Relaxed Route from Barcelona to Vienna

One scenic and enjoyable way to travel from Barcelona to Vienna by train is by stopping in Lyon, Geneva and Zurich. This route takes just under 24 hours, but every stop adds something special. Each city offers a different vibe, beautiful views and a chance to slow down and enjoy the ride.

Barcelona to Lyon

The first leg of the journey starts in Barcelona, heading north to Lyon. The train ride between these two cities is smooth and comfortable, with beautiful views of the changing landscape. Expect to spend around 5 hours on this part of the trip.

Lyon is a city full of charm and character. It sits between two rivers, the Rhône and the Saône, and its old town is made for wandering. No need for maps here — just follow the streets and see where they lead. The vibe is relaxed, friendly and full of local life.

For food lovers, Lyon is a great place to stop. Try a traditional bouchon — small local restaurants that serve hearty Lyonnaise dishes. If you have time, take a walk up to the Basilica of Fourvière. The view over the city from there is amazing. If you prefer to keep things low-key, the riverbanks are a perfect place to relax, watch people go by and soak in the city’s energy.

Lyon - RossHelen

Lyon to Geneva

From Lyon, the next stop is Geneva. This part of the journey is short and sweet, taking just over 2 hours by train. The ride itself is peaceful and gives a good look at the French countryside.

Geneva is calmer than Lyon. It has a more polished, quiet feel. The city is built around a large lake, and the water becomes the main attraction. It’s a great place to slow down. You can walk along the lake, watch the Jet d’Eau fountain, or even dip your feet into the water on a warm day. There’s space here to breathe and reflect — something that many travelers appreciate after a few busy city days.

If you only have a short layover, spending some time near the lake is the way to go. It’s relaxing and gives you a good feel for the city without needing to rush around.

Geneva to Zurich

Next, hop on the train from Geneva to Zurich. This leg takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, crossing Switzerland from west to east. Trains here are clean, fast and always on time. The route is known for its scenic views, so try to sit by the window.

Zurich is often seen as serious and expensive, but it surprises many visitors. In summer, the city feels open and lively. There are swimming spots right in the river, which locals and travelers love. Bring a swimsuit if the weather is warm and jump in. It’s part of the local lifestyle.

Coffee lovers will enjoy Zurich’s cafe culture. Find a quiet spot in the old town and enjoy a drink while watching the world go by. Zurich may cost more than other cities, but for a short stay, it delivers a lot. Clean streets, calm parks and beautiful lake views make it a solid final stop before reaching Vienna.

Zürich - taranchic

Zurich to Vienna – Night Train

The final leg of this journey is from Zurich to Vienna by night train. This part is extra special because you can rest while the train takes you across Austria. It’s a comfortable ride with sleeper cabins that let you arrive fresh and ready for the next part of your trip.

The night train is a great way to save time and money. Instead of paying for a hotel night, you travel while you sleep. It’s also a more eco-friendly way to cover a long distance. Watching the landscape pass by as the sun sets is a quiet moment that many travelers enjoy.

This whole journey is easy to plan and book online. Trains between these cities run daily and offer flexible ticket options. For travelers who want to see more, take longer stops and explore. For those in a hurry, it’s possible to complete the whole route in under 24 hours.

Map of stops along the way

Happy Traivels! 🚆🌿

21.07.2025