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Getting from Geneva to Bern by train

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.

Geneva to Bern Hbf by train

First train

07:31

Last train

21:15

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

SBB CFF FFS

SBB trains from Geneva to Bern Hbf

You can travel from Geneva to Bern Hbf on SBB trains. When you search for times and tickets, we might also show you some other options with multiple connections or operators if they’re available.

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).

Intercity classes from Geneva to Bern Hbf

Compare the different travel classes offered by Intercity when travelling from Geneva to Bern Hbf.

Onboard services on Intercity

Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Geneva to Bern Hbf.

LuggageLuggageLuggage

You can take as much luggage as you want on SBB Intercity trains, provided that it fits in the luggage racks provided.

RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

Many SBB Intercity trains will have a restaurant or bistro carriage 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.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

There are plug sockets on SBB trains. You can also enjoy free WiFi on Intercity trains via the SBB FreeSurf portal.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children

There is pushchair storage available on the train, as well as a baby changing toilet onboard. On Intercity trains, there is also a dedicated family carriage.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

You can take your bicycle onboard 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.

PetPetPets

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.

WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

SBB Intercity trains have priority seats for passengers with reduced mobility, as well as a wheelchair-accessible toilet.

InfoInfoOther

There is a Business Zone and a Quiet Zone in First Class on SBB Intercity trains.

Cheap train tickets from Geneva to Bern Hbf

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 Geneva to Bern Hbf 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.

Journey details

Want to know more about your journey from Geneva to Bern Hbf? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How long does the train from Geneva to Bern Hbf take?

The average journey time by train between Geneva and Bern Hbf is 13 hours and 39 minutes, with around 14 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.

What's the fastest journey time between Geneva and Bern Hbf by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Geneva to Bern Hbf is 8 hours and 24 minutes.

Is there a direct train from Geneva to Bern Hbf?

No, there are no direct train services from Geneva to Bern Hbf. Travelling from Geneva to Bern Hbf by train will require a minimum of 2 changes.

What time does the first train from Geneva to Bern Hbf leave?

The first train from Geneva to Bern Hbf leaves at 07:31. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.

What time does the last train from Geneva to Bern Hbf leave?

The last train from Geneva to Bern Hbf leaves at 21:15. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.

What's the distance between Geneva and Bern Hbf by train?

Trains travelling from Geneva to Bern Hbf cover a distance of around 80 miles (129 km) during the journey.

Looking for more information?

If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Bern Hbf to Geneva.

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