High-Speed Link from London to Geneva Is on the Horizon
London to Geneva by Train: What UK Travelers Need to Know Now and Next
In a major step toward linking the UK with Switzerland by rail, the British and Swiss governments have agreed to develop a direct London to Switzerland train. The initial high-speed service will run from London to Geneva in about five hours, while a future extension to Zurich is still under review. So, what does this mean for UK travelers planning their Swiss holidays today?
At SwissASAP.com, we believe this news reflects a larger trend: more travelers are choosing to explore Switzerland by train, not plane. While we wait for this route to launch, let’s explore how UK visitors can already enjoy seamless train-based holidays in Switzerland—and how Swiss Travel Passes and holiday packages help make that possible now.
St Pancras International is where most train journeys from London to Geneva begin today—and it may one day launch direct high-speed trains connecting London to Geneva and Zurich.
Direct High-Speed Rail: London to Geneva (Zurich still under review)
In May 2025, UK and Swiss officials signed an agreement to create a direct high-speed train from London to Geneva. A possible extension to Zurich is still being studied, but not yet approved. The service would run via France on upgraded tracks, cutting overall travel time to about five hours.
This project supports Europe’s push for greener travel and gives UK residents a clear alternative to short-haul flights.
Details
Estimated launch
4–5 years
Planned route
London (St Pancras) → Geneva (Cornavin)
Zurich status
Under consideration; would add roughly 70–90 min if implemented
Goal
Shift travelers from planes to low-carbon rail
According to Eurostar’s recent statement reported by TravelTomorrow, the new service is slated for the early 2030s and would cover the London–Geneva route in about 5 hours 20 minutes.
Getting from London to Switzerland by Train Today
Until the direct Geneva link opens, UK travellers already reach Switzerland easily:
London to Geneva: Eurostar to Paris, then TGV Lyria direct to Geneva. After reaching Geneva, dive straight into the region with our Lake Geneva guide for top lakeside sights, cruises, and vineyards.
London to Zurich: Eurostar to Paris, then TGV Lyria to Basel or Zurich.
Alternative southern route: Eurostar to Paris, TGV/Trenitalia to Milan, then Swiss Rail into the Alps.
On arrival, a Swiss Travel Pass unlocks unlimited trains, boats, and buses—perfect for scenic routes like the Glacier Express.
SwissASAP helps UK 🇬🇧 guests:
Pick the right pass duration (3–15 days).
Plan smooth connections from Paris or Milan into Switzerland.
Receive English-language support before and during the trip.
Geneva welcomes travelers arriving from London to Geneva by train, with iconic views of Lake Geneva, Jet d’Eau, and St. Pierre Cathedral.
Why More UK Travelers Are Choosing the Train
In recent years, more UK travelers have been swapping short-haul flights for train journeys across Europe. The reasons are clear: rail travel is more relaxed, better for the environment, and often more scenic—especially once you reach Switzerland.
Instead of rushing through airports, travelers enjoy the comfort of sitting back and watching the landscape change—from cityscapes to mountain views. And with good train connections already available from London to Switzerland via Paris or Milan, the idea of overland travel is more practical than ever.
Plan smooth connections from Paris or Milan into Switzerland. You can also continue your journey beyond Switzerland with our Switzerland to Italy by Train guide.
This shift also reflects a growing interest in slower, more meaningful holidays—where the journey is just as memorable as the destination.
Book Your Switzerland Holiday Packages (UK-Only 5 % Off)
Whether you’re after a weekend break or a full rail adventure, our Switzerland holiday packages from the UK are easy to book—and SwissASAP gives you an exclusive 5 % discount you won’t find on other sites.
Need something unique? Try our tailor-made Switzerland holidays and we’ll design the entire rail itinerary around your interests.See tailor-made options
Let your Swiss journey begin the moment you arrive—SwissASAP keeps it seamless, scenic, and stress-free.
The London to Switzerland train may be years away, but your Swiss rail holiday doesn’t have to wait.
At SwissASAP.com, we make it easy for UK travelers to plan scenic, train-based holidays in Switzerland—right now. With our Swiss Travel Pass expertise and curated holiday packages, you’re just a few clicks away from your ideal escape.
Introduction to the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland
The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland connects the most scenic routes across the country—linking all major premium panoramic trains into one unforgettable journey. From Glacier Express to Bernina Express, it’s a perfect way to experience the full beauty of Switzerland by rail. And yes, the entire tour is covered with the Swiss Travel Pass.
Effortless Travel: Explore with Our All-in-One Premium Panoramic Train Packages
If you’re looking to maximize the benefits of the Swiss Travel Pass by experiencing several of our premium panoramic train lines but are unsure how to craft your perfect itinerary, consider our Grandtrain tour packages. These packages are thoughtfully assembled to ensure you experience as many highlights as possible along the train lines. Each package includes hotel options, allowing you to customize your stay by choosing your preferred hotel, adjusting room nights, or upgrading your room. Simplify your planning and focus on enjoying the journey. Try out our itinerary builder engine and get an exclusive 5% discount from SwissASAP.
The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland packages the very best of Switzerland into one spectacular journey. Experience iconic routes like the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and GoldenPass Express. Customize your adventure with flexible itineraries, from adjusting your stay to upgrading your accommodations. Ready to start your unforgettable journey? Book your Grand Train Tour now and travel through Switzerland with ease and elegance.