News, media and entertainment in Geneva
With a foreign population of almost 40%, English as the second most widely spoken language and home to hundreds of international organisations, it is not surprising that Geneva offers a wide choice of English-language cultural activities, including broadcast, print and online media and live performances. Expat and activity networks offer ideas and inspiration for local activities from people in the know.
What's on in Geneva
Information about events and entertainment is available from Geneva Tourism or local Tourist Offices and local newspapers. Tribune de Genève', ‘Le Temps' and ‘Le Matin' publish weekly supplements with details of local events and entertainment. Theatre, live music , festivals and exhibitions take place throughout the year.
Geneva has over 40 museums, art centres and foundations. Geneva has the highest per capita number of cinemas in Europe. The Orange Cinema (Cinélac) hosts summer open-air cinema at the lake. City cinemas screen films in the original language with subtitles. Tickets are cheaper on Mondays. Geneva has an active theatre scene with 35 stages offering diverse performances. Plays are usually in French but there are also several English-speaking performances. Genève Agenda, RegArt and the Tribune de Genève list new and upcoming theatre events. Tickets can be bought directly at the theatre or from stores such as FNAC, Balexert Centre, Service Culturel Migros or TicketCorner.
Expat publications in Geneva
Many English-language newspapers and magazines are available at newsstands and bookstores sometimes on the day after publication. Most are also available online:
- Hello Switzerland is written by expats for expats in Switzerland published quarterly and free of charge.
- Swiss news is a monthly national newspaper focusing on events from an expatriate's perspective.
- Swiss Style provides information on services, products and events for the Anglophone population.
- Geneva Lunch is an online community newspaper.
English language radio and television in Geneva
BBC World Service is available on digital Satellite: Hot Bird 8-13º east.
Radio 74 (88.8 FM Geneva and the lake region) is a bilingual French/English service
World Radio Switzerland can be received via DAB+ radio or streamed over the internet. Programming includes contemporary music, chat, BBC news, interviews, lots of great contests, and local goings on for the English speaking community.
The Swiss national public broadcaster (SSG/SSR) provides regional television channels in Switzerland's official languages via cable, installed in most homes. More international channels are available digital internet and telephone packages. The Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) lists licensed broadcasters in Switzerland.
Other English language television and radio stations are available via digital, satellite or live streaming.
Photo: swiss-image/ Zuerich Tourismus
