Of course, luxury comes at a price, so budget-friendly vacations are very limited here.
If you’re into the aesthetics of high-end living and refined elegance, there are plenty of cities in Europe that can surprise you, from glamorous Milan to financially powerful Luxembourg. However, when it comes to luxury living in general, the Swiss city of Geneva takes the lead.
According to Express, according to the results of a study conducted by PrivateUpgrades, it was Geneva that received the title of the most luxurious city in Europe.
Analysts evaluated more than a hundred European cities by comparing the concentration of five-star hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and golf courses per capita. Each city was assigned a score on a 100-point scale, and Geneva achieved a score of 98.3.
The city has a record-breaking density of golf courses, with 7.36 per capita, as well as an extremely high concentration of gastronomy and luxury services, with a total of 57 Michelin-starred restaurants and 18 five-star hotels.
Geneva, often referred to as the informal banking capital of Switzerland, is located in the southwestern part of the country, right on the border with France. It is home to the headquarters of the Red Cross, the World Health Organization, and the World Trade Organization, which give the city not only prestige but also global influence.
Despite its image as a city for millionaires, Geneva has plenty to offer for those traveling on a budget. Located near the Swiss Alps, Geneva offers access to picturesque lakes and rivers, and walks along Lake Geneva or the Rhone River are free of charge.
A special gem of the city is the Old Town, with its narrow, winding streets, stone staircases, and the atmosphere of medieval Europe. It is the perfect place for a leisurely exploration without any expenses.
Yes, Geneva is considered one of the most expensive cities in Europe, but there are still ways to save money. The city is compact and well-suited for walking, so the need for taxis is minimal. Additionally, many hotels offer the Geneva Transport Card, which allows guests to use public transportation for free. It’s important to check this option when booking your stay.
The gastronomic component of Geneva deserves special attention. To explore the local cuisine, it is worth visiting the Natürlich restaurant. This is a modern bistro with a shared dining concept, focusing on seasonal ingredients and unconventional combinations, such as fried cuttlefish.
However, in general, the prices in Geneva’s restaurants reflect the city’s status:
- A meal at a mid-level restaurant will cost around $37-56 per person;
- dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant costs at least $100, excluding wine;
- A glass of wine usually costs between $12 and $19, while a bottle costs between $62 and $75.
