Car Hire Geneva

A quick guide to Geneva

Just the very sight of Geneva will take your breath away. This cosmopolitan city, home to the headquarters of a number of major organisations, including the World Bank, could feel stuffy and corporate, but it’s far from it. Take one look at The Broken Chair, a 12-metre-high chair sculpture that sits proudly in the heart of the city, and you’ll see that Geneva has a voice and character all its own. Take time to explore the shops and restaurants and you’ll see the wealth, the beauty and the character that fills every corner of this incredible city.

The green city

Geneva prides itself on being one of the greenest cities in Europe, and this can be enjoyed in the 20 parks that are peppered around the city. Visit Parc La Grange, and spend a day just breathing in the atmosphere, appreciating the beautiful views and feeling just like a local enjoying the sunshine. The heavily scented rose garden is a highlight, while in summer you’ll find open air theatres. If you’re in town on August 1^st, join the throng celebrating Swiss National Day.

The Jet d’Eau is a waterfall that pushes water 140 metres into the air and is the centrepiece of the Geneva landscape. As one of the tallest water fountains in the world, it’s the perfect Instagram shot.

For a quieter pace, take some time to explore the promenades that are filled with cafes and street markets, or amble along to the Flower Clock, a floral creation recognising the Swiss watch industry. The flowers bloom at different times of year, making this a constantly changing attraction.

Nation shall speak unto nation

Whether you're a lover of stunning architecture, a museum goer or just someone who likes to take in a new city, you’ll be spoiled in Geneva. The imposing Bâtiment des Forces Motrices is a former waterworks that has been converted into culture and exhibition centre hosting exciting events throughout the year.

You can visit the home of the United Nations at the Palais Des Nationswith its proud display of the flags of the world. Take a guided tour which will bring to life not just the important role Geneva has played in making the world safer, but also the history of the building.

When you hire a car in Geneva you have the opportunity to leave the city and experience many other incredible places. Cheese lovers have to pay a visit to Gruyères, found just over 120km away from Geneva via the A1. Visit this charming little village and watch cheese being made before getting your chance to sample the end result. This village is also well known for its chocolate, so make sure you indulge your sweet tooth while here.

Climb to the highest peaks

Driving through the Alps should be on everyone’s bucket list. Considered one of the most sensational driving experiences in the world, it takes in both tunnels that bore deep under the mountains, and winding passes affording unforgettable vistas. Whether you plan to ski or you simply want to appreciate the beauty of the view, you won’t be disappointed.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc sits at the base of the highest summit in the Alps, Mont Blanc, and at just 80km away is perfect for a road trip. You can take to the slopes or just ride the cable car to appreciate the incredible view.

Car hire in Geneva puts both Switzerland and France at your fingertips, two complementary countries of outstanding beauty and colourful contrasts.

Driving in and around Geneva

The Swiss passion for modernity and efficiency can be seen when driving in Geneva. The roads are well-constructed and maintained and generally flow freely across the city as you hop from sight to sight. There are several toll roads and tunnels dotted throughout Switzerland, and our staff will help you with information about how to pay these tolls.

When you leave Geneva you have a choice of exploring France or Switzerland – a nice problem to have. Less than 150km away via the A40 and A42 is where you’ll find the French city of Lyon, the perfect spot for appreciating classic Renaissance architecture and brilliant cuisine.

However, travel just over 150km into Switzerland and you’ll arrive in Bern, Switzerland’s capital city filled with classic medieval architecture, sat on the pretty Aare River.

Whether you choose to travel to Switzerland or France you’ll enjoy some of the most scenic drives you can imagine. Highways connect the major cities for a quick way to travel, however some of the smaller roads offer the most incredible views, so it’s worth taking the road less travelled now and then.

On the Swiss side of the border, you’ll need to use dipped daytime headlights, and using your car horn after dark is prohibited. Wearing a seatbelt is compulsory and mobile phones must be hands-free. If you have any questions when you arrive, just speak to our friendly team who will be able to help.