Hotel Bel’Esperance

Geneva has a reputation as one of Europe’s most expensive cities, and the Bel’Esperance is the answer to it. Owned and managed by the Salvation Army, it sits on the Rue de la Vallée at the entrance to the Old Town, on the slopes just above the elegant shopping streets of Rive, and offers one of the city’s best combinations of location and price. The rooms are simple and functional rather than stylish, with private bathrooms, and they include some generously sized family rooms, which are a rarity at this price in Geneva. The house is well kept and quiet, and the spirit is friendly and unpretentious. Its best feature is the terrace, with views across the rooftops to the lake, a lovely place to sit with a coffee or a picnic supper. Guests can use a shared kitchen to prepare their own meals, which makes a real difference to the budget in a city of high restaurant prices, and there is a laundry room for longer stays. Breakfast is served each morning, and Wi-Fi is free. As in every Geneva hotel, guests receive a free transport card for trams, buses and the lake shuttles, so the whole city is within easy reach without spending more.

Location and getting around: the hotel is at Rue de la Vallée 1, between Rive and the Old Town on the left bank. The Place du Bourg-de-Four and St Pierre Cathedral are a few minutes uphill, and the lakefront, the English Garden and the Jet d’Eau about ten minutes downhill. The Rive bus and tram hub is close, with lines across the city, and your free Geneva Transport Card covers them. From Cornavin station, a tram or bus ride takes about ten minutes, or it is a pleasant walk of around twenty minutes across the Rhône.

Rooms: rooms are plain and practical, with private bathrooms. Family rooms are generous in size, so book them early. Ask for an upper floor for more light.

Who it suits: budget travellers, families, students and anyone who would rather spend money on day trips and fondue than on a room. It also suits longer stays, thanks to the kitchen and laundry.

Good to know: this is a simple hotel, with no restaurant beyond breakfast and no frills, but it is clean, central and good value. Parking in the Old Town area is limited and expensive, so arrive by public transport. Rooms fill quickly during big Geneva events, so book ahead.