- 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 Zurich to Besançon
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€89
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€89
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h 48 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
3 h 16 m
Trains on Sep 19
2
Distance
191 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Besançon is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Besançon will cost around €89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €89.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Zurich to Besançon without transferring at least 2 times.
9206+
894518+
98777:34 AM3h43Zurich HB11:17 AMBesançon Viotte€891One-way2 transfers- 9226+894550+95803:34 PM2h48Zurich HB6:22 PMBesançon Viotte€891One-way2 transfers
- 9226+894550+95803:34 PM2h48Zurich HB6:22 PMBesançon Viotte€891One-way2 transfers
- 9206+894518+98777:34 AM3h43Zurich HB11:17 AMBesançon Viotte€891One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Zurich to Besançon
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Besançon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €31 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 12m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €31, while a flight costs an average of €540.
Distance: 118 miles (191 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€65 Average price | €31 Average price Cheapest | €540 Average price | €97 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 12m Average total duration Fastest 2h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 24m Average total duration 4h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 34m Average total duration 3h 34m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Zurich to Besançon is a bus with an average price of €31.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Besançon:
A bus is €33 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Besançon costing on average €65.
A bus is €508 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Besançon costing on average €540.
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Besançon is by train with an average journey time of 2h 42m.
Other travel options to Besançon take longer:
Flight takes on average 3h 34m.
Bus takes on average 4h 54m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Besançon including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Besançon among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 7m faster (2h 42m by train vs 2h 49m by car) and roughly €33 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€65 vs €97). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Zurich to Besançon train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Besançon trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9210+894255 | On time 9:34 AM Zurich HB | 3h43 | 1:17 PM Besançon Viotte | 1 transfer | |
| 9222+894221 | 1:34 PM Zurich HB | 3h30 | 5:04 PM Besançon Viotte | 1 transfer | |
| 9222+6706+894542 | 1:34 PM Zurich HB | 3h18 | 4:52 PM Besançon Viotte | 2 transfers | |
| 9226+894225 | 3:34 PM Zurich HB | 3h30 | 7:04 PM Besançon Viotte | 1 transfer | |
| 9226+894550+9580 | 3:34 PM Zurich HB | 2h48 | 6:22 PM Besançon Viotte | 2 transfers | |
| 9206+9877+894518 | 7:34 AM Zurich HB | 3h43 | 11:17 AM 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 Zurich to Besançon by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight 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
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Besançon
Switzerland
France
Trains from Zurich to Besançon run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €6 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:08, the last at 19:03. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 2h 17m.
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 118 miles (191 km) |
Average train duration 2h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price €6 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 17m |
First train 6:08 AM |
Last train 7:03 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 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
Train companies: SNCF | TGV Lyria from Zurich to Besançon trainsSNCF | TGV Lyria trains will get you between Zurich and Besançon from €6. 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 SNCF | TGV Lyria Duration
2h 17m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price
€6
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
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 Zurich to Besançon
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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 Zurich to Besançon can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €6, while the average price is around €65.
The train from Zurich to Besançon takes 2h 17m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Besançon is 118 miles (191 km).
The first train from Zurich to Besançon leaves at 6:08 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Besançon leaves at 7:03 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Zurich to Besançon.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Besançon.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Besançon.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Besançon is Zurich HB, which connects to Besançon Viotte.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Besançon is by train, with a cost of around €6.
The train journey from Zurich to Besançon is scenic, offering views of the Swiss countryside, picturesque villages, and rolling hills, especially as it passes through the Jura Mountains.
A day trip from Zurich to Besançon is not feasible, as the journey duration is 2h 17m. There are 4 trains per day, and the distance is 118 miles (191 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 Zurich to Besançon.
Since both Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich to Besançon
Most Zurich to Besançon trains use the Zürich HB to Besançon Viotte station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Besançon train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Zurich
Arrival train stations in Besançon
Which Zurich station do trains to Besançon leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Besançon leave from Zürich HB. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zurich city centre at Bahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland.
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 · €3 · 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.
Which Besançon station do trains from Zurich arrive at?
Trains from Zurich 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 Zurich to Besançon
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Besançon and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Besançon
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