Geneva’s public transport system provides very comprehensive coverage of the city.

For fares, schedules and route maps, visit the Transports Publics Genevois (TPG) website at http://tpg.ch/.

 

The transport system runs on the honour code as passengers board at all available doors. However, tickets are checked randomly by roving controllers commonly known as the “Green Jackets.” The fine if you get caught without a ticket is minimum CHF 100.

 

 

TICKETS

Daily tickets can be purchased from machines at bus stops (before boarding) using coins or a pre-paid card (10, 20, or 50 CHF) that can be bought from local newspaper stands (“Tabacs”). Certain bus stops with newer machines will also accept credit card. A select number of buses (ex. F bus) also have machines on board for ticket purchases but only coins are accepted.

 

Monthly passes must be initially purchased at the Geneva bus office (Cornavin, Cours de Rive or Bachet) but then can be re-filled at tabacs around town. If you live in Ferney-Voltaire, you can go to the tourism office to renew your monthly pass or buy a pre-paid card (they only take cash or cheques). For the opening hours, you can visit their website.

 

To purchase a monthly pass, you will need a passport, address, and passport sized photo of yourself (otherwise, they can take a picture of you at the agency).

 

Prices vary according to the number of zones crossed, duration of validity, and your age. Visit the tpg website for updated fare info.

 

NOCTAMBUS

Night buses run on Friday and Saturday after the regular buses and trams end for the night. These buses have more limited routes than the regular buses. http://noctambus.ch

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WATER TAXIS

For a scenic crossing of the lake on beautiful sunny days or at dusk when the lights illuminate the lake shore, take a “Mouette Genevoise” for a short ride across the bay. There are various routes that run every ten minutes, in winter, from 7:25 to 19:35 during the week and from 10:05 to 18:00 on weekends and, during the summer, from 7:25 to 21.05 during the week and from 10:05 to 21:05 on weekends. Same tickets as the buses and trams. For schedules, visit http://www.mouettesgenevoises.ch/pw/en/

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AIRPORT

Free 60 min public transport tickets are available by the luggage carousels in the arrivals area  - remember to take one before you exit (the ticket machine is right before you exit). The train to the city centre, Gare Cornavin, runs often and is the fastest way to get to the city. Public transport buses directly to other locations are also available. Check http://tpg.ch/ for more information on routes and schedules.

 

Taxi is also an alternative, see below. It is also not more than a 30 min walk to/from WHO if you are in the mood for that, or 20-30 min by bike from the city centre.

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TAXI

Taxis can be ordered by telephone, waved down or picked up at the taxi ranks located around the city and at the airport. The fare from the airport to the city centre varies from 30 to 35 CHF and depends on traffic flow, time of day, and number of passengers.

Within Geneva, including the airport, the amount to be paid is as shown on the meter. The driver will also charge for luggage. The tip and VAT are included in the fare. For taxi information, visit www.taxi-phone.ch or Taxi-Phone: 022.33.141.33 or AA New Cab: 022.320.20.20

 

BIKING AND RENTAL BIKES

Geneva's relative compactness makes biking a very attractive way to commute and get around. In most cases, it is a lot faster than the public transport. Many streets have bike lanes and motorists generally act responsibly. Bikes need lights but you are not required to wear a helmet (even though you should!!). Bike lanes are great and clearly marked but be careful of traffic.

• The WHO Intern Board is in the process of confirming its bike bank program that will allow interns to borrow a bike while they are in Geneva for their internship. Stay tuned for more information.

• Buy a bike. Prices from approx 100 CHF and up. Check out the Facebook groups (see Housing on this site) and classifieds.

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CAR

Rental cars are available at several locations and starts from around 65 CHF/day with free km but no fuel. This is a good alternative to bus or train tickets to destinations that can be quite expensive, especially if you have a group of people travelling together. Check with the rental car company first to make sure that your license is valid abroad.

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Organized car sharing through Blabla Car is an alternative for trips. This can be a very cheap and convenient solution if you find a good match.

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