car hire Geneva

With nearly half of its residents being non-Swiss-born, Geneva is a true melting pot. The United Nations, the International Committee of the Red Cross, the World Health Organization, and several other international organizations all are headquartered in Geneva, helping solidify its reputation as a veritable global community. It’s located serendipitously in the southwestern corner of the Swiss Alps with the Rhone River running through it, and its city centre situated on the shore of the breathtaking Lake Geneva.

The Jet d’Eau (Water Jet) is one of the largest fountains in the world, spraying 500 litres of water 140 metres in the air. The Jet d’Eau is situated at the point where Lake Geneva empties into the Rhone, and you can see the landmark (or watermark) from just about any place in the city.

Geneva plays host to plenty of annual events. The Bol d’Or (Golden Cup) Race takes place in June, with over 600 yachts and boats filling Lake Geneva. The Fêtes de Genève, complete with parade, fireworks shows, and open-air concerts, takes place over two weekends in August.Geneva is known as Switzerland’s nightlife central. A great mix of musical acts (from Latin to jazz to rock to world music) fills the marquee at Au Chat Noir (The Black Cat). “The Tower of Babble,” or Mr. Pickwick Pub, plays host to a remarkably diverse clientele speaking different languages – it’s a popular haunt for United Nations employees.

The Alps, a skier’s dream, are a short rental car drive from Geneva. Haute Savoie in nearby France boasts the Chamonix and Megève resorts, home to some of the area’s most popular slopes. Both are just an hour from Geneva by car. Closer to Geneva is the Glacier of Les Diablerets.

Shopping is a huge draw in Geneva as well, with travellers descending on its many shops selling watches and jewelry. Other popular items are the delicious Swiss chocolate, German Swiss cuckoo clocks, and cigars from Havana (Rue de Rive is home to Davidoff, one of the world’s foremost tobacconists).In the Arrivals area of Geneva-Cointrin Airport you can pick up your car hire at one of the many rental car counters.