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Geneva in a Day Private Tour

Officially licensed guides, private driver-guided, flexible rescheduling, geneva full-day private tour.

Our full-day guided tour of Geneva has been designed to deliver the best of the city in one short day with your private guide and driver.

From a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Geneva to a visit to the United Nations headquarters or a stroll through the charming Carouge district with its artisan shops and local cuisine, with a private guide, you can explore the city at your own pace, learning about its history, culture, and current developments.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top attractions and experiences you can enjoy on a full-day guided tour of Geneva, giving you an insight into the city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant contemporary life.

Destinations of our Geneva Guided Day Tour:

• Geneva Old Town
• Lake Geneva Cruise
• Walking Tour of The Carouge district
• United Nations HQ Tour
• CERN Guided Tour

Geneva Private Tour Itinerary

Geneva is a beautiful and historic city in the heart of Switzerland, with a rich cultural heritage and a wide range of attractions to explore. A private guided tour of Geneva is the perfect way to experience all the city has to offer, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler.

Geneva Old Town Walking Tour

The Old Town of Geneva is a charming neighborhood with winding streets, historic buildings, and exciting landmarks. A walking tour of this area is a great way to start your day in the city, and there is no better way to do it than with a private guide.

The Old Town of Geneva dates back to Roman times, and much of the architecture and infrastructure in the neighborhood still reflect this ancient history. As you walk through the narrow streets and alleys, you’ll see buildings made of stone and brick, with arched doorways and intricately carved facades. The area is filled with history and culture, with plenty of landmarks to explore and stories to learn.

Pierre Cathedral

One of the most iconic landmarks in the Old Town is the St. Pierre Cathedral, which dominates the skyline with its tall spire. This magnificent Gothic church has been a place of worship since the 12th century and is the seat of the Protestant Reformation in Switzerland. Your private guide can take you inside the cathedral to see its stained-glass windows, impressive organ, and intricate stonework.

Reformation Wall

Another landmark in the Old Town is the Reformation Wall, a monument that pays tribute to some of the key figures of the Protestant Reformation, such as John Calvin and William Farel. The monument is carved into a large stone wall and features statues of the reformers and inscriptions in several languages. Your private guide can provide insights into the history and significance of this monument.

Place du Bourg-de-Four Square

The Place du Bourg-de-Four is one of the oldest public squares in Switzerland and a hub of activity in the Old Town. The square is surrounded by cafes, shops, and restaurants and is a great place to stop and people-watch. Your private guide can take you through the square and explain its history and cultural significance.

There are also several museums and art galleries in the Old Town, such as the Museum of Art and History, which houses a collection of Swiss and international art and artifacts, and the Patek Philippe Museum, which showcases the history of watchmaking in Geneva.

Lake Genva Cruise

A Lake Geneva cruise is a perfect way to experience the beauty and charm of this historic city from a unique perspective. The lake is a significant attraction in Geneva, with its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain backdrop, making it one of the most picturesque places in Switzerland. With a private guide, you can explore the lake and its surroundings comfortably and intimately, with the added benefit of your guide’s knowledge and expertise.

As you board your boat, your private guide will introduce you to the stunning surroundings and landmarks along the shore. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Jet d’Eau fountain, which shoots a towering plume of water into the sky, visible from miles away. Your guide will provide information on the history and significance of this fountain, which has become an emblem of the city.

As you cruise around the lake, your guide will also point out the elegant Villa Diodati, where Lord Byron wrote part of “Frankenstein.” The Villa is a stunning example of the grandeur of Geneva, with its beautiful architecture and scenic location. Your guide will provide you with the fascinating history of this villa and its significance in the world of literature.

As you continue your cruise, the stunning view of the Alps will come into focus, providing a breathtaking backdrop to your journey. Your guide can point out the different peaks and provide information about their geological significance and the region’s history.

Guided Walking Tour of The Carouge district

The Carouge district is a must-visit destination in Geneva, offering a unique atmosphere and a plethora of sights and sounds. It is famous for its Italianate architecture, vibrant culture, and artisan shops. With a private guide, you can discover the best of this district, learn its history, and immerse yourself in the local life.

The Carouge Market is a vibrant hub of activity and a great place to start your tour. It is an outdoor market that sells everything from fresh produce to artisanal crafts. Your guide can show you around and introduce you to the vendors, allowing you to taste and sample some of the local delicacies.

The Church of Sainte-Croix is another significant landmark in Carouge, known for its impressive baroque architecture and beautiful frescoes. Your guide can take you inside the church, giving you insights into its history and significance.

The Maison Tavel museum is another must-visit destination in Carouge, offering a glimpse into the city’s history. The museum is housed in a historic mansion and showcases a range of artifacts, artwork, and exhibits that offer a window into the city’s past. Your guide can provide information about the exhibits and help you understand their significance.

The Carouge district is known for its artisan shops, providing a unique shopping experience. Your guide can take you to the best shops in the district, allowing you to discover unique and handmade products.

United Nations Headquarters Tour

Visiting the United Nations headquarters in Geneva is an unforgettable experience that provides a unique insight into the workings of this important international organization. With a private guide, you can explore the Palais des Nations, which houses the European headquarters of the United Nations.

Your private guide can provide a wealth of information about the UN’s history, work, and mission, helping you understand the organization’s significance in the world. You can learn about the UN’s different departments and their work and gain a deeper understanding of the organization’s role in promoting peace and human rights around the world.

During the tour, you can visit some of the UN’s most important rooms and chambers, such as the Council Chamber, the Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room, and the Assembly Hall. Your guide can provide you with detailed information about each room, its significance, and the decisions that have been made there.

CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research Tour

A tour of CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is an excellent way to cap off your day in Geneva. With a private guide, you can explore the facilities and learn about some of the most advanced scientific research being conducted in the world today.

Your guide can take you through the different departments of CERN, providing insights into the groundbreaking work in areas such as particle physics and nuclear research. For example, you can learn about the Large Hadron Collider, the world’s largest and most powerful particle accelerator, and see some impressive machinery and equipment used in scientific experiments.

Your guide can also provide you with information about the history and mission of CERN and its role in advancing our understanding of the universe. With a private guide, you can have a unique and personalized experience tailored to your interests and providing you with a deeper understanding of the world of science and research.

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Contact Us About A Private Geneva Tour

Whether you want to take a relaxing cruise on Lake Geneva, explore the Carouge district and its artisan shops, visit the United Nations, or see some of the world’s most cutting-edge scientific research at CERN, a private guided tour can help you make the most of your time in Geneva.

If you’re planning a trip to Geneva, contact Switzerland by Luxe for a complimentary bespoke tour itinerary. Our team of experts can help you plan a personalized and unforgettable trip to this beautiful city tailored to your interests and preferences. Contact us today to start planning your dream trip to Geneva!

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Best Walking Tours In Geneva (Discover The City’s Charm)

Geneva is a fascinating Swiss city to visit with impressive places such as the United Nation’s headquarters and the International Red Cross. Its namesake lake is one of Europe’s largest freshwater lakes and you’ll find fascinating landmarks like the Jet d’Eau , the Reformation Wall, and the Broken Chair around town.

With that said, walking tours are perhaps the best way to experience Geneva. Group tours in Geneva are affordable, safe, and convenient. The tour guides are usually locals who are very knowledgeable about their city.

Choose your tours from our list of the best walking tours in Geneva.

Table of Contents

Geneva Highlights City Tour

This tour is an excellent introduction to Geneva. Schedule it for your first day to get acquainted with the city. After meeting your group at Place Dorcière , you will hop on an air-conditioned coach and cruise through the city while a guide provides commentary on the highlights of the city and its political and diplomatic importance.

Admire shimmering Lake Geneva and the famous Jet d’Eau landmark before disembarking and riding a mini-train. The tour will make photo stops at St. Pierre Cathedral, Nation’s Square, and the big Broken Chair statue at the entrance of the United Nations. The mini-train will stop for you to take a walking tour around Geneva’s Old Town.

Food tour with EAT and CHILL TOUR Geneva & Lausanne

This very cool tour for foodies lets you sample the local flavors of Geneva with a guide and like-minded tourists. Choose from a morning or afternoon walking tour and experience gourmet delights all around the city. You’ll stop by Geneva’s local covered market to sample Swiss delicacies such as carmelized pork, ham on the bone, truffles paste, and a huge selection of cheeses and chocolate. The tour also includes wine tastings.

Choose from two meeting places: The Flower Clock or Place de la Palud .

Chocolate Flavors Walking Tour of Geneva

This 3-hour walking tour is a deliciously sweet way to get to know Geneva. You’ll visit the city’s best artisanal chocolatiers and experience the flavors of Swiss chocolate in a variety of forms and fashions from truffles to chocolate pralines, pastry, and more.

In between the sweet munching, you’ll learn the history of Swiss chocolate, the origins of manufacturing it, and the tradition of breaking the chocolate “marmite.” The tour ends with a boat ride across Lake Geneva.

RELATED POST: BEST CHOCOLATE TOURS IN AND AROUND GENEVA

Geneva Instagram Worthy Highlights Walking Tour

There’s no better way to discover Geneva’s hidden gems and picturesque places than with a local insider tour guide. Your Instagram feed will impress your friends and followers with stunning pics of Geneva’s unique places from the Smurfs Buildings to the quaintest spots in the Old Town.

As you stroll to the city’s most Instagrammable spots, your tour guide will also give you some great tips for getting the best out of your smartphone camera.

Meet this tour group in front of the monumental theatre building on the Place des Volontaires .

Best Intro Walking Tour of Geneva with A Local

This intro walk with an informed local host will help you brush up on your own personal travel itinerary for visiting Geneva. Get all the insider information on where to go and the best way to spend your time in the city. You’ll also learn some very interesting facts about Geneva’s culture and its storied past.

Meet your group in front of the National Monument in Jardin Anglais and set out to discover beautiful hidden gems in the Old Town, the Parc Des Bastions, and more.

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Exclusive Private History Tour of Geneva with A Local

This exclusive 2-hour walking tour is limited to 6 people for an intimate experience of learning the history behind Geneva’s most impressive buildings. You’ll explore the city’s various architectural styles with a knowledgeable guide to answer your questions. It’s a walking history lesson as you’ll learn the time periods the buildings represent.

This excursion begins at the foot of the wooden pier that leads out to the Jet’d’Eau. You’ll stroll past churches, the United Nations building, the Flower Clock, and more to hear their stories. And if you have a special interest, your tour guide will address it.

Express Walk of Geneva with a Local

This 60-minute walk with a local is a lesson on the history and culture of Geneva in a nutshell. Even though the tour only lasts an hour, you’ll get an overview of 82 buildings or places listed as Swiss heritage sites of national significance. Here all about them from a guide with the perspective of a local as you gaze out at Lake Geneva and the Jet d’Eau Fountain.

In addition to soaking up the city’s history, you’ll receive tips on the best places to go in Geneva from restaurants to night spots. You’ll meet your group in front of the National Monument in the Jardin Anglais .

Enchanting Geneva: Unveiling Hidden Charms

Tailored especially for first-timers in Geneva, this tour takes you on an enchanting walk through the city to unlock the secrets behind sites like the Brunswick Mausoleum, the Reformation Wall, St. Pierre Cathedral, the Flower Clock, and more. Your tour guide will unravel all the stories behind Geneva’s most interesting places.

The tour begins in front of the National Monument and ends near the Jet d’Eau.

Carouge Tour with a Local

Explore one of Geneva’s most intriguing neighborhoods and its history on this 60-minute walking tour . Carouge is a colorful and lively neighborhood not to be missed by those who want to delve deeper into the culture of Geneva. In addition to learning about the local culture and history of Carouge, you’ll learn more about the history of Geneva and Switzerland from your knowledgeable local guide.

Meet your group in front of the Dosenbach clothing store.

Geneva City Tour and Boat Cruise

Experience Geneva on foot and by coach, tram, and boat on this inclusive tour . The tour guide provides intriguing commentary on the city’s history and includes all the major landmarks. You’ll stroll the Old Town and cruise Lake Geneva by boat.

This tour is perfect for experiencing all Geneva has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is geneva walkable.

Most of Geneva is very walkable, especially by the lake and through the Old Town. 

How many days should I spend in Geneva?

Spending 2-3 days in Geneva should give you enough time to properly experience the city.

Is a walking tour in Geneva worth it? 

Walking tours in Geneva are worth the price because they are a convenient way to experience the city in a short time.

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City Tours & Day trips in Geneva

Cruise on the lake Geneva

Guided City Tours

Top day trips from geneva, boat tours & cruises, geneva city pass, geneva mystery.

Explore Geneva's captivating beauty and rich history with our Geneva city tours. Designed for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike, our guided excursions and day trips reveal the city's iconic landmarks, hidden corners, and breathtaking landscapes. From the cobblestone streets of the Old Town to panoramic views over Lake Geneva, every tour is a journey through the essence of the city. Experience Geneva as never before, where every moment is a discovery waiting to happen.

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Discover the essence of adventure with Geneva outdoor activities, your gateway to the city's natural wonders and wellness experiences. From tranquil paddleboarding on the lake to exhilarating mountain...

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Geneva   Travel Guide

Courtesy of bluejayphoto | Getty Images

Why Go To Geneva

Nestled in a valley at the western edge of Switzerland, Geneva is a serene setting for a slow-paced vacation. Its cobblestone streets are lined with outdoor cafes and independent shops, while the more cosmopolitan stretches of the city are brimming with designer brands and elegant restaurants. Plush seating cradles patrons as world-class orchestras perform inside the Victoria Hall. Even the fine dining here is considered an art. But despite all the luxury, Geneva can also make you sweat – sailing on the lake, walking or jogging in the parks and skiing down the nearby slopes of Mont Blanc are all popular activities.

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• # 5 in Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

Best of Geneva

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• # 1 in Hotel d'Angleterre
• # 2 in Beau-Rivage Genève
• # 3 in The Ritz-Carlton, Hotel de la Paix, Geneva

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• # 1 in Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)
• # 2 in Mont Salève
• # 3 in Jet d'Eau

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Geneva Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Geneva is in the small peak season of July and August. Though you'll rub elbows with hordes of tourists and pay extra to visit during these months, Geneva's weather is at its best for outdoor activities like hiking at Mont Salève and sunbathing at the Pâquis Baths . December to April, meanwhile, are prime times for skiing the nearby Swiss Alps, but you'll encounter chilly temperatures and some crowds. Hotel and airfare deals may be possible if you do not visit around Christmas and Easter. If you'd rather avoid winter's cold weather and summer's high prices, consider arriving between September and November or in May or June, Geneva's shoulder seasons.

Weather in Geneva

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Parlez-vous, français? Although English is widely spoken in Geneva, you should pick up a French dictionary to learn at least a few phrases.

Clean up, clean up, everybody, everywhere The Genevese consider littering to be in very bad taste, so it's best if you sort your clutter into the proper receptacles.

Check for restaurant closures   If you're visiting Geneva in the summer, call restaurants in advance to ensure availability since some dining venues close for parts of July and August.

How to Save Money in Geneva

Walk if off Geneva is a small city, only 6 square miles, and very accessible for pedestrians. Not only is walking free, but you'll get some great exercise.

Buy a Geneva Pass  If you plan on joining multiple city tours or visiting sights like Mont Salève and the Patek Philippe Museum , consider purchasing a one-, two- or three-day Geneva Pass  for 26 to 45 Swiss francs (or $26 to $48).

Book well in advance Because Geneva hosts so many conventions, hotels fill up quickly during major events. It's best to book at least four months in advance when hotels are more willing to drop rates.

Ask for your Geneva Transport Card All hotels, hostels and campgrounds are required to give you this pass at check-in, letting you ride public transportation for free during your stay. If your feet tire from walking, at least you can enjoy complimentary rides on the tramway.

Culture & Customs

Although the headquarters of the United Nations are in New York City , Geneva is where you'll find the Palace of Nations , the second largest U.N. building and institution in the world. As such, the city is hugely international; people that hail from towns and cities all over the world either make Geneva their home or are in the city for numerous conferences throughout the year.

Switzerland has four official languages (French, German, Italian and Rumantsch), but French is the most widely spoken. English is fairly common as well, but it's best to come prepared with a few key French phrases, such as "bonjour"  (hello), "Comment allez-vous?"  (How are you?), "Je ne comprend pas"  (I don't understand), "Parlez-vous anglais?"  (Do you speak English?) and "au revoir"  (goodbye).

Even though one Swiss franc (Switzerland's official currency) equals about one dollar, exact rates can fluctuate, so check the latest exchange rate before visiting. And remember, Geneva is expensive. Restaurants serving up Swiss cuisine tend to charge quite a few more francs than you might be used to paying, but you won't be expected to tip since service charges are included in all published prices.

What to Eat

Geneva is located just miles from the Switzerland-France border, so many of France's highly praised culinary techniques have infiltrated the dining scene. Italy, too, is only about an hour away, so go figure: French and Italian restaurants reign supreme here. For some of the city's best French cuisine, check out Bayview , Le Chat Botte  and Bistrot du Boeuf Rouge . Popular Italian eateries include Il Lago and Luigia .

Iconic Swiss dishes like chocolate and cheese fondue can be found on many restaurant menus. Other local specialties, such as  Älplermagronen  (a gratin, or casserole-like dish, made with potatoes, macaroni, cheese and onions served with stewed apples) and  rösti  (a flat, circular potato dish that's fried in hot butter or fat), are also available at a variety of dining venues. If you're craving Swiss fare, consider sitting down for a meal at highly regarded restaurants like Restaurant Edelweiss , Auberge de Saviese and La Buvette des Bains . Note: Some eateries close for parts of July and August, so call ahead to confirm opening hours.

Geneva is a very safe city, as far as tourists go – though it does see some petty theft and vandalism, especially at train stations, airports and tram and bus stops. However, other cities in Europe (like London and Paris ) have seen a spike in terrorism-related incidents, so it's best to avoid demonstrations and keep an eye on current events while staying in Geneva. To learn more about security concerns and safety tips for Switzerland, check out the U.S. State Department's website .

Getting Around Geneva

The best ways to get around Geneva are on foot and by tram – the city is a small 6 square miles and is easily navigated. In addition to covering tram services, the city's free Geneva Transport Card for tourists can also be used on water taxis, trains and buses, but these services are often slower or less convenient than walking or taking the tram. Taxis can be hailed as well, though you'll pay a premium to use them. Driving in the city center is not necessary and will generally be more of a nuisance than a convenience due to limited parking and rush hour traffic.

If you're getting to Geneva via Genève Aéroport (GVA), plan on grabbing a free 80-minute train ticket from baggage claim's Transports publics genevois (TPG) vending machine. The journey to downtown's Genève train station will take you approximately 10 minutes.

Entry & Exit Requirements

To visit Switzerland, Americans must have a passport that is valid for at least 90 days after staying in the country. Proof of a return airline ticket is also required. A visa is only needed if your visit will last more than 90 days. Visit the U.S. State Department's website for the latest information on entry and exit requirements.

Head to Lake Geneva at sunset to watch an array of colors fill the sky and reflect onto the water.

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What is swisstainable a rail tour of switzerland reveals the answer.

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Tour guide Rob Early (left) with John and Dianna Mellers on a train from Visp, Switzerland to ... [+] Geneva.

Dianna and John Mellers had no idea what Swisstainable meant until they landed in Zürich for a one-week train tour of Switzerland.

That’s when their tour guide, Rob Early, started to talk about Switzerland's ambitious sustainability initiatives meant to encourage visitors to experience nature, Swiss culture, local products — and to stay longer.

The Swiss even have a word for it: Swisstainable .

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It turns out Swisstainability is a thing, with clearly defined goals that challenge the way visitors think about their environment. Organizers hope tour participants will come away with ideas about how to improve sustainability back home, but it is all done in such an understated way that if you're not paying attention, you could miss the message.

An electric taxi in Switzerland's famous Zermatt ski area with the Matterhorn behind it. Zermatt is ... [+] one of the most sustainable mountain resorts in the world, having banned all gas-powered cars from its roads.

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Martin mull dead: the ‘fernwood 2 night’ and ‘roseanne’ star was 80, friday, june 28. russia’s war on ukraine: news and information from ukraine, why a swisstainable tour.

Trafalgar already had a popular one-week train tour, but when Switzerland rolled out its Swisstainable designation, it saw an opportunity to explore ways to reduce its footprint even further. It decided to turn its train tour into a Swisstainable adventure.

How do you make a tour Swisstainable?

• Use the train. In the past, guests' luggage didn't come on the train with them because there was no storage space. Instead, Trafalgar used trucks to transport the suitcases to the next hotel. In becoming a Swisstainable tour, it found a way to also have the luggage delivered by train.
• Emphasize local food. Most of the meals on Trafalgar's Swisstainable itinerary are locally sourced or from the neighboring region. Most of the food is organic and the majority of restaurant providers have some sort of management system in place to reduce, recycle or upcycle their waste. The whole point of sustainability in tourism is making it accessible for guests so that it is enjoyable.
• Screen your partners. The tour operator also screened its hotel and restaurant partners to make sure they were dedicated to sustainability. Switzerland offers numerous ways to certify a company's sustainability. Trafalgar says it was keen to reduce the impact of its passengers while promoting local food and experiences.

But what's it like to be on a sustainability tour?

Maxime Sother, owner of Château de Malessert, an organic winery near Geneva, Switzerland.

What does a Swisstainable tour do?

Trafalgar's Swisstainable tour shows off some of Switzerland's marquee destinations with a sustainability angle. Among the highlights are Switzerland's famous Glacier Express, which has a strong reputation for sustainability, and Zermatt, which has banned gas-powered vehicles in the city.

There's also a tour of Château de Malessert, a sustainable family winery near Geneva. Maxime Sother, the winery's owner, says when he took over in 2020, he removed chemical pesticides and created his own oak barrels in an effort to become sustainable.

As he wrapped up a tour of his family farm on a recent summer afternoon, Sother said the goal wasn't to create a wine that people wanted to enjoy because they were sustainable, but to make wines that were excellent — and happened to be sustainable.

"It has to be good wine," he says.

For visitors from the United States, it's sometimes difficult to wrap their heads around the sustainability imperatives driving Swiss tourism. They struggle to understand why there are no washcloths in their bathrooms or why there is a $5 deposit for a second room key. (If you don't return it to be recycled, they charge you $5.)

"But then there's that lightbulb moment," says Early, the Trafalgar tour guide.

It can happen any time. On the Mellers' tour in late June, it was the moment participants saw the flooded Matter Vispa River in the iconic ski area of Zermatt.

Other times, it happens more slowly — as in, during the eight-hour train ride on the iconic Glacier Express train between St. Moritz and Zermatt. There, you can see the magnificent glaciers of the Swiss Alps, which are slowly receding as temperatures warm. If you're a skier, you can bemoan the fact that year-round skiing, long a staple of the Swiss mountain experience, may soon be a thing of the past.

Early says a Swisstainability tour is full of "aha" moments when many group members understand that climate change is happening. There's a sense of urgency that if the tourism industry doesn't get sustainability right, there might not be anything left to sustain.

The Glacier Express near St. Moritz, Switzerland.

Taking sustainability ideas home

Early says people want to take some of the ideas home with them.

"There's the 'I wish they did this in America' moment," he says.

Most of those comments are reserved for the Swiss railroad system. It is fast, efficient, expensive and runs on 95% sustainable energy. When a flooded river and a train accident disrupted the Mellers' rail tour on several occasions, the Swiss railroads were lightning-fast in their recovery.

"I really liked the Swiss trains," says Dianna Mellers, who has traveled throughout Europe by rail. "They were really the best we've seen."

John Mellers says he was impressed by Switzerland's sustainability efforts and that many were import-worthy. Mellers, who works in the energy sector, says there's a tendency elsewhere to impose ideas about sustainability — particularly green energy — on other places. He says he was impressed by the way Switzerland leaned toward hydroelectric and nuclear power, both of which are non-carbon-emitting forms of energy.

But Switzerland's ideas suggest a more incremental approach to sustainability that could be copied by other destinations.

A low-key approach to sustainability

Like the Swiss themselves, a Swisstainability tour is modest and understated. There are no declarations of impending doom or lectures about destroying the planet. It's more "show" than "tell."

And really, all it takes to change your mind about sustainability is a week spent using Switzerland's fast and always-punctual trains. Or seeing a disappearing glacier. Or witnessing firsthand what an alpine village without cars feels like.

Sadly, some Swiss sustainability initiatives are unlikely to gain traction elsewhere. For example, the country's almost obsessive recycling programs probably would never work in the United States. And banning gas-powered cars from a city might be impractical in most major tourist destinations.

If nothing else, Switzerland's low-key approach to sustainability is a worthy tourist attraction in and of itself. And in a time when some people are thoughtlessly booking the same old vacations, what's the harm in challenging your conventions?

This is part two of a series on sustainable tourism in Switzerland. Here’s part one on Zürich’s sustainability efforts. Next up: Grindelwald tries to take sustainability to new heights.

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World Tour: Mob violence in Pakistan

WORLD Radio - World Tour: Mob violence in Pakistan

Plus, an Indian family sentenced in Switzerland, protests in New Caledonia, and heat-related deaths of Hajj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia

Police officers examine vehicles and the police station torched by a Muslim mob on Friday in Madyan, Pakistan. Associated Press/Photo by Naveed Ali

Coming up next on The World and Everything in It : World Tour with our reporter in Africa, Onize Ohikere.

SOUND: [Street sound, cars honking, people talking]

Pakistan blasphemy update — We start today in northwestern Pakistan where authorities on Monday said they had detained 23 people over another mob killing last week.

Authorities said police had detained Mohammad Salman for his protection after the mob accused him of desecrating the Quran. The mob attacked the police station, killing Salman and burning his body. They also injured some police officers.

Ziaul Haq witnessed the violence.

HAQ: [Speaking Pashto]

He said the mob also burned the police station.

A separate mob last month attacked a 72-year-old Christian man who later died in the eastern Punjab province after similarly accusing him of desecrating the Quran.

Indian family sentenced — We head to a court in Geneva, Switzerland where an Indian billionaire and three members of his family received prison sentences for exploiting domestic workers.

The court dismissed human trafficking charges against Prakash Hinduja—along with his wife, son, and daughter-in-law. But they received sentences between four and 4 1/2 years in prison.

Robert Assaël is a lawyer for the Hinduja family.

ASSAËL: [Speaking French]

He says the verdict shocked him, adding that the family respected and treated their workers well.

The court said the family provided unauthorized employment to Indians working at very low pay at their lakeside valley in Switzerland. The Hindujas paid their workers in Indian rupees in bank accounts back in India.

Prosecutors said the workers also barely got vacation time, slept in the basement, and worked overtime when the family hosted events.

AUDIO: [Protesters chanting]

New Caledonia — Over in the French territory of New Caledonia, protests have broken out again after authorities transported seven detained independent activists to mainland France.

At least nine people died and hundreds more were injured in the demonstrations against controversial voting reforms.

The electoral changes would have allowed long-term residents to vote. But the territory’s indigenous Kanak people argued the move would take away their influence as a voting bloc and destroy any hope of ever gaining independence.

The detained activists include Christian Tein, who leads a pro-independence party.

Another New Caledonian, Christian Fizin, attended the march. He says there’s no evidence linking the pro-independence party leaders to the violence.

FIZIN: [Speaking French]

He adds here that the organization has always been pacifist and has organized peaceful marches since November.

AUDIO: [Prayer]

Saudi Arabia pilgrimage — Over in Saudi Arabia, more than 1,300 people have died during the annual Islamic Hajj pilgrimage.

Fahd bin Abdurrahman Al-Jalajel is Saudi Arabia’s health minister.

AL-JALAJEL: [Speaking Arabic]

He says the victims were under the sun without shelter and had traveled a long distance.

The minister said more than 80 percent of the dead pilgrims were undocumented, which meant they did not have as much access to air-conditioned shelter. Many of them arrived from Egypt.

Egypt has revoked the licenses of 16 travel agencies that aided the pilgrims to travel without the right authorization.

Each year, Muslims from around the world arrive in Saudi Arabia to perform religious rituals in and around their holy city of Mecca.

That’s it for today’s WORLD Tour. Reporting for WORLD, I’m Onize Ohikere in Abuja, Nigeria.

WORLD Radio transcripts are created on a rush deadline. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of WORLD Radio programming is the audio record.

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GENEVA / GAZA HUMANITARIAN UPDATE

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STORY: GENEVA / GAZA HUMANITARIAN UPDATE SOURCE: UNTV CH LENGTH: 3:10 LANGUAGE: ENGLISH / NATS RESTRICTIONS: NONE DATELINE: 28 JUNE 2024 GENEVA, SWITZERLAND

1. Wide shot, exterior, UN Geneva flag alley 2. Wide shot, UN Geneva Press room 3. SOUNDBITE (English) Louise Wateridge, Senior Communications Officer, UNRWA: “There are hundreds of people waiting for the trucks to enter. They’re desperate, people are desperate. These are very desperate times; people need everything. And when very little trucks and very little amount of aid comes through, of course there's going to be a huge rush from the population to go and get it. So that is the situation that we're facing now and the only answer to that is to provide more aid, to provide more food, to provide more medicine.” 4. Med shot, TV journalist walks with camera in Press room 5. SOUNDBITE (English) Louise Wateridge, Senior Communications Officer, UNRWA: “The Gaza Strip is destroyed. You go back to Khan Younis, I was shocked going through Khan Younis yesterday because the last time I was in Khan Younis, the buildings are skeletons, if at all; everything is rubble and yet people are living there again.” 6. Med shot, UN Press room 7. SOUNDBITE (English) Louise Wateridge, Senior Communications Officer, UNRWA: “I've seen nothing like it. When the last I was there, it was a ghost town because people had fled for their lives from to Khan Younis, there is nothing there, there's no water there, there's no sanitation, there's no food. And now people are living back in these buildings that are empty shells of themselves. You can see where the walls have been blown out and blasted out there; there are you know, sheets in place, blankets in place, people trying to protect themselves from the sun.” 8. Med shot, UN Press room from podium, TV screens, journalists 9. SOUNDBITE (English) Tarik Jasarevic, spokesperson, WHO: “Since the closure of Rafah, we did not have any medical evacuation until yesterday and these 21 children with cancer. We need to reopen Rafah and any other border crossing to get these people out. So, their lives, can be saved.” 10. Med shot, TV journalist filming, UN Geneva Press room 11. SOUNDBITE (English) Louise Wateridge, Senior Communications Officer, UNRWA: “There's very few resources, There's very limited water. So, even just the case of a few weeks, it is significantly deteriorated. And with the ongoing siege and with the lack of access restrictions there seems to be no solution that we need and we are desperate for any kind of support and any kind of ability to do our work, because that's why we're here.” 12. Med shot, UN Geneva Press room, journalists, interpretation booths to rear 13. SOUNDBITE (English) Louise Wateridge, Senior Communications Officer, UNRWA: “There is no fuel on the ground, today we are in the guest house as well because we don't have fuel to be able to go out and do these missions. I think one of the most shocking things I'm seeing is just about 150 metres away from where we're staying, there's around 100,000 tonnes of waste piling up. And this is really the case now across the Gaza Strip.” 14. Med shot, UN Geneva Press room shot from podium 15. SOUNDBITE (English) Louise Wateridge, Senior Communications Officer, UNRWA: “People really don't have anything; not only do they not have anything, they don't have any money. There is no money here because it's not being printed, it's not being distributed. We go to a health clinic here and the colleagues tell us they haven't received a salary for the entire duration of the war because there's no way to physically get the money. This is causing desperation. It's causing panic.” 16. Med shot, podium shot, TV screen showing external speaker, journalists 17. Med shot, journalist, participants 18. Med shot, TV journalist, control room booths to rear 19. Close up, journalist

Panic and desperation now grip ordinary Gazans struggling to survive, UN humanitarians said on Friday (28 Jun), amid fuel shortages and dwindling supplies that have prevented aid teams from doing their job. Speaking from central Gaza where bombing can be heard “from the north, the middle and the south”, Senior Communications Officer Louise Wateridge from the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, described the scene as she entered Gaza from Kerem Shalom in Israel on Thursday. “There are hundreds of people waiting for the trucks to enter. They’re desperate, people are desperate. These are very desperate times; people need everything. And when very little trucks and very little amount of aid comes through, of course there's going to be a huge rush from the population to go and get it. So that is the situation that we're facing now and the only answer to that is to provide more aid, to provide more food, to provide more medicine.” Wateridge said that what she saw of nearby Rafah was “destroyed”. The city had been her base during her first tour in May, when Israeli forces seized the key border crossing, further hampering aid deliveries into Gaza. The scene is no different across the shattered enclave but needs have deteriorated sharply since she was last in Rafah before the Israeli military operation there in early May. “I’ve seen nothing like it,” she told journalists via video link. “The Gaza Strip is destroyed. You go back to Khan Younis, I was shocked going through Khan Younis yesterday because the last time I was in Khan Younis, the buildings are skeletons, if at all; everything is rubble and yet people are living there again.” She added“When the last I was there, it was a ghost town because people had fled for their lives from to Khan Younis, there is nothing there, there's no water there, there's no sanitation, there's no food. And now people are living back in these buildings that are empty shells of themselves. You can see where the walls have been blown out and blasted out there; there are you know, sheets in place, blankets in place, people trying to protect themselves from the sun.” In a rare piece of good news, the UN World Health Organization (WHO) welcomed Thursday’s evacuation of 21 young patients from Gaza – the first since the key border crossing at Rafah closed on 7 May. But more than 10,000 patients still need medical evacuations. “Since the closure of Rafah, we did not have any medical evacuation until yesterday and these 21 children with cancer,” said WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic. “We need to reopen Rafah and any other border crossing to get these people out. So, their lives, can be saved.” Specialised, lifesaving care is no longer available in Gaza, Jasarevic continued, in an appeal to evacuate the “more than 10,000 people” – including thousands of amputees - waiting to receive the medical care they need. “We don't have estimates of amputees (or) amputations that are performed in Gaza. But what we know that we need an entire system be in place for health workers to save a limb from a child or from an adult,” the WHO officer said. “That includes expertise, staff, supplies, trauma care, a referral system…none of this is available in Gaza.” Highlighting the dire shortages of aid relief that humanitarians are also encountering, UNRWA’s Wateridge noted that water is also very limited. “Even just the case of a few weeks, it is significantly deteriorated,” she said. “And with the ongoing siege and with the lack of access restrictions there seems to be no solution that we need and we are desperate for any kind of support and any kind of ability to do our work, because that's why we're here.” The lack of fuel which reportedly forced the Kuwaiti field hospital in Al Mawasi to shut down its generator earlier this week has also grounded humanitarians and efforts to clear ever-increasing piles of waste. “There is no fuel on the ground, today we are in the guest house as well because we don't have fuel to be able to go out and do these missions,” Wateridge said. “I think one of the most shocking things I'm seeing is just about 150 metres away from where we're staying, there's around 100,000 tonnes of waste piling up. And this is really the case now across the Gaza Strip.” She added, “People really don't have anything; not only do they not have anything, they don't have any money. There is no money here because it's not being printed, it's not being distributed. We go to a health clinic here and the colleagues tell us they haven't received a salary for the entire duration of the war because there's no way to physically get the money. This is causing desperation. It's causing panic.”

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