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How to travel from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt by train
Want to find out more about taking the train from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt? Look no further.
There are around 17 trains per day running between Thonon-les-Bains and Zermatt, which usually take 5 hours 33 minutes to complete the 65 miles (105 km) journey. It can take as little as 5 hours 5 minutes on the fastest services though, if you want to get there as quickly as possible. Although there aren't any direct services on this line, it's still easy to travel to Zermatt from Thonon-les-Bains, you'll just need to make 3 changes along the way. Hop on a train operated by either SNCF or SBB to reach your destination in no time. These train companies are the main operators of services on this route and run modern comfortable trains to make your journey as relaxing as possible.
You can save money on train tickets from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt if you book in advance. Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to compare ticket prices and get the cheapest fares.
Want to book your train tickets now? Just start a search with us today. If you want to find out more about the journey, read on for timetables (including first and last train times), FAQs and tips on how to book cheap train tickets.
Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt by train
| First train | 05:30 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 22:00 | |
| Departure station | Thonon-les-Bains | |
| Arrival station | Zermatt | |
| Journey time | From 5h 5m | |
| Distance | 65 miles (105 km) | |
| Frequency | 17 trains per day | |
| Changes | 3 changes | |
| Train and bus operators |
TER, SNCF and SBB trains from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt
TER
SNCF
SBB
TER (Transport Express Régional) trains are the regional service from SNCF that allow you to make trips to nearby towns and villages located within the same region. With 20 regions in France, TER trains are ideal for travelling to destinations not covered by high-speed services, although ticket prices vary between each region. TER trains have dedicated spaces for bicycles and allow animals on board. Not all TER trains include a First Class carriage.
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SNCF is the national train operator of France. It operates all domestic trains and routes across France, as well as international services to Spain and Germany. There are three different types of domestic trains that operate under the SNCF banner – TGV (high-speed, full-service trains that connect the major cities in France), Intercités (usually a more frequent stopping service, but with all the amenities), and TER (regional train services with basic onboard facilities).
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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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Eurocity and TER classes from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt
Compare the different travel classes offered by Eurocity and TER when travelling from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt.
Eurocity
TER
Economy
Benefit from free WiFi, spacious seating, power sockets and air-conditioning in newer SBB's Eurocity trains.
- Free WiFi
- Air-conditioning
- Power sockets
- Luggage storage
- Catering at your seat
- More legroom
First Class
Treat yourself in SBB's First Class and enjoy more legroom, access to First Class Lounges, at-seat dining and plenty of space for your luggage.
- Free WiFi
- Air-conditioning
- Power sockets
- Luggage storage
- Catering at your seat
- More legroom
Second Class
Most TER trains don't have First or Second Class so the services offered on board are the same for all passengers. Please note that WiFi is not available on TER trains at the moment.
- Luggage storage
- Fold-down table
Onboard services on Eurocity and TER
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt.
Eurocity
TER
You can take as much luggage as you want on SBB Eurocity trains, provided that it fits in the luggage racks provided.
Many SBB Eurocity 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 and free WiFi on SBB Eurocity trains.
There is pushchair storage available on the train, as well as a baby changing toilet onboard.
You can take your bike onboard SBB Eurocity trains provided that you can fit it into the storage space onboard, but you'll need to buy a ticket for it. You'll also need a reservation for the Swiss part of your journey when travelling internationally. You can make a reservation online or at a ticket office.
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.
There is a wheelchair-accessible toilet onboard, plus priority seating for passengers with reduced mobility.
There is air conditioning on board newer SBB Eurocity trains, so you can travel in comfort.
There are no size limits for the luggage you take on board TER trains, so you can travel your way. However, you must be able to carry any luggage you bring unassisted, and it must fit into the dedicated luggage storage spaces on the train.
TER trains do not have any onboard catering facilities, so don't forget to pick up a snack at the station before you leave!
TER trains do not currently have WiFi available.
All children under 12 years old get 50% off the price of a TER ticket - input the age of your child when searching your journey and the discount will be applied automatically. Children under the age of 4 travel for free if they're sat on your lap throughout the journey.
On TER trains, it's free to take your bicycle on board. You can hang it up or store it in a dedicated bicycle area. There are a fixed number of spaces available on each train - they're first come, first served and can't be reserved.
Animals weighing less than 6kg must travel in an appropriate carrier (no larger than 45 x 30 x 25 cm), stored at your feet or on your lap. Tickets for small animals cost 7€. Animals weighing more than 6kg must wear a muzzle and be kept on a lead at all times. Tickets for larger animals cost 50% of the price of a second class ticket. Up to 2 animals or 2 carriers allowed per passenger. Guide dogs and assistance dogs travel free of charge on board all SNCF trains.
If you are disabled or have reduced mobility, you can reserve special assistance through 'Accès TER'. Someone can meet you at the station and accompany you to your train or TER bus, helping you to get around more easily.
Cheap train tickets from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt
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 Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt 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 Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt? 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 Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt take?
The average journey time by train between Thonon-les-Bains and Zermatt is 5 hours and 33 minutes, with around 17 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 Thonon-les-Bains and Zermatt by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt is 5 hours and 5 minutes.
Is there a direct train from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt?
No, there are no direct train services from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt. Travelling from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt by train will require a minimum of 3 changes.
What time does the first train from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt leave?
The first train from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt leaves at 05:30. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt leave?
The last train from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt leaves at 22:00. 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 Thonon-les-Bains and Zermatt by train?
Trains travelling from Thonon-les-Bains to Zermatt cover a distance of around 65 miles (105 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Zermatt to Thonon-les-Bains.