Geneva's main train station in the city center, near the Old Town, lake, and major attractions.

About Geneva City Center (Cornavin Station)

Geneva's city center, anchored by the Gare de Cornavin (main railway station), sits at the southwestern tip of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) where the Rhône River begins its journey toward the Mediterranean. Cornavin is the departure point for trains to Lausanne (40 min), Zurich (2h 45min), Paris (3h 15min via TGV), and Milan (4h).

The city center stretches from the station south to the lake, where the Jet d'Eau fountain shoots water 140 meters into the air. The Old Town (Vieille Ville) climbs the hill above the south bank, with St. Pierre Cathedral, winding cobblestone streets, and panoramic terraces. Rue du Rhône and Rue du Marché form Geneva's luxury shopping corridor.

Geneva is the European headquarters of the United Nations, home to the Red Cross, and hosts more international organizations than any city except New York. This gives the compact city an exceptionally cosmopolitan character, with over 40% of residents being foreign nationals. The free public transport ticket provided to arriving air passengers reflects Switzerland's commitment to seamless travel.

Nearby Landmarks

Jet d'Eau St. Pierre Cathedral Jardin Anglais Rue du Rhône UN European HQ

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost CHF 35-50 (~\$39-\$56)
Time 15-20 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost CHF 25-40 (~\$28-\$45)
Time 15-20 minutes

Outside arrivals, follow rideshare signs

Train (SBB/CFF Regional)

Cost Free with free ticket
Time 6 minutes
Frequency Every 6-12 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

Collect the free Geneva transport ticket from the machine in the baggage claim area. Take the train from the underground station to Cornavin (1 stop). Trains run every 6-12 minutes.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi CHF 35-50 (~\$39-\$56) 15-20 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare CHF 25-40 (~\$28-\$45) 15-20 minutes Budget-conscious, app users
Train Free with free ticket 6 minutes Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The train to Cornavin runs until about 12:30 AM. After that, Noctambus night buses connect the city center to various neighborhoods. Taxis from the airport cost CHF 30-40 ($33-44) and are available 24/7. Geneva is compact enough that most city center hotels are a short taxi ride from the station.

Luggage Tips

The train to Cornavin has open floor space for luggage. The journey is so short that even heavy bags are no trouble. Cornavin station has lockers (CHF 5-9) and a staffed left-luggage office. The walk from the station to lakeside hotels is 10-15 minutes on flat terrain.

Accessibility

Geneva Airport train platform has level access. Trains have designated wheelchair spaces. Cornavin station has elevators and accessible ticket machines. Geneva's city center is relatively flat near the lake, though the Old Town involves steep hills. TPG buses and trams are fully accessible.