Getting Around in Geneva

Information about the bus, tram and ferry services operating in Geneva, with contact information and details on the TPG public transport system...

Unireso is the transport network covering Geneva, Vaud and neighbouring France and operated by SBB/CFF/FFS (trains), TPG (bus and tram) and SMGN (boat). With one ticket it allows users to travel by bus, tram, train and boat in the region. Unireso ticket and day passes can be bought from the vending machines at the stops.

  • Uniresco (in French)
    Tel: 0900 022 021 (07:00-20:00)

Buses and Trams

The bus and tram services in Geneva are run by the TPG (Transports Publics Genevois).

Buses and trams run from 06:00-24:00, depending on the service. Each bus and tram stop has timetables and maps covering the entire Geneva network.

The tramway is under constant expansion often resulting in road works. The TPG has a website providing information on their services: timetables, maps, information on road works and general information.

  • For further information see the TPG website (in French)

Noctambus

On Friday and Saturday nights the TPG runs a night bus service, Noctambus, which runs from 0:00-05:00 (although times can be infrequent and irregular).

Bus and tram fares

Bus and tram tickets can be bought at vending machines (points de vente), at a TPG office, and from certain newsagents. Bus passes can be bought at the TPG offices.

Geneva-resident children and retired people are eligible for reduced fares. Children under six travel for free. Guide dogs and small animals travel free, other animals may travel at a reduced price. Pre-paid discount cards - the Cart@Bonus - are also available.

It is illegal to travel without a ticket. Anyone caught without a valid ticket will have to buy one and pay a fine.

Transport card

Visitors staying in a hotel, youth hostel or campsite can benefit from a Geneva Transport Card free of charge. The card is given to the visitor upon check-in and is valid throughout the stay including the departure day. The card entitles the person use of the entire transport network in the Geneva canton (bus, tram and boat) without restriction.

Public transport for people with disabilities

People with permanent or temporary disabilities can benefit from on-demand personal assistance when travelling on the Geneva public transport network. 

The service does not apply to wheelchair users, who should contact the Fondation Foyer Handicap for assistance.

Boats

The passenger ferries Mouettes Genevoises run regular routes across Lake Geneva in the summer months from April to October. The same ticket can be used for these ferries as for the bus and tram.

Departures for lake crossings every ten minutes from Quai du Mont Blanc, Quai Gustave Ador, Perle du Lac and Parc des Eaux Vives.

Mouettes Genevoises also organise lake and river cruises.

Taxis

There are many taxi companies in the Geneva area (it is not the most economical way to travel).

Bikes and Cycling

Cycling is very popular in Geneva and there is a large network of cycle lanes. All privately owned bicycles have to have third party insurance. The licence sticker (vignette) can be bought at post offices and must be displayed on the bicycle.

Car-Pooling

Car sharing (covoiturage) is widely practiced in Geneva. People travelling a similar route at the same time share the car and running expenses. This saves on fuel costs and reduces pollution.