Private car transfer
from Zurich to Geneva

Your itinerary should definitely include a stop by Bern, Switzerland's de facto capital. The city’s medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Not far from Bern is Murten, the only town in Switzerland that still has its entire defensive wall from the Middle Ages.

The drive will also take you past Lake Leman and Lake Neuchatel, with the Alps as a backdrop, before you arrive in the international city of Geneva.

In the 16th century, Geneva emerged as a center of the Protestant Reformation under the leadership of John Calvin, whose influence turned the city into a significant religious and cultural epicenter. Geneva continued to be a meeting place for the exchange of ideas and commerce. It joined the Swiss Federation in 1814, at the end of the Napoleonic Wars.

Geneva today: a global capital

Today, Geneva is known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, with nearly 40% of its population being foreign nationals. It is a key financial center and home to numerous international organizations, including the United Nations Office at Geneva, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the International Red Cross. This status as a hub of diplomacy and international cooperation has earned it the nickname "The Capital of Peace."

Geneva is a French-speaking Canton of Switzerland and is only 1.2 miles (1.9 km) from the French border. However, due to the large international population, English is widely spoken. Thanks to its international environment, visitors to Geneva can easily get around and understand street signs and menus.

Follow the local etiquette

Swiss people value punctuality, cleanliness, and quiet, especially in public places. Be mindful of noise levels and always be on time for appointments or reservations.

Carry some cash

Most businesses in Zurich and Geneva take card payments, but if you are traveling to the countryside, bring some CHF just in case you encounter shops that only take cash.

Your driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Zurich and help with your luggage before taking you to your sightseeing stops. After you’ve enjoyed a full day of Swiss castles and lakeside views, you’ll be dropped off safely at your hotel in Geneva.

Unlike with a rental car, you won’t have to return a vehicle at the end of your trip or worry about the driving laws. Book a seat in a comfortable sedan with two other guests for $195 (€180).

Zurich to Geneva by train

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) operates direct trains multiple times per day between Zurich Hauptbahnhof and Geneva. The trip takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes, during which you can watch the beautiful Swiss countryside fly by your window. This route runs alongside Lake Neuchatel and Lake Leman before guiding you safely to Geneva.

Ticket prices start at $55 (€51) and can go up to $120 (€111), so it is best to book as far ahead as you can to secure the best price.

Zurich to Geneva by bus

Surprisingly, there are very few, if any, buses between Zurich and Geneva. However, the train connections are frequent, direct, and can get you to the same place faster.

The Jet d’Eau is one of the tallest fountains in the world. It is located where Lake Geneva empties into the Rhone River. What better way to let everyone know you’re in Geneva than with a snapshot of its most famous symbol?

Tour the United Nations Office

If you book tickets far enough ahead of time (about 3 months), you can take a guided tour of the Palais des Nations. This is the European headquarters of the UN, and guests can learn about international diplomacy and the UN’s history.

The Patek Philippe Museum

What is a trip to Switzerland without learning about watchmaking? Follow 500 years of watchmaking traditions and see over 2,500 watches at the Patek Philippe Museum.