Arriving in Geneva
Arriving by Plane
The Geneva International Airport is very close to downtown Geneva and transportation is very simple.
The first thing to do is to pick up a free ticket for the Geneva public transportation system ("Transports Publics Genevois - TPG") from the "Unireso" machine in the baggage collection area at the Arrival level. This Unireso ticket, offered by Geneva International Airport, allows you to use public transport in Geneva free for a period of 1h20m.
Then walk to the airport railway station and take the first train leaving. All trains stop at Geneva main station ("Gare Cornavin"), which is the first stop. The ride takes 8 minutes.
Arriving by Train
At the railway station (Gare Cornavin), you will find many trams and buses which will take you to your final destination. For travel within Switzerland, we have a top-notch train system.
For more information on tram and bus schedules, please visit Transports publics genevois (TPG).
Staying in Geneva
Cost of Living
Below is an estimate of the cost of living per week in Geneva. Prices are rough estimates, and may vary with the types of accomodation you choose.
| Per week (in CHF) | |
| Housing (single room)* | 280 – 560 |
|
Food (CHF 25 a day)
|
175 |
| Transport in Geneva (TPG) - Normal / under 24 | 38** / 23 |
| Various expenses | 150 |
| Total (min / max) | 628 / 923 |
*Please note that you may have to pay a tourist tax of CHF 2.50 per night per person (except in dormitories). If you are paying the tourist tax, you may not have to pay for public transportation (please ask your host / reception for more information when you arrive).
**If you are not under 24 and you stay in Geneva for more than two weeks, a monthly pass (CHF 70) will be cheaper (All prices here).
Classroom Map
Click on the interactive map to see where your GSS classroom will be.
Internet Access
GSS students will receive an access to the university's wifi on their first day of class. This will be valid in all University of Genev buildings.
The University of Geneva is part of the eduroam network.
The City of Geneva offers you free wifi hotspots around the city. Connect to the ((o)) ville-geneve network.
Visit Switzerland by Train
Trains are the easiest and fastest way to get around Switzerland.
You can check ticket prices here.
Some popular destinations in Switzerland from Geneva:
- One way ticket to Lausanne: CHF 22.40
- One way ticket to Luzern: CHF 79
- One way ticket to Zürich: CHF 87
You might be interested in checking out the Swiss Travel Pass if you want to visit several places in Switzerland.
Check out Swiss Tourism for more ideas!
During your stay in Geneva, you can always ask the student assistant in your course for more information. They will know how to help you!
