In the middle of the city of Geneva, lies the Rond Point de Plainpalais. The literal heart of the city, tram and buslines meet and intersect there, people come and go about their business, some linger and wait, it is also a popular place to arrange to meet.
One can witness this never ending ballet of Genevan life from the terrace of the Café du Rond-Point. With music always playing from the terrace speakers, it is really easy to stay for a long time. I really enjoy the people watching, but I also like the cozy interior that looks and smells just as a neighborhood café should.
Always full, the service by the lonely waitress can be a bit slow (why they don't hire a second one, I'll never know...) but it has never stopped me from appreciating the atmosphere of the place. University students talking politics, loud, retired football fans drinking pastis and watching a game and elderly couples enjoying Brasserie style cuisine, you will find a wide cross section of Genevans at the Café du Rond-Point.
My favorite time to go there is summer Sunday mornings. There is nothing better than sitting outside in the sun, at the only time when the Rond Point de Plainpalais is a bit calmer, and listening to jazz while sipping a coffee and munching on a croissant or a Jambon-Beurre (French sandwich with ham and butter).
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Geneva guide.
"Athénée Quatre" in Geneva is a place that celebrates the performing arts. It's a jazz, cocktail bar, theater and workshop all in one. Check out the events
By
Geneva is a melting pot of UN bodies and country representatives - come meet them at "UN Beach Club". Easy-to-find invitation from UN staff required!
By
"Perle du Lac" in Geneva is indeed Lac Léman's pearl. It's full of activities, but its beauty lies in the huge numbers of birds that call it home...
By
"Flame Yoga" in Geneva offers hot yoga, also known as Bikram yoga. You'll sweat as you have never sweated before by booking a session here!
By
"Galerie Sebastien Bertrand" Geneva is an art gallery that portrays the freshest contemporary pieces by young artists in the local industry...
By
"Wunderchic" Geneva is the place you want to visit in case you feel like buying a whimsical vintage dress, even just to see, it's worth visiting I'd say!
By
"Balima Day Spa" is where Geneva meets Bali. Treat yourself to a day in the spa to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, no regrets!
By
A walk by the Rhone is finding the beauty of nature without having to leave Geneva. Discover the woods, hike on the Alps, stroll through vineyards...
By
"Marché de Rive" Geneva is a green market in the heart of town, where I alongside many other locals concentrate to find inspiration to cook for days...
By
"El Catrin" Geneva is a restaurant that provides you with that full Mexican spread, bound to satisfy your crave for everything Mexican!
By
"Osteria della Bottega" Geneva is not your traditional Italian restaurant. The pasta is handmade, but the dishes are rarely classics, to your surprise...
By
"Fabbrica Pasta" in Geneva run by chef Enzo simply, quietly, makes the best pasta in town. You don't know the meaning of al dente till you've come here...
By