Palais des Nations
The former headquarters of the League of Nations, now the United Nations' largest office in Europe. Guided tours take you into the Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room.
The Palais des Nations was built between 1929 and 1936 as the headquarters of the League of Nations. Since 1946 it has housed the United Nations Office at Geneva, which hosts thousands of international conferences each year. On the Place des Nations outside, the giant wooden sculpture 'Broken Chair' stands as a call for a ban on landmines and cluster munitions. The row of flagpoles displaying member-state flags is a classic photo spot. Both the square and the sculpture are free to visit. Entering the palace requires joining an official guided tour (about one hour, offered in several languages, costing roughly 20 Swiss francs). Tours are generally held Monday to Friday, with Saturday tours also offered from April to September. Book in advance on the official website and bring your original passport. Security screening takes about 30 minutes. The tour covers the Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room (with a stalactite ceiling by Spanish artist Barceló), the General Assembly Hall and the Council Chamber. Routes may change due to meetings or renovations. Take tram line 15 to the Nations stop.
Opening hours
Tours approx. Mon–Fri 10:00–12:00, 14:00–16:00 (also Saturdays April–September; check official website)
Nearby sights
- Musée Ariana
- International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum
- Broken Chair
- Conservatory and Botanical Garden of Geneva
- Bains des Pâquis
- Brunswick Monument
- Flower Clock & Jardin Anglais
- Jet d'Eau