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From high fashion to high peaks, a journey from Milan to Geneva certainly shouldn’t have a downside, and that’s precisely why you should make it by train! This scenic journey from city center to city center takes less than four hours, and with Trenitalia’s high-speed fleet offering you a comfy seat and different class options depending on your budget, why would you want to risk traffic jams or delayed flights when the train is so clearly the way to go?
Plus, with four direct trains a day delivering you to Geneva, the gorgeous natural surroundings will make you happy you chose the greener option, too.
Once you arrive into Geneva station, it’s just a 22-minute stroll to the iconic Geneva Water Fountain. Stay around this area and enjoy a relaxing meal in one of the many restaurants that line this corner of Lake Geneva. Check out our guide to Geneva for more ideas on how to make the most out of your trip.
Then, after a long day sightseeing, get some rest at one of Geneva's best hotels. If you'd like to explore more of Switzerland and Europe, check out our favorite day trips from Geneva by train.
See our FAQs below to learn all about this route before you travel!
It takes an average of 8h 25m to travel from Milan to Geneva by train, over a distance of around 155 miles (250 km). There are normally 11 trains per day traveling from Milan to Geneva and tickets for this journey start from $44.30 when you book in advance.
First train | 7:10 am | |
---|---|---|
Last train | 10:15 pm | |
Departure station | Milan | |
Arrival station | Geneva | |
Journey time | From 5h 41m | |
Distance | 155 miles (250 km) | |
Frequency | 11 trains per day | |
Changes | 1 change | |
Price | From $44.30 | |
Train and bus operators | BlaBlaCar Bus, Trenitalia, Flixbus |
Trenitalia is the national railway company of Italy, with a fleet including high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca), Intercity and Intercity night trains and regional trains. Trenitalia offers discounts and special promotions on selected routes, two types of discounted tickets for young people under 30 and people over 60.
From spacious armchairs to power outlets and reading lights, you’ve got everything you need to enjoy your journey in EuroCity's Second Class.
Start your journey by train and continue by bus to reach your destination. Enjoy some of the most beautiful Italian views on modern and comfortable buses.
Free WiFi is available on Eurocity Giruno trains.
Kids under 4 can travel for free if they're accompanied by an adult and don't occupy a seat.
Not all Eurocity trains allow you to take your bike on board – you’ll need to check in advance if you can travel with your bike. If that’s the case, you’ll need to buy a ticket and book your bike space before departure at the ticket office.
Guide and assistance dogs can travel for free and don't need a ticket.
All of Trenitalia’s Eurocity trains offer dedicated spaces to passengers with disabilities.
A quiet area (or Area Silenzio) is available on all Eurocity Giruno trains.
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Milan to Geneva by booking early.§
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
The average journey time by train between Milan and Geneva is 8 hours and 25 minutes, with around 11 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
The fastest journey time by train from Milan to Geneva is 5 hours and 41 minutes.
Train tickets from Milan to Geneva can start from as little as $44.30 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
No, there are no direct train services from Milan to Geneva. Travelling from Milan to Geneva by train will require a minimum of 1 change.
The first train from Milan to Geneva leaves at 07:10. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
The last train from Milan to Geneva leaves at 22:15. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
Trains travelling from Milan to Geneva cover a distance of around 155 miles (250 km) during the journey.
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Geneva to Milan.