Informational Guide to Geneva Airport - GVA - Non Official

Geneva Airport (GVA)

Find the most important information about Geneva Airport: Flights (Departures, Arrivals), Parking, Car Rentals, Hotels near the airport and other information about Geneva Airport (GVA). Plan your travel to GVA Airport with the information provided in this guide.


Geneva Airport (IATA: GVA, ICAO: LSGG), unofficially known as Cointrin Airport, is the main international airport serving Geneva, the second largest city in Switzerland.


GVA Airport is also the second busiest airport in the country. GVA Airport is located 4 km (3 miles) northwest of the city centre. Given its location, passengers are able to access to Geneva Airport from both France and Switzerland. The Airport is an important point for long-hail routes to Middle East, China and North America, and also to many European metropolitan destinations. The passenger traffic in Geneva Airport is growing rapidly and it is expected to reach 25 million passengers by 2030. These numbers are the reason why the airport has begin to build new facilities as the new Aile Est (East Wing).

Geneva Airport is a hub for easyJet Switzerland and a focus city for Swiss International Airlines, being the two largest companies.

During 2025 Geneva Airport registered more than 17 million passengers.

Terminals +info

Geneva Airport operates with two passenger terminals that handle both domestic and international traffic.

Terminal 1 (T1) is the main and modern terminal, serving the vast majority of commercial flights throughout the year.

Terminal 2 (T2), also known as the charter terminal, is used mainly during the winter season for additional charter and ski-related flights. Despite having two terminals, the airport remains compact, making transfers, check-in, and security procedures relatively quick and convenient for travelers.

Reviews +info

On this website, you will find valuable tips and reviews about Geneva Airport, designed to help you navigate your travel experience smoothly. These reviews can help you understand what to expect in terms of service quality, cleanliness, and overall passenger experience.

-Our Review of Geneva Airport

-Pros and Cons of GVA Airport

-Mini-Guide of the Airport (2’ Guide)

-Other reviews

-Some Stats

Transport +info

Geneva Airport is only 4 km from the city centre. Passengers can easily reach the city centre by either train, taxi or bus.

GVA Airport is one of the best communicated airports in Europe.

Take a look to the available transportation options to and from Geneva Airport:

Rail: There is a railway station in Geneva Airport with direct access from the check-in and the arrivals level. It takes only 7 minutes to reach the city centre. Connection to other parts of Switzerland and France is also available. See more information

- Car hire: At Geneve Airport there are car hire options and shuttles. See more information

Buses: There are various lines that depart from Geneva Airport to downtown, Switzerland and France. See more information

- Taxi: Get within 20 minutes to downtown from Geneva Airport. See more information

Contact

Address:
Route de l’Aéroport 21,
1215 Le Grand-Saconnex, SWITZERLAND

Telephone: 
+41 22 717 71 11

Airport Hours: 
Terminal 1 is closed from 00:00 am to 04:00 am.

Lost and found:
Police: +41 22 427 57 90
Cantonal Lost Property Service: Phone: +41 22 427 09 00
Email: scot@police.ge.ch

About Geneva

Located on the shores of Lake Geneva and surrounded by the Alps and the Jura mountains, Geneva is one of Europe’s most elegant and international cities. Known as a global hub for diplomacy, finance, and humanitarian organizations, Geneva also offers visitors a charming historic center, beautiful lakeside scenery, and easy access to the mountains. Its compact size makes it ideal for exploring over a weekend or as a starting point for discovering western Switzerland.

What to See in the City and Surroundings

Geneva’s most famous landmark is the Jet d’Eau, a spectacular water fountain that shoots 140 meters into the air and has become the symbol of the city. Nearby, visitors can stroll along the scenic lakefront promenade or cross the Mont Blanc Bridge, which offers excellent views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

The historic Old Town of Geneva is a must-see, with narrow streets, charming squares, and historic buildings. At its heart stands St. Pierre Cathedral, where visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views over the city. The area is also home to museums, cafés, and small boutiques.

Outside the city, nature lovers can take a boat trip across the lake or explore nearby Alpine destinations such as Montreux and the Château de Chillon, one of Switzerland’s most picturesque castles.

Public Transport in Geneva

Geneva has an efficient and easy-to-use public transportation network operated by Transports Publics Genevois. Trams, buses, and trolleybuses connect the airport with the city center in about 7 minutes and provide convenient access to most neighborhoods.

Visitors staying in hotels often receive the Geneva Transport Card, which allows free travel on public transport during their stay. The city is also very walkable, and bicycles can be rented through local bike-sharing services.

Travel Tips and Recommended Routes

For a classic half-day itinerary, start with a walk along the lakefront, pass the Jet d’Eau, and continue to the Old Town. From there, explore the cathedral and enjoy lunch in one of the historic squares. In the afternoon, visit the international district to see the Palace of Nations and the famous Broken Chair sculpture.

Another recommended route is a lakeside cruise toward Montreux or a day trip into the nearby Alps for hiking, skiing, or scenic train rides.

Local Events and Activities

Geneva hosts several cultural and seasonal events throughout the year. One of the most popular is Fêtes de Genève, featuring concerts, food stalls, and fireworks over the lake. In winter, the city’s Christmas markets and festive lights create a charming atmosphere.

Throughout the year, visitors can also enjoy lakeside walks, boat excursions, museum visits, and outdoor activities in the surrounding mountains, making Geneva a destination that combines culture, nature, and international flair.