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Places (POIs) visited during this tour

Place #1
Distance: 0.00mi , Attraction : Waterbody
Map Pin
Quai du Seujet 26, 1201 Genève, Switzerland
POI 1 Tour Image
Rhone
What’s that to the left shooting into the sky? It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s… Jet d’Eau. A water fountain. We see it now at the beginning of the tour, and we will finish up with a much closer view later.

Here on the banks of the Rhone, we see one of Europe’s most important waterways, and its relationship with Geneva is deeply intertwined with the city’s history, culture, and economy.

Originating from the Rhône Glacier in the Swiss Alps, the river flows through Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) before continuing its journey through southeastern France and eventually emptying into the Mediterranean Sea. Its crystal-clear waters, particularly striking as they leave Lake Geneva, have made it a symbol of the city’s natural beauty.

Historically, the Rhône played a crucial role in Geneva’s development. As a natural trade route, it facilitated commerce between Switzerland, France, and other regions of Europe, contributing significantly to Geneva’s prosperity during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. The river was also a vital defense line, with Geneva’s fortifications strategically built along its banks to protect the city from invaders.

The Rhône’s presence shaped the city's layout, with bridges like the Pont du Mont-Blanc connecting the Old Town to the newer parts of Geneva. Today, the Rhône is not only a scenic highlight but also an essential water source and a hub for recreational activities. Its confluence with the Arve River is a striking natural phenomenon, and its proximity to the iconic Jet d’Eau fountain underscores its lasting significance to Geneva’s identity and charm.

About a half mile down to the right, the Confluence of the Rhône and Arve Rivers takes place, best viewed from the Jonction Bridge (Pont de la Jonction). This dramatic meeting of two rivers creates a vivid contrast: the Rhône’s clear, turquoise waters flowing from Lake Geneva collide with the milky, sediment-rich waters of the Arve, which originate in the glaciers of the Mont Blanc massif.

From the Jonction Bridge, you get a breathtaking view of this merging point, where the two rivers run side by side before blending into one. The difference in color is so distinct that it almost appears as though a line has been drawn between them, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Historically, the confluence has been significant for Geneva’s development, serving as a natural landmark and influencing trade, settlement, and infrastructure in the city. Today, the surrounding Jonction neighborhood is known for its bohemian atmosphere, with art spaces, parks, and walking trails, making it a great place to explore.

Continue across the Barrage-du-Seujet walkway.

Read More

  https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/144296/the-rhone-river-in-geneva
Place #2
Distance: 0.00mi , Attraction : Performance Venue
Map Pin
Rue de la Coulouvrenière 7, 1204 Genève, Switzerland
POI 6 Tour Image
L'Usine
The graffiti covered building in front of us is L'Usine, an iconic cultural and artistic hub in Geneva, known for its vibrant alternative scene. Located in a former factory building on Place des Volontaires, just near the Rhône River, L'Usine has been a cornerstone of Geneva’s underground culture since the early 1990s.

This self-managed, non-profit venue hosts a wide array of artistic and cultural events, including concerts, club nights, theater performances, film screenings, and art exhibitions. It’s renowned for supporting independent artists, musicians, and filmmakers, making it a haven for creativity and counterculture in a city often associated with diplomacy and finance.

The building itself, with its industrial architecture, graffiti-covered walls, and raw atmosphere, stands in stark contrast to the polished image of Geneva.

L'Usine comprises several spaces, such as: Le Zoo, a popular club for electronic music and techno lovers. La Salle PTR (Petite Reine), a concert hall showcasing rock, punk, and metal bands. Le Spoutnik, an independent cinema focused on avant-garde and experimental films.

There are additional theater spaces and art studios that offer a platform for innovative performances and exhibitions.
L'Usine is more than just a venue; it’s a symbol of Geneva’s diverse cultural landscape, championing freedom of expression, creativity, and inclusivity.

We will be making a left onto Rue de la Coulouvreniere, followed by a quick right down Rue du Tir.

Read More

  https://www.usine.ch/
Tour itinerary stops | Additional places you'll see on this self-guided tour

Map Pin Place 1 Rhone
Map Pin Place 2 L'Usine
Map Pin Place 3 Younger Population
Map Pin Place 4 Cimetière des Rois
Map Pin Place 5 Story Time
Map Pin Place 6 Synagogue Beth-Yaacov
Map Pin Place 7 Tram
Map Pin Place 8 Skating
Map Pin Place 9 Frankenstein
Map Pin Place 10 Place de Neuve
Map Pin Place 11 Bathroom Break
Map Pin Place 12 Parc des Bastions
Map Pin Place 13 Reformation Wall
Map Pin Place 14 Directions
Map Pin Place 15 La Promenade de la Treille
Map Pin Place 16 Cuisine
Map Pin Place 17 Place du-Bourg-de-Four
Map Pin Place 18 Architecture
Map Pin Place 19 Passage des Degrés-de-Poules
Map Pin Place 20 Saint Pierre Cathedral
Map Pin Place 21 Archaeological Site and Main Entrance to Cathedral
Map Pin Place 22 Hôtel de Ville
Map Pin Place 23 L'Ancien Arsenal (The Old Arsenal)
Map Pin Place 24 Maison Tavel
Map Pin Place 25 Fontaine du Perron
Map Pin Place 26 The Passage de Monetier
Map Pin Place 27 Swiss Miss
Map Pin Place 28 Temple of Madeleine
Map Pin Place 29 Place de la Madeleine
Map Pin Place 30 Swiss Watch Making
Map Pin Place 31 Rue de la Croix
Map Pin Place 32 Story Time
Map Pin Place 33 Refreshments
Map Pin Place 34 Jardin Anglais
Map Pin Place 35 Fontaine des Quatre-Saisons
Map Pin Place 36 Jet d’Eau



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How to take a UCPlaces tour
Taking a UCPlaces tour is fun and easy.
Download the app (Android or iOS), purchase the tour (either here on the website, or from within the app).
That's it, you're ready to go!
When you want to start the tour, find the tour in the app (via a quick in-app search or by clicking the tour link received in your confirmation email) and click "Start Tour" (headphones recommended for best experience.)
* After purchasing a tour you will receive a purchase confirmation email including the tour link and instructions on how to take the tour, so you don't have to remember anything now.
How does the tour work?
UCPlaces acts as your personal tour guide, providing self-guided audio tours fully navigated within our app using GPS-based navigation. You won't need to switch between external navigation apps.
Whenever you approach a point of interest (POI) on the tour, our app will automatically play the relevant audio story at the right time and place.
If you start the tour before reaching the first POI, the app will navigate you to the starting point and then begin the tour.
How is this more convenient than a traditional tour?
UCPlaces offers an innovative and flexible way to explore exciting destinations on your terms.
Here are some key advantages over traditional tours:
  • No need to commit upfront or purchase in advance; buy a tour only when you're ready to go.
  • Walk at your own pace.
  • No waiting for groups; go on your schedule.
  • Take the tour in your preferred language.
  • Start, stop and continue the tour whenever you want.
  • Returning to the same destination? Take the tour again, and again, and again... And bring a friend!
  • Enjoy preferred prices.

What's included?
  • A self-guided audio tour taken via the UCPlaces app [Android / iOS (iPhone) / Apple CarPlay].
  • Tour route map and in-app GPS navigation (via the UCPlaces app).
  • Audio stories for places visited during the tour.
  • Apple CarPlay connection (for iOS users); for a seamless driving tour experience.
What's NOT included?
  • Earphones (highly recommended).
  • Smartphone.
  • Any kind of transportation (including tickets and passes).
  • Tickets to the attractions on your tour.
  • Food and drinks
  • Physical tour guide.

Related travel ideas and destinations for you to explore

Best Self-Guided Audio Walking Tours for Europe’s Iconic Cities

Have any questions about this tour? Or a general travel / self-guided tours question? That's completely natural

+ How long does this tour take?
Most travelers complete this tour in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on pace, time spent at each stop, and optional detours. Having said that, please remember that self-guided tours are extremly flexible (you can start, pause, continue anytime) and everyone has their own pace.
+ What does this tour include?
This self-guided walking tour includes 36 stops, covering top attractions such as Rhone, L'Usine, Younger Population, Cimetière des Rois, Story Time.
+ Where does the tour start?
The tour starts at Rhone (Address: Quai du Seujet 26, 1201 Genève, Switzerland). You can begin the tour there or join from any stop along the route.
+ What type of tour is this?
This is a self-guided walking tour designed to be completed on foot through walkable areas and city highlights.
+ Can I do this tour at my own pace?
Yes, this is a self-guided walking tour, so you can start anytime and explore at your own pace. You can pause, skip stops, or spend more time at places that interest you. You can even split it into multiple days. Explore however feels right for you.
+ Is this a walkable tour?
Yes, this tour is fully walkable and designed to follow a comfortable route through pedestrian-friendly areas.
+ Do I need anything in order to take the tour?
There is one thing that you need - A mobile phone (with the UCPlaces app installed and active location services, and a cellular data plan with a decent signal for downloading the tour) and comfortable walking shoes! But here are some recommendations for a great experience: 1. Make sure your phone is fully charged and bring a mobile charger/battery. 2. Bring earphones for the best experience. 3. Bring a bottle of water and dress appropriately according to the weather forecast.
+ How will I navigate from point to point during the tour?
The tour uses GPS-based navigation through the UCPlaces app, with automatic audio playback and step-by-step directions between stops. Just follow the route (cross streets carefully using crosswalks) and listen to the audio guide. Use the resume feature to continue the from where you recently stopped (or closed the app). Easily skip or go back to stops.
+ Is this tour suitable for families or groups?
Yes, self-guided tours are ideal for families and small groups, allowing everyone to explore comfortably without being tied to a fixed schedule.
+ What makes a self-guided tour better than a guided tour?
Self-guided tours are more flexible, affordable, and personalized. You can avoid crowds, choose your pace, and focus on the stops that interest you most.
+ I installed the app and it's now asking for GPS and media access permissions, why?
The app is your tour-guide, it needs to know where you are located on the map to be able to trigger the points of interest. It also needs access to audio and media files to provide you with this experience.
+ What happens if there are unexpected roadblocks or navigation issues?
We have been working hard to deliver a great experience. Though you may run into unexpected obstacles (the world is constantly changing), our app has multiple features and mechanisms in place to help you overcome them, including: AI assistance, force play an audio if you can't reach the stop, skip or return to stops, automatic rerouting and more.
+ Can I take the tour in my language?
Though all of our tours are primarily in English, many tours are muyltilingual (including: Spanish, German, Portuguese, French, Japanese, Hebrew, French, Arabic and more...). The tour language options depend on the specific tour - You can easily check which languages are available in the tour screen!