Discover the lakeside gems of Switzerland via Paris

France may be the most visited country in the world, but its neighbour to the east also offers up its own kind of magic. For rolling green hills, majestic lakes, and sparkling cities, hop a direct train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Switzerland. Multilingual, international, and tourist-friendly, la Suisse is having a moment. A winter holiday is more accessible than ever with tickets released at super low fares. Let’s have a look at the best destinations to explore.

🕰️ Paris to Geneva 

Get away from the tourist overwhelm of Paris and head to Geneva, where you’ll find the perfect combination of fresh air, greenery, and cultural vibrance. Situated on one of the largest lakes in Europe, you can cruise on a local mouette (water taxi), check out the Lake Geneva Geyser, or wander through the Vieille Ville (Old Town). The city is very walkable, and you can also explore by bike or by boat.

For museum goers, there’s the Phillip Patek Museum, filled with watchmaking-related treasures, the Martin Bodmer Foundation for lovers of literature, or the Museum of Natural History: five floors for a full day exhibits. Tasting the local cuisine is a must: fondue (melted cheese dip), rösti (a shredded potato pancake, the national dish), and meringue—see how it compares to the French and Italian versions! So, choose a café with a lakeside terrace and enjoy the view.

🚅 Departs from: Paris Gare de Lyon (accessible with metro lines 1, 14)

⏲️ Fastest journey time from Paris: 2 hours 58 minutes

✔️ Number of trains per day: 39

🏙️ Paris to Zurich

For a departure from all things français, opt for Zurich, the bustling capital of German-speaking Switzerland. If you don’t want to stray too far from the train station, luxury shopping on the Banhofsstrasse is right across the street from the Arrivals Hall. A stroll through the charming historic Altstadt is essential—the charming lakeside district is teeming with medieval architecture and hidden squares. Plus, it’s where the locals go out! If you venture to the outskirts, visit ultra-modern city Zurich West. The transformed industrial district offers up hip restaurants, bars, and shops in repurposed factories. Think mini Berlin. 

The Museum of Art is a treasure trove of centuries of Swiss and international art, including pieces by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Chagall. If you’re looking to learn about Switzerland’s rich history, head to the Swiss National Museum—the building alone, built in the Renaissance Revival style, is a work of art. Duck into a local café for a traditional meal of zürcher geschnetzeltes (veal with mushrooms and cream), a dish that originated in the city, hence the name.

🚅 Departs from: Paris Gare de Lyon (accessible with metro lines 1, 14)

⏲️ Fastest journey time from Paris: 4 hours 3 minutes

✔️ Number of trains per day: 28

🚤 Paris to Lausanne

Lausanne, the gem of the Swiss riviera, is a complete change of pace from Paris. Located on the north shore of Lake Geneva, plenty of steamer rides are on offer. It’s worth heading out onto the lake to explore the neighbouring towns and villages, have a nice meal on the water, or simply take in the stunning views. Back on land, visit the Château d’Ouchy or opt for a walk on the lakeside promenade.

Head into town for cultural offerings, including The Olympic Museum, dedicated to the history and values of the Games. (Lausanne has been the seat of the Olympic Committee since 1915.) The charming Place de la Palud, in the heart of the historic district, is home to Lausanne’s oldest fountain and famed storytelling clock. Just around the corner, you’ll find City Hall, the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, and a local marketplace (Wednesdays and Saturdays) perfect for authentic souvenir shopping.

🚅 Departs from: Paris Gare de Lyon (accessible with metro lines 1, 14)

⏲️ Fastest journey time from Paris: 3 hours 40 minutes

✔️ Number of trains per day: 23

Powered by Froala Editor