Geneva uses a colour-coded parking zone system that can be confusing for visitors. Understanding the rules will help you avoid fines and find the best value parking.
The Blue Zone (Zone Bleue)
The blue zone is marked by a blue P sign with the word "ZONE BLEUE" on parking signs and sometimes blue markings on the road. Parking is free but limited to 90 minutes during controlled hours.
Blue Zone Rules
- Controlled hours: Monday to Friday 08:00-18:00, Saturday 08:00-12:00
- Time limit: 90 minutes (set on your blue disc)
- Cost: Free
- Required: Blue parking disc (disque de stationnement)
- Outside controlled hours: Free with no time limit
The blue parking disc must be set to your arrival time and left visible on the dashboard. Wardens check these regularly. The disc is available free from tabacs, tourist offices, the police station and some garages.
The White Zone (Zone Blanche)
The white zone covers most of central Geneva. Parking is paid and limited to 2 hours for non-residents during controlled hours. This is where you will encounter most of the parking meters.
White Zone Rules
- Controlled hours: Monday to Saturday 08:00-20:00
- Time limit: 2 hours for visitors
- Cost: CHF 1.00-2.50 per hour
- Payment: Parking meter (coins or card)
- Sundays & holidays: Free with no time limit
- Residents: Can apply for a macaron permit allowing longer stays
Resident Permits (Macarons)
Geneva residents registered in a specific neighbourhood can apply for a "macaron" (resident permit). This allows them to park in their zone for extended periods, including overnight, without paying the meter. Macarons are issued by the cantonal authorities and tied to a specific zone.
If you are a new resident in Geneva, apply for a macaron as soon as you register your address at the Office Cantonal de la Population (OCPM). There is a waiting list in some high-demand zones.
Restricted and Private Zones
Yellow road markings always indicate restricted or private parking - do not park here. Red kerb markings indicate stopping is prohibited. Areas marked "Zone de livraison" are loading zones only, typically limited to 30-minute periods.
Using the Geneva Parking App
Most meters in Geneva now accept the PayByPhone app for mobile payment. This lets you pay remotely and extend your parking session without returning to the meter. Download PayByPhone or the EasyPark app before your visit to Geneva.
Tip: Free Maps of Geneva Parking Zones
The Canton of Geneva publishes official parking zone maps on the genevaparkings.ch website. You can also find zone information on the Ville de Genève mobility portal. Always check these before parking in an unfamiliar neighbourhood.