Trip Overview

This three-day science-focused program in Geneva, Switzerland, immerses secondary school, sixth form, and FE college students in world-class scientific discovery. At the heart of the trip is CERN, home to the Large Hadron Collider, where physicists and engineers explore the universe’s fundamental building blocks. Students will experience a guided tour with CERN experts, interactive exhibitions at the CERN Science Gateway, a scenic cruise on Lake Geneva, and visits to Geneva’s museums. This program supports GCSE and A-Level science curricula while inspiring future innovators through hands-on learning and cultural exploration.

Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Cultural Discovery
Arrive in Geneva by morning flight and transfer by train to your accommodation. Spend the afternoon at the Natural History Museum to explore earth sciences and biodiversity. In the evening, take a guided walking tour through Geneva’s Old Town to discover its rich heritage and landmarks.

Day 2: CERN Immersion
Dedicate the full day to CERN. Begin with a three-hour guided tour led by CERN staff, including an introductory film, experimental areas, and an accelerator visit. Continue at the CERN Science Gateway to experience immersive exhibitions like Our Universe and Quantum World, join hands-on lab workshops or science shows, and engage with CERN experts. The evening is free for lakeside exploration or local dining.

Day 3: Science & Farewell
In the morning, visit the History of Science Museum or opt for the International Red Cross Museum for a cultural perspective. Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Geneva or an optional excursion to Evian-les-Bains across Lake Leman. In the afternoon, transfer back to Geneva Airport for your flight home.

Cost Included
Two nights’ accommodation in Geneva in student-friendly hotels or hostels, daily breakfast, one group welcome dinner, entry to all scheduled visits including Natural History Museum, CERN tour, CERN Science Gateway, History of Science Museum, and Lake Geneva cruise, public transport passes within Geneva, and full trip planning support from WST’s expert team.

Cost Excluded
International airfare to and from Geneva, travel insurance, lunches and additional dinners, personal spending money, and any optional excursions or visits not listed in the standard itinerary.

Additional Program Elements

Educational Value:
Aligns with GCSE and A-Level science curricula and offers direct engagement with world-class scientific research, sustainable technologies, and cultural history.

Safety & Logistics:
All CERN tours are free but must be booked directly by the school with CERN. WST provides risk assessment documents, planning tips, and emergency support to ensure smooth operations.

Group Requirements:
Ideal for school groups of 20–50 students. Itineraries can be extended to 4–5 days with optional visits such as the United Nations European Headquarters, Swiss Plasma Center, or Vessy Waterworks. Cultural additions like the Rhone House Chocolate Tour or ICT Discovery Centre are also available.

Available 2026 Expeditions:
Flexible departure dates year-round, with recommended bookings in spring or autumn to ensure availability for CERN tours and accommodations. Early booking is strongly advised to secure guided tour slots.