Where to Stay for the Best Lake Views in Geneva, Switzerland

Where to Stay for the Best Lake Views in Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva’s focal point is its positioning on the lake. Hotels and restaurants hug the edge of Lake Leman with the Jet d’Eau on display. One of the tallest water fountains in the world and the city’s most famous landmark, the jet proudly marks the heart of the Geneva. When the weather starts to warm, the lake’s offerings are hard to resist, and travelers want to be front and center. Please see below for where to stay for the finest views and the best of Lake Leman’s summer offerings.

Best Views of the Lake

The Ritz-Carlton: Hotel de la Paix

  • On the banks of the water, the Corner Suite’s ideal positioning offers stunning 260-degree panoramic views and abundant daylight. This spacious suite seamlessly opens to a balcony, allowing quests to take in the magnificent Jet d’Eau. The serene views of the water can be enjoyed further from the luxurious bathtub positioned directly in front of the bathroom balcony, bringing in natural sunlight and allowing for ultimate relaxation.

Hotel D’Angleterre

  • Elegantly poised on the edge of the lake, guests have optimal views of Jet d’Eau and Mont Blanc. Framing the picturesque views, Windows Restaurant, named accurately for its floor to ceiling windows, serves contemporary cuisine with a selection of dishes made with fresh and seasonal produce.

Hotel Beau-Rivage Geneva

  • Stay in the historical Sissi Suite, which pays homage to the late Empress Sissi, one of the most famous guests of Beau-Rivage, for spectacular views of Lake Leman. Large windows and window-paned French doors open to a terrace, perfect for lazy afternoons overlooking life on the lake.
  • Guests and passing visitors can enjoy a sublime view and meal in refined comfort at La Terrassee. This magnificent space offers one of the most beautiful panoramas of the lake allowing guests to unwind with an afternoon tea or gather for aperitif.

Lake Activities

Boat Tour of the Lake

  • A one-hour cruise for a great getaway! Sail out from the harbor and discover the beautiful shores of Geneva. From the "Pierres du Niton" to the "Pointe à la Bise," you’ll enjoy an unparalleled view of Mont-Blanc, monuments, famous villas, the UN as well as parks and gardens.

Geneva “Beach”

  • Located in two hectares of wooded parkland next to Lake Geneva, Genève-Plage offers space for sports, leisure, and relaxation in an exceptional setting. Located 10 minutes from the city center, it would be impossible for water-sports lovers not to find what they're looking for here. From paddle boards to inflatable water trampolines, Geneva Beach is quintessentially Geneva in the summer.

Les Corsaires

  • Located steps away from the boardwalk to the Jet d’Eau, Les Corsaires offers a variety of pedal and motorboat rentals. No permit required, customers can enjoy high speeds or lazily navigate the open waters. The typical lake experience on the pedal boat is recommended; customers can rent for up to 6 people and with or without a slide. Jumping into the crystal clear and refreshing water is the best way to enjoy a summer day in Geneva.
Summer Happenings

Bol d’Or – June 14-16, 2019

The Bol d’Or Mirabaud is the most important inland lake regatta in the world. Started in 1939, it welcomes mono-hulls and multihulls each year on Lake Geneva. More than 500 boats compete over 66.5 nautical miles from Geneva to Le Bouveret and back. Enjoy life on the lake while watching this historic race.

The Grand Fireworks – August 10, 2019 at 10PM

This traditional summer celebration of Geneva displays a breathtaking show in the heart of the city. The fireworks, ignited from the harbor of Lake Geneva, take place for 45 spectacular minutes. This pyrotechnic show offers 360° visibility and reflects off the lake with the Jet d’Eau on display. For optimal viewing, watch from over the city, near Mont Saleve, and see the fireworks dance over the city.

Laver Cup – September 20-22, 2019

Geneva, Switzerland will host the 3rd edition of the Laver Cup. New to the tennis world, the Laver Cup pits six top European players against six of their counterparts from the rest of the world. Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are some of the few participating in this year’s cup and hope to defend Team Europe’s title. Spectators relish in this unique experience as rivals become teammates and compete tirelessly over a three-day span. Geneva’s central location makes the Laver Cup accessible to many fans across Europe and provide international spectators a new landscape to explore.