Having lived in Geneva for almost 12 years now, I wanted to share with you my favorite places to spend quality time with your family in the city of Calvin. Whether you live here or are just passing through, these addresses are sure to please!
– Vanessa Toublanc, founder of Marelle
Go for a swim and have lunch at the Bains des Pâquis
The Bains des Pâquis are a Geneva institution! Built in 1872 on the right bank of the river, these magnificent public baths include a beach, swimming pools, diving boards, saunas and a refreshment bar where you can enjoy simple, hearty dishes overlooking the most beautiful view in Geneva. On a sunny day, you’ll love the deliciously retro, old-fashioned atmosphere of this unique, historic venue!
A shopping spree in the new My Little Room showroom in the Eaux-Vives neighborhood
This boutique offers everything that’s beautiful in the world of children – from furniture and decorations to toys, skincare and accessories. You’ll find Marelle, of course! Nestled in a light-filled industrial building, this two-storey showroom is Geneva’s temple to children’s design!
Drink a lemonade at the Kiosque des Bastions
The Kiosque was built during the Belle Epoque between 1881 and 1882, to democratize the arts by bringing music out of the aristocratic salons, opera houses and theaters of Geneva’s beautiful Parc des Bastions. Over the years, it has become a cinema and now a restaurant. This exceptional glass building has recently been marvelously restored in an art-deco style, with palm trees, exotic motifs and a predominantly green color scheme, transporting visitors into a city jungle. The Kiosque’s huge terrace is a haven of peace in the city center. Bring the kids along for a lemonade or an aperitif!
Go to the movies at Ciné 17
Just outside Parc des Bastions is Ciné 17, a wonderful independent cinema with an excellent program. The icing on the cake is that the main auditorium has large, comfortable leather seats that you can recline. Everything you need to enjoy your movie!
Walk along the Eaux-Vives beach and have dinner at the Restaurant de la Plage
Walking along the new Eaux-Vives beach is a very pleasant experience on the shores of Lake Geneva. At the end of the beach stretches the immense terrace of the Restaurant de la Plage. The fully glazed industrial building offers a unique panoramic view! The Restaurant de la Plage is not only a magnificent building in the middle of the lake with a breathtaking view, it’s above all a Geneva bistro where you can eat local produce guaranteed to be seasonal and traceable. If you prefer to dine on the go, there’s a simpler buvette right next to the restaurant, offering quality dishes to take away or enjoy on the spot around large tables facing the lake.
If you’re looking for a more chic restaurant, Café de la Plage is one of Geneva’s best culinary addresses!
This restaurant is located in the city center, in the majestic setting of the Grand Théâtre! It’s a bistronomic restaurant offering elegant seasonal dishes in a contemporary setting that successfully blends into the classical architecture of this emblematic city landmark. The cuisine is delicious and refined. The restaurant also boasts a terrace for sunny days.
