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Travelling by train from Geneva to Zurich with SBB
Planning to travel from Geneva to Zurich by train? You’ve come to the right place!
On average, the train from Geneva to Zurich takes around 3 hours, although it can take just 2 hours and 41 minutes on the fastest services. This route is operated by SBB’s Intercity services, which come with at-seat power sockets, baby-changing tables, a wheelchair-accessible toilet, as well as a family and restaurant car and ample space for cycle, pram, and luggage storage. Fancy travelling in style? Upgrade to First Class and you’ll get to enjoy plenty of amenities on board, including at-seat catering service, business and quiet zones, and free WiFi.
As soon as you board the train, you'll be able to make yourself comfortable and enjoy the journey as direct services are available from Geneva to Zurich.
Whether you’re heading to work or for a day out to Zurich from Geneva, use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to book trains to Zurich and search for cheap ticket prices – we’ll show you how much you can save on your train tickets if you book them in advance.
Ready to book? Start a search for cheap train tickets from Geneva to Zurich in our Journey Planner at the top of the page or keep reading for money-saving tips and FAQs.
FAQs about the train journey from Geneva to Zurich Hb
Want to know more about your journey from Geneva to Zurich Hb? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How far is the train ride from Geneva to Zurich Hb?
Who operates the trains from Geneva to Zurich Hb?
Can I take a flight-free trip from Geneva to Zurich Hb?
What is the best way to travel to Zurich Hb from Geneva?
What time does the first train run from Geneva to Zurich Hb?
How late does the train from Geneva to Zurich Hb run?
How many trains go from Geneva to Zurich Hb per day?
When do tickets from Geneva to Zurich Hb go on sale?
Planning a round trip from Geneva to Zurich Hb?
SBB trains from Geneva to Zurich Hb
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).
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Intercity classes from Geneva to Zurich Hb
Compare the different travel classes offered by Intercity when travelling from Geneva to Zurich Hb.
Economy
Take advantage of the restaurant carriage which offers a menu made of high-quality produce. Travelling with kids? Choose your seats in the dedicated Family Zone.
- Free WiFi
- Power sockets
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Family area
- Power sockets at each seat
- Extra luggage
- 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 plug sockets (German + Swiss).
- Free WiFi
- Power sockets
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Family area
- Power sockets at each seat
- Extra luggage
- Fold-down table
- Quiet area
Onboard services on Intercity
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Geneva to Zurich Hb.
You can take as much luggage as you want on SBB Intercity trains, provided that it fits in the luggage racks provided.
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.
There are plug sockets on SBB trains. You can also enjoy free WiFi on Intercity trains via the SBB FreeSurf portal.
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.
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.
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.
Cheap train tickets from Geneva 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 Geneva 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.
Travel around Switzerland by train with SBB
From lakes and mountains to some delicious fondue and chocolate, Switzerland has it all! Take a look at some of our inspirational guides below and travel around Switzerland with SBB trains.