Geneva Cointrin International Airport (GVA)

Overview

Locally referred to as simply Cointrin Airport, Geneva Cointrin International Airport is located just 2.5 miles (4km) from central Geneva in Switzerland. The airport is situated on the Franco-Swiss border, and convenient direct rail and bus lines make it a good transport hub when travelling to nearly anywhere in Switzerland or France.

The airport's location on the border of the two countries means the facility is split into two sections, each with their own customs facilities. The check-in process at Geneva Cointrin International Airport can take a frustratingly-long time, with long queues at peak periods. Added to this annoyance is a lack of any entertainment once inside the terminal, which contains only a few shops and restaurants.

The airport offers a flights to many destinations in Europe and the Middle East, with a few routes to North American cities like Washington DC, New York, Toronto and Montreal.

Location

The airport is situated three miles (5km) north of Geneva.

Getting to the city

Uniresco public buses leave for the city centre every few minutes from the departures and arrivals levels. Passengers can pick up a free ticket for public transport from the machine in the baggage collection area at the Arrival level, information is available at the Unireso information counter in the Arrivals hall. A free hotel shuttle transports passengers to major hotels. A Uniresco train leaves for Cornavin RR Station in the city centre every 10 minutes, from where connections can be made to destinations throughout Europe. Taxis are available outside the Arrivals Hall and cost about Sfr35 to the centre of Geneva. Car rental is also available. It is only about three miles (5km) into town.

Time

GMT +1 (GMT +2 between March and October).

Contacts

Tel: +41 22 717 7111.

see full airport guide

Geneva Airport Taxis: the taxi fares above are intended as a guideline only.