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We don’t know if you’ve noticed, but we’re big fans of trains, so while we know that a Paris city break is sure to be amazing, we’ve gone one better with this train route that connects the French capital to Basel in Switzerland, and in just 3 hours. That’s two amazing cities, plus one fantastic train ride, for a city break with a difference. So, go from the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and Louvre to the laid back charm of Basel. Neatly sandwiched between France and Germany, Basel is a melting pot of different cultural influences, but don’t worry, there’s still plenty delicious Swiss chocolate to go around.
You’ll be heading over the border from a comfy TGV Lyria train, a collaboration of France and Switzerland to easily connect the countries. Modern and plush, you can opt for three comfort classes, with First Class giving you access to the passenger lounge in Paris. Heading from city center to city center, you won’t have to worry about finding your bearings, as the best of the city is in walking distance. Just next to the station is Markthalle, a popular indoor market with tasty local treats on offer. Head to the History and Art Museums of the city (why not check out the world's biggest art fair, Art Basel?) and reach the river where the Basel Minster completes the beautiful view across the water. Be sure to head inside the cathedral too, as it’s home to some truly stunning stained glass. So, take your trip to the next level with a train ride, book your tickets now with us.
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).
TGV Lyria’s Standard Class offers comfortable seats and access to the dining car, perfect for an economical trip in comfort.
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.
If you prefer to travel in style, upgrade to Première Signature Class and enjoy a welcome drink, a meal on board and much more.
What baggage limits are there? | You can take baggage on board TGV Lyria trains without worrying about weight restrictions, so long as you're able to carry it yourself. |
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What food and drink is available? | 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. |
What onboard entertainment is available? | 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. |
What facilities are there for travel with children? | 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. 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. |
Can I bring a bike on board? | 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). |
Can I bring pets on board? | 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. 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. Pets are not allowed in Première Signature. |
What special assistance is available? | 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. |
What else do I need to know? | 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. |
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.