Cinéma Les Scala in Geneva: three art-house screens in the Eaux-Vives

Three screens at the heart of the Eaux-Vives

On Rue des Eaux-Vives, Les Scala is one of Geneva’s leading art-house cinemas. Renovated in 2020, it has three screens (from the large hall of 189 seats to the two more intimate ones of 90 seats). It is part of a small independent Geneva group, alongside Le City and Le Nord-Sud. You come for auteur cinema, Swiss and European, independent films and many previews, sometimes in the presence of the film teams.

What your children will discover

Les Scala shows the films on release, including family and animated films depending on the season, often in the original version. It is a chance to introduce children to a more varied cinema than the multiplexes. The group’s family rate (one adult and two children, or two adults and one child) makes the outing very affordable.

What you do there and the atmosphere on site

You get your ticket (online or at the box office, which opens 20 minutes before the first screening), and settle into one of the three halls. The atmosphere is that of a demanding yet friendly neighbourhood cinema. The lively Eaux-Vives quarter lets you extend the outing with a snack.

Before you go

• Recommended age: as a family from 6 years, depending on the film showing
• Duration: allow 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the film
• Price: full CHF 17.50, child (under 16) and student CHF 12.50, Monday CHF 12.50; Family rate CHF 39
• Booking: online at les-scala.ch or at the box office
• Transport: tram stop “Rue du Lac”; car parks Rive, Eaux-Vives 2000, Villereuse
• Accessibility: access for people with reduced mobility
• Best season: all year round

Tips from parents

• Check the language of the screening: many films are in the original version.
• The Family rate (CHF 39) is worthwhile for an outing with two children.
• Arrive a little early: the box office opens 20 minutes before the first screening.
• Check the recommended age of the film before coming, especially for the youngest.
• Make the most of the lively Eaux-Vives quarter for a snack before or after.

Useful information

• Address: Rue des Eaux-Vives 23, 1207 Geneva
• Official website: les-scala.ch
• Opening hours: according to the programme (check the website)
• Getting there: tram stop “Rue du Lac”; car parks Rive, Eaux-Vives 2000, Villereuse

Why we recommend it

Because Les Scala is the neighbourhood cinema just the way we like it: three screens, a quality programme, tram access and an attractive family rate. A human-scale cinema outing, away from the bustle of the big complexes.

In a nutshell

A three-screen art-house cinema in the Eaux-Vives, with a family rate and tram access. Friendly and easy to reach.