Travel tips · Geneva · Switzerland
Geneva travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Quick answer
Geneva is French-speaking, Protestant in history and international in outlook: a large share of residents are foreign nationals, and diplomats, NGO workers and bankers set much of the city's pace. Manners are formal and discreet, punctuality matters, and the city's Calvinist past still shows in its restraint.
Key facts
- Language
- French
- Currency
- CHF
- Plugs
- Type J sockets (also fit two-pin Type C plugs), 230 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water is excellent, and public drinking fountains are found throughout the…
- Emergency
- 112 general emergency, 117 police, 144 ambulance, 118 fire
Things to know
- Greet shop and restaurant staff with 'Bonjour' and say 'Merci, au revoir' when leaving.
- Use 'vous' with people you do not know.
- Be punctual for reservations and tours.
- Keep noise down late at night in residential areas.
- Wait for the green light at pedestrian crossings.
- Dress modestly and keep quiet in churches, especially during services.
- Book Palace of Nations ahead: Tours run on a limited schedule and must be booked in advance; availability depends on meetings in session.
- Book CERN Science Gateway ahead: Exhibitions are walk-in, but guided tours and workshops have limited free places that are booked online.
- Stay in a hotel, hostel or campsite to get the free Geneva Transport Card for your whole stay.
Tipping
Service is included. Rounding up or leaving about 5–10% for good table service is appreciated but not expected.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Bonjour | Hello / good day |
| Merci beaucoup | Thank you very much |
| L'addition, s'il vous plaît | The bill, please |
| Septante / nonante | Seventy / ninety (Swiss French) |
| Santé | Cheers |
What to wear
Geneva dresses smartly, with a business feel in the international district. Bring comfortable shoes for the Old Town's slopes, a swimsuit in summer and a windproof coat in winter, when the cold 'bise' wind blows down the lake.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type J sockets (also fit two-pin Type C plugs), 230 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water is excellent, and public drinking fountains are found throughout the city.
- Emergency number
- 112 general emergency, 117 police, 144 ambulance, 118 fire
- Phone and internet
- Mobile coverage is excellent, but EU roaming plans do not always include Switzerland; check your plan or buy an eSIM. Card payments are accepted almost everywhere.
- Time zone
- Europe/Zurich
Geneva is generally low-risk for visitors, but pickpocketing and bag snatching occur around Cornavin station, the Pâquis and the lakefront, so keep valuables close. Swim only at supervised lake beaches and baths.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check Switzerland's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Geneva?
Service is included. Rounding up or leaving about 5–10% for good table service is appreciated but not expected.
+Can you drink the tap water in Geneva?
Tap water is excellent, and public drinking fountains are found throughout the city.
+What plugs are used in Geneva?
Type J sockets (also fit two-pin Type C plugs), 230 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in Geneva?
French.