Solve challenges in order to explore picturesque neighborhoods and lesser-known alleys. Your mission will also take you to the Parc des Bastions, the now lively Place du Molard and other places linked to a dark history.
How many are playing?
Unlock · €38.99Live in Geneva? The Annual Pass is how locals play · €79.99/yr. See the Annual Pass →
Places you will visit
12
It will take you
135-165 mins
You will walk
4340 steps
Total distance
3.3 km
A note from Frédéric Wasmer
“Geographer and photographer, I am passionate about nature, culture and travel. Born and raised in Geneva, I'm sure you'll be interested in discovering the city's dark history in the game I've created. Feel free to share your experience and reach out to me @wouahwow”
What you'll actually do
Download the Questo app and unlock the quest. Walk to Temple de Saint-Gervais whenever you like · no guide, no group, no time slot.
Solve 12 puzzles hidden in the streets around you. Each one you crack unlocks the next location.
Finish at Empress Sisi Monument and see where you land on the Geneva leaderboard.
Highlights
Discover how Geneva was almost taken during the terrible fight of the Escalade.
See where the Empress “Sisi”, Elisabeth of Austria, was stabbed to death.
Learn more about the Reformation and the role John Calvin played in Geneva.
Bring your crew
Race to the finish.
Everyone plays on their own phone · race solo, as a couple, or with a crew of any size. First to solve every clue takes the crown.
Adventure
Your pace, no timer
Escape
Beat the clock
Plays offline at your own pace · live group races need a connection.
Final leaderboard
Landmarks & Hidden Gems Included
The Empress Sisi Monument
The Brunswick Monument
The Reformation Wall
Cathédrale Saint-Pierre
The mission: Your story in Geneva
HISTORY AND CULTURE IN GENEVA
A history-led way to explore Geneva
The Dark History of Geneva is for visitors who want more context than a casual walk, but more freedom than a scheduled guided tour. The quest uses a route through Geneva to connect clues, places and stories.
The route starts at Temple de Saint-Gervais and finishes at Empress Sisi Monument over 3.3 km, with 12 challenge locations. Typical duration: 150 min; 3.3 km walking route; 12 challenge locations
Choose this for active, private discovery at your pace. Choose a guided historical tour or museum when expert live interpretation or curated exhibits matter more. Playable languages: English, French.
Good to know before you play
- Best during the day
- Best for couples
- Recommended activity for families
Tips & Recommendations
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You will be walking throughout the city, so comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the experience.
Charge Your Phone
Make sure your smartphone is at least 60% charged. The quest runs through the Questo app, and you will be using it throughout.
Check the Weather
This is an outdoor activity. Bring an umbrella or sunscreen depending on the forecast.
Bring a Camera
You will discover photogenic locations and hidden gems perfect for capturing memories.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer months or longer quests.
Play with Friends
Quests are more fun with friends or family. Each player who wants to play on their own phone needs their own access.
Ratings and Reviews
292 ratings
Scarmac
kareina
Andiphim
Hadir
Larry Ash
Beat the best: Top Geneva explorers
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Frequently asked questions
Is The Dark History of Geneva self-guided?
Where does it start and finish?
How many accesses are needed?
Compare Questo vs. Guided Walking Tours
Flexibility
Regular Guided Tours
Fixed schedules & no pausing
Questo
Start, pause, and resume anytime
Privacy
Regular Guided Tours
Crowds of up to 30 strangers
Questo
Private experience for your group only
Pricing
Regular Guided Tours
$30-$40 per person
Questo
Transparent pricing shown before checkout
Availability
Regular Guided Tours
Requires advance booking
Questo
Instant access 24/7/365
Experience
Regular Guided Tours
Passive listening to a guide
Questo
Active gamification; you solve the mystery
| Feature | Regular Guided Tours | Questo |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | Fixed schedules & no pausing | Start, pause, and resume anytime |
| Privacy | Crowds of up to 30 strangers | Private experience for your group only |
| Pricing | $30-$40 per person | Transparent pricing shown before checkout |
| Availability | Requires advance booking | Instant access 24/7/365 |
| Experience | Passive listening to a guide | Active gamification; you solve the mystery |
