4 tips for affordable accommodation in Geneva

Have you been planning your trip to Geneva for weeks now, but are worried about how much it’s going to cost? Did your accommodation search turn up nothing but luxury hotels? No need to panic. Here are our top tips for affordable accommodation – so you can have a wonderful weekend without breaking the bank.

Slap-bang in the city centre: the aptly named Hôtel Central

Hôtel Central offers you lakeside accommodation without the premium price tag of the luxury hotels on the opposite shore. Bring the entire family and stay in a fully furnished apartment at the heart of the hotel or in spacious rooms for up to five people. The low prices and perfect location are sure to get your holiday off to a superb start!

What’s more, Hôtel Central also has some history to it, since the same family has owned and run it for over 100 years. Have a good chat with your hosts to find out their top tips for visitors to Geneva. They’ll be able to advise you on the best restaurants, the must-see places to go and the most exciting cultural experiences!

A stone’s throw from the station: Hôtel Strasbourg

Let’s go! Get off the train, and you’re more or less there. Your hotel is just opposite the station. Welcome to Hôtel Strasbourg. It’s the perfect place to discover the city centre like a local. It won’t take you long to realise that Lake Geneva isn’t the only point of interest in the city. In fact, there’s no shortage of entertainment in this part of Geneva.

If elegant accommodation, convenience, affordability and breakfast tick all your boxes, look no further. Walk down the steps and across the street – and unpack your bags at Hôtel Strasbourg.

The most romantic option: a weekend at Le Jour et la Nuit bed and breakfast

Staying in Geneva for the weekend? That gives you just enough time to explore the surrounding area. Stay in a luxurious outbuilding in the district of Petit Saconnex, close to Geneva city centre. Luxurious, inviting accommodation at prices you’ll love – starting from EUR 150 per night.

From the station, travel to the huge, family-owned property by public transport. You will find peace and quiet here, but will still be close to the hustle and bustle of the city. This accommodation is the perfect starting point for heading off on a hike, going on a bike tour of Lake Geneva and catching the number 14 bus service to Bains de Pâquis public baths for an excellent fondue. You’ll definitely head home feeling rested after your stay in Geneva.

The friendliest option: MEININGER youth hostel

If you’re backpacking or just passing through, this option is perfect for you: check into a youth hostel for the night. Make the most of a very attractive price at the Meininger hostel. With hostels all over Europe, you can travel sustainably by train, stay somewhere on a budget and – most importantly – scratch that globetrotting itch! Since the Meininger hostel in Geneva boasts a city centre location and is close to the local student districts, you can definitely rub shoulders with the locals. Outside the hostel, there’s plenty for you to discover. Inside the hostel, you’ll meet dozens of people who share your love of exploring. If you’re travelling as a couple and have a slightly higher budget, why not make the most of a private room? Or, if you’re travelling with friends, you could even book a group room.

Opt for a youth hostel and choose the winning combo of affordable accommodation, the chance to meet new people and a location that’s a stone’s throw from the city’s sights.

Dig a little deeper and you’ll soon realise that Geneva is no more expensive than other European capitals. Simply find the accommodation that’s right for you and ideally book in advance to make sure you find somewhere that ticks all your boxes. Of course, there are other options if you’d like to explore Geneva on a budget. Crash on a friend’s sofa, or try couchsurfing. You could also find accommodation in France, close to the border, and travel to Geneva by public transport! Trams run all day long, much to the delight of users.

Escape to Switzerland in just three hours by train
With TGV Lyria, your rail travel partner