Geneva airport (GVA)

Geneva International Airport (GVA), historically known as Cointrin Airport, is one of the most distinctive airports in Europe due to its cross-border location. Opened on 11 October 1919, it lies on Swiss territory but includes a French sector that allows direct access from France. It is a strategic hub operating domestic and international flights to destinations across Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, China and North America.

Official Website: gva.ch

Telephone: +41 848 19 20 20

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Terminals

The airport has two passenger terminals located next to each other. The main building is open from 4:00 am until the departure of the last flight (approximately 12:00 am). Staying inside outside these hours is not permitted.

• Terminal 1: This is the main and most modern terminal, handling the majority of flights. It includes a French Sector, which allows passengers arriving from France to check in and board domestic French flights or services to European Union destinations without passing through Swiss customs.
• Terminal 2: This is the original terminal and is only used during the winter season to handle charter flights linked to skiing activities in the region.

Annual Traffic (2025): 17.8 million passengers.

Information Desks

Assistance desks are located in the arrivals areas and the transit zone. The main desk is situated in the arrivals level and operates from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm.

 Location

The airport is located 4 km (2.5 miles) northwest of Geneva city centre.

Accommodation near Geneva airport (GVA)

Although Geneva Airport does not have hotels physically located within the passenger terminal, its urban location allows access to a wide range of accommodation options within a radius of less than one kilometre. Most nearby establishments offer a free shuttle service and, like all regulated accommodation in the canton, provide guests with the Geneva Transport Card for free use of the city’s public transport.

Nearby Accommodation

• ibis Genève Aéroport: The most economical and closest option for travellers on a budget, allowing access to the terminal within a few minutes on foot or via its complimentary shuttle service.
• Nash Pratik Hotel: Stands out for its functional and modern design focused on essentials, ideal for travellers who prioritise efficiency and immediate proximity to the check-in area.
• Nash Airport Hotel: Offers a regular free shuttle service every 20 minutes and features wellness facilities such as a sauna and gym, perfect for relaxing between connections.
• Nash Suites Airport Hotel: Provides greater autonomy and comfort thanks to its suites equipped with kitchenettes, making it the preferred option for families or stays of several days.
• Crowne Plaza Geneva by IHG: Delivers an upscale experience with premium corporate services, spacious soundproofed rooms and a private garden to disconnect from the airport environment.

Parking services at Geneva airport (GVA)

The airport offers a variety of parking solutions tailored to different needs and budgets, with options in both the Swiss and French sectors. It is recommended to make an advance reservation through the official ResaPark service to guarantee a space, especially during peak periods.

Parking in the Swiss Sector

These are the airport’s main parking areas and provide direct or nearby access to Terminal 1 and the railway station.

• P1 (Long-term): Covered car park with direct access to the main terminal. It is the most convenient option for extended stays.
• P26 (Economy): Located next to the railway station, it offers more economical rates for long stays. It is partially covered.
• P51 (Budget): Situated about 500 metres from the terminal (approximately 10 minutes on foot). It is the most economical option for stays of several days.
• P2 (Short-term): Intended exclusively for short stays (maximum 1 hour). It is ideal for picking up passengers, as it is located opposite the arrivals area.

Parking in the French Sector

• P20 (French Sector): Covered car park exclusively for passengers accessing the airport from French territory. It provides direct access to the French sector check-in area.

Special Services and Valet

Valet Parking: An official valet service is available daily from 4:00 am to 12:30 am. The vehicle is handed over in a designated area in front of departures and is parked by airport staff in a secure facility. Advance booking is required at least 24 hours in advance.

Electric Vehicles: Car parks P1, P2, P26 and P51 are equipped with charging stations for electric vehicles.

Kiss & Fly (Drop-off): Located on the departures (Check-in) level, it allows quick passenger drop-off. Parking is not permitted in this area.

Motorcycles and Bicycles

The airport provides free parking spaces for two-wheeled vehicles:

• Motorcycles: Located in designated areas near the main entrances.
• Bicycles: Marked and partially covered areas near the terminal and the railway station.

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Facilities for passengers with special needs

Geneva Airport is fully equipped to ensure accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility, as well as those with sensory or cognitive disabilities. The specialised GVAssistance service is responsible for coordinating free assistance from the point of arrival at the airport to the aircraft seat.

Advance notice: To guarantee an efficient service, it is essential to notify your airline or travel agency of your specific needs at least 48 hours before your flight.

Meeting Points and Assistance

There are assistance call points (self-service terminals) strategically located to request immediate help in the following areas:

• Airport railway station (SBB/CFF).
• Car parks P1 and P2.
• Check-in levels and arrivals areas.
• Bus stops and taxi ranks in front of the terminal.

Once you have completed the check-in process, you should proceed to the main GVAssistance desk, located in the public departures area, to complete the escort process through security and passport control.

Reserved Parking

The airport provides reserved parking spaces for people with disabilities in car parks P1 and P2, located near lifts and with direct access to the terminal. Vehicles displaying an official disabled parking permit may use these priority spaces.

Personal wheelchairs: If you are travelling with your own wheelchair (manual or electric), you will generally be able to use it up to the boarding gate. Do not forget to inform the airline about the dimensions and battery type of your wheelchair when making your booking.

Rail Connection

If you are travelling by train, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB/CFF) offer a free assistance service for boarding and alighting from trains. It is recommended to request this support at least one hour in advance via the SBB Mobility Call Centre.