Resortwear Designer Hansine Johnston On The Bohemian Side To Geneva That Only Insiders Know

Geneva may be known for its elegance, watchmaking, international reputation and as a pitstop on the way to a ski trip but resortwear designer Hansine Johnston reveals a much more bohemian, creative and unexpected side to the city. Beyond the polished façade are lakeside rituals, artistic neighbourhoods, independent boutiques and local hangouts that give Geneva its real character. From hidden corners of Plainpalais and Eaux-Vives to the lakefront institution of Bains des Pâquis, this is Hansine’s insider guide to discovering a different side of Geneva.

Where To Stay

For me, the coolest place to stay is actually not Geneva but a guesthouse a 15-mintute train away: Le Petit Clos Suites in my home town of Nyon. It is the kind of place that immediately makes you feel at ease, beautifully designed, calm and understated, with a wonderful sense of comfort. The interiors are chic but relaxed, and it feels much more like staying in someone’s home than a traditional hotel.

The views are incredible and what makes it really special are the insider tips from the hosts, who know the area so well and share all the hidden places worth discovering. It is an authentic, stylish experience that captures exactly what I love about this part of Switzerland. While you are in Nyon my die-hard recommendations are Ex Machina for brunch or lunch, and lakeside swimming near the music school for the best spot for a picnic with a view…

Where To Eat, Drink & Hang Out

For Geneva away from the main squares, glossy department stores and, of course, the endless watch boutiques there are some incredible neighbourhoods with a much more individual spirit.

Plainpalais is one of my favourites. It has a more bohemian, creative and slightly grungier feel, and is home to Geneva’s alternative art scene. The flea market on Wednesday and Saturday mornings is a must, and the area comes alive with La Nuit des Bains – a seriously cool evening where the city’s contemporary galleries open their doors and the creative crowd comes out.

Then there is Eaux-Vives, which has a completely different energy. The streets are full of interesting bars, quirky restaurants and little local hangouts. It feels relaxed, social and full of personality. Bottle Bar is a true destination, while Alma has that ‘effortless chic and great cocktails feeling’ that makes it a favourite. Eaux-Vives is also home to some of my favourite discoveries: Le Voyageur, the coolest travel agent in Geneva who have all the tips on the latest places to go in the area, and then Da Paolo, a legendary pizzeria and true local institution.

Where To Shop

I hardly ever buy clothes as I honestly wear my own brand all year round, but my favourite retail pleasure in Geneva is definitely Fouchault Opticien, hands down the coolest sunglasses store in the city. Plus there are several boutiques on the same street with interesting brand mixes such as La Muse Boutique and NOA. Fouchault is where everyone in the know goes for incredible, unusual and stylish eyewear. The selection is amazing, the advice is personal and there are always more hidden treasures to discover than what you see on display.

Vintage shopping in Geneva can also be surprisingly rewarding. L’Adresse is a beautiful warehouse-style space with designer clothing and a really creative atmosphere. For something completely unique, Galerie 123 is a must. It has one of the biggest selections of vintage posters, and the owner has a story behind every single piece, making it feel like visiting a collector’s archive rather than just a gallery.

My Geneva Ritual

My absolute, die-hard favourite place in Geneva is Bains des Pâquis. It is a local beach with a vintage bathhouse perched over the promenade, with one of the best views across the lake towards the old town and the famous Jet d’Eau. What makes it so special is the community. There is always a real buzz, locals swimming, friends meeting, people coming after work, and it has this wonderful feeling of belonging to everyone.

The best thing is that it is open all year round. In winter, they install a sauna and I love going after work, warming up and then taking a freezing cold swim in the lake while looking out at the lights of Geneva. In summer, it becomes even more magical with free sunrise concerts every morning at 6am, where you can swim around the pier while listening to live music as the sun rises. It is one of those simple experiences that feels completely unforgettable.

My Perfect Day In Geneva

I love starting by the lake, wandering through different neighbourhoods and discovering the smaller details of the city. A slow morning, a swim and the (free!) yoga at Bains des Pâquis, exploring independent shops, brunch at Marcel, and an aperitif at La Clémence in the old town.

The beauty of Geneva is that the best places are not always the most obvious ones. It is a city of hidden gems, creative corners and local rituals with a large and growing bohemian community, and the most incredible range of free activities especially in the summer months.