- Must visit
Louvre-Lens
Flagship art museum in a glass pavilion by a former mining site. Its Galerie du Temps makes world-class art accessible in a unique setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Lens
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€261
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€270
Fastest journey on Sep 19
16 h 28 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
18 h 11 m
Trains on Sep 19
2
Distance
539 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Lens is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Lens will cost around €270 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €261.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Zurich to Lens without transferring at least 3 times.
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6:34 PM16h28Zurich11:02 AMLens€2611One-way3 transfers- 1:08 AM19h54Zurich9:02 PMLens€2791One-way3 transfers
- 6:34 PM16h28Zurich11:02 AMLens€2611One-way3 transfers
- 1:08 AM19h54Zurich9:02 PMLens€2791One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Zurich to Lens
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Lens among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €64 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 25m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €64, while a flight costs an average of €595.
Distance: 334 miles (539 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€318 Average price | €595 Average price | €64 Average price Cheapest | €120 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 49m Average total duration 5h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 25m Average total duration Fastest 2h 25m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 13h 55m Average total duration 13h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 55m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Zurich to Lens is a bus with an average price of €64.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Lens:
A bus is €254 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Lens costing on average €318.
A bus is €530 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Lens costing on average €595.
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Lens is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 25m.
Other travel options to Lens take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 19m.
Bus takes on average 13h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zurich and Lens including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Lens among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 36m sooner (5h 19m by train vs 6h 55m by car). Tickets start at around €318 compared to roughly €120 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Zurich to Lens train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Lens trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:08 AM Zurich | 19h54 | 9:02 PM Lens | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Lens by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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 19
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Lens
Switzerland
France
Trains from Zurich to Lens run on average 1 times per day, taking around 5h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €318 but you can travel from only €64 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 08:19, the last at 15:10. The fastest train covers the 334 miles (539 km) distance in 5h 19m.
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 €64
Distance 334 miles (539 km) |
Average train duration 5h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price €318 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 5h 19m |
First train 8:19 AM |
Last train 3:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 €64
Train companies: SNCF | TGV Lyria from Zurich to Lens trainsSNCF | TGV Lyria trains will get you between Zurich and Lens from €64. 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
5h 19m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price
€318
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
1 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 Lens
Things to do in Lens
Discover the best of Lens — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lens trip today.
- Must visit
Galerie du Temps
Exhibition gallery in Lens used for rotating contemporary and heritage displays. It offers a smaller cultural stop beyond the major museum.
- Recommended
Centre d'Histoire du Mémorial 14-18 Notre-Dame-de-Lorette
Underground history center beneath Notre-Dame-de-Lorette. Multimedia displays explain World War I in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region.
- Must visit
Terril 74A
Iconic mining landscape and walking area above Loos-en-Gohelle. The summit views over Lens and the plain are especially rewarding.
- Must visit
Terril 74B
Companion spoil heap to Terril 74A with marked paths and broad views. Together they create the region’s most memorable urban panorama.
- Recommended
Place Jean Jaurès
Main square in central Lens lined with civic buildings and terraces. It is the city’s everyday meeting point and a good orientation stop.
Carbonade Flamande
Carbonade flamande is a hearty beef and onion stew simmered with local beer, a Northern classic prized for its sweet-savoury flavor and comfort in mining country.
Welsh
Welsh is a rich regional dish of bread, ham and mustard covered with melted cheddar and beer, then baked. It is a beloved brasserie staple in French Flanders.
- Gluten-free
Potjevleesch
Potjevleesch is a traditional terrine of white meats set in jelly and served cold with fries. It reflects Flemish farmhouse cooking long eaten across the region.
O Metisse
Well-known restaurant in Lens with polished French cooking and a comfortable bistro feel, popular for quality local ingredients.
Chez Mémène
Established traditional venue serving regional northern dishes and brasserie classics in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere near central Lens.
Le Galibot
Refined restaurant at the Louvre-Lens area known for modern French cuisine in an elegant setting, suitable for a higher-end meal.
Euro (€)
Lens is moderate for France, with fairly affordable dining and local transit, while hotels can rise during football matches and peak periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.20-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service; round up taxi fares; small change is fine in cafes.
Tadao
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.20
- Day pass
- €4.80
To the city center
Gare de Lens -> Lens Centre-Ville, Lens
- Distance
- 750 m
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in the Tadao app, at ticket machines, or from sales points before boarding when possible.
- Lens city center is walkable from Gare de Lens; many central trips are faster on foot than by bus.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Lens
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Lens 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 Lens, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Lens can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €318, while the average price is around €318.
The train from Zurich to Lens runs once a day and takes approximately 5h 19m.
The distance by train from Zurich to Lens is 334 miles (539 km).
The first train from Zurich to Lens leaves at 8:19 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Lens leaves at 3:10 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zurich to Lens.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Lens.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Lens.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Lens is Zurich HB, which connects to Lens station.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Lens is by bus, with a cost of around €64.
Yes, the train journey from Zurich to Lens is scenic, offering picturesque views of the Swiss countryside, charming villages, and the majestic Alps along the way.
A day trip from Zurich to Lens is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 19m each way, and there are 3 train trips available per day covering a distance of 334 miles (539 km).
To fully explore Lens, including its cultural attractions like the Louvre-Lens Museum and nearby historical sites, plan for a 2-day visit.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Lens.
Since both Zurich and Lens 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 Lens include Paris, Lille, Arras, Brussels, Valenciennes.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Lens 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 Lens, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Be aware of unofficial taxi services that may overcharge or take longer routes. Scams involving fake charity collectors or street vendors selling counterfeit goods have also been reported. Staying vigilant and using authorized services helps ensure a safer 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 Zurich to Lens
Most Zurich to Lens trains use the Zürich HB to Lens station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Lens 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 Lens
Which Zurich station do trains to Lens leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Lens 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 Lens station do trains from Zurich arrive at?
Trains from Zurich to Lens arrive at Lens. Lens is 0 miles (1 km) from Lens city centre.
LensPlace de la Gare, 62300 Lens, France+33 3 21 79 05 05
City-centre transport
Getting to Lens from Lens city centre
BusSeveral lines available
TramLine T1
Lens train station facilities and services
Lens has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Le Pain de la Bouche, Le Tassili
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lens. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Lens. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lens: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lens: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lens: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Louvre Lens, Hotel Bollaert, Hotel de France.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Lens
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lens and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Lens
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