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How to take a train journey from the capital of France to Switzerland's largest city
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Paris to Zürich / Zurich by train
Direct high speed trains mean that travelling by rail from Paris to Zurich is a very straightforward journey.
Connect in Zurich for Swiss destinations with no direct trains from the French capital including Chur, St Gallen and Zug.
Also connect in Zurich to Austrian Railjet trains heading to St. Anton, Landeck and Innsbruck.
Routes you can take to go from Paris to Zürich / Zurich
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
Station Guides
Travel Time (approx)
4hr 20 min - 4hr 35 min (approx)
Frequency
Daily
Travel Info
6 x trains per day
Is the journey from Paris to Zurich direct?
Yes, there is no need to make a connection when taking this route.
Is the journey scenic?
Not particularly, though there are some nice views into the distance on the right when facing the direction of travel, to the north of Dijon.
The scenery around 10 - 25 mins after after departure from Basel is also very pleasant - as pictured at the top of the page
What other tourist locations are along the route from Paris to Zurich?
Dijon and Basel
When is the usual approximate earliest arrival at Zurich HB from Paris Gare De Lyon?
Around 11:25 daily
Source = European Rail Timetable
How easy is it to travel on from the station in Zurich?
The station is located by the heart of the city centre,
See the Station Guide for more info, plus easy access to booking accommodation in its neighbourhood.
When is the usual approximate latest departure from Paris Gare De Lyon to Zurich HB?
Around 18:20 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 Zurich trains?
Yes
How soon ahead of travel are tickets typically placed on sale for these Paris to Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich trains include assigned seats?
Yes
Do rail pass users need to book reservations for these Paris to Zurich 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 Zurich 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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