Geneva: Rich culture, lakeside views, and a dynamic business scene

In the quiet of a Geneva morning, Alberto Morillas begins his day not with coffee, but with scent. Strips of paper lined like musical notes, wait for his intuition on the desk of his light-filled atelier.

The Swiss Riviera, located between Vevey and Geneva, is lined with elegant grand hotels and excellent fine dining establishments. A gourmet tour with a noble backdrop and highly contemporary flavours...

Geneva is jewel of a city. It acts as a magnet for diplomats, auction house insiders, watch industry professionals, and tourists who enjoy combining their holidays with world-class shopping. Then there are the pleasure-seekers – open-minded explorers ready to immerse themselves in Geneva’s vibrant bar scene and the liquid delights on both sides of the Rhône. Like many German-speaking Swiss, I must admit, I know Paris, Milan, London – and even Bangkok – better than I know Geneva. That’s about to change. Our cocktail tour begins in style at the magnificent Hotel des Bergues, a landmark in a prime lakeside location. As the city’s very first hotel, it has stood the test of time and has been part of the Four Seasons family since its grand reopening in 2003. Most importantly for us, it’s home to an exquisite bar and the perfect starting point for our evening.

Do you want to hike or walk in Geneva, and also see some interesting places? Here’s my pick of five favourite spots.

The scene is set: a sleek Ferrari purrs near the entrance of La Réserve Genève Hotel & Spa, its glossy red paint catching the summer sun. A bold L sticker on the windshield suggests a learner driver, but the confident rev of the engine and smooth acceleration tell a different story.

There’s a reason the term Presidential Suite carries such weight in the world of luxury travel. Born out of a necessity to host dignitaries and heads of state in a manner befitting their status, these suites weren’t just about providing space; they embodied the prestige and gravitas associated with their respective occupants. In some ways, they’re not just places to stay—they’re backdrops to diplomacy, cultural exchange, and occasionally, high-stakes negotiations.

With a stunning rooftop terrace offering breathtaking views of the lake, an impressive wine list and an elegant, minimalist interior, the Izumi has everything for the international jet set.