Shopping in Geneva

Today teams of expert craftsmen toil steadily behind chic shop walls, windows glitter with baubles of every shape, size, and color.

Result? The world over, Geneva-based heavyweights like Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin are rightfully known for unparalleled excellence.

But great shopping is not confined to timepieces and jewelry. Handmade chocolates are an art form here. Along with such deescrumptious goodies, you'll find many other boutique delights.

Stores just off the beaten path can be extraordinarily vibrant, department stores amply reward those willing to wander multiple floors, and the Vieille Ville has no shortage of antiques shops.

And don't forget that Geneva is also a city of markets; chatty fruit and vegetable vendors, taciturn flea-market regulars, and craftspeople clustered in designated squares continue the legacy of the medieval trade fairs.