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Auer Chocolatier

4.5 (669)

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.

A brief summary to Auer

  • 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
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Auer.

  • 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.

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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

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  • Information Boards

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.

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