Here, you’ll find everything you need to live, work, and connect—all in one place. Whether you’re enjoying a meal at our on-site restaurant, exploring our grounds, or making the most of our facilities, CERN offers a community-oriented environment where everyone can feel at home. Discover what makes our campus such a unique and welcoming place to be!
CERN Sites
CERN is a unique campus spread across interconnected areas: Meyrin, Prévessin, and the vast experimental and underground tunnel system. Each site plays a vital role in the daily life and operations at CERN.
- Meyrin: The bustling hub of CERN, Meyrin is where you’ll find administrative offices, social spaces, and advanced technical facilities. It’s a lively place with everything from coffee spots to collaborative workspaces.
- Prévessin: A quieter counterpart to Meyrin, Prévessin is known for its technical facilities and green spaces, with key infrastructures supporting CERN’s broader mission.
- Experiment Locations: There are seven additional experimental areas housing the LHC and its particle detectors (ALICE, LHCb, ATLAS, CMS), accelerating structures to boost the energy of the particles along the way, and other critical CERN operations.
- Underground Tunnel: Extending 27 kilometers beneath the ground, the tunnel isn’t just a link between Meyrin and Prévessin—it’s a world of its own.
Diverse Infrastructure
CERN’s campus is equipped with a wide range of infrastructure (~600 buildings) to support its vibrant community:
- Control Centres: These high-tech rooms are the heartbeat of CERN, where CERN accelerator complex operations are monitored 24/7.
- Detector Sites: Specialised underground areas that house cutting-edge scientific equipment.
- Workshops and Laboratories: Spaces dedicated to hands-on work, research, and innovation.
- Social Hubs: Cafeterias, lounges, and meeting areas where ideas and conversations flow.
- Logistical Facilities: Warehouses and support centres ensuring smooth operations across the campus.
- Accommodation: One on-site hotel to host everyone, from staff to invited visitors.
- Facilities for Visitors: The Science Gateway welcomes everyone from all over the world.
Key Facilities and Services
CERN is more than just a place to work — it’s a community where you can find everything you need for daily life. Our facilities and services are designed to make your experience at CERN comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable.
- Lunch: Enjoy a variety of options with our three on-site restaurants including one that’s open 7 days a week. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or sitting down for a relaxed meal, there’s something for everyone.
- Accommodation and Banking: CERN’s on-site hotel offers a place to stay for invited visitors and staff, ensuring you’re well-rested and ready for the day ahead. Need to handle your finances? Our on-site banks have got you covered with convenient banking services are right here for easy access.
- Library and Clubs: Dive into a world of knowledge at the CERN Library, where you can find resources for both work and leisure. Looking to unwind or pursue a hobby? Join one of the many clubs at CERN and connect with others who share your interests.
- Fire & Rescue Service: Feel safe with our independent firefighting service, always ready to respond swiftly, working closely with both French and Swiss emergency teams.
- Extra Conveniences: Don’t miss out on our CERN souvenir shop for gifts and mementos.
Proximity to Geneva and France
One of the best things about CERN is its prime location at the crossroads of Switzerland and France.
Just outside the vibrant city of Geneva, you’re perfectly positioned to enjoy the best of both countries. Whether you’re commuting from Geneva, exploring the French countryside, or enjoying a weekend in the mountains, the options are endless.
Geneva offers a wealth of cultural, culinary, and recreational activities, from the stunning views of Lake Geneva to the charming old town and world-class restaurants. On the French side, you’ll find picturesque villages, beautiful vineyards, and easy access to the Alps for skiing or hiking.
Living close to Geneva and France means you get the best of both worlds: the dynamic, international atmosphere of a major city combined with the tranquil, scenic surroundings of the French countryside. Plus, you’ll benefit from a strong sense of community, with plenty of opportunities to connect with people from all over the world, both at CERN and in the local area.
Want to Know More?
Finding your way around CERN is easy with the CERNMap and CERN Campus app. These tools help you explore the campus and discover everything it has to offer, from key facilities to hidden gems.
