CERN Science Gateway
The free science centre of the world's largest particle physics laboratory, designed by Renzo Piano, where you can learn about the Large Hadron Collider.
CERN is located in Meyrin, northwest of Geneva on the Franco-Swiss border, and is the birthplace of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and the World Wide Web. The Science Gateway, which opened in 2023 and was designed by architect Renzo Piano, consists of a tubular exhibition hall that spans a road, along with a bridge. It features several interactive exhibition zones covering the origins of the universe, particles, accelerators and detectors, as well as hands-on lab activities and science shows, making it ideal for families and science enthusiasts. Opposite is the wooden Globe of Science and Innovation, CERN's landmark building. Exhibitions are free. Some guided tours and activities require advance booking on the official website, and a limited number of underground facility visits may be available (separate registration required). Opening hours are generally Tuesday to Sunday, 09:00–17:00; closed on Mondays. From central Geneva, take tram 18 to the CERN terminus, a journey of about 30 minutes.
Opening hours
Approx. Tue–Sun 09:00–17:00; closed Mon (check official website)
Nearby sights
- International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum
- Musée Ariana
- Broken Chair
- Palais des Nations
- Patek Philippe Museum
- Conservatory and Botanical Garden of Geneva
- Carouge
- Reformation Wall