Broken Chair (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Broken Chair?
What makes it 81% Solo-Friendly: The sculpture is free, open all day, has tram stops metres away, and gives solo guests time for photos and reflection without scheduling, but there are no toilets or cover if rain starts.
Positives:
- Quiet reflection space: The area is less crowded early in the day, ideal for solo contemplation.
- Safe and accessible: The plaza is flat and well-lit, with nearby tram stops.
Challenges:
- Limited shelter: The site has no cover; rain or wind can make visits uncomfortable.
- ID required for UN tour: Bring a valid ID for the Palais des Nations security check.
What is Broken Chair?
- A 12-meter-high wooden chair sculpture missing one leg, positioned on the Place des Nations before the United Nations Office in Geneva
- Commissioned in 1997 by Handicap International to protest the use of landmines and cluster munitions
- Serving as a powerful symbol of the human impact of explosive weapons and the global campaign for their ban
What is so special about Broken Chair for solo trip?
- Iconic 12 m sculpture symbolising victims of landmines
- Free to visit with dramatic photo opportunities
- Easy access via tram close to UN headquarters
- Join a tip-based walking tour to meet other travelers
- Combine with a visit to Ariana Botanic Gardens
Recommended visit duration: 10–30 minutes
Why 10–30 minutes visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to reflect, take photos, and join a short tour.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Broken Chair
Reflect and photograph:
Spend quiet moments under the 12 m wooden sculpture symbolising landmine victims.
Tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset for dramatic light.
Join Free Walk Geneva:
Meet at Place Bel-Air at 11 AM for a guided tour that stops at the Broken Chair.
Tip: Bring a small tip (CHF 5–10) for the volunteer guide.
Explore Ariana Botanic Gardens:
Walk 10 minutes south to see themed greenhouses and plant collections.
Tip: Enter from the UN side for a direct path to the gardens.
Book Palais des Nations tour:
Reserve online to see the Human Rights Room and UN Library on a 1 hr tour.
Tip: Carry your passport for security screening.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Broken Chair
- Arrive early: Visit before 9 AM to beat tour groups and capture clear photos.
- Check tour schedule: Book the UN guided tour online at least a week in advance.
- Use Geneva Transport Card: Get the free card from your hotel for free tram access.
Reviews of Broken Chair
Prabesh Banjara
I have visited the Broken Chair in Geneva several times, and every visit feels meaningful and emotional. This place is not just a monument—it carries a powerful message for humanity. The Broken Chair stands as a symbol of peace, resilience, and the strong message of no more war. When you stand in front of it, you naturally stop and think about the impact of war on innocent lives, especially civil...
nassim salam
The Broken Chair is a symbolic cultural landmark erected in the United Nations Square in Geneva. It was designed by Swiss artist Daniel Berset and carpenter Louis Genève to symbolize the dangers of landmines, cluster bombs, and wars to humanity, and the permanent injuries and disabilities they cause. The chair weighs 5.5 tons and is 12 meters long.
Seap Traders
The Broken Chair sculpture stands in Place des Nations, right in front of the United Nations Office in Geneva, Switzerland — 1202 Geneva. It’s a free public landmark and great for a photo stop Bus # 8 from the Cornavin bus stop toward OMS/Appia / Nations — get off at Nations. Bus # 11 and Bus 20 can also take you close, stopping at Nations or nearby stops. Travel time: only ~6–10 minutes from Cor...
A Lui
Symbolising the opposition of land mines used in war, the 12 meter tall chair structure missing a leg illustrates the harrowing effects of conflict, and is worth a visit to all who shall pass the amazing city of Geneva. Adjacent to the chair is the UN Geneva headquarters’ alley of flags, which you should also pay a visit.
Justus Wanyoike
The water display on a hot day is a good cooling tool. Am still to fully grasp the concept of the broken chair though. Luckily on this day there were not so many people and we could take pictures and videos with fewer photo bombers. 😎
When is the best time to visit Broken Chair (Geneva, Switzerland)?
In winter, wear warm layers—the plaza is exposed. In summer, arrive early for cooler temperatures and softer light.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Viewing Broken Chair | CHF 0 |
| Tip for walking tour | CHF 5 |
| Tram ticket | CHF 3 |
| Palais des Nations tour | CHF 25 |
| Total Estimated | CHF 33 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Broken Chair
Address: 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Broken Chair (Geneva)?
About Broken Chair
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
10 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, solo trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, solo trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities