Area guides

Where to stay in Bonnevoie: local prices, 15 minutes to the centre

5 min read

Residential streets in Bonnevoie neighbourhood

Who it suits

Bonnevoie sits east of the railway tracks from Gare, a mixed working-class and residential quarter with the largest Portuguese community in the city. Stay here for value: small independent hotels and apartments cost a third less than anything on the plateau, and you get real neighbourhood restaurants — Portuguese grilled fish, Italian trattorias, Ethiopian on Rue de Bonnevoie — rather than tourist menus. It suits repeat visitors, business travellers on their own dime, and anyone staying five nights or more.

It does not suit anyone who wants to walk out of the door into monuments. Bonnevoie is where people live, not where they sightsee.

Getting to the sights

Bus 3, 9 and 15 run every few minutes up to Hamilius. The Rotondes is a 10-minute walk and hosts concerts, markets and a decent bistro. The station is 15 minutes on foot; from there the tram takes you up to Ville Haute and Kirchberg. The neighbourhood also has the outdoor Bonnevoie swimming pool, open June to September, which costs 3.50 EUR.

Frequently asked questions

Is Bonnevoie walkable to the old town?

Yes, 25-30 minutes to Place d’Armes crossing the Viaduc (Passerelle) bridge. It is a pleasant walk with valley views but includes a climb up to the plateau.

Are there hotels in Bonnevoie or just apartments?

Mostly small guesthouses and apartment hotels. The Ibis Styles at the Rotondes end is the main branded option, usually 95-140 EUR.