summer it is the perfect place to sunbathe, swim in the crystal clear waters, and enjoy various water sports. A boat ride on Lake Geneva is also a wonderful way to enjoy the lake.
Strolling through Geneva Old Town is also a wonderful thing to do. You can explore the picturesque streets, take in the architecture, visit St. Pierre Cathedral, and climb the tower for panoramic views of the city, Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps.
The Palace of Nations (Palais Des Nations), the European headquarters of the United Nations, is another great place to visit in Geneva. The guided tours will teach you all about the history of the United Nations and shine a light on just how important the organization is.
Another thing I love about Geneva is how close it is to the Swiss Alps, you can be in the mountains hiking in just over an hour from the city.
There are also plenty of great museums in Geneva including the Red Cross Museum, the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, and plenty of great art galleries too.
Zurich
Zurich is a Swiss-German-speaking city and when you visit Zurich, you will hear German more than any other of the official Swiss languages. Hailed as the financial hub of Switzerland, Zurich is also a very cosmopolitan Swiss city but not quite as cosmopolitan as Geneva.
Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and this international city boasts a vibrant mix of old and new. Zurich Old Town, locally known as “Altstadt,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Wander through its narrow alleys, admire the medieval buildings, and visit the Grossmünster, a Romanesque-style Protestant church with two distinctive towers. You should also walk along the banks of the Limmat River which flows out of Lake Zurich and through the Old Town.
For art lovers, the Kunsthaus Zurich houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Chagall.
Zurich is also home to the Swiss National Museum which is home to some of the most important historical collections in the world dating back to the prehistoric era.
Like Geneva, Zurich also has a beautiful lake, Lake Zurich. While it is not as big as Lake Geneva, the views across it are stunning, swimming and sunbathing in the summer are a must, lake cruises are stunning, and there are also a lot of water sports on offer too.
Public Transport
Geneva
Public transport in Switzerland is about as efficient and convenient as it gets and both Zurich and Geneva benefit from this.
Geneva is actually a very walkable city and you can get by without public transport if you want to/if the weather permits. If not, you have the option of using Geneva’s public transport system which includes trams, buses, trains, and the subway too.
The tram network is the best way to get around the inner city of Geneva, and where there is not a tram, you will find a bus that will take you where you need to go.
For longer rides across the city, the subway is your best bet as it cuts down your journey time significantly. The trains out of Geneva are very efficient and you visit nearby towns such as
- Lausanne
- Lutry
- Vevey
- Montreux
Most hotels provide their guests with a Geneva Transport Card free of charge, allowing you to enjoy unlimited travel on public transport for free during your stay.
Zurich
Both Zurich and Geneva’s public transport systems are as good as each other. In Zurich, like Geneva, you also have trams, buses, trains, and a subway that are all highly efficient and arrive at the minute of their schedule.
Unlike Geneva, Zurich is not the most walkable city as it is the country’s largest city so you will have to rely on Zurich’s public transport from time to time.
Trams should be your first port of call, then buses, and to cross town, use the subway for maximum efficiency.
Zurich HB is the country’s main train station and you can travel anywhere in Switzerland and pretty much Europe from there.
Your hotel in Zurich should also provide you with a Zurich Card for the duration of your stay which gives you unlimited travel within the city and offers free or discounted admission to numerous attractions.
Food
Geneva
When it comes to culinary delights, Geneva offers a diverse range of both international and Swiss traditional cuisine.
The city’s cultural significance has contributed to a vibrant food scene, catering to various tastes from all over the world – if there is an international cuisine you are after, Geneva will have it.
Geneva is also known for its fine dining establishments, where you can savor exquisite French cuisine and haute cuisine creations. There are a number of Michelin Star restaurants in Geneva too, so if you want to dine in luxury while visiting Geneva.
Zurich
Zurich is a food lover’s paradise, with a thriving culinary scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. The city offers a wide range of dining options, from trendy cafes and street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants – just like Geneva.
Traditional Swiss cuisine takes center stage in Zurich with dishes like Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce) and Rösti (shredded and fried potatoes) being local favorites.
Be sure to explore Zurich’s vibrant food markets, such as the bustling Viadukt Market or the historic Bürkliplatz Market, where you can sample local produce, artisanal cheeses, and freshly baked goods.
While Geneva is the king of international cuisine in Switzerland, Zurich is not far behind and you can pretty much find anything you might want to taste in Zurich.
Where to Stay
Geneva
Geneva is filled with top-notch hotels so you are spoiled for choice in where to stay. The trick is not spending a fortune, if you ask me.
5 Star Hotels
Options like The Woodward right on the shores of Lake Geneva are something you definitely won’t forget. Or, if you want to be in a 17th-century building in the midst of the old town, then I recommend Les Armures instead.
Mid-Range
If you want to spend a lot less money then something more mid-range like the Citizen M also in the heart of the old town is the way to go.
Budget
The best budget option in my experience is the City Hostel Geneva, which is a stone’s throw from both the train and the lake.
Zurich
Zurich has too many options to mention, but if you stay in the old town area you will be walking distance from almost anywhere worth going.
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5 Star Hotels
Zurich has plenty of 5-star options for you to choose from, by my favorite is the Storchen right in the heart of the old town on the river with views of the Grossmunster. I have friends who stayed here last year and can’t stop walking about it.
Mid-Range
Zurich also has a Citizen M right in the middle of it all in the old town. So, if you want comfort without the 5-star price, this is your best bet.
I am ignoring the super-budget options here because they are all very basic and either right next to the train or way out of town. Instead, what I also recommend is the new Boutique Hotel Josef which is right next to my old work. This building has been completely renovated and is right in the heart of lots of eating options, walking distance from the train and tram to anywhere in Zurich.
Nightlife
Geneva
Geneva’s nightlife scene may be relatively low-key compared to other European cities, but it still has a lot to offer for those seeking entertainment after dark.
The city’s nightlife is centered around several districts, with Les Pâquis being particularly known for its vibing atmosphere. You’ll find a mix of trendy bars, live music venues, and clubs catering to different tastes and you can dance away until dawn if you want to.
Many establishments offer a cozy and intimate ambiance, making them perfect for relaxed conversations over a drink. Some venues also host live performances, featuring local bands and international artists.
Zurich
Zurich is renowned for its lively and diverse nightlife and it takes things one step further than Geneva in my eyes. The city has a reputation for its thriving club scene, with establishments like Hive, Supermarket, and Kaufleuten.
These venues often host international DJs, ensuring unforgettable nights of dancing and music. Zurich also offers numerous bars, ranging from sophisticated cocktail lounges to laid-back neighborhood pubs.
For jazz enthusiasts, the city has a vibrant jazz club scene, where you can enjoy live performances by talented musicians.
Additionally, Zurich’s theaters and concert halls regularly showcase a wide range of performances, including theater plays, musicals, and classical concerts.
Shopping
Geneva
Shopping in Geneva is excellent if you are into fashion and luxury. The city is renowned for its high-end boutiques and prestigious watchmakers, making it a paradise for those seeking exclusive designer goods and Swiss watches.
Rue du Rhône and Rue du Marché are two popular streets lined with luxury brands, offering a very high-end shopping experience.
The upscale shopping center, Bongénie, is another highlight, where you can find a wide range of designer labels under one roof.
For a more eclectic shopping experience, explore the neighborhood of Carouge, known for its bohemian atmosphere and independent boutiques.
Zurich
Zurich is a shopping haven and will suit different tastes and budgets. The city’s most famous shopping street, Bahnhofstrasse, is known worldwide for its exclusivity and elegance.
Here, you’ll find luxury brands, high-end department stores, and renowned Swiss watchmakers. From international fashion houses to renowned jewelry stores, Bahnhofstrasse caters to the desires of luxury shoppers and if it is out of your budget, window shopping is still great.
For a more alternative shopping experience, head to the neighborhoods of Niederdorf and Langstrasse.
Niederdorf is famous for its independent boutiques, vintage shops, and unique concept stores, while Langstrasse offers a vibrant mix of fashion boutiques, urban streetwear stores, and second-hand shops.
Cost of Visiting
Geneva
It is important to note that both Geneva and Zurich are known for being expensive cities, and visitors should be prepared for higher prices compared to other European destinations.
Geneva, in particular, ranks among the most expensive cities in the world. Accommodation prices tend to be higher, especially in central locations, and dining out can be quite pricey.
However, there are ways to manage costs, such as opting for budget accommodations, exploring local markets for affordable dining options, and taking advantage of free attractions and activities.
Getting to Geneva Airport from Europe is very affordable as low-cost airlines such as EasyJet fly there regularly.
Zurich
While Zurich is also considered expensive, it is often regarded as slightly more affordable than Geneva.
Accommodation prices may vary depending on the location and level of luxury, but overall, Zurich offers a range of options to suit different budgets.
Dining out can be expensive in popular areas, but the city also has affordable eateries and street food stalls that provide excellent value for money.
Flying to Zurich is affordable from Europe, and Zurich airport has a lot more international flights coming into it from around the globe, so if you are traveling from outside of Europe, it might be more affordable to fly to than Geneva.
Days to Spend in the City
Geneva
When you visit Geneva, you should plan to have at least 2 full days to see the city but 4 days would be ideal if you want to experience all it has to offer at a more leisurely pace.
In 4 days you will be able to enjoy all the city’s main attractions, take advantage of all that Lake Geneva has to offer, visit nearby towns, and perhaps even have enough time for a hike in the Alps.
In 2 days, you will be able to experience the city but not its wonderful surroundings as well.
Zurich
The amount of time needed to visit Zurich is similar to Geneva. You can do the city in 2 days, but to do all the city and some of the surroundings, 4 days is best.
Being a larger city than Geneva, to see all Zurich has to offer might take 3 days and then you can spend one day exploring the lake or the local mountains.
You could take two whole days to thoroughly explore Zurich Old Town and visit all the museums and art galleries it has to offer.
Geneva or Zurich: Which City Should You Visit?
Ultimately, you should visit both Geneva and Zurich if you can as they are the best Swiss cities. I would personally choose Geneva over Zurich for its more international scene, access to nature, and slower pace.
But, if you like the fast pace of a city, and want a ton of history, great nightlife, and excellent shopping, Zurich might be a better fit.
Whichever city you decide to visit, both Geneva and Zurich will guarantee a memorable experience that will make you want to visit Switzerland again as soon as possible.
Plan Your Trip to Switzerland
Accommodation: I always book my hotels via Booking.com. They have some of the best rates, longterm deals, easy cancellation and more 
Transport: Train travel is one of the best ways to explore Switzerland. Buying a Swiss Travel Pass is a great way to save money on travel and museums. 
Car Rental: Having a car gives you flexibility on your travels. I use RentalCars.com and Discover Cars to get the best deals on car rentals in Switzerland. 
Luggage Storage: Find out where you can store your store your luggage while you are visiting various places in Switzerland. 
Trips & Tours:Viator and Get Your Guide are the best places to find local tours and trips for your adventures in Switzerland. 
Packing: Here are my recommendations for what to pack for a trip to Switzerland. As someone who has lived half their life in Switzerland, I have a good idea of what you need to bring! 
