Geneva Cointrin International Airport is uniquely situated on the border of two countries, Geneva and France. Consequently, it accommodates terminals for both countries on its premises. The airport serves a significant passenger volume, welcoming around 12 million travelers annually.
How to Get to the City Center
Reaching the center of Geneva from the airport is a straightforward endeavor, given the airport's proximity, just 6 kilometers away from the city. You have multiple transportation options, including public transport, taxis, and shuttle services, all of which can get you to the city center in approximately 10 minutes. Additionally, you can rent a car directly at the airport.
Public Transportation
Geneva Airport offers public transportation options such as buses and trains for travelers to access the city and its surroundings.
Free Public Transportation: Instructions for Use
Upon arrival in Geneva, you can obtain a free transportation ticket from the "Billet Gratuit/Free Ticket" machine located in the baggage claim hall.
To obtain your ticket, simply press button 1 on the machine and collect your ticket from window 2. This ticket remains valid for a generous 80-minute period and can be used within the central district of Tout Genève in second class.
During these 80 minutes, you have the flexibility to utilize not only buses but also trains, trams, and boats. It's essential to retain your plane ticket as the pass is valid in conjunction with it. For a map of Geneva, you can refer to this link: here.
Bus
Buses are available to take you to the Cornavin central train station. For their schedule, see the site.
- N°5 bus goes to Thonex-Vallard. This is the final stop.
- Bus N°10 goes to the River terminus.
The NA bus goes to the heart of Geneva at night, and its schedule can be found here.
- Where to find a stop: Bus stations are located near the registration area and near the train station. For stop locations, visit the official airport website.
- Trip time: 10 - 15 minutes. Buses run every 8 - 15 minutes from 05:00 to 00:00.
- Fare: 3 CHF. The price depends on your destination. For example, Geneva and the airport are in zone 10. You can buy a ticket from a machine at the airport. For information on how to get a free ticket, see above.
Train
The fastest way to get into the city is by train. The train arrives at the Gare de Cornavin train station.
- Where to find it: The station is located near the arrivals area, and "Train" signs will guide you.
- Travel time: 7 minutes. Trains run every 5 to 15 minutes. See the schedule here.
- Ticket price: CHF 3.50. You can buy a ticket at the ticket office or at a machine at the airport. Alternatively, you can use a free ticket. Information on how to get one is provided above.
Shuttle Bus
This is a free shuttle to various hotels. The stop is in the arrivals area. Here is a list of hotels that offer shuttle service:
- Crowne Plaza Geneva.
- Holiday Inn Express Geneva Airport.
- Ibis Geneva Airport.
- Nash Airport Hotel.
- NH Geneva Airport Hotel.
- Best Western Chavannes-de-Bogis.
- Movenpick Hotel & Casino Geneva.
- Phoenix.
- Starling Geneva Hotel & Conference Center.
Operating hours: Round the clock, with buses running every 20 minutes.
Transfer
One of the most comfortable ways to get to the city is by transfer. You can book a transfer in advance on KiwiTaxi.
From CHF 92 for two passengers.
Taxi
When ordering a cab, please note that the price includes surcharges for luggage, airport boarding, etc. Cab parking is located near the airport exit.
Cost: 35 - 45 CHF (1-3 passengers).
Car Rental
If you prefer to drive yourself, you can rent a car. You'll need an international driver's license and a credit card. Rental car desks are located at the airport or can be booked online (e.g., rentalcars).
Cost: from CHF 44 per day for an economy car.
How to Get to the Bus and Train Station
Trains and buses run from the airport to the train station (Gare Cornavin) and bus station (Gare Routière de Genève), located 500 meters from the train station. For timetables, see above.
