Shopping

Despite its small size, Geneva rivals London and Paris as a major shopping destination in Europe. Geneva specializes in the finer things in life and, though they are not cheap, the selection is staggering and makes for world class window shopping – practically a national sport in Switzerland.

Hours
Although most retail stores are open throughout the day, many service shops close for lunch between 12:00 and 14:00 during the week. Most stores, including grocery stores, do not stay open past 19:00 and are closed Sundays, so plan wisely to avoid frustration.

Watches
Geneva’s watch industry dates back to mid 1600’s and Geneva remains a world leader with many top brand watchmakers located right in the city, including Patek Phillipe, Frank Muller, Swatch, Omega and Piaget, just to name a few. Don’t expect a discount, but the quality is immaculate and the designs second to none.

Expace Temps
Rue du Mont Blanc 13

Bucherer
Rue du Mont Blanc 22

Franck Muller
Rue de la Tour de I’lle 1

Patek Phillippe
Rue du Rhone 41

Swatch
Rue du Mont Blanc 19

Piaget
Rue du Rhone 40

Gallopin
Place des Bergues 1

Orfeo by Christ
Rue de Cornavin 6

Zbinden
Rue de Coutance 4

Chocolate
Geneva is a chocolate lover’s paradise. You need only skip off to the local grocery store to find a delectable assortment of Swiss morsels. For the ultimate experience check out one of the many decorative specialty shops featuring everything from truffles to chocolate stuffed pastries and fruits.

Auer
Rue de Rive 4

Christian Constant
Place du Marche 23

Arn Chocolatierie
Bourg-de-Four 12

Cartier Patisserie Confiserie Chocolaterie
Route de Suisse 38

Rohr
Place du Molard 3

Souvenir Shops

Bucherer
Rue du Rhone 45

Cadhor
Rue du Mont Blanc 11

Badec S.A.
Rue de Lausanne 39

Consul
Rue Chantepoulet 9

Other Items

Clothing – Fashion is king in Geneva and there is no shortage of places to check out the latest threads from around the world. Stop into one of many the clothing boutiques in the city center for a one of a kind piece or head to Plainpalais or the Paquis for second hand retro wear.

Tobacco – Unlike much of Europe, smoking is still in vogue in Geneva. Havana cigars, unique lighters, antique pipes and other accessories can be found in tobacco shops throughout the city.

Leather Goods – Leather goods are popular imports from neighboring Italy. Handbags run a close second to shoes as the most popular leather items for sale.

Antiques and Art – Antique dealers abound in this crossroads of Europe with special attention to pieces originating in 19th century France. The Plaine de Plainpalais flea market has some great deals, while the Old Town is stocked with top shelf examples of European craftsmanship.

Shopping Streets and Areas

City Center – Extending from the banking district to Eaux Vives, the parallel streets of Rue du Rhone and Rue du Marche (becoming Rue du Rive further east) make up Geneva’s most famous shopping district. Designer retail stores and world famous watchmakers line the streets packed with window shoppers. Often resembling a fashion runway, the area is also great for people watching.

Rue du Mont Blanc – Although not as fashionable as the City Center, there is an equally large selection of clothing and jewelry on display along Rue du Mont Blanc and its surrounding streets. This is also the best area in the city to pick up souvenirs such as Swiss pocket knives, chocolates and other Swiss knick-knacks.

The Old Town – If you’re looking for art or antiques, the Old Town is the place for you. The Grand Rue is the primary shopping street but don’t be afraid to get lost in one of the Old Town’s many winding alleys because every turn promises a new surprise. Many antique shops are museums unto themselves filled with relics dating back to Geneva’s medieval days.

Rue des Paquis – Filled with trendy vintage clothing stores and interesting ethnic boutiques, the Paquis is home to the best bargains in the city. Sex shops, bookstores, jewelry, kitchenware, antiques and oriental rugs are just a few of the staple goods available.

Outdoor Markets

Geneva’s open air markets offer a great alternative to the high priced world of retail as well as a chance to mingle with the locals. Bargaining is generally appropriate for non food items if done with a smile.

Plaine de Plainpalais – The largest outdoor flea market Geneva where locals go to hawk their old and often valuable ‘junk’, be it paintings, records, dish sets, antiques or vintage clothing. Tuesdays, Fridays and Sunday from 08:00 to 17:00.

Boulevard Helvetique – Outdoor farmers market with fresh fruit and vegetables from local farmers. Wednesday and Saturday mornings only.

Place du Molard – Daily flower market.

Place de la Fusterie - Regional handicrafts from throughout Switzerland and France. Thursdays only.

Place de la Madeleine - Clothes and book market. Open daily during spring and summer.

Rue des Grottes – Popular farmers market. Thursdays 14:00 – 20:00.

Halles de Rive – Food market featuring gourmet Swiss, French and Italian specialties.

Place du Marche – Friendly local market in Carouge’s largest public square. Wednesdays and Saturdays only.

Department Stores and Malls

Centre Balexert
Location: Ave Louis-Casai 27; 022 9790202
The largest and best mall in Geneva with over 110 stores including designer outlets, a grocery store and a movie theater.

Manor Department Store
Location: Rue Cornavin 6; 022 909 4699
The largest department store chain in Switzerland with everything you need under one roof from electronics to cosmetics. The ground floor food market is a popular lunch spot for people on the go.

Confederation Centre Shopping Mall
Location: Rue de la Confederation 8; 022 311 5292
Centrally located along Geneva’s main shopping street with 53 stores and restaurants. Lots of baked goodies on sale throughout the center.

Globus Department Store
Location: Rue de Rhone 48; 022 319 5050
Perhaps the ritziest shopping center in Geneva with lots of designer labels and high end jewelry as well as gourmet grocery store on the ground floor complete with wine cellar.

Planete Charmilles
Location: Promenade de L’Europe 11; 022 949 7790
A practical mall for getting all your chores done in one place including dry cleaning, pet grooming, film developing, a hair salon and a grocery store.