The international district of Geneva

Get in touch with the history of the international district of Geneva

The international district is living proof of the major role played by Geneva - home to more than 200 international organisations - on the world stage.

You find these organisations on the right shore of the lake around the Place des Nations and the imposing European headquarters of the United Nations. The neighbouring park of La Perle du Lac is what the name says - a pearl on the glittering lake shore. Don’t miss a visit to the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum where the highly emotive and dramatic story of Geneva's humanitarian movement from 1863 to the present unfolds.

The humanitarian trail of the Red Cross

The self-guided walking tour that will take you through the international story of Geneva

The humanitarian trail of the Red Cross is an adaptation of the historical and thematic trail created for the 33rd International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement held in Geneva on 4-12 December 2019. Take a humanitarian journey through the history of the Red Cross as you immerse yourself in the city of Geneva. 

Follow the walking trail through the Old Town to discover how a handful of Genevan citizens started the Red Cross story and how it quickly unfolded into humanitarian action and, later, the development of international humanitarian law. The trail features landmarks that are rich in history and symbolism.

To pursue the humanitarian experience and discover the next chapters of the Red Cross story, head towards Geneva's international district. 

You can find the brochure that will guide you through the trail at the Tourist Information Centre or it is also accessible here with an interactive map.