Geneva Cornavin railway station is a major transportation hub in the heart of Geneva, Switzerland. This high-speed train station serves as a crucial link for both domestic and international rail travel. Located in the city center, it offers convenient access to TGV services to Paris, TER trains to Lyon, and the regional Léman Express network. The station’s modern facilities, multiple platforms, and various amenities make it a key gateway for travelers exploring Switzerland and neighboring countries.
What is the Location and Layout of Geneva High Speed Train Station?
Geneva Cornavin railway station is strategically positioned in the center of Geneva, in the Cornavin area. Its central location offers easy access to many city attractions, including:
- Lake Geneva (12-minute walk)
- Old Town (20-minute walk)
- United Nations Office (10-minute tram ride)
The station’s layout includes:
- 8 through-platforms (numbered 1-8)
- Platforms 7 and 8 dedicated to trains to/from France
- Elevated structure on a viaduct above street level
- Access via escalators, lifts, or steps
What High-Speed Train Services are Available at Geneva Station?
Geneva Cornavin station offers several high-speed and regional train services:
- TGV to Paris:
- Departs from platforms 7 and 8
- Multiple daily departures
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Journey time: approximately 3.5 hours
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TER to Lyon:
- Departs from platforms 7 and 8
- Frequent services throughout the day
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Journey time: about 2 hours
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Léman Express:
- Regional network with services to various destinations
- Lines L1 to L4 run every 15 minutes between Coppet and Annemasse
- Additional services to Annecy and Évian-les-Bains
What Amenities are Available at Geneva High Speed Train Station?
Geneva Cornavin station offers a wide range of amenities for travelers:
| Amenity | Description |
|---|---|
| Ticketing | SBB travel centre and self-service machines |
| Waiting Areas | Seating on platforms and in the main hall |
| Food & Beverage | Coffee shops, bakeries, food stands |
| Shopping | Supermarkets, clothing shops, various retail outlets |
| Luggage Storage | Staffed left luggage facility and lockers |
| Restrooms | Available throughout the station |
How Accessible is Geneva High Speed Train Station?
The station is designed to be accessible for all travelers:
- Elevators, escalators, and steps connect street level to platforms
- Clear signage throughout the station
- Assistance services available for disabled travelers (pre-booking recommended)
While specific details on tactile guidance systems are not provided, the station’s layout is designed to be navigable with assistance services available if needed.
What are the Ticketing Options at Geneva High Speed Train Station?
Travelers have several options for purchasing tickets:
- SBB Travel Centre:
- Located in the main cross-passage
- Offers tickets for Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and French TER trains
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Well-organized with a numbered queuing system
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Self-Service Ticket Machines:
- Available throughout the station
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Note: French TER tickets cannot be purchased from SBB machines
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Online Booking:
- Tickets can be purchased in advance through the SBB or TGV Lyria websites
What are the Rules and Regulations for Boarding Trains at Geneva Station?
When boarding trains at Geneva Cornavin station, keep in mind:
- Trains to France depart from platforms 7 and 8
- Separate border control passageways exist but are generally not used due to the Schengen agreement
- It’s advisable to check the latest travel requirements before your journey
- Arrive at least 15-20 minutes before departure for domestic trains, and 30 minutes for international services
How Can I Get the Latest Information on Train Schedules and Prices?
To stay updated on train schedules and prices:
- Visit the SBB website (www.sbb.ch)
- Check the TGV Lyria website for international services
- Use the SBB Mobile app for real-time updates
- Contact the SBB Contact Centre, available 24/7 at +41 (0) 848 44 66 88
Remember to book in advance for the best prices, especially for international high-speed services.