Transportation and parking

Transports Publics Genevois (TPG)

The Transports Publics Genevois (TPG) is Geneva’s comprehensive public transportation system, offering an extensive network of trams, buses, and trolleybuses. With frequent service and a wide range of routes, TPG makes it easy to navigate the city and its surrounding areas. The system is user-friendly, with digital platforms and real-time tracking, and it connects seamlessly with other modes of transport, such as trains and boats. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the city, TPG provides an efficient and environmentally friendly way to get around Geneva. 

The annual subscription costs 500 CHF and the monthly subscription costs 70 CHF. Under certain conditions, the Canton of Geneva finances 100% of the annual subscription for people under 25 years old, and 50% for people who reached the legal age of retirement.

TPG offers an app that makes public transport in Geneva even more convenient. It provides real-time schedules, route planning, and the option to buy tickets directly from your phone—perfect for avoiding ticket machines and last-minute stress.

Swiss railway system (SBB/CFF/FFS)

The Swiss Federal Railways (Switzerland’s national railway company) is known for its punctuality and efficiency. In Geneva, SBB connects the city to the rest of Switzerland and neighbouring countries, offering a convenient and reliable way to travel for work or leisure. With frequent services, comfortable trains, and easy connections, SBB is an excellent choice for regional and international travel. Whether you’re heading to Zurich, Lausanne, or Paris, SBB ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey. Its modern stations provide various amenities, making your transit experience as seamless as possible. 

Train travel in Switzerland is generally more expensive compared to other countries, but there are ways to reduce costs. The SBB offers Supersaver tickets, which provide significant discounts on select routes and times. These tickets are available online and through the SBB mobile app, allowing you to save on train fares if you plan ahead. Additionally, the Half-Fare travelcard is a popular option for residents and frequent travellers, giving you a 50% discount on most trains, trams, and boats across Switzerland. These cost-saving measures can make exploring the country and commuting more affordable. 

The Half-Fare travelcard costs 190 CHF the first year and then 170 CHF the following year (as long as it is renewed without interruption). 

Similarly to TPG, the CFF also offers an app for seamless train travel across Switzerland. It allows you to check schedules (including for local public transportation services such as TPG) and purchase tickets.

Good to know: CFF’s Supersaver tickets offer discounts on certain routes, but there’s a catch, you must take the exact train you book. Unlike regular tickets, which allow flexible travel on the chosen day, Supersaver tickets are only valid for the specific time and train selected (typically during off-peak hours). If a Supersaver ticket is available for your trip, it will appear in the app or website during the booking process. In addition to this, most communes (municipalities) offer discounted day passes (cartes journalières) for around 40 CHF, allowing unlimited travel on public transport for a day. To secure one, you must call the communal office in your municipality of residence and book in advance for your desired date.

Highway vignette

Switzerland does not have tolls on its highways, but it requires a highway vignette for all vehicles using the national motorway network. The vignette costs 40 CHF and is valid from 1 December to 31 January. You can choose either the e-vignette, which you purchase online using your vehicle’s number plate, or the standard vignette, which you can order online or purchase at border crossings and gas stations. When purchasing the “physical” vignette, the vignette must be affixed to the inside of your windshield, typically in the top-left corner, to avoid fines. This system simplifies highway travel and is convenient for frequent drivers and tourists alike.

Parking in Geneva

In Geneva, parking zones are designated by different colours to indicate the rules and restrictions for each area. Here’s an overview of the main parking colour codes in Geneva: 

• White zones: these areas typically offer paid parking for the general public. You will find parking meters or ticket machines nearby, and you can purchase time for varying durations, usually from 30 minutes to a few hours. You can also use apps, such as PayByPhone or EasyPark.
  

• Blue zones: these areas are generally free but require a blue parking disk to indicate your arrival time. Parking in blue zones is limited to a maximum of 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the specific location. These zones are intended for short-term parking and are common in residential areas. Blue disks can be purchased at gas stations. In some areas, it is possible to order a “macaron” (against a fee paid annually), which is basically a permit for local residents to park their vehicles in dedicated blue zones. To request this permit please reach, our to your commune (municipality) of residence.
  

• Yellow zones: these zones are reserved for specific vehicles, such as those used by public services, delivery vehicles, or permit holders. Parking in a yellow zone without the proper authorization is strictly prohibited and can result in fines or towing.
  

Knowing these colour codes can help you find appropriate parking in Geneva and avoid fines or other penalties. When parking in any zone, always check the signs for specific rules and time limits, as they may vary by location.

There are several public covered parking garages available for those who prefer indoor parking. Prices typically range from CHF 2.50 to CHF 4 per hour depending on the location, with daily rates varying between CHF 20 to CHF 40. Monthly subscriptions can also be purchased, usually costing between CHF 150 and CHF 300, depending on the garage and its proximity to central areas. These options provide flexibility for both short and long-term parking needs in the city.