32 College Towns That Feel Like a European Vacation Without Leaving the U.S.

17. Geneva, New York – The Finger Lakes’ Little Switzerland

Perched on the serene shores of Seneca Lake, Geneva is often referred to as the "Lake Como of the Finger Lakes." Home to Hobart and William Smith Colleges, this town is a hidden gem that brings Swiss and Northern Italian charm to upstate New York. The vineyard-studded hills, stunning lakeside views, and quaint stone cottages resemble the Swiss lakeside towns of Montreux or Lucerne. Geneva’s thriving wine culture echoes Switzerland’s and Northern Italy’s rich winemaking traditions, with local wineries producing Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Noir in settings that could be mistaken for Ticino or Lake Garda.Visitors can stay in charming bed-and-breakfasts, dine at family-run trattorias serving locally sourced ingredients, and sip wine while overlooking the tranquil, deep blue waters of the Finger Lakes.