SNCF, CFF extend rail partnership through 2032 to boost international transport

SNCF Voyageurs and Swiss Federal Railways (CFF) have extended their partnership through 2032, aiming to strengthen high-speed rail connections between France, Switzerland, and neighboring European countries.

The agreement builds on 45 years of cooperation, primarily through the TGV Lyria service, which has become a vital link for both business and leisure travelers. 

The renewed deal comes at a time when more Europeans are choosing rail over air for short and medium-distance travel, driven by convenience, comfort, and environmental concerns.

“To meet growing demand for international travel, SNCF Voyageurs and CFF will explore new routes and services connecting Switzerland with France and beyond,” the operators said in a joint statement. 

The partnership is also responding to public interest. Campaigns have called for a fourth daily return trip between Paris and Lausanne, a move SNCF will review for operational and financial feasibility by April.

Officials say such expansions could make travel between major Swiss and French cities more flexible for commuters, families, and business passengers.

Upgraded service on TGV Lyria 

To stay competitive on key routes, including Paris-Geneva, TGV Lyria has introduced new travel classes: Standard, Première, and Première Signature.

These offerings cater to business travelers, providing access to the TGV INOUI Grand Voyageur lounge at Paris-Gare de Lyon, faster boarding, and in-seat dining prepared by Michelin-starred chefs Michel Roth and Danny Khezzar.

SNCF says these upgrades are designed to make cross-border rail travel more comfortable and appealing.

Summer service expansion 

In 2025, TGV Lyria carried 5.7 million passengers on its three main lines: Paris-Geneva (3h11), Paris-Lausanne (3h41), and Paris-Basel-Zürich (4h04), operating 17 daily return trips.

Temporary reductions in direct Lausanne services occurred because of modernization work on the Swiss network and upgrades around Dijon.

New summer schedules, running from April 16 to November 2, will restore and extend service, including a fourth daily France-Switzerland trip from Thursday to Monday, with daily service in July and August. 

SNCF and CFF say the extended partnership reflects a shared commitment to reliable, sustainable, and accessible rail travel, offering millions of passengers across Europe more choices for faster and greener journeys.