Geneva and Zurich are located in different parts of Switzerland, so the question of how to get from one city to another is always relevant for tourists. At the same time, today there are many ways to overcome this distance. The choice of travel method depends on individual preferences and financial capabilities.
From Zurich to Geneva by train
Perhaps the most common and convenient way to get to Geneva is by train. This travel has several advantages:
- Trains run at intervals of a couple of hours, and you can always find an acceptable option for yourself.
- The trains run on a direct route, and the travel time will be about 2-3 hours.
- Train tickets are sold both at the ticket offices of railway stations and on specialized resources on the Internet.
- A purchased ticket can always be exchanged without losing its value.
- The fare is very affordable and amounts to 25-35 euros per person one way.
It is also worth noting that all carriages are equipped with comfortable soft armchairs with reclining backs, dining areas, toilets, TVs and free wi-fi. On the way, you will have the opportunity to explore the picturesque surroundings of the country and enjoy the beautiful landscapes.
When deciding to travel by train, do not forget to check the schedule and availability of tickets in advance, as in summer and winter the departure times of trains sometimes change. This is due to the increasing flow of tourists and seasonal sales.
From Zurich to Geneva by plane
Despite the fact that air transport is traditionally considered the fastest, getting to Geneva without transfers is problematic. Local carriers SWISS and Etihad Regional offer direct and connecting flights.
The planes of the first company take off from Zurich airport every 2 hours every day. The flight time is 50-55 minutes. That is, by buying a plane ticket, you will have a guarantee that you will land at Geneva airport Cointrin in less than an hour.
The second company sells tickets of different categories with prices ranging from 50 to 350 euros. Flights are also operated several times a day. Plane tickets are purchased at ticket offices or on the carrier's website. Using this service, you independently choose the type of aircraft, class and seat.
Other flight options involve multiple connections. Thus, the Lufthansa company organizes a flight with connections in Stuttgart and Frankfurt. The flight duration in this case is delayed up to 5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly via Nice, Barcelona or Madrid. It is recommended to get detailed information on each flight a couple of weeks before the trip directly from the air carrier.
From Zurich to Geneva by bus
This type of transport is preferred by those who like long journeys. There is no direct bus service between Zurich and Geneva, so be prepared for multiple changes. It is better to plan your trip well in advance, especially if you are poorly guided in a foreign country.
The first bus leaves from the Carparkplatz Sihlquai bus station at 9.15 am, after which it makes a stop in Bern and Lausanna. In Geneva, the bus arrives at 13.05 at the main bus station, which is located on the Dorciere square. From here you can easily reach anywhere in Geneva by public transport or taxi.
The second way is to purchase a bus ticket from the Eurolines CH company, which offers flights three times a week. Travel time - 5 hours 40 minutes, including transfers. First you sit in Zurich, then get off at the Annemasse stop and change to a TPG bus, which will take you to your final destination in 40 minutes.
Tickets can be bought from vending machines located at bus stops, on the website or in the bus station building. The cost is fixed and ranges from 28 to 34 euros. Sometimes carriers arrange promotions that almost halve the price of a ticket. However, in order to buy such a ticket, it is necessary to constantly monitor the information about discounts on the company's website.
From Zurich to Geneva by car
Car enthusiasts often try their hand at driving a private or rental car to Geneva. Traveling by car is popular in Europe and has many benefits. Among them:
- The ability to move quickly.
- The ability to independently change your route at any time.
- Decent quality of road surfaces and well-developed transport infrastructure.
- High level of safety for drivers and passengers.
- Permission for certain companies to travel outside Switzerland.
- Favorable conditions for car rental.
In order to rent a car, you will need an international driver's license. If you are under 24 years old, you will have to pay an additional amount.
There are usually toll roads in Switzerland, but it's worth it. Firstly, you will shorten your path, and secondly, you will appreciate the modern autobahns of the country.
It should be borne in mind that in Switzerland, non-compliance with traffic rules is strictly punishable by impressive fines, which cannot be avoided. When you rent a car, a certain amount is automatically frozen on your credit card. If there are fines, this money is debited from the card, after which you take your card.
The rental price directly depends on the category of the car. Economy class will cost you 180-220 euros for three days. A luxury car will cost 150-200 euros more. You will pay about 330 euros for renting an SUV, and 270 euros for a station wagon.
Of course, the details of the lease are discussed with the employees of the companies that can offer you additional types of insurance and other services.
How you can not get from Zurich to Geneva
There is no ferry service between these cities due to the peculiarities of the geographic location. All other travel options are available at any time of the year and in a variety of options. Therefore, all year round, if you wish, you can travel from one interesting Swiss city to another, while receiving the maximum of new emotions and impressions.
