Geneva airport transfers to Cornavin and the city
Geneva Airport is close to the city, and the train reaches Cornavin in about seven minutes once you are aboard. Your best route depends on where you are staying: the station is convenient for Pâquis, while other districts may need a tram, bus or walk afterwards. Check whether your accommodation supplies a public transport card before buying a ticket.
The airports
- Geneva Airport (GVA)
- about 5 km from the center, about 7 minutes by train to Cornavin
Every way from the airport to Geneva
| How | Airport | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| TrainTrain to Genève-Cornavin | GVA | about 7 minutes to Cornavin, plus waiting and walking | Cornavin, Pâquis and onward rail journeys |
| BusLocal public bus | GVA | allow roughly 20 to 40 minutes, depending on destination | Accommodation with a convenient direct bus connection |
| TaxiTaxi from the official rank | GVA | about 15 to 30 minutes to central areas, traffic permitting | Heavy luggage or a direct journey to your door |
How each one works
Train: Train to Genève-Cornavin
Follow the railway signs from arrivals to the airport station. Choose a departure calling at Genève-Cornavin and buy a valid ticket before boarding unless your activated transport card covers the journey. Cornavin is the main city station; check your onward connection separately.
Bus: Local public bus
Follow the bus signs from arrivals and check the current public transport journey planner for your accommodation address. Choose a service and stop that reduce onward walking. Buy or activate your ticket before traveling, or use a valid accommodation transport card if it covers the journey.
Taxi: Taxi from the official rank
Follow signs to the official taxi rank outside arrivals and give the driver your full accommodation address. Confirm the payment method and fare arrangement before setting off. For an Old Town address, ask where the vehicle can stop and whether any final uphill walk remains.
Arriving late or leaving early
For a late arrival, check the last train and bus connections for your actual travel day, including any onward tram. If services have finished, use the official taxi rank. For an early flight, compare the first public transport arrival with your airline's required check-in time.
Before you land
- Ask your accommodation whether it provides a free public transport card before arrival, and check its validity and activation instructions.
- The seven minute train journey ends at Cornavin; add time for waiting, reaching the station and traveling to your accommodation.
- Keep your accommodation address available offline so you can check the correct stop or show it to a taxi driver.
Geneva airport transfers to Cornavin and the city
What is the quickest public transport route into Geneva?
The train takes about seven minutes from the airport station to Cornavin. Your total journey also includes the walk from arrivals, waiting time and any onward connection.
Is airport transport free for hotel guests?
Eligible accommodation guests may receive a free public transport card. Ask your accommodation whether it is provided, when it becomes valid and whether it covers your airport journey.
Does the airport train go straight to the Old Town?
The train reaches Cornavin on the right bank. Continue by public transport or walk toward the Old Town, allowing for its uphill streets and your luggage.
How should I travel after the last train?
Check whether a suitable bus still operates on your travel day. If public transport has finished, follow airport signs to the official taxi rank.