- 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 Sep 05
Cheapest price on Sep 05
$55
Average ticket price on Sep 05
$84
Fastest journey on Sep 05
3 h 42 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
4 h 19 m
Trains on Sep 05
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 $84 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $55.
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$551One-way2 transfers- 895814+
97764:23 PM4h46Geneva station9:09 PMBesançon Viotte$761One-way1 transfer - 895810+97742:27 PM4h42Geneva station7:09 PMBesançon Viotte$761One-way1 transfer
- 895912+977012:27 PM3h42Geneva station4:09 PMBesançon Viotte$831One-way1 transfer
- 96570+
9896+
8945623:24 PM5h28Geneva station8:52 PMBesançon Viotte$891One-way2 transfers
- 895912+977012:27 PM3h42Geneva station4:09 PMBesançon Viotte$831One-way1 transfer
- 895804+97648:21 AM3h48Geneva station12:09 PMBesançon Viotte$961One-way1 transfer
- 96646 · 17960 · 8958144:34 PM4h35Geneva station9:09 PMBesançon Viotte$551One-way2 transfers
- 895810+97742:27 PM4h42Geneva station7:09 PMBesançon Viotte$761One-way1 transfer
- 895814+97764:23 PM4h46Geneva station9:09 PMBesançon Viotte$761One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Geneva to Besançon
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Geneva to Besançon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $46 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 16m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $46, while a train costs an average of $56.
Distance: 72 miles (117 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$56 Average price | $46 Average price Cheapest | $89 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 16m Average total duration Fastest 3h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 13m Average total duration 4h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 27m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Geneva to Besançon is a bus with an average price of $46.
This is compared to other travel options from Geneva to Besançon:
A bus is $10 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Geneva to Besançon costing on average $56.
The fastest way to travel from Geneva to Besançon is by train with an average journey time of 3h 46m.
Other travel options to Besançon take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Geneva and Besançon including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Geneva to Besançon 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 $56 compared to roughly $89 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $33. The journey takes 3h 46m versus 2h 27m 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
Geneva to Besançon train times
The table below shows live departures for Geneva to Besançon trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9764+895804 | 8:21 AM Geneva station | 3h48 | 12:09 PM Besançon Viotte | 1 transfer | |
| 12176+96558+894530 | 9:24 AM Geneva station | 5h06 | 2:30 PM Besançon Viotte | 2 transfers | |
| 9770+895912 | 12:27 PM Geneva station | 3h42 | 4:09 PM Besançon Viotte | 1 transfer | |
| 5500+894554+96566 | 1:24 PM Geneva station | 5h31 | 6:55 PM Besançon Viotte | 2 transfers | |
| 9774+895810 | 2:27 PM Geneva station | 4h42 | 7:09 PM Besançon Viotte | 1 transfer | |
| 9896+96570+894562 | 3:24 PM Geneva station | 5h28 | 8:52 PM Besançon Viotte | 2 transfers | |
| 9776+895814 | 4:23 PM Geneva station | 4h46 | 9:09 PM Besançon Viotte | 1 transfer | |
| 96646 · 17960 · 895814 | 4:34 PM Geneva station | 4h35 | 9:09 PM Besançon Viotte | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Geneva to Besançon 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.
Sat
Sep 05
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Mon
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Tue
Sep 08
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sep 11
Why should you book Geneva to Besançon trains with Omio?
TER as well as SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | TGV INOUI, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) 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 Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) 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.
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 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $28 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:14, the last at 19:51. The fastest train covers the 72 miles (117 km) distance in 3h 40m.
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
Distance 72 miles (117 km) |
Average train duration 3h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 3h 40m |
First train 5:14 AM |
Last train 7:51 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
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
Train companies: TER, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | TGV INOUI, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Geneva to Besançon trainsTER, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | TGV INOUI, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Geneva and Besançon from $28. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
4h 35m
Cheapest SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Price
$56
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 frequency
6 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 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
5h 1m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV INOUI Price
$92
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
4 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
TER
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TER Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest TER Price
$28
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Duration
4h 24m
Cheapest Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Price
$137
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
1 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 $28, while the average price is around $56.
The train from Geneva to Besançon takes 3h 40m 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.
The cheapest way to get from Geneva to Besançon is by train, with a cost of around $28.
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.
A day trip from Geneva to Besançon is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 40m. Trains run 8 times per day over a distance of 72 miles (117 km).
To explore Besançon's historical sites, museums, and surrounding nature, 2 to 3 days are typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Geneva to Besançon.
Since both Geneva and Besançon 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 Besançon include Dijon, Basel, Belfort, Montbéliard, Mulhouse.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Geneva to Besançon 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.
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 · $2 · 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.
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
Most popular train connections to Besançon
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