Globe of Science and Innovation
A striking timber structure housing captivating science exhibits, including the perpetually spinning MOVA globe and interactive displays on particle p...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better access to tours
Globe of Science and Innovation
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better access to tours

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A striking timber structure housing captivating science exhibits, including the perpetually spinning MOVA globe and interactive displays on particle physics.
"A great day out, fun for the whole family with fascinating information and excellent displays."
🎯 Book Tours Early
Guided tours and lab visits are popular and fill up fast. Book upon arrival or check the website.
⏰ Arrive Before Opening
To catch all exhibits and tours, aim to be there at opening time.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Universe of Particles Exhibition
Inside the Globe
Explore the big questions of physics and CERN's research with interactive displays.

MOVA Globe
Main Hall
Witness a mesmerizing, perpetually spinning globe powered by Earth's magnetic field.

Interactive Science Exhibits
Throughout the Globe
Hands-on experiments explaining physics, chemistry, and astronomy in an engaging way.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tours in Advance
Arrive Early for Full Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours Early
Guided tours and lab visits are popular and fill up fast. Book upon arrival or check the website.
⏰ Arrive Before Opening
To catch all exhibits and tours, aim to be there at opening time.
📅 Check CERN Website
Visit the CERN website for the latest schedule of activities and special events.
☕ Cafeteria Options
The canteen offers fresh food with some vegan choices. Try the lemon meringue pie!
Is it worth it to visit CERN in Geneva?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours Early
Guided tours and lab visits are popular and fill up fast. Book upon arrival or check the website.
⏰ Arrive Before Opening
To catch all exhibits and tours, aim to be there at opening time.
📅 Check CERN Website
Visit the CERN website for the latest schedule of activities and special events.
☕ Cafeteria Options
The canteen offers fresh food with some vegan choices. Try the lemon meringue pie!
🅿️ Parking & Transport
Paid parking is available. The train also stops directly in front of CERN.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Globe of Science and Innovation for its engaging and educational exhibits, particularly the interactive displays and the fascinating MOVA globe. The free admission and convenient location make it a highly recommended stop for families and science enthusiasts alike. While most experiences are positive, some suggest arriving early to fully enjoy tours and exhibits without crowds.
"A great day out. Fun for the whole family. Make sure to get there nice and early...at around 08:30. And book the tour and labs as soon as they become available. They are all done so we'll. The food in the canteen is really fresh too."
Amanda Geismann
"Even though I arrived late in the day, I was still able to explore some really cool exhibits at CERN. There were plenty of interactive displays, and I still got a good sense of the science behind the research happening there. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area—just try to come earlier in the morning to catch the full experience including tours/lectures."
RCB FOH-Road Manager (Jack Schmer)
"Many areas to see. Nice art display. Small gift shop. Get their schedule of activities. You must sign up for them about an hour in advance. The train stops right in front of CERN. There is a small cafeteria that has a few vegan options."
Angela M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Globe of Science and Innovation is easily accessible. The train stops directly in front of CERN, making it a convenient option. Paid parking is also available on-site if you prefer to drive.
Yes, public transport is a great way to reach CERN. The train line conveniently stops right at the CERN entrance, making it straightforward to get there without a car.
Yes, driving is an option, and there is paid parking available at the CERN site. However, consider public transport as it's very convenient with a train stop directly at the entrance.
For families, the train is often the easiest and most direct transport option, as it stops right at CERN. This avoids the hassle of finding parking with children.
Yes, the Globe of Science and Innovation is a prominent landmark at CERN and is generally easy to find upon arrival at the main site. Follow signage for visitor attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Globe of Science and Innovation is free. This makes it an accessible and budget-friendly attraction for all visitors.
While general admission is free, it's highly recommended to book guided tours and lab visits in advance as they are very popular and can fill up quickly. Check the CERN website for booking procedures.
Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official CERN website for the most up-to-date information. Some days may have more attractions available than others.
Yes, CERN often hosts special events and offers guided tours and lab visits that provide deeper insights into their research. It's essential to check the CERN website and sign up for these in advance.
Yes, there is a small gift shop located on-site where you can purchase souvenirs and items related to CERN and science.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the 'Universe of Particles' exhibition, marvel at the MOVA globe, and engage with numerous interactive science exhibits covering physics, chemistry, and astronomy.
Absolutely! The Globe features many interactive displays and experiments designed to help visitors learn and understand the complex work done at CERN in a fun and engaging way.
Most visitors spend around two hours exploring the exhibits. However, if you plan to take guided tours or attend lectures, you might need to allocate more time.
Yes, it's a great place for families. The interactive exhibits are designed to be engaging for all ages, making science accessible and fun for kids.
Photography is generally allowed in most public areas of the Globe, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions in certain exhibition areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafeteria on-site, often referred to as the 'Big Bang cafe,' which serves fresh food. They also have a few vegan options available.
The cafeteria offers a variety of fresh food options. It's known for having some vegan choices and has been praised for its lemon meringue pie.
While specific pricing isn't detailed, reviews suggest the food is reasonably priced for a canteen, offering good value for the quality and freshness.
Yes, the cafeteria at CERN does offer a few vegan options, making it accommodating for visitors with dietary preferences.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to consume outside food in designated areas if available, or to utilize the on-site cafeteria for convenience and to support the facility.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in the public areas of the Globe. However, always be mindful of any signage indicating restricted areas for photography.
The MOVA globe itself is a unique photo opportunity. The 'Universe of Particles' exhibition also offers visually interesting elements. Capturing the architecture of the Globe is also recommended.
It's advisable to avoid using flash photography, especially in areas with sensitive exhibits or displays, unless explicitly permitted. Check for any specific rules.
Drone photography is highly unlikely to be permitted within the Globe or the CERN site due to security and operational reasons. Always adhere to local regulations.
Visitors often share photos of the MOVA globe, the 'Universe of Particles' exhibition, and the unique timber architecture of the Globe itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Arriving early is key to managing energy levels and avoiding the biggest crowds. The on-site cafeteria provides convenient food options, including some vegan choices, and the free admission makes it a budget-friendly outing. The train stop directly in front also simplifies transportation with little ones.
🔬 Science Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to book guided tours or lab visits for an even more in-depth experience. The MOVA globe is a fascinating demonstration of physics principles, and the interactive exhibits allow for hands-on exploration of scientific concepts. Checking the CERN website for special events can enhance your visit further.
🚶 Day-Trippers from Geneva
Plan to spend a few hours exploring the free exhibits, focusing on the highlights like the MOVA globe and the interactive displays. Consider arriving earlier in the day to maximize your time and potentially catch a tour. The on-site cafeteria offers a quick and easy lunch option.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the 'Universe of Particles'
The exhibition aims to make abstract scientific ideas tangible and understandable for a broad audience, regardless of their prior knowledge. It's a journey through the big questions that physicists are currently trying to answer, showcasing the cutting-edge technology and collaborative spirit that drives scientific discovery at CERN.
Many visitors find this exhibition to be the most engaging part of their visit, offering a glimpse into the forefront of human scientific endeavor. It’s a testament to CERN’s commitment to public outreach and education, making complex science accessible and exciting.
The Marvel of the MOVA Globe
The magic behind the MOVA globe lies in its ingenious design. It utilizes the Earth's magnetic field and ambient light to power its continuous rotation. This means it truly spins 'forever,' a mesmerizing demonstration of subtle scientific principles at play. It’s a perfect example of how science can create seemingly magical effects through clever engineering.
Seeing the MOVA globe in motion is a highlight for many visitors, offering a moment of wonder and a conversation starter about the forces that govern our planet. It’s a unique visual spectacle that perfectly complements the scientific theme of the Globe of Science and Innovation.
Interactive Learning at CERN
Visitors can expect to find experiments that delve into physics, chemistry, and astronomy, often mirroring the types of research conducted at CERN or using similar machines. These activities allow you to actively participate in learning, rather than just passively observing, which many find greatly enhances understanding and retention.
The interactive nature of the exhibits is frequently praised by visitors, who report gaining a better grasp of scientific concepts through direct engagement. It’s this hands-on approach that makes the Globe of Science and Innovation a truly educational and enjoyable experience for everyone.
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