- Must visit
Kunsthaus Zürich
Switzerland's leading art museum with major works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art, including Monet, Giacometti, and important Swiss collections.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Besançon to Zurich
Showing times and prices for Aug 12
Cheapest price
$84
Average price
$96
Fastest journey
3 h 23 m
Average duration
3 h 44 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
191 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Besançon to Zurich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Besançon to Zurich will cost around $96 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $84.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Besançon for Zurich on Wed, Aug 12, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 12 the direct trains cover the 191 km distance in an average of 3 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 23 m .
On Wed, Aug 12 the slowest trains will take 4 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
3:32 PM3h54Besançon7:26 PMZurich$841One-way0 transfers
6:03 PM3h23Besançon9:26 PMZurich$911One-way0 transfers- 5:03 PM3h23Besançon8:26 PMZurich$971One-way0 transfers
- 7:56 AM4h30Besançon12:26 PMZurich$1001One-way0 transfers
- 5:56 PM3h30Besançon9:26 PMZurich$1051One-way0 transfers
- 6:03 PM3h23Besançon9:26 PMZurich$911One-way0 transfers
- 5:03 PM3h23Besançon8:26 PMZurich$971One-way0 transfers
- 5:56 PM3h30Besançon9:26 PMZurich$1051One-way0 transfers
- 3:32 PM3h54Besançon7:26 PMZurich$841One-way0 transfers
- 7:56 AM4h30Besançon12:26 PMZurich$1001One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Besançon to Zurich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Besançon to Zurich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 12m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, and a train costs an average of $84.
Distance: 118 miles (191 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$98 Average price | $36 Average price Cheapest | $119 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 42m Average total duration Fastest 3h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 31m Average total duration 4h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Besançon to Zurich is a bus with an average price of $36.
This is compared to other travel options from Besançon to Zurich:
A bus is $62 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Besançon to Zurich costing on average $98.
The fastest way to travel from Besançon to Zurich is by train with an average journey time of 3h 12m.
Other travel options to Zurich take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 1m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Besançon and Zurich including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Besançon to Zurich among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $98 compared to roughly $119 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $21. The journey takes 3h 12m versus 3h 10m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Besançon to Zurich train times
The table below shows live departures for Besançon to Zurich trains for today, Tuesday, August 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9213+894214 | Delayed 12:01 PM 12:56 PMBesançon Viotte | 3h30 | 4:26 PM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
894528+ 5516+9213 | On time 1:38 PM Besançon Viotte | 2h48 | 4:26 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
894111+ 830431+9219 | 4:32 PM Besançon Viotte | 3h54 | 8:26 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
| 9223+894226 | 6:56 PM Besançon Viotte | 3h30 | 10:26 PM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
| 6709+9223+894556 | 7:03 PM Besançon Viotte | 3h23 | 10:26 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
| 7:56 AM Besançon | 4h30 | 12:26 PM Zurich | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Besançon to Zurich by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Wed
Aug 12
Aug 12
Thu
Aug 13
Aug 13
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Aug 14
Aug 14
Sat
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Aug 15
Sun
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Aug 16
Mon
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Tue
Aug 18
Aug 18
Why should you book Besançon to Zurich trains with Omio?
SNCF | TGV Lyria as well as SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) and more offer trains services from Besançon to Zurich.
Omio is the only official third party seller for SNCF | TGV Lyria tickets.
Why book with Omio vs SNCF | TGV Lyria?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SNCF | TGV Lyria, but also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 or Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) to find the best option for your trip from Besançon to Zurich.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare SNCF | TGV Lyria with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Besançon to Zurich.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Besançon to Zurich
France
Switzerland
Trains from Besançon to Zurich run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $84 but you can travel from only $22 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:59, the last at 19:03. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 3h 23m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $22
Distance 118 miles (191 km) |
Average train duration 3h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $84 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 23m |
First train 6:59 AM |
Last train 7:03 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 14 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $22
Train companies: SNCF | TGV Lyria, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) from Besançon to Zurich trainsSNCF | TGV Lyria, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) trains will get you between Besançon and Zurich from $22. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV Lyria
About
TGV Lyria is a high-speed train service connecting France and Switzerland, a joint venture between SNCF (French National Railway Company) and SBB (Swiss Federal Railways). These trains operate daily, offering up to 17 return journeys between the two countries. Key destinations include Paris, Dijon, Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich, and Basel, with seasonal services to Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon. TGV Lyria offers three travel classes: Standard, Première, and Première Signature, each with varying levels of comfort and services like Wi-Fi and catering options.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 23m
Cheapest Price
$84
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, at-seat service in First Class, Café-bar for snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional, additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187
About
SNCF TER (Transport Express Régional) is the regional train service operated by France's national railway company, SNCF. It provides low-cost travel within France's regions, connecting towns and areas not served by high-speed trains. Each French region independently manages its own TER network, offering various ticket types, including discount cards and special fares. TER trains are used by over 800,000 passengers daily and are a popular choice for both commuters and tourists exploring France's diverse landscapes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 54m
Cheapest Price
$85
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one suitcase included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at train ends
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar or food trolley service on some routes, vending machines available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for additional fee, included in some first-class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 54m
Cheapest Price
$84
TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 frequency
1 a day
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 48m
Cheapest Price
$163
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Zurich
Things to do in Zurich
Discover the best of Zurich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Zurich trip today.
- Must visit
Swiss National Museum
National museum in a castle-like building near the main station. It offers essential insight into Swiss cultural history, design, and nationhood.
- Recommended
Museum Rietberg
Remarkable private collection in a villa, featuring Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early modern masterpieces in an intimate lakeside setting.
- Must visit
Bahnhofstrasse
Zurich's famous old town shopping street links the main station to the lake. It is ideal for strolling, people-watching, and seeing the city's polished center.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Historic riverside old town with lanes, guild houses, churches, and viewpoints. It is the essential area for Zurich's medieval atmosphere.
- Must visit
Lake Zurich Promenade
Beautiful lakeside promenade lined with trees, gardens, and views across Lake Zurich. Perfect for a scenic walk in any season.
Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
Sliced veal in a creamy white wine and mushroom sauce, usually served with rösti. It is Zurich’s signature dish and a classic in traditional brasseries.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Rösti
Pan-fried grated potato cake with a crisp crust and soft center. A Swiss staple closely tied to Zurich and often served with meat, eggs, or cheese.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Fondue
Swiss cheese fondue made by melting local cheeses with wine and garlic, then dipping bread. It is a beloved cold-weather social meal across Zurich.
Restaurant Kronenhalle
Refined Swiss fine dining in a historic setting, led by a renowned chef. Known for modern tasting menus and polished service.
Zeughauskeller
Historic casual restaurant by Lake Zurich, known for Zürich classics like rösti and veal dishes in a traditional guild-house setting.
Zunfthaus zur Waag
Elegant old-town restaurant with classic Swiss and French cuisine. A strong choice for fondue, seasonal dishes, and a formal atmosphere.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Zurich is pricier than most European cities. Hotels, dining, and local transit are costly, though supermarkets and takeaway spots can help lower daily spend.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for fast food or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent service. Small rounding is common in cafes and taxis.
ZVV Fahrplan
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 4.60
- Day pass
- CHF 9.20
To the city center
Zurich HB -> Central, Zurich
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 3 min
- Buy tickets in the ZVV app, at ticket machines, or online before boarding. Zurich trams and buses use proof-of-payment inspections.
- Contactless card payment works at many ZVV ticket machines, but not directly on most trams or buses. Keep your ticket until your trip ends.
FAQs: Trains from Besançon to Zurich
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Besançon to Zurich by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Zurich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Besançon to Zurich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $84, while the average price is around $98.
The train from Besançon to Zurich takes 3h 23m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Besançon to Zurich is 118 miles (191 km).
The first train from Besançon to Zurich leaves at 6:59 AM.
The last train from Besançon to Zurich leaves at 7:03 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Besançon to Zurich.
There is no direct train service currently available from Besançon to Zurich.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Besançon to Zurich.
The train station in Besançon that goes to Zurich is Besançon Viotte, which connects to Zurich HB.
The cheapest way to get from Besançon to Zurich is by bus, with a cost of around $22.
The train journey from Besançon to Zurich offers picturesque views of the French Jura mountains, rolling hills, and charming countryside landscapes, making it a scenic route.
A day trip from Besançon to Zurich is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 23m. However, there are 5 train connections available per day for this journey, covering a distance of 118 miles (191 km).
In Zurich, you can hike or take a train to Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city and Alps, shop along the exclusive Bahnhofstrasse, explore diverse wildlife at Zurich Zoo, and enjoy performances at the Opera House. Wander through the Botanical Garden, offering a variety of plant species. Visit Lake Zurich for scenic views and recreational activities, explore the historic Old Town with its medieval buildings, and admire artworks at Kunsthaus Zurich. Discover Swiss cultural history at the Swiss National Museum and enjoy a peaceful moment at Lindenhof with views over the city.
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Zurich's main attractions, including the Old Town, Lake Zurich, museums, and nearby Uetliberg Mountain.
Yes, you can take the train from Besançon to Zurich.
Since both Besançon and Zurich are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Zurich include Lucerne, Basel, Bern, Chur, Engelberg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Besançon to Zurich among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards; however, credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and larger establishments, making card payments convenient. Cash is still useful for small purchases, local markets, or remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Zurich, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxis can also occur. It is advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant with personal belongings to ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Besançon to Zurich
Most Besançon to Zurich trains use the Besançon Viotte to Zürich HB station pair. Use this guide to compare Besançon and Zurich train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Besançon
Arrival train stations in Zurich
Which Besançon station do trains to Zurich leave from?
Trains from Besançon to Zurich leave from Besançon Viotte. The station is from Besançon city centre at 2 Avenue de la Paix, 25000 Besançon, France.
Besançon Viotte2 Avenue de la Paix, 25000 Besançon, France+33 892353535
City-centre transport
Getting to Besançon Viotte from Besançon city centre
BusL5 · 3m · every ~6 min
Besançon Viotte train station facilities and services
Besançon Viotte has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Pain Soleil, Selecta
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free, unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi when you create a free account. ATMs are located in the front of the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 09:00 - 17:10, Sat - Sun: 10:00 - 17:10. Information desks are located at the south entrance to the underground level. .
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Besançon Viotte: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Besançon Viotte: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Besançon Viotte: The station is fully accessible, including wheelchair ramps, a magnetic induction loop for people with hearing loss and a guidance system for people with visual impairments. Staff can provide additional assistance, and wheelchairs are available.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include ibis budget Besançon Centre Gare, Victor Hugo Hotel and Spa, Le Viotte King Size.
Besançon - Mouillère25000 Besançon, France
City-centre transport
Getting to Besançon - Mouillère from Besançon city centre
Besançon - Mouillère is 1 km from Besançon city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 4m · $1 · every ~1 min
BusL5 · 8m · every ~6 min
Besançon - Mouillère train station facilities and services
Besançon - Mouillère has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Besançon - Mouillère.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Besançon - Mouillère.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Besançon - Mouillère: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Besançon - Mouillère: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Besançon - Mouillère.
Which Zurich station do trains from Besançon arrive at?
Trains from Besançon to Zurich arrive at Zürich HB. Zürich HB is 1 miles (2 km) from Zurich city centre.
Zürich HBBahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS, 9 · 3m · $4 · every ~3 min
S11, Sn11, S12, S15, S16, Sn1, Sn, S20, S23, S3, S5, Sn5, S6, Sn6, S7, Sn7, S9, Sn9, S · 3m · $1 · every ~43 min
Bus31, 33 · 5m · $2 · every ~16 min
N4, N5, N91 · 5m · $2
Tram11, 15, 4 · 8m · $2 · every ~19 min
Zürich HB train station facilities and services
Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Besançon
More options for your journey from Besançon to Zurich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Zurich and Besançon
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