Got time on your hands while you’re in Geneva? You might be wondering if it’s possible, or even worth doing a ski day trip from Geneva. After all, this city is the gateway to the Alps for millions of visitors every year – there must be some of the icy white stuff just a short ride away. Right?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to do a ski day trip from Geneva – whether you’re a resident, on a quick break or simply passing through.
So where can you ski from Geneva?
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Where are the closest ski resorts to Geneva?
First of all, there are no ski resorts within Geneva’s city limits. But, there are several world class ski areas that can be accessed by car, transfer bus service or even train direct from Geneva city.
In under an hour and a half, you can be in:
- Megeve/St Gervais
- Chamonix (Flegere-Brevent)
- Les Houches
- La Clusaz/Grand Bornand (Aravis)
- Samoens/Morillion/The Grand Massif
- Morzine/Les Gets
- Les Diablarets
- Portes du Soleil Swiss resorts of Morgins and Torgin
Now, for a ski day trip, those are all serious ski terrain, with options for anyone from absolute beginners to hardened piste munchers.
If you’re looking for snow sure, then you’ll probably be looking at the Portes du Soleil and Avoriaz/Morzine sector, or higher up the Chamonix valley. Best bet is to check snow reports during the build up to your trip.
So how can you put together your Geneva ski day trip?
How to get to the Alps from Geneva?
The simplest option is to drive. If you’re not a resident, this might mean hiring a car – but if you’re only in town for a day or so then this is not the economical version.
Shared transfer
The easiest way to get to the Alps ski resorts from Geneva is by using one of the many transfer companies. Most of these operate out of the arrivals area of Geneva Airport, and are usually able to ship you to the resort and back using a shared transfer minibus.
The best way to book one is either to search on a transfer booking website, or approach them directly.
If you’re looking for a private transfer, run a search using our handy widget below.
Read our full guide: Transfers from Geneva Airport.
Public Transport options
The easiest ski resorts to access via public transport for a day trip would be Chamonix/Les Houches, Megeve/St Gervais-les-Bains or Morzine/Les Gets. There are buses and transfers leaving regularly thoughout the day from Geneva Airport and the city which will drop you right in the base stations of these excellent ski resorts, and then drop you back again once you’ve finished.
Prices start from around €23 each way to Chamonix/St Gervais, or €25 each way to Morzine/Les Gets.
There are also options for trains to Chamonix, but this is definitely the fiddly option. You’ll need to take a train to Annemasse in France, and then change twice before you get to Chamonix or Morzine. Honestly, get a bus instead as its faster, cheaper and there are no changes…
Book a day trip package
If you want a ski day trip from Geneva without needing to worry about the logistics, you can always just book a full package with the transfer, equipment and lift pass included.
If you’re staying in a hotel in Geneva, you can either ask your concierge, who will definitely have options for you.
Or, book a package online, with prices starting from around €180, all in.
This Chamonix day trip from Geneva is excellent value.
Where should I go for a ski day trip from Geneva?
if you’ve got access to a car, then you can pick from any of the options above. If you’re relying on public transport or transfer companies, go for Chamonix or Morzine.
Chamonix is the higher altitude resort, right in the shadow of Mont Blanc, and offers some of the best ski terrain in the world.
But then, Morzine/Les Gets are part of the excellent Portes du Soleil, one of the world’s biggest ski areas.
Frankly, you’re spoiled for choice.
One thing to note is that both Chamonix and Morzine can be incredibly busy during school holidays and at weekends. You might prefer to opt for a quieter and less popular resort such as Samoes/Morillon in the Grand Massif, or take the train to Les Diablarets or even Verbier (at a push).
If in doubt, check the snow forecast on the day to find out which is going to be the best option.
