Getting around Switzerland
Europe
From Europe ✈️
Direct flight from Paris
Yes
Duration
1h20 direct (Geneva/Zurich)
Indicative round-trip price
60-220 EUR A/R
Book
1-3 months ahead
Recommended airlines
Local transport
Bus
Yellow postal buses (PostBus) serve the valleys and villages not covered by rail.
Train
SBB/CFF: one of the densest and most punctual networks in the world. Geneva-Zurich in 2h45. Scenic trains (Glacier Express, Bernina Express).
Taxi
Metered taxis, expensive. Uber operates in Geneva, Zurich, Basel and Lausanne.
Metro
Driverless metro in Lausanne (the only one in the country). Trams in Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern.
Essential apps
Common routes and indicative prices
| From | To | Mode | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paris | Geneva | TGV Lyria | 3h | 29-120 EUR |
| Geneva | Zurich | SBB train | 2h45 | 45-90 CHF |
| Zurich | Lucerne | SBB train | 45 min | 15-27 CHF |
| Interlaken | Jungfraujoch | Mountain train | 2h | 120-240 CHF A/R |
Indicative prices for 2025-2026. Fares vary by season, demand and how far ahead you book.
Vehicle rental 🛵
Scooter / Motorbike
30-50 CHF / day
Category A/A1 licence depending on engine size
Car
50-90 CHF / day
French licence accepted
International permit : Not required (French license accepted)
Transport scams to know ⚠️
Mandatory motorway vignette
Driving on the motorway without a vignette (40 CHF/year) risks a heavy fine.
Tip :Buy the vignette at the border, at a post office or online before using the motorway.
Inflated bills at the station
A few touristy station bars have opaque pricing.
Tip :Check the displayed prices before ordering.
Practical tips
- The Swiss Travel Pass (train + bus + boat + museums) is great value for an active trip; otherwise the Half Fare Card halves ticket prices.
- Book the scenic trains (Glacier Express) in advance, reservations are compulsory.
- Travel by train rather than car: faster, more scenic and avoids the vignette and expensive parking.
Other transport guides
Europe
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