How do I get from London to Switzerland by train?

It's easy to travel from London to Basel or Zurich by train. Take Eurostar from London to Paris in 2h20 with cafe-bar & free WiFi. Change trains & stations in Paris by metro or taxi, then take a TGV-Lyria high-speed train from Paris to Basel in 3h04 or Zurich in 4h03, also with cafe-bar and free WiFi.



The fastest and most eco-friendly way to travel from London to Switzerland in 2026 is via the Eurostar and TGV-Lyria high-speed rail network. You start at London St. Pancras International, taking the Eurostar to Paris Gare du Nord (approx. 2 hours 15 mins). From there, you take a short RER or taxi transfer to Paris Gare de Lyon, where you board the TGV-Lyria. This sleek French-Swiss train reaches speeds of 320 km/h and can whisk you to Basel SBB in just over 3 hours or Zurich HB in 4 hours. The entire journey from London to the heart of the Swiss Alps can be completed in about 7 to 8 hours. Alternatively, you can take the Eurostar to Brussels and connect via German ICE trains through the Rhine Valley to reach Basel, which offers a more scenic, albeit slightly slower, route. Booking in advance is essential to secure the best "Standard Premier" or "Business Premier" fares.

Traveling from London to Switzerland by train is a scenic and convenient option. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your journey:

1. Depart from London

  • Start your journey at London St Pancras International station.

2. Take the Eurostar to Paris

  • Board the Eurostar high-speed train from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord.
  • The journey takes approximately 2 hours 15 minutes.
  • Book your tickets in advance for the best fares.

3. Transfer to Paris Gare de Lyon

  • From Paris Gare du Nord, take a taxi, metro, or walk to Paris Gare de Lyon (about 20–30 minutes).
  • Ensure you allow enough time for the transfer.

4. Take a TGV or Lyria Train to Switzerland

  • From Paris Gare de Lyon, board a TGV Lyria high-speed train to Switzerland.
  • Popular destinations include:
  • Zurich (approx. 4 hours)
  • Geneva (approx. 3 hours)
  • Basel (approx. 3 hours)
  • Lausanne (approx. 3.5 hours)

5. Arrive in Switzerland

  • Once in Switzerland, you can use the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) network to travel to your final destination.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

  • Book in Advance: Secure your Eurostar and TGV Lyria tickets early for the best prices.
  • Travel Passes: Consider a Eurail Pass or Swiss Travel Pass if you plan to explore Switzerland extensively.
  • Luggage: Travel light, as you’ll need to transfer between stations in Paris.
  • Border Control: Passport checks are conducted before boarding the Eurostar and TGV Lyria.

Example Routes

  • London to Zurich: Eurostar to Paris, then TGV Lyria to Zurich.
  • London to Geneva: Eurostar to Paris, then TGV Lyria to Geneva.

Enjoy the picturesque journey through the French countryside and Swiss Alps! ?

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