Travel to Geneva

Geneva is situated in the southwest of Switzerland, near the French border. Located on the shores of Lake Geneva and surrounded by the Alps and the Jura mountains, Geneva is one of Europe’s most international cities. It hosts numerous global organisations and scientific institutions, making it a natural meeting place for research, policy, and innovation. 

Compact and easy to navigate, the city combines historic neighbourhoods, lakeside views, and a strong cultural offering, all within short distances. 

Getting to Geneva

Thanks to its strong public transport network, travelling both to and within Geneva is straightforward. The city is easy to reach by train, plane, or road. 

 

🚆 By Train

By Train

Travelling by train is one of the most sustainable and convenient ways to reach Geneva. The city is well-connected to major Swiss and European destinations.

  • From Paris: Direct TGV Lyria trains (approx. 3–3.5 hours)
  • From Lyon: Direct trains (approx. 2 hours)
  • From Zurich: Direct trains (approx. 2h 45)
  • From Milan: Direct EuroCity trains (approx. 4 hours)
  • From Barcelona: High-speed connections via Lyon (approx. 7–8 hours)
  • From Amsterdam: Via Paris or Basel (approx. 8–9 hours)
  • From Berlin: Via Basel or Zurich (approx. 9–10 hours)
  • From London: Eurostar to Paris, then TGV to Geneva (approx. 6.5–7 hours) 

Geneva has two main train stops relevant for participants:

  • Geneva Cornavin Station: Main railway hub in the city centre, with connections to hotels and public transport
  • Genève-Aéroport Station: Located directly at the airport and within walking distance of the Palexpo venue (approx. 10 minutes). 

Most trains arrive at Cornavin, but many also continue to Genève-Aéroport, which may be the most convenient option if you are travelling directly to the venue.

For routes, schedules, and tickets:

✈️ By Air

By Air

Geneva International Airport (GVA) is located just 4 km from the city centre and offers direct connections to many European and intercontinental destinations. 

Typical flight times to Geneva include:

  • From London: approx. 1h 30 – 1h 40 
  • From Paris: approx. 1 hour
  • From Amsterdam: approx. 1h 30
  • From Barcelona: approx. 1h 40 – 1h 45
  • From Berlin: approx. 1h 45
  • From Zurich: approx. 1 hour 

Getting from the airport to the city is quick and easy:

  • Train: ~7 minutes to Geneva Cornavin Station, with frequent departures
  • Bus: ~20 minutes to central areas 
  • Taxi: ~10–15 minutes, depending on traffic 

The Palexpo venue is located directly next to the airport and can be reached on foot in approximately 5–10 minutes.

Plan Your Journey

Discover how to get anywhere by plane, train, bus, ferry & car with rome2rio.com. This site offers to you all travel possibilities, duration and prices, depending on your destination.

Furthermore, the Rail Planner App offers an offline timetable for all European trains and can be downloaded on iPhone and Android.

For more details on schedules, ticketing, and routes, visit:

  • SBB Mobile app (Swiss rail timetables and tickets)
  • TPG+ app (local transport routes and real-time updates)

Free Public Transport Card

If you are staying in registered accommodation (hotel, hostel, etc.), you are entitled to a free Geneva Transport Card, giving you unlimited access to public transport for the duration of your stay. 

This includes:

  • Trams and buses
  • Local trains
  • Shuttle boats across the lake

This makes it easy to travel between the airport, venue, and your accommodation.

For essential traveller information about Maastricht, as well as local suggestions and other tips to consider when planning your trip, geneve.com or myswitzerland.com will provide you with all the necessary information.