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No more fumbling in your pockets
Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.
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Looking for a cheap price?
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Say hello to Your Account
All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.
Got a question? Our support team are on hand 24/7.
Search. Book. Travel.
No more fumbling in your pockets
Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.
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Looking for a cheap price?
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Traveling from Paris to Zurich by train
Want to spend some time in Switzerland’s largest city and need more information on how to take the train from Paris to Zurich? Start your journey here!
On average, the journey time from Paris to Zurich is 5h 27m, but can take just 4h 4m on the fastest TGV Lyria services. Each day, around 5 direct services run from Paris to Zurich, so you don’t need to worry about changing along the way.
If you’re travelling on this popular route, you’ll hop on a high-speed TGV Lyria train at Paris Gare de Lyon or Paris Gare de l’Est station, before travelling at speeds of up to 200mph and arriving at Zurich Hauptbahnhof (HB) station. TGV Lyria trains provide spectacular views of the French countryside, so make sure you book a spot on the top deck of your double-decker train to take it all in.
If you want to travel from Paris to Switzerland by train but aren’t sure which city to visit – Zurich is the ideal choice! Once you’ve arrived at Zurich HB station, you’ll be in the heart of the city. Not sure where to visit first? Check out our Zürich city guide.
From the station, you can take a half-mile stroll up to Lindenhof Hill, which was once the site of a Roman fort and boasts excellent views over the city. To see more of Zurich, why not explore its natural beauty and head to the lakes? If you’re a soccer fan, you should head straight to the FIFA World Cup Museum, accessible via the regional S-Bahn train service.
If you're feeling tired just thinking about everything you can see and do in Zurich, fear not! We've also got a list of Zurich's best city center hotels and Zurich's best hotels near the train station where you can get some shut-eye.
Feeling ready to book? Start your search for cheap train tickets from Paris to Zurich today! Just head to our Journey Planner at the top of the page and we’ll point out the cheapest fares. If you’d like to read more information first, cast your eyes down this page for useful journey information, including train times, tickets prices and FAQs.
Paris to Zurich Hb by train
It takes an average of 6h 50m to travel from Paris to Zurich Hb by train, over a distance of around 303 miles (488 km). There are normally 20 trains per day traveling from Paris to Zurich Hb and tickets for this journey start from $60.18 when you book in advance.
| First train | 7:22 am | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 9:00 pm | |
| Departure station | Paris | |
| Arrival station | Zurich Hb | |
| Journey time | From 4h 4m | |
| Distance | 303 miles (488 km) | |
| Frequency | 20 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From $60.18 | |
| Train and bus operators | TGV Lyria, BlaBlaCar Bus, Flixbus, SNCF, SBB CFF FFS, SNCF Voyageurs |
FAQs about the train journey from Paris to Zurich Hb
Want to know more about your journey from Paris to Zurich Hb? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
What is the fastest train from Paris to Zurich Hb?
Is there a direct train from Paris to Zurich Hb?
How far is Zurich Hb from Paris by train?
Which trains run from Paris to Zurich Hb?
Can I get from Paris to Zurich Hb without flying?
What is the best way to get from Paris to Zurich Hb?
When is the first train from Paris to Zurich Hb?
When is the last train from Paris to Zurich Hb?
How often do trains run from Paris to Zurich Hb?
How far in advance can I book tickets from Paris to Zurich Hb?
Looking for a return trip from Paris to Zurich Hb?
TGV, SNCF, TGV Lyria and SBB trains from Paris to Zurich Hb
TGV
SNCF
TGV Lyria
SBB
TGV is the high-speed train service of the SNCF company. It connects the major cities of France at speeds of up to 200 mph (320 km/h). All TGV trains are equipped with a food carriage, a free WiFi connection, power sockets and fold-down tables. Two comfort classes are offered – First Class and Second Class, with flexible fare options available and access to the Grand Voyageur lounge in some stations.
More information
SNCF is the national train operator of France. It operates all domestic trains and routes across France, as well as international services to Spain and Germany. There are three different types of domestic trains that operate under the SNCF banner – TGV (high-speed, full-service trains that connect the major cities in France), Intercités (usually a more frequent stopping service, but with all the amenities), and TER (regional train services with basic onboard facilities).
More information
TGV Lyria links France to Switzerland and can travel at a maximum speed of 200 mph (320 km/h). Resulting from the collaboration between SNCF and SBB, TGV Lyria has three comfort classes on all trains. Standard (equivalent to the Second Class TGV, with comfortable seats), Standard 1ère (with more legroom and access to the SNCF show Grand Voyageur at the Gare de Lyon in Paris) and Business 1ère (available all week except Saturday, on some lines only).
More information
The Swiss rail network is operated by SBB. SBB train ticket prices are based on travel and not on the type of trains. You will find available return tickets (standard price, one way or round trip), Multiple journey tickets (for six individual trips on a pre-determined itinerary) and the City-Ticket (including a one-day transportation pass from the city of departure or arrival).
More information
TGV INOUI, TGV Lyria, Intercity and Eurocity classes from Paris to Zurich Hb
Compare the different travel classes offered by TGV INOUI, TGV Lyria, Intercity and Eurocity when traveling from Paris to Zurich Hb.
TGV INOUI
TGV Lyria
Intercity
Eurocity
Second Class
In Second Class, TGV INOUI allows you to travel comfortably while enjoying the onboard services, such as free WiFi, power outlets and more.
- Free WiFi
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- Dining car
- Power outlets
- Fold-down table
- Baggage storage
- Reading light
- More legroom
- Quiet area
First Class
Prefer to travel in style? Upgrade to First Class and you’ll enjoy all the benefits of Second Class as well as some additional extras.
- Free WiFi
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- Dining car
- Power outlets
- Fold-down table
- Baggage storage
- Reading light
- More legroom
- Quiet area
Standard Class
TGV Lyria’s Standard Class offers comfortable seats and access to the dining car, perfect for an economical trip in comfort.
- Free WiFi
- Baggage storage
- Dining car
- Power outlets
- More legroom
- Quiet area
- Full ticket flexibility
- Welcome service
- Complimentary in-seat meal
- Unlimited drinks
Première
When traveling in Première with TGV Lyria, you will have additional legroom, the comfort of a First Class seat, as well as food sold at your seat.
- Free WiFi
- Baggage storage
- Dining car
- Power outlets
- More legroom
- Quiet area
- Full ticket flexibility
- Welcome service
- Complimentary in-seat meal
- Unlimited drinks
Première Signature
If you prefer to travel in style, upgrade to Première Signature Class and enjoy a welcome drink, a meal on board and much more.
- Free WiFi
- Baggage storage
- Dining car
- Power outlets
- More legroom
- Quiet area
- Full ticket flexibility (1)
- Welcome service
- Complimentary in-seat meal
- Unlimited drinks
- (1) Check conditions when selecting the ticket.
Economy Class
Take advantage of the dining car which offers a menu made of high-quality produce. Traveling with kids? Choose your seats in the dedicated Family Zone.
- Free WiFi
- Power outlets
- Dining car
- Children's car
- Power outlets at each seat
- Extra baggage
- Fold-down table
- Quiet area
First Class
In First Class, you'll get to travel in comfortable seats, enjoy free WiFi, as well as more space for your luggage and individual power outlets (German + Swiss).
- Free WiFi
- Power outlets
- Dining car
- Children's car
- Power outlets at each seat
- Extra baggage
- Fold-down table
- Quiet area
Economy Class
Benefit from free WiFi, spacious seating, power outlets and air-conditioning in newer SBB's Eurocity trains.
- Free WiFi
- Air conditioning
- Power outlets
- Baggage storage
- In-seat meal service
- More legroom
- Lounge access
First Class
Treat yourself in SBB's First Class and enjoy more legroom, access to First Class Lounges, in-seat dining and plenty of space for your baggage.
- Free WiFi
- Air conditioning
- Power outlets
- Baggage storage
- In-seat meal service
- More legroom
- Lounge access
Onboard services on TGV INOUI, TGV Lyria, Intercity and Eurocity
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Paris to Zurich Hb.
TGV INOUI
TGV Lyria
Intercity
Eurocity
On board TGV INOUI trains, you can take up to 2 pieces of luggage measuring no more than 70 x 90 x 50 cm (27.5 x 35.4 x 19.6 inches), plus one hand luggage measuring no more than 40 x 30 x 15 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 5.9 inches). If you are bringing an XL baggage (maximum 90 x 130 cm or 35.4 x 51.1 inches), it will replace one of the two 70 x 90 x 50 cm (27.5 x 35.4 x 19.6 inches) pieces of luggage authorised.
All your luggage must be labelled before entering the train.
All TGV INOUI trains are equipped with a café-bar car offering a range of food and drink to suit you at any time of day. The Bar is always situated in car 4 or 14 of the train. There's a range of local and responsibly sourced products on offer.
TGV INOUI trains have free WiFi on board for you to use throughout your journey, allowing you to stay connected, reply to emails or even relax and enjoy what's offered on the TGV INOUI entertainment portal.
Children under 12 can get a half price ticket on TGV INOUI trains. Children under 4 travel free when they travel on your lap.
If you've got a foldable bicycle, you can take it on the train as hand baggage, so long as it's no larger than 130 x 90 cm once folded. Or, if you can dismantle your bike, you can transport it in a cover or case no larger than 130 x 90 cm. You can still travel with a bike that cannot be folded or dismantled - you'll need to reserve a bike space on the train when you buy your ticket. Bike tickets cost €10 per bike, per journey.
Small pets are allowed on board TGV INOUI trains provided they weigh less than 10kg. They must travel in a carrier no larger than 45 x 30 x 25 cm. Tickets for small pets cost €7. Larger dogs can also travel on TGV INOUI services, provided they are wearing a muzzle and are kept on a leash. Tickets for larger dogs cost €20. Guide dogs and assistance dogs travel free of charge on all SNCF trains.
For disabled passengers or those with reduced mobility, you can request assistance through 'Accès Plus'. With this service, a member of staff will meet you at the station and help you get to your seat on the train. To book assistance, contact Accès Plus after you book your tickets (and no later than 48 hours before your train is due to depart).
You can take baggage on board TGV Lyria trains without worrying about weight restrictions, so long as you're able to carry it yourself.
There are two refreshment options on board TGV Lyria trains:
Le Bistrot: Available in the café-bar car or at your seat, with a Standard or Standard Première TGV Lyria ticket.
La Table: A French-Swiss dining experience available with a Première Signature TGV Lyria ticket.
Free WiFi is available on board. To get online, connect to the network _WIFI_LYRIA when you're on the train and go to the TGV Lyria Portal in your browser.
Families can reserve two different areas on the train:
The Family Square, located in cars 6, 16, 7 or 17 in Standard (Second Class). This is a set of four seats facing one another, with space for a stroller.
Club 4, which is also a set of 4 seats facing one another around a table.
You will also find baby changing facilities, including a baby changing table on the upper deck of cars 7 and 17, and the lower deck of cars 1 and 11.
Bikes are allowed on board, so long as they're folded or their wheels are detached. Bikes must also be placed in suitable storage cases (no larger than 130 x 90 cm).
Small pets may travel with TGV Lyria, as long as they are carried in a carrier or container no larger than 45 x 30 x 25 cm (15.7” x 11.8” x 9.84”). Pets must be placed on your lap or by your feet and must travel with their own ticket at a flat rate of €7 ($7.63).
Dogs on a leash may travel on TGV Lyria trains, but they must be muzzled throughout the journey and placed by your feet. Passengers must pay a flat-rate ticket fee of €20 ($21.79).
2 seats in cars 1 or 11 in First Class are reserved for passengers with reduced mobility. You can request one of these seats when making your booking. If these spaces are no longer available, you can reserve a standard seat. You can also reserve assistance at the train station for help folding and storing your wheelchair.
You can travel with musical instruments if they're stored in a case no larger than 130 x 90 cm. If you're going skiing, snowboards and skis are allowed on board (one pair of skis or one snowboard per person). They must be stored in their covers.
You can take as much baggage as you want on SBB Intercity trains, provided that it fits in the baggage racks provided.
Many SBB Intercity trains will have a restaurant or bistro car so you can buy food and drink throughout your journey. You may be able to sit at a table in the restaurant carriage or take your meal back to your seat.
There are power outlets on SBB trains. You can also enjoy free WiFi on Intercity trains via the SBB FreeSurf portal.
There is stroller storage available on the train, as well as a baby changing toilet onboard. On Intercity trains, there is also a dedicated family car.
You can take your bicycle on board SBB Intercity trains. Between 21st March and 31st October, it's compulsory to reserve a bike space on some Intercity trains. You must also buy a ticket for your bike at a ticket office, ticket machine or online.
Dogs under 30cm in height can travel for free if they're in a carrier and placed under your seat. Larger dogs can travel with you if you buy a Dog Day Pass for CHF 25, which can be purchased at a ticket office, at a ticket machine, online or on the SBB app. The pass is valid for a day on trains, ships, trams and buses in most Swiss cities.
SBB Intercity trains have priority seats for passengers with reduced mobility, as well as a wheelchair-accessible toilet.
There is a Business Zone and a Quiet Zone in First Class on SBB Intercity trains.
You can take as much baggage as you want on SBB Eurocity trains, provided that it fits in the baggage racks provided.
Many SBB Eurocity trains will have a restaurant or bistro car so you can buy food and drink throughout your journey. You may be able to sit at a table in the restaurant carriage or take your meal back to your seat.
There are power outlets and free WiFi on SBB Eurocity trains.
There is stroller storage available on the train, as well as a baby changing toilet on board.
You can take your bike on board SBB Eurocity trains provided that you can fit it into the storage space onboard, but you'll need to buy a ticket for it. You'll also need a reservation for the Swiss part of your journey when traveling internationally. You can make a reservation online or at a ticket office.
Dogs under 30cm in height can travel for free if they're in a carrier and placed under your seat. Larger dogs can travel with you if you buy a Dog Day Pass for CHF 25, which can be purchased at a ticket office, at a ticket machine, online or on the SBB app. The pass is valid for a day on trains, ships, trams and buses in most Swiss cities.
There is a wheelchair-accessible toilet on board, plus priority seating for passengers with reduced mobility.
There is air conditioning on board newer SBB Eurocity trains, so you can travel in comfort.
Cheap train tickets from Paris to Zurich Hb
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Paris to Zurich Hb by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
Food and drink on board TGV INOUI, ICE and SBB trains from Paris to Zürich
On TGV INOUI trains
On DB ICE trains
On SBB trains
Other services on board TGV INOUI, ICE and SBB trains from Paris to Zürich
Keep reading for more information on all the other services you can find on board trains along the route from Paris to Zürich.
Entertainment options
Baggage policy
Traveling with pets
Traveling with your bike
Traveling with children
How to get from Paris airports to Paris city center
If you’re getting to France by flying into Paris, you’ll need to travel from the airport to the heart of the city. Read on for more information on how to get to the city center from each of the airports in Paris.
How to get to Paris city center from Charles de Gaulle airport
How to get to Paris city center from Orly airport
How to get to Paris city center from Beauvais airport
Everything you need to know about Paris train stations
Read on for more information on how to get to major train stations in Paris.
How to get to Paris Gare de l'Est
How to get to Paris Gare de Lyon
How long is the train ride from Paris to Zürich?
The journey from Paris to Zürich can take around 4 to 5 hours, depending on which route you take. A direct TGV Lyria train takes just over 4 hours, while routes where you have to transfer to another train can take slightly longer.
The direct TGV Lyria train begins at Paris Gare de Lyon and may stop at the following stations:
Another route option is to take a train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Basel SBB, transferring there onto another train which will take you the rest of the way to Zürich. Some routes require an additional transfer in Strasbourg.
There are other routes available, including journeys via Geneva and journeys where you’ll travel by bus for some of the route. Take a look at our Journey Planner to find a route that’s best suited to your trip, or check out our article on planning a day trip from Paris to Zurich by train.
Arriving in Zürich
When your train arrives in Zürich, you’ll end up at Zürich Hauptbahnhof (HB) - this is the main train station.
Using public transport in Zürich
Trips in Switzerland
Maybe you’d like to see more of the Swiss countryside, or explore another city? You’re in luck – we've gathered up some of our guides about Switzerland for you to peruse!
Explore Europe by train with a Eurail Pass
After visiting Zürich, why not continue exploring Europe by train? With a Eurail Pass, you can travel across 33 European countries as much as you want on participating European train networks for a set amount of travel days.
You can use a Eurail Pass if you’re not a European citizen or resident. If you're a European citizen or a non-European who is an official legal resident of a European country, you can use an Interrail Pass instead.
* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.