This is one of Europe’s most beautiful lakeside cities, and any tour should begin with a few moments on the Pont du Mont Blanc, the Mont Blanc bridge, for a panoramic view of the Alps; in clear weather the outline of Mont Blanc crests on the horizon. Then a climb up the north tower of St. Pierre Cathedral gives a superb view of the city, which is built around the contours of a small section of Lac Leman Geneva). The interior of the cathedral, built over a period of 300 years beginning in the10th century, offers a stained-glass illumination of Swiss religious art and architecture.

Afterward, walk through the narrow streets surrounding the cathedral and take time to poke through Geneva’s best collection of antique stores.

The attractions in Geneva are spread out. A bus tour may help you get an overall feeling for the city. Later, catch a bus or a taxi to the places you want to revisit.

The ill-fated League of Nations, founded after World War I, had its headquarters here in the Palais des Nations. Today this building serves as the European headquarters for the United Nations.

Geneva’s greatest park runs along the lake and combines the Mon Repos, Perle du Lac and Villa Barton—all park areas that form a beautiful walking range.

The city’s best-known museum is the Art and History Museum, which features collections in archaeology and decorative arts.

For an offbeat fling, check the flea market held on the city’s Plaine de Palais Wednesdays and Saturdays.