Beneath its polished, businesslike exterior lies a city with an under-the-radar nightlife which has a thing or two to offer. From cosy pubs where everyone knows your name to plush cocktail bars, there’s something for every palette here. Grab your fanciest outfit (you’ll probably need it) and take a moonlit tour through the best bars and late-night gems in Geneva..  

Le Verre à Monique 

It might not look like much from the outside, but have you heard that famous book-and-its-cover saying? Yep, step inside Le Verre à Monique and its intimate atmosphere, candle-lit tables and expertly crafted cocktails will win you over. Bonus points if you’re stopping by when the weather is on the warmer side – the seats of this bar spill onto the streets and it’s every bit as good as you imagine it.  

rooftop 42 

Partial to a drink with a view? Us too. Sitting atop the 8th floor, rooftop 42 offers panoramic views of Lake Geneva, Jet d'Eau and the whole city in general. As the sun sets, the vibe shifts from relaxed to lively with DJs providing tunes, bartenders serving well-crafted cocktails and the sparkling city being lit up. By the way, such a view comes with a dress code – get your snazziest outfit on to fit the ‘chic’ theme. 

BlackSheep 
Ready to taste some new fusions and good ol’ classics? BlackSheep is your place. This laidback yet trendy cocktail bar offers exceptional mixes. You’ll find some brews here too, but the focus is mainly on the film-named drinks. The vibe? Cool and intimate – we’re talking low lighting and eclectic décor.  

Pub L'Arbalète 

Hiding in the heart of Geneva’s charming Old Town, Pub L'Arbalète is a Swiss take on the classic British pub. You’ll find a good selection of beers on tap, and they serve up hearty bites too – think pub grub with some Portuguese flair thrown in for good measure.  

Little Barrel Rum Bar 

For the mini-Jack Sparrows out there, Little Barrel Rum Bar will be a personal paradise. This charming and cosy bar specialises in all things – you’ve guessed it – rum, offering a selection that’ll make any rum aficionado swoon. It’s small, intimate and filled with warmth, both in atmosphere and in its expertly crafted drinks. And the knowledgeable bartenders will guide you through a curated menu of rum-based cocktails that will transport your taste buds to Caribbean shores. 

L'Apothicaire Cocktail Club 

Step into the world of bespoke cocktails at L'Apothicaire Cocktail Club! This intimate spot is the second location of one of Geneva’s well-known cocktail bars (now closed), so you can sit back knowing the staff and owners are experienced in their craft. The regularly updated menu offers an extensive list of inventive cocktails, coupled with the elegant atmosphere makes it the ideal place for cocktail connoisseurs. 

Kiosque des Bastions 

Although at its most popular in the summertime, Kiosque des Bastions’ impressive interior, exquisite bites and crisp cocktails make up for the lack of outdoor seating in winter. The ceiling-high windows light up the whole room while you’re busy enjoying the nibbles and tipples. If you happen to visit in summer, the park’s serene atmosphere adds to the charm, although get down there early to secure a sunny spot.