Paris to Geneva train with SNCF | TGV Lyria

Paris to Geneva with TGV Lyria: The fastest and best way to Switzerland!

Introduction

For work, I have to travel to Geneva several times a year — and every time, I’m thrilled to go there by train. In just three hours, you can go from the vibrant capital of Paris to the shores of the beautiful alpine Lake Geneva. It’s one of my favorite train rides from Paris—a perfect balance between speed and scenic beauty.

Route Overview

If you want to go from Paris to Geneva by train, your best—and only—option remains the TGV Lyria, a service very similar to the TGV Inoui found throughout France.

I love this route because, for the first part of the journey, you zoom through France at high speed before branching off near Mâcon. You then head toward Geneva via Bourg-en-Bresse, passing through the scenic foothills of the Jura Mountains.

Transportation Experience

I’ve always found the SNCF Connect booking process to be a bit tricky and often unintuitive. Personally, I prefer booking via Omio, which offers a smoother and more user-friendly experience. After paying online, your train tickets are instantly available through the app and by email.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Paris Gare de Lyon is one of Paris’s most iconic train stations. It used to be the main hub of the historic PLM (Paris Lyon Méditerranée). Be aware that Gare de Lyon has two halls: Hall 1 (Tracks A to N) and Hall 2 (Tracks 5 to 23).

Top tip: Grab a drink or enjoy a full meal at Le Train Bleu. This beautiful restaurant is found in Hall 1—it’s worth the detour!

Geneva Cornavin is Geneva’s main station, conveniently located in the heart of the city. It’s just a 10-minute walk from the lake. If you want to explore beyond the city, I highly recommend taking a quick train ride to one of the nearby lakeside towns. You’ll find quieter spots perfect for a swim.

Schedule & Frequency

TGV Lyria trains from Paris to Geneva run every two hours, with the first departure from Paris at 06:30 and the last at 20:30. The journey usually takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes, which gives you plenty of time to relax, work, sleep, or do whatever you enjoy on a train.

Onboard Experience & Services

TGV Lyria offers three classes:

• Second Class – Comfortable and affordable with a table and plugs at each seat.
• First Class – More spacious seating with a choice of seats.
• Première Signature – The same seating as First Class but with premium-level service, including snacks, drinks and lounge access. (I haven’t tried it, but it seems better than the equivalent on TGV Inoui!)

As for the luggage policy, TGV Lyria allows two pieces of luggage and one carry-on per person, with no weight limit, but size restrictions apply.

Wi-Fi is also free and for all—it was fairly consistent throughout the whole journey, enough for streaming and some work on the go. It worked best between Paris and Mâcon.

I traveled in Second Class and was very comfortable. I recommend sitting on the upper level of these double-decker trains, as the views are more scenic. The first part of the ride is high-speed until Mâcon, after which the train slows down on a conventional line to Geneva.

My favorite part is crossing the foothills of the Jura, especially the Défilé de l'Ecluse, where the train crosses the Rhône River through a dramatic gorge. It’s stunning. I suggest sitting on the left-hand side when heading toward Geneva for the best views.

There’s a bar in the middle of the train. It’s nothing fancy, but I enjoy grabbing a beer or a glass of wine along with some saucisson (French sausage) while passing through my favorite areas.

Be aware that upon arrival in Geneva, you may have to go through customs. They rarely stop anyone, but it's possible.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

TGV Lyria isn’t cheap, and since it’s the only direct option to go from Paris to Geneva by train, the demand can be pretty high. As a golden rule, I always advise booking as early as possible to get the best price.

Costs for one passenger:

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

• Book Paris to Geneva train tickets early to secure the best prices.
• Sit on the left-hand side for the best views of the foothills of the Jura.
• Stop by Le Train Bleu at Paris Gare de Lyon (Hall 1).
• Be prepared for potential customs checks upon arrival in Geneva.

Conclusion

The Paris to Geneva train route is one of my favorite train journeys in France. It’s fast, convenient, and scenic all at once. Plus, the change of scenery when you arrive in the Lake Geneva region is absolutely worth it.

About the Author: Thibault Constant

Job Title: Train Travel Content Creator Bio: Thibault Constant, also known as "Simply Railway," is a content creator specializing in train travel from all across the globe, with over 40 countries explored by rail.