Direct high speed trains mean that travelling by rail from Zurich to Paris is a very straightforward journey.
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.
4hr 20 min - 4hr 35 min (approx)
Daily
5 x trains per day
Is the journey from Zurich to Paris 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 to the south of Basel - and into the distance on the left when facing the direction of travel, to the north of Dijon.
What other tourist locations are along the route from Zurich to Paris?
Basel and Dijon
When is the usual approximate earliest arrival at Paris Gare De Lyon from Zurich?
Before 11:40 daily
Source = European Rail Timetable
How easy is it to travel on from the station in Paris?
The Gare De Lyon is served by two Metro lines - line 14 is now directly linked with Orly Airport. The station also has rail links [to the Gare Du Nord](/travel-info-and-tips/gare-de-lyon-to-gare-du-nord-by-rer/ 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.
When is the usual approximate latest departure from Zurich HB to Paris Gare De Lyon?
Before 18:35 daily
Source = European Rail Timetable
How easy is it to travel to the station in Zurich?
Zurich Hb is linked to the city center by multiple tram lines / routes, see the Station Guide above for more info, plus easy access to multiple options for booking somewhere to stay in the neighborhood
Are tickets cheaper if booked in advance for these Zurich to Paris 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 Zurich to Paris trains? 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 Zurich to Paris 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 Zurich to Paris 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 Zurich to Paris 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 Zurich to Paris 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 Swiss rail travel?
Check out the guide to travelling by train in Switzerland
What else is good to know about French rail travel?
Check out the guide to travelling by train in France.
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