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How to take the rail journey from Zurich to Lausanne
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Zürich / Zurich to Lausanne by train
What is unusual is that the IC trains from Zurich to Lausanne take two different routes, one of the hourly trains travels via Bern, but the now more frequent services travel via Neuchatel - and take a more scenic route along the shore of Lake Biel.
Routes you can take to go from Zürich / Zurich 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:
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Route Information
Travel Time (approx)
2hr 8 min - 2hr 15min
Frequency
Daily
Travel Info
3 x trains per hour
Is this journey from Zurich to Lausanne direct?
Yes, there is no need to make a connection when taking this route.
Is the journey scenic?
Both routes, via Bern and via Biel/Bienne have scenic highlights - see the Journey Information for images and videos and tips for making the most of the views.
When is the usual approximate earliest arrival at the main station in Lausanne from Zurich?
Before 07:45 daily (this train takes the route via Bern)
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 Zurich HB station to Lausanne?
Before 23:05 on Friday and Saturday and most other dates - this train takes the route via Biel/Bienne
Source = European Rail Timetable
When is the usual approximate latest departure from Zurich Flughafen /Airport to Lausanne by direct train?
Before 20:10 daily
It's possible to depart later by making a connection in Zurich HB.
Source = European Rail Timetable
How easy is it to get to the station in Zurich?
Zurich HB is at the northern edge of the heart of the city, the old town area is within a 10min walk and more than a dozen routes / lines use the two sets of tram stops.
See the Station Guide for more info, plus easy access to booking accommodation in its neighbourhood.
Are tickets cheaper if booked in advance for these Zurich to Lausanne trains?
Yes
How soon ahead of travel are tickets typically placed on sale for these Zurich to Lausanne trains?
Typically up to 6 months ahead of the travel date; though this period of time can be shorter, particularly when searching for journeys more than three months ahead during October and March.
What are the child ticket terms for these Zurich to Lausanne trains?
- Children aged 5 or younger travel free of charge
- Children aged 6-15 and travelling with a person aged 16 and over, pay 50% of the adult rate per journey - see the Ticket Guide for more info.
Does the ticket for these Zurich to Lausanne trains include assigned seats?
No, reservations are available, but are not mandatory.
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 Zurich to Lausanne trains?
No
Is catering available on the Zurich to Lausanne trains?
Yes, there is a bar/bistro car and a restaurant
See the Train Guide in the Journey Information.
What else is good to know about Swiss rail travel?
Check out the guide to travelling by train in Switzerland.
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