Are you looking for a city with plenty of international flare? Geneva, located in Western Switzerland has more than it's share of cultural pizzazz offering the local or visitor a variety of nightlife adventures. Geneva is located in the Southeast corner of Lake Geneva, known as one of the jewels of the major European cities; it is the capital of the canton of Geneva and the third largest city in Switzerland. It provides a beautiful garden like setting in the summer, and has one of the best air qualities in the world thanks to its northern prevailing winds.
Geneva by nature has the feel of international qualities, it is home to many organizations such as The World Health Organization, The World Council of Churches, The International Red Cross, and is home of the European United Nations. All of this dynamic diversity makes Geneva an outstanding venture for nightlife adventures. As part of getting the knowledge and feel of the cities nightlife possibilities, there are a few historical and cultural aspects of the city, which will be helpful to know and be aware of before making your decisions and hitting the nightlife scene.
First, although Geneva is located in Switzerland it is surrounded by French territory and only connected to Switzerland by Lake Geneva. This aspect is virtually embedded in Geneva, including the language spoken, foods, and architecture. Another aspect to keep in mind is that Switzerland did not adopt the European Euro as their currency, so you will not be able to use this for your expenses. Swiss francs, traveler's checks, or credit/debit cards will need to be utilized for your expenses.
In addition, Geneva is easily accessible to explore on foot. The city is divided into two sections the left and right banks. Vielle Ville also known as Old Town is located on the south bank of the Rhone. It is a central area for shopping, cafés and is home to the University and is donned with narrow cobblestone streets and historic buildings and homes.
One element of information that will be helpful to remember is in Switzerland tipping is not required. By law restaurants, bars, and clubs are required to include a 15 percent service charge on your bill. So unless you have exceptional service and would like to tip an additional amount, there is no need to add tip to your bill.
While visiting the city your days will be consumed by a variety of exciting and unforgettable excursions. But keep in mind that Geneva has more nightlife choices than any other city in Switzerland, so save some of your energy for after dark fun. With a variety that includes grand formal events to the local casual fare, you're sure to find something that fits your mood in this beautiful city.
Let's start with cultural choices available in the Performing Arts beginning with the Grand Theatre de Geneve, which offers ballet, and dance performances. This is a must for experiencing the grand cultural appeal of the Swiss performing arts. Another choice in the arts might be to spend an evening with the Batiment des Forces Motrices, which offers opera, jazz, classical and modern dance performances. Plus, the world renowned Orchestre de la Suisee Romande makes its home at Victoria Hall in Geneva. Moving on to live theatre, you can get a grand performance from Comedie de Geneve which offers classical productions, or Theatre du Grutli which offers experimental and foreign productions.
Geneva also offers a variety of alternative productions such as Theatres des Marionettes de Geneve, as well as a Children's Theatre Company, Theatre Am Stram Gram. Keep in mind that live productions will usually be in native French, unless noted differently. However, if your French is rusty, Geneva does offer productions in English by the Geneva English Drama Society.
If you're in the mood for the cinema Geneva offers a variety of venues, which show films both in their original language and subtitled. The complex Pathe Balexert is a large central complex and a great place to find the film your looking for. During the summer, you're in for a treat with the open-air showings around Lake Geneva.
All cultural art theatres and productions will have a variety of performances including dates and times. Please contact the local tourist information center to obtain specific schedules and prices for each venue. If you're up for a more tantalizing evening on the town you couldn't be in a better place. Geneva offers such options as live music, dancing, piano bars, wine and coffee café's, as well as private club establishments.
The best place to start off your evening might be du Bourg de Four which has plenty of activity. If you’re looking for live music Batiment des Forces Motrices offers a variety of musical styles from rock to opera concerts. If jazz is your passion, you might try Sud des Alpes or Au Chat Noir. If you like an African beat, try La Pirogue and if your ready to dance the night away, L'Usine or Le Dancing de la Coupole or Arthur's Club just might be the places for you.
Some of the private clubs such as Griffin's Club and Club 58 require membership or allow non-members with certain restrictions such as dress code compliance. These clubs offer a variety of music styles. Of course there is always the smaller more casual coffee and wine bars throughout the city. Keep in mind that although not imported Swiss wines are some of the best in Europe. There are many vineyards around Lake Geneva, so don't miss an opportunity to enjoy some local wine or Switzerland's unique soft drink Rivella at these wonderful establishments. During warmer weather, there are many cafés, which offer terrace and outside seating. This could be the perfect way to end a busy day of site seeing.
If wine is not your taste, Geneva's most popular beer is light German style ale offered in cans or bottles. Remember that alcohol contents vary from 4.2 to 6 percent. Also Switzerland offers a variety of spirits such as brandy, made from native plums or pears. Geneva also offers alternative art scenes including a thriving gay and lesbian scene. Try LeKid, which located near the University on the Lake's southern shore. Swiss social graces include greeting an establishment's owner or proprietor when entering or leaving. Since the French influence is vast in Geneva, greetings in French Switzerland often include three kisses on alternating cheeks.
Geneva has the international tone and feel with many nightlife options from elaborate to a quiet evening on the terrace. Take the time to check out the tourist information and brochures on the establishments mentioned, as well take recommendations of the locals who know the city. With so many possibilities, you are sure to find the perfect fit for your evening's adventures.
