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Travel from Lausanne to Zurich by train and avoid the hassle of car travel. This train journey is covered by SBB trains and takes just a little over two hours, with both stations being conveniently located for easy access to the rest of the city. It’s also the most eco-friendly option.
SBB trains are kitted out with all you need to travel in comfort. Sit back and enjoy the picturesque views from the comfort of a spacious seat. On Intercity trains, there’s even a Family zone where children can play – is there a better way to travel with your family?
Once you get off at Zurich HB, wander over to the beautiful Old Botanical Garden or spend your time exploring the Altstadt (Old Town) and the city’s fantastic museum scene.
Want to learn more about the Lausanne to Zurich train route? Scroll down for all the FAQs and train times to plan your trip.
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 restaurant carriage which offers a menu made of high-quality produce. Travelling 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 plug sockets (German + Swiss).
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.
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 Lausanne to Zurich Hb by booking early.§
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.
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!
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.
The average journey time by train between Lausanne and Zurich Hb is 2 hours and 25 minutes, with around 53 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.
The fastest journey time by train from Lausanne to Zurich Hb is 2 hours and 8 minutes.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Lausanne to Zurich Hb without having to change trains. There are 18 direct trains from Lausanne to Zurich Hb each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
The first train from Lausanne to Zurich Hb leaves at 00:14. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
The last train from Lausanne to Zurich Hb leaves at 23:44. 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.
Trains travelling from Lausanne to Zurich Hb cover a distance of around 108 miles (174 km) during the journey.
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Zurich Hb to Lausanne.