Is the train from Paris to Switzerland scenic?
In the north, you can travel from Paris to many Swiss cities, like Geneva, Bern and Zürich. In the south, the French Mediterranean coast is also linked to the Swiss city of Geneva. On this train, you will see some of the greatest scenery in Europe, from stunning coastlines to rugged mountaintops.
Trains from Paris to Lucerne cover the 301 miles (486 km) long trip taking on average 5 h 6 min with our travel partners like Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn with connection, SNCF | TGV Lyria or TGV inOui. Normally, there are 18 trains operating per day, including direct services available.
Traveling by high-speed train
The fastest and most comfortable way to travel from Paris to Geneva is by taking the TGV Lyria high-speed train. This modern train will get you to your destination in only 3 hours and 5 minutes.
To get from Paris to Nice, the fastest and also most economical method is by plane. Driving will take much longer but offers a chance to stop at some lovely spots along the way. You can also use a combination of trains and a plane to get to Nice or you can travel exclusively by train or bus.
The Glacier Express - known as the 'Slowest Express Train in the World' (and arguably the most scenic) - connects the mountain resort towns of Matterhorn adjacent to Zermatt and St Moritz in the Swiss Alps.
TGV, Trenitalia, OUIGO and TER trains from Paris to Lucerne
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).
The fastest way from Lucerne to Paris is by flight with an average journey time of 10 h. There are alternative travel options to Paris that can usually take longer: In comparison, taking a bus requires on average 14 h 10 min of travel time. In comparison, getting to Paris by train can take on average 4 h 48 min.
Despite what others may say, Switzerland is beautiful to visit at any time of year and Lucerne is no exception. Allocating at least two days allows you to take your time and explore at your own pace, as well as have enough time for lengthy experiences without feeling rushed.
Border checks
Since Switzerland's accession to the Schengen Area in 2008, there have been no permanent passport controls along the border, although there can be customs controls. There are two airports near the border which have both Swiss and French passport and customs controls; passengers are free to choose one.
Not very much, with exception of the first 90 km, where the train goes along the Tagus River, the passage in Coimbra. The best scenery is the last leg, 5 km, between Gaia and Oporto.
How long is the train ride from Paris to Swiss Alps?
The French TGV high speed train "Lyria" is leaving from the centrally located Gare de Lyon station in Paris. It takes you directly into the Swiss city centres of Basel and Geneva in slightly over 3 hours and to Zurich in only 4 hours.
Advance-purchase discounts: Buying tickets in advance from SNCF'S site can get you 50 percent off the full fare. The best deals have limited seat availability, sell out early, are not refundable or changeable, and aren't always sold by US-based retailers.
Generally, the average journey time by train from Paris to Nice is 5h 58m, with around 10 trains running on this popular route each day provided by SNCF and OUIGO. SNCF's high-speed TGV service can take you from Paris to Nice by train in just 5h 41m.
The train from Paris to Nice usually takes 7h 45m, but can take just 5h 41m on the fastest services. You'll be travelling direct on this route with either SNCF's TGV or OUIGO – they both provide comfy and spacious seats for you to sit back and relax as you travel to Nice.
Next on our list is the French high-speed rail which is the most prominent one in the country for scenic journeys. The TGV service is a high-speed train run between Paris and the French Riviera. The train takes you through the charming city of Paris to the Mediterranean coast and the Loire Valley's wine country.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Paris to Zurich Hb without having to change trains. There are 5 direct trains from Paris to Zurich Hb each day.
Travel from Paris to Bern by train
The journey takes just four hours on the fastest services – where you'll be travelling on a high-speed TGV Lyria train. Sit back, relax and enjoy the dramatic scenery that will whizz past your window – TGV Lyria offers three travel classes, all equipped with comfy seats.