Free tour
Best of Geneva historical walking tour through the old town to the lake
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Guru: Luke
Registered on 11 February 2026
I am a dual Swiss/Canadian citizen and a high school teacher with a passion for all the subjects I have taught my students: languages, history, and music. As a new resident of Geneva (as of 2026) with strong family and social ties to the canton, I am enthusiastic about sharing what I have learned in my own research about the history, character, and spirit of this fascinating place. I speak French quite fluently, along with my mother tongue English, and I can also converse in Turkish, which I learned while living in Istanbul in the early 2000s. I hope to convince you on a tour, through an exploration of the forces that have brought change to Geneva over many centuries, that the real Geneva is so much more than its stereotypes.
Free reservation and cancellation
Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free
Tour description
How and why did Geneva change from being one of Europe's most heavily fortified cities to the international city it is today?
Come with me to learn about its fascinating history and culture while exploring many of its most beautiful locations!
We will touch the remnants of massive defensive walls that used to surround the fortified city as we explore how the Protestant Reformation and wars of religion shaped Geneva's history and culture, we'll learn about the city's cultural quirks, we'll visit photogenic sites such as the Jet d'Eau and Cathédral Saint-Jacques, and we'll discover some great places that are justifiably popular with the locals, such as les Bains des Pâquis.
Ready to see Geneva differently? Book your tour and let’s explore the city’s past and present together.
Highlights
What will we see on this tour?
Meeting point:
Meet me on the steps of the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (Museum of Art and History).
I will be wearing the same wide-brimmed hat you see in my profile photo, standing on the front steps of the Museum of Art and History (Musée d’art et d’histoire, Rue Charles-Galland 2, 1206, Genève.
1
Free entry
Promenade de Saint-Antoine archaeological site
We'll visit a free underground archaeological site from the 16th century featuring the old city's defensive walls.
2
Outside visit
Reformation Wall
We'll learn about the Protestant Reformation in Geneva and its most prominent figures, including Jean Calvin.
3
Outside visit
L'Ancien Arsenal
Here you will learn about Geneva's unique winter celebration, l'Escalade, and its origins, and we'll also visit the site of the signing of the first Geneva Convention.
How much does this tour cost?
Free tours don't have a fixed price. At the end, each person contributes to the guide the amount they consider fair based on their satisfaction. As a guideline, Guruwalk recommends between €15 and $50 per participant.
Who is this tour for?
Accessibility
Not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Does not accept large group bookings.
Pets
Not suitable for bringing pets.
What should I know?
Minimum attendees
Requires a minimum of 4 people to conduct the tour.
Additional costs
The tour does not require payment for entries or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you cannot attend the tour, please cancel the reservation, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Payment methods
Electronic or card payment accepted.
Best of Geneva historical walking tour through the old town to the lake
