- Must visit
Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie
Fine arts and archaeology museum in a notable modernized building. It is one of France’s oldest public museums and a cultural highlight.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Geneva to Besançon
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 21
Cheapest price on Oct 21
$54
Average ticket price on Oct 21
$93
Fastest journey on Oct 21
3 h 48 m
Average journey duration on Oct 21
4 h 31 m
Trains on Oct 21
8
Distance
117 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Geneva to Besançon is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Geneva to Besançon will cost around $93 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $54.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Geneva to Besançon without transferring at least once.
96646 · 17960 · 8958144:34 PM4h35Geneva station9:09 PMBesançon Viotte$541One-way2 transfers- 895810+
97742:27 PM4h42Geneva station7:09 PMBesançon Viotte$691One-way1 transfer - 895814+97764:23 PM4h46Geneva station9:09 PMBesançon Viotte$761One-way1 transfer
- 9770+89591412:27 PM4h43Geneva station5:10 PMBesançon Viotte$931One-way1 transfer
- 96570+
9896+
8945623:24 PM5h28Geneva station8:52 PMBesançon Viotte$941One-way2 transfers
- 895804+97648:21 AM3h48Geneva station12:09 PMBesançon Viotte$1571One-way1 transfer
- 96646 · 17960 · 8958144:34 PM4h35Geneva station9:09 PMBesançon Viotte$541One-way2 transfers
- 895810+97742:27 PM4h42Geneva station7:09 PMBesançon Viotte$691One-way1 transfer
- 9770+89591412:27 PM4h43Geneva station5:10 PMBesançon Viotte$931One-way1 transfer
- 895814+97764:23 PM4h46Geneva station9:09 PMBesançon Viotte$761One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Geneva to Besançon
Switzerland
France
Trains from Geneva to Besançon run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 but you can travel from only $30 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:14, the last at 19:51. The fastest train covers the 72 miles (117 km) distance in 3h 7m.
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 $30
Distance 72 miles (117 km) |
Average train duration 3h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $51 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 3h 7m |
First train 5:14 AM |
Last train 7:51 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $30
Live departures
Geneva to Besançon train times
The table below shows live departures for Geneva to Besançon trains for today, Tuesday, October 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:29 AM Geneva | 3h40 | 2:09 PM Besançon | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:29 PM Geneva | 4h40 | 6:09 PM Besançon | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:34 PM Geneva | 4h35 | 7:09 PM Besançon | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:34 PM Geneva | 4h35 | 8:09 PM Besançon | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Geneva to Besançon trains with Omio?
TER as well as SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF | TGV Lyria and more offer trains services from Geneva to Besançon.
Omio is the only official third party seller for TER tickets.
Why book with Omio vs TER?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for TER, but also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | TGV INOUI or SNCF | TGV Lyria to find the best option for your trip from Geneva to Besançon.
- 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 TER with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Geneva to Besançon.
Train companies: TER, SNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | TGV Lyria from Geneva to Besançon trainsTER, SNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | TGV Lyria trains will get you between Geneva and Besançon from $30. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF | TGV INOUI Duration
4h 20m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV INOUI Price
$84
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: 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 SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Price
$51
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 frequency
5 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
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 SNCF | TGV Lyria Duration
5h 47m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price
$100
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
2 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
TER
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TER Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest TER Price
$51
TER frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Besançon
Things to do in Besançon
Discover the best of Besançon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Besançon trip today.
- Must visit
Musée du Temps
Time museum in the Granvelle Palace tracing Besançon’s watchmaking history. A strong choice for understanding the city’s identity and craft.
- Recommended
Muséum de la Citadelle
Museum inside the citadel covering regional wildlife, landscapes, and environmental themes. Good for families and a wider view of Franche-Comté.
- Recommended
Place de la Révolution
Grand central square lined with historic buildings, cafés, and events. It is a natural starting point for exploring the old center on foot.
- Recommended
Grande Rue
Historic pedestrian street with shops, façades, and easy access to major monuments. Ideal for strolling through the core of old Besançon.
- Recommended
Quai Vauban
One of the city’s most attractive riverside walks, linking monuments and viewpoints along the Doubs. Great for photos and relaxed exploration.
- Gluten-free
Potée Comtoise
A rich Comtois sausage slowly cooked with potatoes, cabbage, and smoked pork. A hearty regional winter dish rooted in Franche-Comté farmhouse cooking.
- Gluten-free
Saucisse De Morteau
Smoked pork sausage from the Jura and Franche-Comté, traditionally smoked in tuyé chimneys. It is a flagship local charcuterie with deep smoky flavor.
- Gluten-free
Saucisse De Montbéliard
A denser smoked sausage from nearby Haut-Doubs, protected by PGI status. It is prized locally for its robust flavor and traditional mountain smoking methods.
Le Parcours
Refined Michelin-starred dining in a polished setting, known for contemporary French cuisine showcasing Franche-Comté products with precision.
Le Poker D'As
Traditional dining room focused on Franche-Comté specialties, including local cheeses, charcuterie, and hearty regional dishes.
Brasserie Granvelle
Historic brasserie on Place Granvelle serving regional classics, seafood, and French staples in an elegant Belle Époque atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for France: hotels and dining are usually lower than Paris; local transit is affordable and budget meals are easy to find.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up; cafés usually just small change.
Ginko Mobilités
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1,70 €
- Day pass
- 4,50 €
To the city center
Besançon Viotte -> Place du Huit Septembre, Besançon
- Distance
- 1,5 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Trams and buses use the Ginko network. Buy tickets in the app, at ticket machines, or from approved sales points.
- On-board bank card payment is not reliably documented for all vehicles. Validate your ticket when boarding buses or before entering the tram platform.
FAQs: Trains from Geneva to Besançon
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Geneva to Besançon 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 Besançon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Geneva to Besançon can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $51, while the average price is around $99.
The train from Geneva to Besançon takes 3h 7m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Geneva to Besançon is 72 miles (117 km).
The first train from Geneva to Besançon leaves at 5:14 AM.
The last train from Geneva to Besançon leaves at 7:51 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Geneva to Besançon.
There is no direct train service currently available from Geneva to Besançon.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Geneva to Besançon.
The train station in Geneva that goes to Besançon is Geneva station, which connects to Besançon Viotte.
Yes, the train journey from Geneva to Besançon is scenic, offering picturesque views of the Jura Mountains, lush countryside, and charming small towns along the route.
Yes, you can take the train from Geneva to Besançon.
Popular day trips by train from Besançon include Dijon, Basel, Belfort, Montbéliard, Mulhouse.
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.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Besançon, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Scams involving distraction techniques near popular tourist sites can also occur. It's advisable to stay vigilant with personal belongings and avoid accepting unsolicited offers or assistance from strangers.
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 Geneva to Besançon
Most Geneva to Besançon trains use the Genève to Besançon Viotte station pair. Use this guide to compare Geneva and Besançon train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Geneva
Arrival train stations in Besançon
Which Geneva station do trains to Besançon leave from?
Trains from Geneva to Besançon leave from Genève. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Geneva city centre at Place de Cornavin, 1201 Genève, Switzerland.
GenèvePlace de Cornavin, 1201 Genève, Switzerland+41 900 300 300
City-centre transport
Getting to Genève from Geneva city centre
Bus10, 19, 20, 3, 5 · 4m · $12 · every ~38 min
15 · 10m · $12
274 · 13m · $3 · every ~2 min
Tram14, 18 · 4m · $10 · every ~34 min
Genève train station facilities and services
Genève 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: Le Bistrot de Charlotte, Les Brasseurs, La Matze Restaurant
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Genève. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Genève. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Genève: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Genève: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Genève: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Warwick Geneva, Hotel Cornavin, ibis Styles Genève Gare.
Genève-AéroportRoute de l'Aéroport 21, 1215 Le Grand-Saconnex, Geneva, Switzerland+41 900 300 300
City-centre transport
Getting to Genève-Aéroport from Geneva city centre
Genève-Aéroport is 4 km from Geneva city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus274 · 19m · $5 · every ~2 min
10 · 20m · $11 · every ~11 min
5, 10 · 27m · $11 · every ~24 min
Genève-Aéroport train station facilities and services
Genève-Aéroport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Le Chef Genève Aéroport, Montreux Jazz Café
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Genève-Aéroport. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Genève-Aéroport. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Genève-Aéroport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Genève-Aéroport: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Genève-Aéroport: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Novotel Suites Geneva, ibis Geneva Airport Hotel, Mövenpick Hotel & Casino Geneva.
Which Besançon station do trains from Geneva arrive at?
Trains from Geneva to Besançon arrive at Besançon Viotte. Besançon Viotte is from Besançon city centre.
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.
More options for your journey from Geneva to Besançon
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Besançon and Geneva
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