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Switzerland is about more than chocolate and watches, although both those things are pretty great, so you’d be missing out if you thought a stay in just one city was enough to tap into the real Switzerland. After all, there are plenty of fab Swiss cities to explore, and the capital is right up there. The lure of lakes might bring you to this stunning country, but let Bern, and a pretty fantastic train route, take you a little bit further.
Upping your Alpine adventure takes less than 2 hours, so transitioning from Geneva to Bern by train is simple. Plus the comfy train journey on SBB trains (which have handy ticket options for day trips and round trips too) means it’s all stress-free. So, start your adventure as you mean to continue riding on high on the Mont-Salève Cable Car.
Make sure you’re on time for your train in the prettiest of ways by visiting the Horloge Fleurie (or 'Flower Clock'). Not to be out-done on impressive clocks, the Zytglogge in Bern is an ornate astronomical clock, catch it on the hour and you can see the bears in its design do their cute parade - although real bears can be found in the Bear Pit, urban home to several brown bears. Set for some Swiss exploration? Start by exploring our route information below and get your train tickets from Geneva to Bern with us.
First train | 7:31 am | |
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Last train | 9:15 pm | |
Departure station | Geneva | |
Arrival station | Bern Hbf | |
Journey time | From 8h 24m | |
Distance | 80 miles (129 km) | |
Frequency | 14 trains per day | |
Changes | 2 changes | |
Train and bus operators |
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).
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.
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).
What baggage limits are there? | You can take as much baggage as you want on SBB Intercity trains, provided that it fits in the baggage racks provided. |
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What food and drink is available? | 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. |
What onboard entertainment is available? | There are power outlets on SBB trains. You can also enjoy free WiFi on Intercity trains via the SBB FreeSurf portal. |
What facilities are there for travel with children? | 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. |
Can I bring a bike on board? | 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. |
Can I bring pets on board? | 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. |
What special assistance is available? | SBB Intercity trains have priority seats for passengers with reduced mobility, as well as a wheelchair-accessible toilet. |
What else do I need to know? | There is a Business Zone and a Quiet Zone in First Class on SBB Intercity trains. |
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.