Le Thermomètre
A Culinary Journey at Le Thermomètre in Geneva
Auer Chocolatier
Five generations of handcrafted Swiss chocolate excellence in the heart of Geneva since 1939.
Since 1939, Auer has been Geneva's premier chocolate institution, crafting handmade confections with five generations of expertise. Located on Rue de Rive in the heart of the city, this artisanal chocolaterie offers over 50 varieties of fine chocolates, including their signature Amandes Princesses and hand-dipped truffles. The on-site café serves hot chocolate and refined pastries, attracting chocolate connoisseurs and international visitors alike.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Auer
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Rue de Rive 4, Geneva, 1204, CH
Luxury
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Monday
10 am-6:45 pm
Tuesday
9 am-6:45 pm
Wednesday
9 am-6:45 pm
Thursday
9 am-6:45 pm
Friday
9 am-6:45 pm
Saturday
9 am-5:30 pm
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Auer
Getting There
Public Transport
Take any tram or bus to stops near Rue de Rive in Geneva's city center. The location is well-served by public transportation, with multiple lines providing access. Journey time from the main train station is approximately 5-10 minutes depending on your starting point.
Walking
From Geneva's Old Town, Auer is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk toward the lakefront. The route passes through charming streets and is clearly signposted. From the main train station, allow 15-20 minutes on foot.
Parking
Street parking and nearby parking facilities are available in the city center, though spaces can be limited during peak hours. Several paid parking garages are within a 5-minute walk of the boutique.
Taxi/Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you directly at Rue de Rive 4. Journey time from the airport is approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic; from the train station, approximately 5-10 minutes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
Restrooms
Drink Options
Food Options
Seating Areas
Information BoardsLocal tips
✓
Don't miss the Amandes Princesses in their iconic orange packaging—these are Auer's signature creation and widely considered the finest of their kind. The original recipe has remained unchanged since 1964.
✓
Visit the on-site café to enjoy hot chocolate and pastries in an intimate setting. This allows you to experience the full Auer atmosphere while sampling their creations in a comfortable environment.
✓
Arrive early on weekdays to avoid crowds and receive personalized attention from staff. The boutique can be busy during peak shopping hours, particularly on Saturdays.
✓
Explore the assortment boxes featuring samples of all chocolate varieties. These curated selections offer an excellent introduction to Auer's full range without committing to individual purchases.
✓
Ask staff about the artisanal production methods, particularly the hand-piping and hand-dipping techniques used for truffles. Understanding the craftsmanship enhances appreciation of the final product.
Discover more about Auer
A Legacy of Swiss Chocolate Excellence
Auer stands as a cornerstone of Genevese chocolate culture, founded in 1939 by Henri Auer, a master confectioner trained in Basel. What began as a single boutique on Rue de Rive has evolved into an iconic destination for chocolate enthusiasts worldwide. The family business has remained in the hands of the Auer family for five generations, each maintaining an unwavering commitment to traditional craftsmanship and premium quality.Artisanal Mastery and Premium Ingredients
Every chocolate at Auer is meticulously handcrafted by master chocolatiers using only the finest raw materials. The production process honors time-tested techniques: truffles are piped by hand using a pastry bag, hand-dipped in chocolate, and finished with a fork—a labor-intensive method that distinguishes Auer's products from mass-produced alternatives. The chocolate selection encompasses over 50 varieties, including traditional dark, milk, and white truffles infused with kirsch, as well as ganaches, pralines, and assorted confections. All products are created with premium ingredients selected for their superior quality.The Iconic Amandes Princesses
In 1964, Claude Auer created the legendary Amandes Princesses, the chocolaterie's signature product. These delicate French almonds are carefully selected for their caliber and softness, then caramelized and enrobed in exceptional chocolate. The original recipe remains unchanged to this day, and the distinctive orange packaging introduced in 1998 has become instantly recognizable among chocolate aficionados. These confections represent the pinnacle of Auer's artisanal philosophy and have become synonymous with Swiss chocolate excellence.The Café Experience
Beyond retail, Auer operates an on-site café where visitors can enjoy refined hot chocolate and gourmet pastries in an intimate setting. This space has served as a gathering place for Genevans since the 1960s, offering a comfortable environment to savor the chocolaterie's creations while experiencing the warmth of Swiss hospitality.International Recognition and Celebrity Patronage
Auer's reputation transcends Swiss borders, attracting notable international figures. Arnold Schwarzenegger, John Kerry, and former French President Nicolas Sarkozy have all visited the boutique, testament to the chocolaterie's worldwide acclaim and the universal appeal of its products.Location and Accessibility
Situated at Rue de Rive 4 in Geneva's city center, Auer benefits from proximity to the old town, lakefront, and public transportation. The location places it within easy reach of both locals and tourists exploring Geneva's cultural and culinary landscape.A brief summary to Auer
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Plan around the quieter times
A quick look at seasonal patterns and peak visiting hours.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Annecy
Discover Annecy, the enchanting 'Venice of the Alps,' where turquoise lakes, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture create an unforgettable travel experience.
Tell me more about Annecy