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By BRENDA One of the perks of being an Erasmus Mundus student was having a Schengen visa—a golden ticket to travel across Europe.
While I was based in France for part of my master’s, I knew I had to take advantage of Switzerland’s proximity.
Though small and landlocked, Switzerland is full of life—both politically and naturally.
In just three days, I explored historic Geneva, crossed the border into France on a bike, and immersed myself in some of the most peaceful landscapes I’ve ever encountered.
Here’s a recap of my unforgettable Swiss escape.
Day 1: Wandering around Geneva — Lakes, Parks & Political Landmarks
Lake Geneva
As soon as I arrived at Cornavin station, I followed my usual travel ritual: find the nearest body of water.
Lake Geneva was the magnet.
With ducks gliding across the surface, tourists from every corner of the world, and locals walking their dogs, I was instantly drawn into the calm and charm of the lake.
It was peaceful, restorative, and the perfect welcome after a long train ride.
Pâquis-Nations: Place des Nations & Broken Chair
This district is home to the monumental Palais des Nations (U.N. headquarters), a stretch of museums, and the towering Broken Chair sculpture—a tribute to victims of landmines.
At Place des Nations, fountains sprang up in rhythm as children took turns running through them.
I stood there smiling, thinking, “Good ol’ days. If only I was ten again!”
The square is lined with flags from 254 countries and entities—ISO-recognized states, Kosovo, and the UK’s constituent nations.
My heart leapt when I spotted the Ugandan flag waving proudly.
After a brief forested walk nearby, I found an old house, tucked into the greenery, where I sat for a quiet break before continuing my stroll.
Parc Mon Repos & Parc de la Perle du Lac
On my way to these serene parks, I passed the U.N., WHO, and WTO headquarters.
I couldn’t help but feel accomplished simply walking past buildings I’d only ever seen in global news.
At the park, I noticed people from all walks of life—and heard a familiar tune: BULIGITA playing from a speaker nearby.
I couldn’t help but sing along.
A moment of Ugandan magic in the heart of Geneva.
Quai du Mont-Blanc & Street Life
This waterfront area pulsed with life.
Artists, food vendors, and spontaneous performances filled the streets.
As a certified foodie, I treated myself to the most Geneva thing I could find—a decadent chocolate sandwich.
It was rich, indulgent, and felt like the perfect tribute to Swiss culinary pride.
That evening, I stumbled upon a live concert featuring Swiss musicians.
The mix of culture, rhythm, and lakeside views made the night unforgettable.
Jardin Anglais & Jet d’Eau
Jardin Anglais is home to Geneva’s most iconic symbol—the Flower Clock.
Made of thousands of flowers, it honors Geneva’s legacy in fine watchmaking.
It is also home to the grand and luminous Ferris Wheel that towers above Geneva’s skyline.
I also visited the nearby Jet d’Eau, one of the tallest fountains in the world.
Originally built to release pressure from a hydraulic plant, it now stands proudly in the middle of the lake, misting the nearby Pont du Mont-Blanc.
I sat on a bench, mesmerized by its power and grace.
A true Geneva moment.
Day 2: A Cycling Escape to France
Armed with a coffee and my taste buds curious to test Swiss espresso, I rented a bike and set off toward the Jura Mountains.
With only one day to explore, I chose a cycling route that led me to the small French commune of Thoiry.
Crossing the border by bike?
Absolutely thrilling.
I pedaled through lush green paths, occasionally pausing to soak in the view.
Eventually, I found the perfect spot: a cozy nook with a view of the mountains.
I spread my picnic cloth, pulled out lunch, and let the stillness settle in.
Just me, the wind, and the trees.
It was one of the most peaceful meals of my life.
On my ride back into Switzerland, my soul felt full—satisfied by nature, solitude, and movement.
Day 3: Hiking, Trams & Borderlands
For my final day, I kept things light with a border hike on the opposite side of Geneva.
This time, I used public transport.
Geneva’s Tram System
Having lived in Naples and Barcelona, I was no stranger to underground metros.
But Geneva’s trams?
A game-changer.
The trams glide above ground, offering not just transport but views.
The low windows and open feel made me feel more connected to the city than I ever felt in a bus or taxi.
I boarded one that took me all the way to Chancy, a quiet rural part of Switzerland.
A Floral Finale in Chancy
Chancy was peaceful, almost dreamlike.
The Road to Chancy is filled with sprawling fields of sunflower dreaminess, stretching toward the horizon.
I followed a winding river trail, eventually reaching a bridge that marked the border.
As the river flowed beneath me—green with a slight glimmer—I just stood still and breathed it all in.
Fun fact: The water in Lake Geneva has a blue hue, while the River RhĂ´ne near Chancy reflects a vibrant green.
A reminder that even water takes on different personalities, depending on where it flows.
I journaled. I read. I watched the sun hit the sunflower faces.
It was the perfect closing chapter to my trip.
Swiss Surprises
You’d think Switzerland, nestled within the EU, would follow EU norms. Not quite.
- Currency: Swiss Francs (CHF), not Euros. My EU-rich-aunty fantasy ended when I realized most places didn’t accept my euros. Thank goodness for my Visa card.
- Internet: No EU roaming! I had to rely on my Airbnb’s Wi-Fi. I made it work by screenshotting all directions and information I needed before leaving the house.
- Language:French is mainly spoken in Geneva (part of Suisse Romande), though the country also has German, Italian, and Romansh as official languages.
With a few French phrases—“Bonjour,” “Merci,” and my butchered “Je ne parle pas français, anglais?”—and a whole lot of gestures, I managed just fine.
While this trip was all about soaking in Geneva’s relaxing charm, my Erasmus journey also took me to the cutting-edge world of CERN—a story I’ll share in my France blog.
Would I go Back to Geneva?
Absolutely.
Switzerland swept me away with its beauty, structure, and serenity.
From city buzz to quiet fields, from towering fountains to sunflower valleys—this trip reminded me how much joy there is in slow exploration.
Till next time, Geneva.