Geneva: Your Gateway to the TMB
Geneva Airport (GVA) is the closest major airport to the TMB trailhead. From here, you have several options to reach Chamonix, Les Houches, or Courmayeur.
Option 1: FlixBus (Budget)
Cost: From €21 one-way
Duration: 1.5-2 hours to Chamonix
Frequency: Several daily departures
The cheapest option. Buses depart from the airport bus station. Book online in advance for the best prices. The journey follows the A40 motorway through the Arve Valley with views of the massif on clear days.
Pros: Cheap, reliable, no transfers
Cons: Fixed schedule, can be crowded in peak season, luggage limits
Option 2: Shared Shuttle
Cost: €30-45 per person
Duration: 1-1.5 hours door-to-door
Booking: Several operators — Alpybus, Mountain Drop-offs, Chamexpress
Shared minibus services run from Geneva Airport to Chamonix hotels. You book a seat and share the vehicle with other passengers headed the same way.
Pros: Door-to-door, reliable, comfortable
Cons: May wait for other passengers, need to book in advance
Option 3: Private Transfer
Cost: €150-250 per vehicle (up to 8 passengers)
Duration: 1 hour door-to-door
Worth it for groups of 3-4 splitting the cost. The driver meets you at arrivals and takes you directly to your accommodation.
Pros: Fastest, most convenient, flexible timing
Cons: Expensive for solo travellers
Option 4: Train via Annemasse
Cost: €25-35
Duration: 2.5-3 hours (with change at Annemasse or Saint-Gervais)
Take the regional train from Geneva to Annemasse, then the scenic Mont Blanc Express to Saint-Gervais-Les Bains. From there, a short bus or taxi to Les Houches or the tramway up to Chamonix.
Pros: Scenic, eco-friendly, the Mont Blanc Express is beautiful
Cons: Slow, requires changes, heavy luggage is awkward
Getting to Courmayeur
If you're starting from the Italian side:
- Take any Geneva→Chamonix service, then continue through the Mont Blanc Tunnel
- Or fly into Milan (MXP/LIN) and take a bus/drive (3-4 hours)
- Shuttle services from Geneva to Courmayeur are available but less frequent
Our Recommendation
For most hikers, the shared shuttle is the sweet spot — affordable, convenient, and reliable. Book Alpybus or Mountain Drop-offs at least a week in advance during peak season.
If you're on a tight budget, FlixBus works perfectly — just book early for the best prices and allow buffer time in case of delays.
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