Trains from Geneva

Geneva's main station is Genève-Cornavin (often just called Cornavin), centrally located and well connected by local trams and buses. It serves both Swiss domestic routes and international trains to France and beyond. A smaller station, Genève-Eaux-Vives, connects to the Léman Express regional network serving the cross-border Geneva metropolitan area.

Yes. Geneva Airport has its own train station directly connected to the terminal. Trains run frequently to Genève-Cornavin, and the ride takes under ten minutes. Before buying a ticket, pick up a free public transport ticket from the machine in the airport baggage claim area, it covers the journey into the city at no cost.

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) operates frequent direct trains from Genève-Cornavin to Zurich, Bern, Lausanne, Basel, and other major cities. Geneva to Zurich takes roughly three hours. Routes run throughout the day. Book via the SBB app or website, or buy tickets at the station, check current fares there, as prices vary by class and advance purchase.

Geneva has strong cross-border rail connections. TGV Lyria runs high-speed trains to Paris in about three hours. The Léman Express links Geneva to towns in neighboring Haute-Savoie, France. For Italy, trains typically route through the Simplon corridor via a change at Lausanne or Brig. Book international tickets through SBB, SNCF, or Trainline for current availability.

If you plan to take several train rides across Switzerland, the Swiss Travel Pass can offer good value, it covers unlimited rail, bus, and boat travel plus free entry to many museums. For trips focused only on Geneva and nearby areas, a regional day pass may be more practical. Compare options on the Swiss Travel System website based on your itinerary.

Swiss trains have no strict luggage limits for standard hand-carried bags. Overhead racks and spaces between seats handle most suitcases and backpacks. For oversized items like bikes or skis, specific rules and sometimes reservations apply, check SBB's luggage policy. SBB also has a door-to-door luggage shipping service if you prefer to travel without heavy bags.

For most domestic Swiss trains, seat reservations are optional, you can board any departure with a valid ticket. However, reservations are recommended or required on international services like TGV Lyria to Paris and some panoramic routes. During peak travel periods and holidays, reserving a seat on any route helps guarantee you a spot, in first class.