Read our quick rundown of Geneva's main hoods. Most hostels are located in the center of town.

City Layout

The cobblestone streets and quiet squares around the Cathedrale de St-Pierre are the heart of Geneva. Head north and you'll hit the ritzier riverside area across the Rhone River. Here you'll find banks, five-star hotels, lakeside promenades, and green parks. Head south, though, across the Arve River, and you'll run into the student-inhabited village of Carouge, home to the student bar and club scene. 

Hostel Overview

Geneva's hostels are not cheap but you certainly get your money's worth. Most are within walking distance of the train station, while another is further out, but in the heart of a university town. Just steps away from Lake Leman and overlooking Mont Blanc, the HI hostel in Geneva is especially wonderful. And, not to worry, to-ing and fro-ing is not a problem, as public transport is cheap and remarkably efficient.