A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dover vs. Geneva for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Dover or Geneva?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dover and Geneva can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dover

Dover is a stunning, natural, and breathtaking town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Geneva

Geneva is a diverse, international, and professional city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Dover and Geneva: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Dover or Geneva?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Geneva than Dover, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Geneva is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Dover is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Dover is well known for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe. Geneva is well known for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. Also, Geneva is famous for The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Dover different from Geneva?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Geneva and Dover. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dover or Geneva?

Dover
Geneva

Geneva is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Geneva specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

Dover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.


Is the Food Better in Dover or Geneva? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dover
Geneva

Geneva is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Geneva is an experience not to be missed. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dover. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

Is Dover or Geneva Better for Nightlife?

Dover
Geneva

Geneva is very good for its evening party scene. However, Dover is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Geneva. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Is Dover or Geneva Better for its Old Town?

Dover
Geneva

Geneva is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Dover does not have a historic old town.

Geneva offers a nice historic old town area. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

Dover does not have a historic old town.


Is Dover or Geneva Better for Hiking?

Dover
Geneva

Dover is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Geneva is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Dover. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Geneva is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dover or Geneva?

Dover
Geneva

Geneva is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Geneva is a world class destination for shoppers. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dover or Geneva Better for Families?

Dover
Geneva

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Dover or Geneva.

Dover is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.

Geneva is a family-friendly town. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.


Is Dover or Geneva Better for Couples?

Dover
Geneva

Dover is a great destination for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Dover frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

Is Dover or Geneva Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dover
Geneva

Dover is a good destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Dover. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Dover or Geneva Better for Students?

Dover
Geneva

Geneva is a well-known place for students. However, Dover is not popular with students.

Geneva is very popular with students. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

Dover is not popular with students.


Is Dover or Geneva Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Dover
Geneva

Geneva is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Geneva can get you around easily. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.

Is Dover or Geneva a more walkable city?

Dover
Geneva

Geneva is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

Geneva is a very walkable destination. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

Dover is somewhat walkable. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

For even more information, also check out Is Dover Worth Visiting? and Is Geneva Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Geneva or Dover?

How long in Dover or Geneva?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dover and Geneva. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dover than in Geneva. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dover, and 1-3 days is enough time in Geneva.

Families should spend more time in Geneva than Dover. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Geneva, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Geneva than Dover. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Geneva that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Geneva than Dover if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Geneva.


  • How many days in Dover or Geneva? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dover 2-4 
    Geneva 1-3

One day in Dover or Geneva?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Dover. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Each neighborhood in Geneva has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.


A weekend in Dover or Geneva?

Dover is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Geneva. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Dover or Geneva?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dover. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Geneva is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Geneva. Lots of people come for the shopping. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dover or Geneva?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the iconic destination of Dover. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the diverse big city of Geneva. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, and The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Geneva or Dover?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Dover is £124, while the average daily cost in Geneva is £169. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Dover and Geneva in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dover £62
    Geneva £117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dover £124
    Geneva £234
Compare Hotels in Dover and Geneva

Looking for a hotel in Dover or Geneva? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Dover


Hotels in Geneva


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Dover Hotel Prices and Geneva Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dover £39
    Geneva £7.55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dover

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dover:

  • One-Way Taxi Transfer from Dover Seaport to London: $254
  • Dover to Heathrow and London Direct Shared Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to Gatwick City Hotels: $55
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London Airport (LHR): $66
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London City Hotels: $98
  • Private Transfer from Dover Port to London Gatwick Airport (LGW): $55
  • Private Transfers from Heathrow Airport to Dover Cruise Port: $147
  • Private transfer from Dover to London hotel or airport: $210

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • Geneva Int Airport (GVA) to La Clusaz - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Lausanne - Arrival Private Transfer: $53
  • Geneva to Geneva Airport (GVA)- Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • One-way Private Transfer From/To Geneva Airport: $71
  • VIP Transfer: $72
  • Arrival Transfer from Geneva Airport GVA to Geneva by Sedan: $73
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Verbier - Arrival Private Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Hotels to Geneva Airport: $86
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Geneva Hotels : $86
  • Geneva Airport Transfers : Geneva City to Geneva Airport GVA in Business Car: $87
  • Geneva Departure Private Transfers from Geneva City to Geneva Airport GVA: $87
  • Geneva Passenger Transfer to Chamonix Mont Blanc: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Dover or Geneva?

Prices for flights to both Geneva and Dover change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Dover £38
    Geneva £42

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Geneva

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Geneva.

  • Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class: $144
  • City Tour and Fondue Cooking Class: $185
  • Food tour in Geneva: $2,406

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dover £20
    Geneva £24

Tours and Activities in Dover

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dover are as follows:

  • Pilgrims and Pit Stops: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Canterbury: $5.99
  • The Condensed Canterbury Tour: $13
  • The Canterbury Classic Tour: $16
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 14.00 Tour: $19
  • Canterbury Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 11.00 Tour: $19
  • Small-Group City Running Tour in Canterbury: $27
  • Dover Castle Admission Ticket: $29
  • From Dover Cruise Ship; Grand Tour of White Cliffs Country & back: $108
  • Private Guided Walking Tour of Canterbury: $153
  • Dover Shore Excursion:Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle: $172
  • Dover Cruise Ship to Leeds Castle via Canterbury, Villages & back: $177

Tours and Activities in Geneva

Here are a few actual costs in Geneva for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Geneva Lakeside Stroll: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • From Brunswick Monument to the Botanical Garden: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Old Town Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Geneva Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $8.02
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Many Faces of Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • International District Self-Guided City Sightseeing: $15
  • Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Geneva (International District) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dover £7.71
    Geneva £18

Sample the Local Flavors in Dover

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dover:

  • Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent: $178


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dover and Geneva, we can see that Geneva is more expensive. And not only is Dover much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dover would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dover and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Geneva would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Geneva than you might in Dover.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Dover Expensive? and Is Geneva Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Dover or Geneva?

Geneva has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Dover. When comparing the sizes of Dover and Geneva, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Dover or Geneva?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Dover or Geneva in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dover and Geneva. Many visitors come to Dover in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Geneva for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Dover is cooler than Geneva. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dover in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Geneva averages at about 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Geneva this time of the year. In Dover, it's very sunny this time of the year. Dover usually receives less sunshine than Geneva during summer. Dover gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dover usually receives less rain than Geneva. Dover gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dover 17°C (63°F) 
    Geneva 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Dover or Geneva in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dover as well as Geneva. Most visitors come to Dover for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Geneva because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Dover is generally cooler than Geneva. Daily temperatures in Dover average around 12°C (54°F), and Geneva fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Dover often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Geneva. Dover gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 127 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in October than Geneva. Dover gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dover 12°C (54°F) 
    Geneva 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Dover or Geneva in the Winter?

Both Geneva and Dover are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Dover because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Geneva this time of year.

It's quite cold in Geneva in the winter. The weather in Dover can be very cold. Dover is a little warmer than Geneva in the winter. The daily temperature in Dover averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Geneva fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Dover usually receives less sunshine than Geneva during winter. Dover gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dover usually receives less rain than Geneva. Dover gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dover 4°C (40°F) 
    Geneva 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Dover or Geneva in the Spring?

Both Geneva and Dover during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Dover this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Geneva for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Dover is cooler than Geneva. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dover in April average around 9°C (47°F), and Geneva averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Dover often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Geneva. Dover gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 174 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in April than Geneva. Dover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dover 9°C (47°F) 
    Geneva 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Geneva and Dover

Dover Geneva
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)