How to take a train journey from Paris to Lausanne

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Paris to Lausanne by train

High speed trains link Paris and Lausanne on two routes, via Frasne or Geneva, the latter is slightly longer in journey time, but what will matter more are the departure and arrival times of each specific train.

Routes you can take to go from Paris to Lausanne

When travelling between most cities by train there is only one logical option, though on other journeys there is a choice between different trains or alternative routes. If different options are available you can use the info to decide which is best for you.

Choose one of the following options:
Looking for connections?

Route Information

Travel Time (approx)

3hr 41min - 3hr 59min

Frequency

Daily

Travel Info

Monday to Saturday = 6 x trains per day
Sunday = 5 x trains


Is the journey from Paris to Lausanne direct?
Yes, there is no need to make a connection when taking this route.


Is the journey scenic?
(1) On the route via Frasme -
There are some very nice views to be enjoyed to the south of Vallorbe - when this route is taken
(2) On the route via Geneva -
Between Bourg-en-Bresse and Bellegarde sur Valserine the railway travels through a valley; there are views over two lakes from the left when facing the direction on travel


When is the usual approximate earliest arrival at Lausanne from Paris Gare De Lyon?
Around 11:50 daily
Source = European Rail Timetable


How easy is it to travel on from the station in Lausanne?
It is linked to the city center by the Lausanne Metro - see the Station Guide above for more info, plus easy access to multiple options for booking somewhere to stay in the neighborhood.


When is the usual approximate latest departure from Paris Gare De Lyon to Lausanne?
Around 17:55 daily
Source = European Rail Timetable


How easy is it to get to the station in Paris?
The Gare De Lyon is served by two Metro lines - line 14 is now directly linked to Orly Airport. The station also has rail links from the Gare Du Nord and the La Défense business district.
See the Station Guide above for more info, plus easy access to multiple options for booking somewhere to stay by the Gare De Lyon.


Are tickets cheaper if booked in advance for these Paris to Lausanne trains?
Yes, and they can be purchased from a choice of booking agents - see below.


How soon ahead of travel are tickets typically placed on sale for these Paris to Lausanne trains?
Typically up to 6 months, but it varies according to the time of year; see the Ticket Information


What are the child ticket terms for these Paris to Lausanne trains?
The adult rate is charged for all travellers aged 12 and over.
Children aged 4 -11 travel at around 30% discount
Children aged 3 and under travel for free if you sit with them on your lap


Does the ticket for these Paris to Lausanne trains include assigned seats?
Yes - See the Train Guide in the Journey Information for insights on how to board the train.


Do rail pass users need to book reservations for these Paris to Lausanne trains?
Yes; see the rail pass reservation guide for the options on how to book.
Note that they are exceptionally expensive


Is catering available on the Paris to Lausanne trains?
Yes, there is a bar/bistro car:
In the equivalent of Business 1st Class there is a complimentary, at seat, full-meal service.
Source = TGV Lyria


What else is good to know about French rail travel?
Check out the guide to travelling by train in France.


What else is good to know about Swiss rail travel?
Check out the guide to travelling by train in Switzerland.

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