Frequently asked questions
Does Visit Service personnel speak English?
Visits Service staff speaks English, French and in some cases several other languages.
How to find CERN/reception?
The visitor reception is located in Building 33. How to reach building 33 when arriving by bus, train, or plane is explained here . The CERN reception is in building 33, this is a map.
Can CERN organise the transport from/to airport or train station from/to CERN?
No, CERN can only provide transport for the time of the visit. You can use the public transport to come to CERN.
How long are the visits?
The standard visit last approximately 3 hours. This can be supplemented by a visit to CERN’s onsite exhibition. Additional activities can be requested by schools and universities.
Will the tour be guided?
Yes, your tour will be guided by volunteer staff members of CERN.
Can you recommend any Hotels/Hostels in the area?
Many school groups stay in the Geneva Youth Hostel http://www.genevahostel.ch/en/
I have booked a room at the CERN hostel, do i need access card?
The hostel will provide the access cards which will be available at the reception building 33, or at the main CERN entrance B after 18:00pm
Does the CERN hostel accept credit cards?
You can pay at the hostel in Swiss Francs, Euros, by Maestro or by credit card.
Do I need to bring my passport?
Yes, because you may cross the border into France for your visit. Schengen visa is required, check with your embassy if you need one.
I have to cancel my visit, who should I email?
Please email Visits.Service@cern.ch to cancel your visit.
I want to change the date of my visit, who should I email?
Please email Visits.Service@cern.ch to change the date of your visit
How should I prepare my students to visit CERN?
The website public.web.cern.ch/public/en/About/About-en.html provides a very good starting point for exploring CERN.
Can we eat at CERN?
Yes, this is possible for groups (> 7 persons) that have booked a visit to CERN. Please present yourself at the reception desk, building 33. Please note that the CERN restaurant does not reserve tables.
Where do i find the CERN restaurant?
It is only 5 minutes from the reception, you can go by walk.
How much does the average meal cost at CERN?
An average lunch costs around 15 to 17CHF with drink included.
Can I pay by credit card in the restaurant?
The restaurant only accepts payment in Swiss Francs or Euros. (with change given in Swiss Francs)
Do I need to make badges for my students?
Badges are not necessary.
Do I need to send you the list of participants?
No we do not need the full list, only the name and telephone number of the person who is accompanying the group.
How much do you charge for a visit?
The CERN visit is offered free of charge.
Is it allowed to take photographs and video everywhere?
Yes, you can take photos or videos everywhere at CERN.
If we come with a laptop can we and how do we connect to the internet?
CERN does not provide internet access for visitors.
Why is the LHC not available to visit?
The LHC is now operational and no underground visits are authorised.
Where can we park our bus/car?
Buses and cars may be parked outside the visits reception.
Is there a safe area to put our luggage away during the visit?
CERN cannot accept responsibility for, or safeguard, luggage or personal items.
Can CERN provide a risk assessment document or help with constructing one?
CERN is not able to provide a standard risk assessment protocol. However, it should be noted that there are on-site medical and fire services and that strict rules of safety are in operation to protect everyone working on or visiting the site.
Can I buy souvenirs?
The Visits Service reception includes a souvenir shop selling books and educational items, clothing and CERN associated gifts.
Does the souvenir shop accept credit cards?
The shop accepts payment in Swiss Francs, Euros. by Maestro and by credit card.